My Firsts...

What my horoscope says...

2011-12-08T06:37:00.000+08:00

Have not read the hardcopy "My Paper" for a long time... especially since I started to read from my iPad.
Well, these 2 days, picked up a copy... and the last thing to read was usually the horoscope.

While I don't dwell into horoscope "predictions", sometimes reading it could be fun... and can give us a good laugh. Interesting, the 'predictions'/ advice put up these 2 days were something that I can get connected to...

I was reading the 1st one (on the left) on my way to the new campus for the first time from home... it said,
"最近会很想换工作，应该先问自己是不是在逃避问题，如果不是，就可以开始找工作"
I think the first part applies to... basically anyone who's toying with the idea of finding a better working place. Indeed, I think, each time a change of work environment is a risk... to some, it's to leave behind the unpleasant feelings and experiences in the previous context; while some think there's little potential for the current work environment to meet one's ideal or what one is seeking. Of course, it's not as simple as just the "self". The "push" factor is another critical element, that many a time not because of the nature of work in the organisation, but human relationships, especially when there are those who tried to take advantage of others t gain - ok, the irresponsibile human beings which can be pretty common; worst still, the unlucky ones may even have to work with the unscrupulous ones (though it's not common), Look around... sometimes we have to count our blessings 'cos we are not 'stuck' to these people and we can exercise our choices... but organisations might not be able to count their 'blessings' 'cos they got stuck (for whatever reasons).

So, back to the horoscope says, if one is toying with the idea of leaving because one is trying to escape from his/her own problem, then good to think through more thoroughly. Is the problem on you? or on the organisation? or from the 'troublemakers' around you? or (looking at it more positively...) if it's for better venture & opportunity? Hm... If the reason to leave was because the problem was on us, then the problem will basically follow us...

"最近要多回忆过去，想一想自己是如何走到今天，继续用这一段力量向困难挑战吧！"
This is pretty encouraging... especially at times when already very drained and tired... and started asking ourselves, why work so hard? why so much challenges ahead... Hm... yes, as I said, in one of those reflection sessions recently, while we 'cheong', do look back and do some stock taking... then we know how much we had done, what we are capable of... :)

Young children...

2011-12-08T06:07:00.000+08:00

Reading this article reminded me of what I saw in the ladies' restroom at Raffles City last weekend... in front of the full lenght mirror was a mother who's in her late twenties, with her little daughter of age around three, donned in a pretty dress. What caught my attention was, "Girl, come, let mummy apply the lipstick for you."
What??? that was my reaction. The girl stood there patiently why the mother swipped the lip pencil around the tiny lips.

Not sure if'it's part of her 'groomy' process... but isn't it a bit too young to have all these chemicals started going on her? Hm...

Of course, the next question... are parents, especially mothers, putting their dreams and hopes on their kids and started to 'translate' their dreams to 'reality' through what they do on their childrem?

That's their kids' childhood? Hm... I wonder...

Our Firsts in SST...

2011-11-30T05:40:00.001+08:00

Nowadays, we hardly print our Notes of Meetings... and this file came to sight as I was packing the stuff for this December 'house-moving'. It was clearly labelled the EXCO meetings NOMs, which in fact, had all the old documents being filed, including our very first NOM in 2008, as well as the SOPs for school's milestones in the infantry stage. The file was one of those that I used while still in HQ - yes, one of those brown paper file that I used while still with ETD in 2008... and at that point, I was "moonlighting" at SST. Well, took pictures of these before shredding those documents. Indeed, quite a lot of flashbacks...

Here's the very first EXCO meeting, with the first EXCO team, 'expanded' from the 2-men village. Oh yes, I remember Mr Chua liked saying, that's all he had in the 'village' (and in fact, all were not officially with the school yet). Shall I say, it's the actual pioneer team? Hm... How many still around...
Despite of having to put in lots of hard work and having experienced many ups and downs... I must admit, it's a very enriching experience which I personally gained a lot of insights along the way while I also have contributed significantly to the foundation years of the school. I'm still very proud being a member of this team :)

The first milestone we had, on 3 March, exactly one year that the school was announced by form Education Minister, Mr Tharman. It's the MOU with NTU and Ngee Ann Polytechnic, which binds the 3 institutions more closely. Oh yes, it's also the first time I took up the role of the emcee of such important event. Haha... Thanks to my buddy Ching Ya who got me out of my shell :) Thanks for the encouragement too!

Here's another milestone when we did our first outreach at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, that we engaged a few hundreds of the curious and enthusiastic P6 students, and I'm sure a number of our pioneers participated in this event.

能帮，是一种福气！

2011-11-29T21:00:00.000+08:00

At last, done with the "last" intensive of the course that started since July 2010. I guess, without the encouragement of friends around, I would not be able to see myself come the long way here. Like what Prof Tania told me, she saw the change... haha... oh yes... become more outspoken in class, since she saw me through 3 of the modules. Thanks... yes, it's a good observation which would have went unnoticed by many of my teachers since those old school days!

I think one of the things I 'give back' to the course is being an encouraging and helpful classmate to some... Indeed, I think I'm just leveraging on my forte to put forward a helping hand. It's a joy to be able to help. I believe that there isn't any competition in this course. The only competitor is ourself. Hence it's largely depending oneself how we perceive the entire "game".

But I'm really very glad that I'm able to put forth a helping hand for someone in the very last intensive session. Cheers!

Communication...

2011-11-27T20:37:00.002+08:00

3 different facial expressions, yet 'selling' the same service. Interesting approach, when purpose of the advertisement was trying zoom into "what if you are not using our service... you may experience the following..." Haha.. clevery right?

Now, examine their expressions carefully... What's the common theme/ chartristics?
Are you able to tell what services is the company trying to sell?

Book Shelf Wallpaper

2011-11-27T07:13:00.000+08:00

Was packing my book shelf... indeed, from far, the books become a nice wall paper :)

While I like to openly 'declare' that I "buy & shelf".

However, when it comes to doing paper work, these resources become very handy :)

Haha... good for someone like me who's the last minute worker.

Doll & Bears

2011-11-27T07:06:00.001+08:00

A beautful doll from Lee Cherh :)

Did not realise that the 2 bears (received at 2 different occasions) put on the similar clothes :)

So, do they belong to the same family?

A Transformation...

2011-11-26T10:54:00.001+08:00

Well... While the term has come to an end, it's also time for us to close the curtain in this campus that many of us put in our utmost effort and energy in the infant years of the school... since October, we've started our packing, bit by bit...

from

Click HERE to see more pictures

Just let your fingers fiddle around

2011-11-20T20:34:00.000+08:00

Was chatting with a friend about learning (er... more like catching up with) new technology.

I was describing what my 19-month old nephew could do with the iPad... recognising where the apps were placed and opening his choice apps; retrieving his favourite Youtube videoclips and moving the apps all over the place; and even making 'facetime' calls! And better still, how he had removed my Apps Store icon despite the fact that I had deactivated the install/ uninstall feature! Haha... Thanks to friends around who offered me tips to retrieve that icon!

Oh yes, that's a digital native in action! And each time I watched him fiddle with the iPad, it's always a mixture of anticipation of pleasant surprises (and with a certain degree of anxiety 'cos I would not know what kind of challenge he's going to 'impose'! Haha...)

I'm quite sure the process that's described was unique to kids nowadays! They really explore!!! And I believe it's accompanied with another important element - curiosity... to discover... and the excitement to see things happening!!! Partly, because of the 'lack' of structure in the way their brains are wired helps!

I think, the reaction would definitely be very different when you ask a more senior (er... elderly) adult to fiddle around with the apps and stuff in the iPad! Take me as an example, when I first received my device, my very 'structured' mind would 'tell' me to ask my "helplines" to assist... in the setting up and what to install, and how to go about organising my stuff. To be frank, I did not 'explore'... I would systematically know what I need to do and I would stop there once I got what I need. It's only in the recent weeks that I learnt how to do a screen capture of the iPad desktop! Well, it's never too late :)

So, I guess... lesson learnt here, while we tend to tell people, just 'fiddle' around and you would find it quite 'initutive' and 'easy to use'... we have to take note of who we are giving the advice to... It's applicable to the digital native, but more scaffolding will definitely help to encourage people of the other age spectrum!

First post from iPad using BlogPress

2011-11-20T15:14:00.001+08:00

Something interesting that I learnt from a friend... Using BlogPress to craft posts even when there's no Internet access. Something that I shall try in the next few weeks :) It even comes with image upload button! #ilike

Also learnt something new from Lee Cherh yesterday. Having the virtual button activated to lengthen the lifespan of the iPad button. Who says that we only learn from IT savvy people only? Cheers!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Tampines,Singapore

Ideal Schooling is about....(?)

2011-10-09T08:01:00.000+08:00

The Straits Times 2011, Oct 8 (My Point, pA45)

On the paper: "The day will come when parents will send their children to the school nearest to their homes because all schools are good."

I think there are 2 parts to this comment, one key idea that builds on one key phrase.

If "schools are good", it would make no difference where the child studies (is it going to be true?), then the next thing is to look into the "well being" of the kid - to minimise the travel so that more time is channelled into more (presumably) purposeful and meaningful activities... (Hm... ok, I'm making some assumptions to arrive at the reason behind).

On the other hand, would parents send their children to faraway schools because those schools are 'better'. Is it because they have no better choices? Hm... probably the nearby schools are "no good" (in their eyes)? Hm... definitely we do have parents who think like this!

Every morning at around 6 am, my neighbour would see her son to the main road to wait for the school bus that would ferry him from the Tampines home to ACS Bakar!
Look around the "prestigous" schools, every morning cars from all over the island would converge at the school gate!
One of my colleagues even said the back of her car is the 'changing room' for her daughter every morning!
In the 6.20 am train departing Tampines for the west, it's not difficult to find students who don uniforms of schools like RI and CGS, of course, nearer would be VS, TKGS and DHS!

Why do so many kids have to "travel" to schools faraway from home?
The idea of "every school being a school" was something highlighted by our Minister of Education in the recent Work Plan seminar, for improved quality in our present education system. On the other hand, I also wonder, is it a move to 'equalising' more schools? I recall reading an education-related article that mentioned something like "there is no failing school in Singapore" many many years ago (was that mentioned by then Prime Minister Goh?).

All schools in Singapore (maybe we need to quantify that schools under the Ministry of Education) provides education of a reasonable quality. There is definitely an "unwritten" 'baseline' that all schools strive to go above. Various measures and policies in place to ensure there is a common base for all. There's appraisal system in place by the MOE to "assess" where the schools are, ensuring they make it to the minimum mark (ok... it doesn't say that, it's a reality check for many, especially when an external party comes in to see-see-look-look).

Many say, Singapore is 'so' small... and being 'small' is an added advantage to manage quality. Hm... well, I think this thinking has somehow undermine the effort to put in to esnsure this positive outcome that is admired and 'dreamt about' by many. Being small doesn't mean it's always good. Systems have to be in place to ensure it delivers what's expected.

While schools are granted the 'base' for resources, once they are deployed to schools, given the envrionment and many other factors, these resources start to 'evolved', many a time, people is the key to this evolution. Put it across simply, there's where some schools raised to the rank of "good" schools while some 'fall behind" and more often than not, we call them neighbourhood schools! (Though neighbourhood schools, literally refers to schools situated within neighbourhoods!).

For every school is a good school would mean all schools adopting the same approach? I wonder. Then would we be getting 'clone' schools? Hm... What's the first thing that the public would use to check if a school has measure up to be a "good school"? Hm... Academic results! That's the most tangible and easiest to do! In the first place, that already differentiates schools because of the students 'enrolled' there! Would a school that has consistently made up of the larger group of "lower ability" students get the chance to change/ reverse the situation? Hm... There's this "value-added" award in place to show how these schools have made a difference to children's learning. To the schools, it matters as it's a recognition of the effort (and effectiveness in its approach) put in to value-add the child's development. On the other hand, does it really matter to parents? How many parents really think deeper than 'results at the surface' (i.e. to look at the processes and mechanics behind the success stories) and they started looking for schools for their children? I wonder.

So, what exactly defines a good school? While we were in the schooling age, one key consideration of the school is, it should be nearby. But what's important was, a school that "children will not learn to become bad" (translated literally “不会学坏”). So, the basis of good education is "character and value". I think this has not changed over time... and in fact, it has been re-emphasized by our new Education Minister. Irregardless of economic status, I believe all parents want their children to have good moral values, and the school environment were children spend most of the time there is critical. This goes back to the story of “孟母三迁”. All schools emphasize on character and values, as that decides who we are. However, I guess many a time, parents forget that that character education begins from home. Children bring the values they have (learnt from home) to schools!

So, after "beating around the bush", what makes a good school?

Still... about the Design

2011-09-18T10:51:00.000+08:00

Here's another air-tight container... for another pack of junk food that needs to be kept crispy :)
This one is slightly more than twice the previous one 'showcased'.
Look at the 'fasteners'... there are only 4 of them despite it's bigger, and the cover design is similar.
Haha... based on the 'previous theory' (the more fasteners, the longer it takes to clear the content). Probably this will have a better chance to have its contents cleared these 2 days? Hm...

Good design? Practical design?

2011-09-17T09:28:00.000+08:00

This is the container that I used to hold the pack of pork floss.
Since it's crispy stuff, I therefore chose this container.

Beautiful design, I thought... and I'm very convinced that it will keep its content crispy... 'cos it tightly sealed by the 6 'fasteners'.

Then, here comes the 2nd thought... why so many 'fasteners'? Won't 2 or 3 pieces would do the job?
Hm... I think it will do the same job well... maybe, will so many 'fasteners', it will slow down the process of clearing the content inside :P Hahah...

Circus of Life

2011-09-03T23:00:00.000+08:00

This is an interesting installation put up by students from ITE Central. The art pieces are not exceptionally attractive... however, what caught my attention was the observations of the lesser noticed side of our beloved country. It did not portray youth or energy, but an area that some of us actually refused to acknowledge this side of our society.

Put it across more bluntly, it's showcasing the less desireable side of the "World Class Country" that we strived to become... In fact, this is not new to us... we have seen articles in the newspapers that talked about the elderly were employed to clean up dining areas (in food courts), pushing trolleys (in the airport), etc. In fact, some people (especially the foreigners) asked why do they still need work despite they are so old (some, seem to be in their 70s!). Why they are not staying at home to be taken care by their children?

Just to pick a few art pieces....
1, Does this old lady 'look familiar'? Well, we find many of them in food courts all over the island. What do they normally do? When we finish our meal, they'll come over to pick up the bowls, etc and put them onto a trolley before sending them to the 'backyard' to wash up. They are, somehow, indispensible because the pleasant environment nowadays largely depend on them... if one day, they fail to report to work, just wonder... would we be able to find clean tables for dining easily? Hm... #iwonder...

2. Next, the flyer/brochure distributor... we can find them anywhere, in particular at shopping malls, MRT/bus interchanges... sometimes even at the void deck of the flats. They have a common mission, indeed, to have all the flyers given out. Well, you can't just dump the flyers if you can't finish distributing! Die die must give out. What do passer-bys normally do? Just take and throw away. The flyer/brochure distributors don't like me for sure 'cos each time I would wave my hand to signal to them that I don't want. Yup, am making life tougher for them.

3. Someone with a broom who sweeps the floor at public places... do you recognise them? Have we ever shown our appreciation to them? Without them, how would Singapore look like? #iwonder Do we still recall how much litter was gathered at Orchard Road about the Great Singapore Swing? Well, well... so much about civic-mindedness... but we can't do 'away' without them.

Click HERE to view the album in Facebook

Beautiful collection of People and Memories and Hardwork of the new venture

2011-09-03T07:53:00.003+08:00

The most beautiful gifts received this Teachers' Day... a documentation of the journey to-date... with the architects and engineers behind the new establishment captured here... and yes, it's also a milestone achievement :)

It's a privilege to be in the pioneeer team to witness the growth and milestone achievements... and of course, to be a part of it... in its history...

The Information and Communication Technology Department

The Mathematics Department

Heartwarming gifts...

2011-09-02T09:14:00.000+08:00

~o~0~o~

This year's Teachers' Day is one of the "tastiest"... receiving 2 boxes of food, apart from the chocolates :)

The box of freshly baked bun was from Jonathan... and his mum. Nice buns! It's the thought and effort put in that counts a lot :) Yummy...

Didn't get the opportunity to check with the trio ~ Dawn, Devashi and Mingyi... if they baked these cookies or they bought it... they are sweet :)

~o~0~o~

Words that warm my heart and delight my days...

~o~0~o~

Thanks, Benz...
Uniquely from Cupertino, hm... something I don't find at the Apple online store!

~o~0~o~

Thanks, Jiajun... :)

This comes in very practical and handy... especially after 'long-winded sessions'

~o~0~o~

Something from the Student Body... for the Teachers

...Nice idea to play with the alphabet set...

Magically...

2011-09-01T23:30:00.000+08:00

One of those unexpected pleasant takeaway from last night's dinner... Thanks to our 'crystal ball' reader (Andy) who set up the "stall" :)

Just wondering, what's the "hidden blessings" it mentioned? Will it unveil on its own by the end of the year? Hm... :)

心思

2011-09-01T14:28:00.000+08:00

It's the 'heaviest' gift received this year (literally, the weight)...
It's simple... yet elegant... and definitely the thoughts behind it :) Thanks!

Digital imaging

2011-08-21T18:59:00.000+08:00

Happened to pass-by one of the iDA showrooms (at the new underground link between Suntec City and City Hall). It was pretty quiet despite the fact it's a Sunday afternoon. On the other hand, it also means that I need not to wait for people before I want to try on anything.

Tried 2 interesting stuff... Here's the first one, that's to become a character in the "cartoon story"... haha... it's pretty fun though... simply superimpose my 'face' on the character... :)

Next is something that I heard sometime ago, however had not really see it in action - Virtual Make-up :)
Pretty interesting especially when my features were sharpened after the 'make-up' session.

The Singapore Spirit...

2011-08-09T21:25:00.000+08:00

Yesterday we had a short session to revisit the 6 NE messages...which is all about us being part of the island nation.

The 6 NE messages are:

Singapore is our homeland; this is where we belong.
We treasure our heritage and take pride in shaping our own unique way of life.
We must preserve racial and religious harmony.
We value our diversity and are determined to stay a united people.
We must uphold meritocracy and incorruptibility.
We provide opportunities for all, according to their ability and effort.
No one owes Singapore a living.
We find our own way to survive and prosper, turning challenge into opportunity.
We must ourselves defend Singapore.
We are proud to defend Singapore ourselves, no one else is responsible for our security and well-being.
We have confidence in our future.
United, determined and well-prepared, we have what it takes to build a bright future for ourselves, and to progress together as one nation.

Source: http://www.ne.edu.sg/ne_messages.htm

Yes, like it or not, it's to promote patriotism. But it's also putting reality before our eyes.
Take for instance, who else is responsible for our own well-being living in this island nation? It's us!
No one owes us anything. We have to be responsible for our own well-being as a citizen in the country.

What are some words that we'll associate Singapore with when asked? What's the Singapore Spirit?
Some colleagues did a quick brainstorm and these are the words... ERP, GCE, COE, PIE, PAP, MRT, SIA, PSA... haha... uniquely 3-letter acronyms! So, are they uniquely Singapore? Yes, certainly! But what does that reflect about the mindset, the mental model about the country? The livelihood in the country?

Hm... indeed, just posted the question in Facebook "What comes to the Singaporean's mind when he/she sings the national anthem?" Indeed, this question has been lingering there for quite sometime...

Well, not to talk about patriotism... but words that cross my mind would be "Home", "Unity", "Togetherness"... Immediate response from some, "So politically correct". Haha... especially most know that I'm quite cautious in my words...

Well... putting "politically correct" aside, these are words that I'll associate with the word "Singapore" with. Some talk about food, some talk about the "pressure" they face, some would not voice their frustration over the influx of "foreign talents" (which one of my friends would have a lot to say).

Just wonder if anyone has this thought that we are fortunate enough have our own national anthem instead of singing another country's? It's because the country is strong enough to survive, to find a place on the globe. What's more the country does well in many aspects, though there are also things that many don't agree to.

For instance, about half a year ago, another friend of mine said, "Singaporeans are rare species". Which I fully agree! How many of us, Singaporeans by birth exist in this globe? Of course, the "influx of foreigners" issue has been around and quite widely discussed in the recent years (e.g. http://www.transitioning.org/2010/03/30/influx-of-foreigners-good-for-singapore-sgforums/). So, although the population of Singapore has been on a steady climb, the 'global migration' has added a new dimension to the whole mechanism.

Indeed, look from another perspective, what if one is required/ expected to sing another country's national anthem? How would one feel? I guess our grandparents would be able to tell us how they feel? In particular when one lost his own nationality because another 'more powerful' country gained control over yours. What's lost? It's the nation's pride! Not something that we could pay or negotiate through monetary terms. Of course, in today's context, some would feel nothing over it... since immigration takes place globally.

Yes. The first time I missed the national anthem was when I was overseas for a year.
When I felt that I'm living under another "person's" roof... Sometimes, just felt so "powerless" and helpless as all that I was familiar with no longer there, all those I could depend on were not there...

Into the Woods... Into Multi-Fairytale land?

2011-08-07T20:52:00.002+08:00

It wasn't in my radar screen when I screened through the programmes in the Sistic website. Yes, once in a while, I just wanted to fill my weekends with some 'blue clouds' - cool times when my brain & mind will take a good break from work and be immersed in some space, embraced by music or theatre plays.

Indeed, at one go, I bought tickets to several shows:

Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber @ Marina Bay Sands in July
Into the Woods @ Esplanade today (August)
Voca People Singapore Tour 2011 @ Singapore Expo next weekend (August)
Drum Tao - the Art of Drum @ Esplanade in September

Hm... Lion King is missing from the list as I watched that several years ago when I was in London. Though heard so much good comments about it, I don't intend to go for it... hm... I don't quite animals... hahaha... similarly, it took me a while to buy the ticket to watch Cats, and only when it came Singapore the second time.

Read the outline of the "Into the Woods" before deciding to spend money pay for a "F" row seat in the theatre. Yes, it pays to sit in the front since I already planned to spend the money. The facial expressions, etc were so clear! It's like watching the "zoom-in" view!

The show assembled characters from several fairy tales - The Red Riding Hood, Cinderalla, Jack and the Bean Stalk, Rapuzel who's famous for her long golden locks! Wow, in Mandarin, we described it as 星光熠熠. Nevertheless, the mix and match of the stories made the show too 'rojak'! It attempted to use the baker childless couple as the link. Nevetheless, all, when put together was just a 闹剧, like周星驰的无厘头movie! Indeed, I was quite disappointed. The story line was not strong, neither was it captivating. It's kind of silly (although it's meant to be a fairy tale) to believe that one had to feed the "white cow" with 3 inedible stuff ~ a red hood, a golden shoe and a lock of golden hair ~ so that it would produce milk that would aid the childless woman to conceive!

Basically, the storyline was weak, I felt. and unfortunately, none of the songs left much impression after the show. I think, the only think I could recall was the gigantic lips of the "giant"! which I thought was quite an ingenious way to portray a giant on the stage! Haha..

While the performance was staged by a local production house, its playwright was first premiered in Broadway in 1987.

More information on "Into the Woods" : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Into_the_Woods

"Specialised Talents" surviving in today's society? Just some thoughts...

2011-07-30T13:30:00.000+08:00

Read the article in the Straits Times a couple of weeks ago about a former champion gymnast, Zhang Shangwu was caught buskering at the busy metro station in Beijing. It caught the attention of the media because the police 'chased' him away.

Another online report by the "China.org" also reported about this: The unpromising athlete
(http://www.china.org.cn/opinion/2011-07/26/content_23074538.htm)

In fact, I think this piece of news reinforces the common belief that one could not rely on "specialised" talents to earn a living. This does not just happen in sports, but also other areas like music or art. Perhaps it's a socio-perception? Maybe yes. Maybe no.

{Before you read further, I need to put down a disclaimer that I am writing with a set of assumptions... and of course, my possible ignorance of the actual facts... these are just personal views (that could be bias) in the absence of possible facts available}

For a long time, we know that 'big' countries like China and Russia made lots of 'investments' in terms of sports area. From a documentary that I watched (long long ago), little children were identified to be developed to become world class athletes! Since young, they went through tough training and there were numerous selection stages. It's basically training all day and all night long, and nothing else. As such, these athletes were not exposed to other things like formal education in schools. This was basically a very dear price to pay.

Of course, one might say, these athletes were trained to materialise their dreams! (in fact, I wonder, whose dream?); they might add that if they emerged to the top athletes, big money and fame would follow! (being in such a competitive environment, what's the success rate - for one to emerge amongst the tops?). For those who struggled but did not met with any success, then what's next? They would just 'return' to the society like just any unskilled (apart from the sports they know) individuals, just like a grain of sand at the beach. What high price to pay!

Even for those who emerge as world class athletes, how many sustain and lead good living after their retirement. I think this was the point that the report attempted to bring out. Many of us would think they could end up as coaches... nevertheless, how many would be engaged as one - I think, not many.

This is, in fact a serious issue to look into. China athletes are 'faraway'... how about our locals star athletes?
Where are they? One classic case was Mr Tan Howe Liang, who won the very first Olympics medal for the nation. Sometime ago, it was reported in papers about his not so smooth journey after the peak of his career.

I guess that's also one of the reasons why many parents are reluctant to let their children devote their entire life (children & adolescent) in sports unless uncompromised attention is also given to their academic well-being.

Thinking about Thinking Questions...

2011-07-30T09:00:00.000+08:00

I admit, in the system that I was familiar with, be it in my school days or in my earlier years of teaching (ok, back to my previous context), there were lots of emphasis in the content and skill acquisition. Be it in Mathematics or Science subjects. "Drill and Practice" is a dirty word! It was the 'antiode' to good performance! It's a 'guaranteed' way of the getting to the top of the ranking, which many educators believe, not just the past, but also amongst the many today.

I might have dreamt my way through the many years of education, I still remember very clearly my very first encounter of a question in a major exam that required me to think 'out-of-the-box' and see something quite different (in those days when I was still a student). It was a Maths question - pattern observation followed by generalisation to come up with an algebraic expression. It's the first time I saw a 'context' outside Mathematics. I saw organic compounds (structures) appeared in the Maths paper. Still remember very clearly, CH4, CH6... the series... of course, it's a breeze since we saw that in Chemistry. But it was an enlightening encounter when I saw the cross-subject application! Under the exam condition, definitely, it required me to think beyond, especially when it went beyond just the simple organic series!

My second encounter was the "A" level Chemistry question that got to do with the manufacturing of a certain compound in the industrial context, which deviate from (or I should say, built on) what we learnt in the lecture.

Well, 'thinking questions' is actually not new in the Singapore Mathematics curriculum. However, it's many a time 'confined' to "Problem Solving (Hueristics)" type of questions. Many a time, skills are tested - procedural skills, application; rather than conceptual understanding.

Came across an assessment paper recently. There was a heavy emphasis on Algebra that constituted about 3/4 of the questions. Almost 50% of the weightage of these questions focused on procedural skills, to some extent, was testing the candidate the similar skills but disguised in the form of complexity in questions.

Do such questions reflect what the environment tried to encourage - conceptual thinking and understanding, hence application? Or does this only happen in classroom discussion, but reverting back to the 'old school' thinking and practices? Aren't we sending different messages? Are we aligning our practices?

Stretching & Extending our Threshold

2011-07-17T16:54:00.001+08:00

A check at dictionary.com shows that the word "threshold" has the following meaning...

1. called: doorsill a sill, esp one made of stone or hardwood, placed at a doorway

2. any doorway or entrance

3. the starting point of an experience, event, or venture: on the threshold of manhood

4. psychol absolute threshold Compare difference threshold the strength at which a stimulus is just perceived: the threshold of consciousness

5. a. a level or point at which something would happen, would cease to happen, or would take effect, become true, etc

b. (as modifier): threshold price; threshold effect

6. a. the minimum intensity or value of a signal, etc, that will produce a response or specified effect: a frequency threshold

b. (as modifier): a threshold current

7. (modifier) designating or relating to a pay agreement, clause, etc, that raises wages to compensate for increases in the cost of living

No day is a good day, no week is a good week...
Hahaha.. This sounds so common... especially when someone asked, how's your day? Well sometimes people would ask me: "How are you? In a new school. How's life?" The standard or a more diplomatic reply would be "Well, it all depends on which time of the year you ask this question."

True!

Let's do a comparison... if someone asked me to count your bad hair days and you are able to name it, not too bad (although it's bad enough to have a day named as "bad hair day"). It also comes with an assumption that those we are unable to count is considered reasonably ok... and sometimes very bright days! On the other hand, if you were asked if could name your good sunny days and you are able to easily identify and name it... what could one infer about the rest of the days? Hm... Interesting, isn't it?

Days do not get longer... it's still that 24 hours in a day. However, with more and more work added, with more and more "strange" things happening around us that we need to manage, it seems like each day becomes more compact. As a result, sometimes we don't even have the time to think of taking a break.

Here, let's revisit the times when we could take a short break to ponder... and compare with those days that we zoom in and out, from one place to another... so, which is the time/ instance that we are optimising our capacity? In those 'bad hair days' when we are occupied for almost every minute and every second???

So, aren't those 'bad hair days' that our threshold is being tested? How much can we "take in" for the day... in terms of work, ambiguities, reactions and even nonsense around us? There are times that I cried aloud, "I want to skip the day!", "I want to skip the week!". Those were the days when my days were loaded with so many items that I could not even count! While each of the items are countable, it's sometimes the psychological effect that create a bigger impact on us!

Of course, that also includes times when we can't figure out why do we have to do certain things? Why did we choose to do certain thing? After accepting our own reasoning on the purpose, the next thing that we would us is, "Is it really worthwhile to do this?", "Is the price too high to pay?", "To what extent we know there's Return of Investment?". Hm... I think this is not self-doubt, but it's clarifying on the 'reality' ground. Each time we go through this and we decide to go ahead because the value of doing it overcomes the challenge and stress, I guess, there's where we stretch our threshold further. It's the will and determination, I believe.

Apart from looking at "we", there are also other players in the field that "help" us to test and extend our threshold, in particular, patience. It appears in many forms... and of course, things that they do to frustrate us. What are our reactions? At the spur of the moment, sometimes we would really want to strangle them... on the other hand, if we could manage the nonsense calmly... I guess it means it had not hit our boiling point... Yes, it sounds like threshold also refers to patience... how much we have... and it's really up to the point that we lost our patience...

In a recent facebook post that I asked for the measure of patience, I got several responses...

‎1 min=1 headless chicken
Measured scientifically by the number of people you did NOT strangle.
By the number of pple tat hv left the organisation...or are planning to leave!
Wah! Headless chicken? Interesting. By age? The older u are the more patience.
It depends on who it is... To a Buddha, patience is probably eternal. To an attention deficient hyperactivity disorder person, i think, he/she has zero tolerance... Apart from personality, it depends on where u stand on the continuum of patience too! I suppose a proactive person will not allow anything 2make him/her 2b a victim to a person or situation to test his/her patience but will instead strategize to manage & sometimes remove d source that is testing his/her patience. For me, if I hate mossies buzzin around me, I will either wear an insect repellant b4 going on a walk then I don't hv react to their buzzing & biting me or I choose not to go where mossies will test my patience or haha! if got loads of €£¥$, i'll go fumigate d area 1st! Lol

Up to this stage of writing, the term "threshold" focused largely on the individuals... but I think one of the responses pointed out the need to look at "organisational threshold" too! What a foreign entity is introduced to a system, it would sure cause some 'waves'... however, if such 'waves' remain unsettled for a long while and the other entities in the system don't seem to be able to accept its presence in the system, effort has to be put in to achieve stability. When it goes beyond the threshold limit, disintegration could be the next...

1st Time @ Marina Bay Sands...

2011-07-17T15:19:00.000+08:00

It's the first time came to Marina Bay Sands... since its opening at the beginning of the year. I had this impression that it's not quite accessible, being on an 'island' on its own, there's no MRT station on this little island. Some walking is necessary, if not would be the bus.

That was also why I had postponed thoughts of watching performances at the theatres housed on this island! Of course, that would mean I might miss out some good productions!

Well, at last, bought a ticket for the "Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber"... as a good reward for myself, a timely one after so many weeks of hardwork and stress :)

I was careful enough to set aside 2 hours for the navigation & settling down. I thought instructions from the MBS website was pretty comprehensive... nevertheless, because I followed the instructions from the website instead of the direct signs put up in the MRT station, I took an extra 5 minutes to find the right exit to catch the bus. Well, 3 buses from the bus-stop... pretty convenient if we do not wish to subject ourselves to the afternoon sun. The building was huge! and it's separated from the hotel building. So, the casino, shopping mall and the theatres are all under one roof... pretty of walking... but I think it's not that difficult to get there :)

It's Saturday morning

2011-07-16T08:47:00.000+08:00

I live on the 11th floor.

In a weekday, usually, by the time I reach home it's already pitch dark... so, seldom look out to see what's happening around although my window faces the open space in front of my flat. Moreover, when it's evening, the window would be closed as the air conditioner starts to 'work'.

There's construction work going on in front of my flat. Oh yes, a 'new barrier' going to sit between my flat and Tampines Junior College. Can't remember how long since... hm... more than 6 months already, definitely. It's quite rare that I would sit in front of the window with a relax mind... to see what's happening out there.

The morning wind is cool... to some extent, icy?
At 8.10 am, the surrounding seems to be exceptionally quiet... seems like many are still in dreamland (though it's only a Saturday morning).
The wind also brings crystal clear instructions that the supervisor gave to the construction workers all the way at the ground floor to my ears... that's amazing, isn't it? Could very clearly hear the instructions right from telling them the danger of standing near the excavator to managing the cables.

The foundation work is more or less done... very quickly, will see the blocks coming up and the JC will be out-of-sight soon.

Apart from the "mega" project right in front of my flat, there's another "mini" project just happening at my door step! Oh yes, it's installing a new lift right outside my unit! Wow! So convenient, right? Actually, I just wonder... how's the traffic going to be like... hm... and probably the noise, when it starts its operation...

Getting to know my new gadget...

2011-06-19T21:47:00.000+08:00

My new toy came quite timely, when I could leverage the trip as the opportunity to figure out some basic applications that come with it, as well as the user experience in those 10 days.

In fact, I enjoyed, not just the trip, but also having the time to explore this gadget. I guess, what I like most is its mobility, the ease to move around with an 'envelope' (oh yes, I bought an additional sleeve as I felt the iPad is too naked when only having the screen covered by the special cover).

Before moving on to the rest... perhaps let me put down a 'disclaimer' (for whoever is reading this post): I'm a non-iPhone user, and I'm not really in favour of touch-screen technology.

Next is the ease to get connected to wi-fi... just a couple of touches. On the other hand, I also noticed that the more convenience we enjoyed (i.e. the ease of getting connected), the more it has also raised the 'minimum' expectation... hence, we sometimes could also become less patient. Perhaps there's how addiction comes about? Haha... well, be it iPad or Mobile Phones, notice that I'm not the only one, but other people in the tour group also asked about it. In fact, we were quite grateful that there's free wifi access in all the hotels we put up. Of course, we enjoyed even more when we were in Mecure Budapest because we could get connected even in our rooms! The only 'disappointment' we had was Vienna Trend Appartementhotel when we were told wifi connection was available in all rooms... but we test around the room to figure out where the connection spot was...

Something that I only tried out in this trip was the "Facebook Apps" which allowed me to upload photos directly to facebook. On the other hand, there's also where I learnt the shortcoming! We could not upload photos to online applications easily, we had to go through some 3rd party software/ application! This is something that I felt not quite user friendly. No direct upload to blog or even facebook via the webpage. The folder was no where to be found!

The same applies to video! There's no way I could upload videoclips to Youtube directly, too!
Similarly, this applies for files created in the iPad... it seems like we are unable to extract it from SD cards! Instead, seems like emailing (within the application) is the only option.

How about copying files into the iPad? Hm... the connector seems to work only for SD cards containing image files... it doesn't seem to read any other files from the SD card. So, there's this inconvenience, too... now have to think of a way to transfer files out of the iPad! hm...

Having pointed out some of the inconveniences, well, something that it's very user-friendly... the way it organised the photographs downloaded... by dates and by albums... which I like alot... of course, it also comes with limitations like I could not rename the albums...

Twittering could also be quite easily done with the iPad too... well, it all went down to the design of the apps, I suppose.

Also played with "KeyNote"... pretty easy to use, hm... though it was quite troublesome to get the various features to be displayed at one go as it didn't come with "Inspector" as in the Macbook version. Hm... Have not quite tried the other applications yet though I used "Pages" to read some of those downloaded documents.

Actually downloaded a couple of forms that I intended to work on during the trips... unfortunately, the format went haywire... sigh...

Till now, with my limited experience, I think the iPad 2 definitely could not replace a computer if we were to use device for serious learning. Hm... so much hype about it... I guess the hype revolves largely on the accessibility (in particular, to the internet when connected to wifi or go into the 3G mode). Of course, another thing that wow people was the library of applications which was very rich and diverse...

Anyway, it definitely serves me well when I'm on the move... hm... I guess there are more good things for me to discover :)

Cheers!

2011 端午节

2011-06-08T23:29:00.001+08:00

Look at this! Beautiful Dumpling by mum :)
Have been indulge in this for the entire week... ok... still not tired of it because it comes with a variety of flavours :)
3 different flavours... hm... I still like the traditional one... though started to grow to like the bean-type :)
It's definitely much more tasty than those sold out there... ah! even the ones in Crystal Jade can't beat it! Haha...

Simple is Beautiful

2011-05-17T14:40:00.000+08:00

Thanks to the public holiday that I could laze around in the morning to sit in front of the television, hopping from one channel to another... at around 12 noon... KBS (115): Korean Cuisine and Dining. The segment I saw was not a nice restaurant setting (haha... which we would normally associate with words like "cuisine" and "dining").

It was a family kitchen in a flat (or equivalent).

The old couple did not look like any TV celebrities. They were just ordinary folks.
The husband was at the dining table, waiting to be served... while the wife was in the kitchen preparing dishes - and all 3 dishes come with webfoot octopus! Oops! and the preparation, for anyone who doesn't know much about Korean food like me, would think that those were pretty similar dishes... however, what's going through my head was... octopus! not very digestible stuff for the elderly! Haha...

But what really touched me was the story that closed this segment, when the couple spoken about why webfoot octopus! It's all because they lived by the sea in the early days and how the family (with 5 kids) grew up dependent on the daily catch (in particular the webfoot octopus). There's this emotional connection that they have with this sea creature! They live simple and they eat simple...

Of course some of us would wonder, and immediately become very judgemental and ask don't they feel bored over having the same dish over and over again?

Well, that's the magical part which not many of us could empathsize.

Source: http://english.visitincheon.org/sightseeing/view.jsp?tour_id=567&c_page=3&class_id=B&catagory=31&gugunName=

Dinner @ NEX

2011-04-30T10:57:00.000+08:00

First time went to NEX, WyWy's 'terriority' @ Serangoon.

Dinner gathering... with good friends is always a good way to close the hectic week ~ to talk and to unwind, without the worry of having to wake up early the next morning for work.
The place seems to be quite 'central' for the 3 of us, with the Serangoon MRT station as the 'connecting' point - one lives in Serangoon (within walking distance), one at Potong Pasir (NE line) and one at Tampines (Central-EW line).

Dined at the familiar "Crystal Jade" that came with a promotion...

This was a surprise to me! Haha.. I didn't expect an entire fish on the dish! Oh! I go for finish without bones nad even without skin! It's the first time that we (as a trio) had a dish with the entire fish presented before us... er... ok...

Fresh nice prawns coated with salted egg yoke ~ nice, nice, though I know I've chalked up new heights of cholestoral!

Dried seafood hor fan - that's very smooth, with huge pieces of fresh fish (without bone) and sotong!

Stew duck that came with a few slices of yam... and interestingly, with a few pieces of ginger, too! New taste... pretty nice though the duck's a bit... er.. fatty...

Coconut red bean paste... hahah... not really red bean piece with grains of red beans.... not too sweet, with the coconut fragnance... quite nice...

Lei-Sa glutinous rice balls that came with the sesame paste... freshly made... nice, nice... a bit like mochi.. :)

Food for Work? Work for Food?

2011-04-23T08:59:00.000+08:00

It's late Saturday morning... it was going to be a working afternoon... haha... this time, not alone, but meeting up with another... hm... how should I describe leh? Ex-colleague, friend, Project team-mate and cross-organisation fellow worker? hahah... the relationship sounds sooooo... complicated... maybe, Jean would be able to give me a much 'sharper' description of our relationship! Hahaha...

It's a pretty interesting yet very complicated relationship? Hahaha... but I must say, I enjoy this relationship! Haha... of course, it doesn't mean that having such complex relationship will definitely be enjoyable! It really depends on the PEOPLE, as well as the alignment in target, and definitely, the right attitude!

In fact, I'm grateful to this 错综复杂的relationship! I'm grateful to having this fellow ex-colleague who accompanies me in this exciting yet energy-sapping journey!What I'm grateful most is the kind of support - which is really support that brings about a win-win situation, to bring about progress for both organisations! (It's definite, both organisations have a stake in this project)

Haha... what am I uttering? Citing from past experiences in other contexts, "support" could come in the form of "Tell me what you have done", "Have you done this, have you done that?" ~ which was a string of questions and demands that did not contribute to the progress of work (despite the fact that both parties had a stake in it). That explains what I highlighted in the earlier paragraph, "It really depends on the PEOPLE, as well as the alignment in target, and definitely, the right attitude!"

Though some said, "Leave me out in the weekend, I need to recharge." It sounded that those who work during the weekends must be workaholics. Well, when a piece of job needs to be done, it has to be done. What I'm grateful is, I'm not alone to handle it all on my own :)

I like food, and certainly enjoy good food... have a good relationship likens immersing myself in good food... that the line between work and joy has blurrrrr......ed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~`
@Tampines 1: Wrapped grilled mushroom dish... nice nice... something light... after the main course (Ramen!)

Green seafood laksa that end my day at Tampines 1 before heading home after a long day :)

清明时节雨纷纷

2011-04-17T23:24:00.000+08:00

清明时节雨纷纷，路上行人欲断魂；
借问酒家何处有？牧童遥指杏花村。
《杜牧《清明》》

At Bishan 碧山亭:
This is always the first stop at Bishan. Well, like any other years, we drove in to RJC and entered via the back gate. Today's not so crowded. We managed to get a table which is facing where our 'ancestors' were placed.

At BrightHill 光明山:
Here's another place that I'm familiar with... Those turtles... I see them every year... since the days they were in that pond filled with lotus flowers dated back more than 30 years!

Eating @ School Canteen

2011-04-17T23:12:00.000+08:00

It's quite rare that I would eat at the Canteen... Well, many would think that it's because the canteen offers very little choices. True, the canteen's choices are limited; however, it isn't the reason.

Talking about choices, I am quite easily contended with food (though I love good food). As long as it is good enough to 'feed', food is not a key consideration. Probably because I was used to having simple food and I think I could return to that mode any time :) Still could recall very clearly the 'lunch' I had when I was in Paro! Haha... Boiled egg and Boiled Potato, and that tin of biscuits for lunch for those months. Haha... think about it... probably because I was quick picky on food? Hm... OK, being lazy to walk out of the campus was another reason, except on days when I was invited to my fellow lecturers' home for lunch :)

One key reason that I seldom eat at the canteen was because comfort creatures like me prefer to stay in comfortable places like the air-conditioned areas. I would not mind eat in front of my computer (though there's limited desk surface). Well, I am contended over that.

Below was captured in one of the rare occasions that I ate in the canteen. There's only one reason. Because it's soupy! Anyway, it tasted pretty good :)

While sometimes it's "boring", I disagree to saying the food is no good.
Well, the vendors are also willing to 'customise' the dishes for us. So, what else are we going to ask for more?
Just keep up with the effort :)

Surpassing the Limit.... of Others(?)

2011-04-17T09:16:00.001+08:00

Was reading the book "The Influencer", there's a chapter on "Surpassing Your Limits", which is on "Personal Ability". It talks about managing one's will and emotion... and about "preparing for setbacks, resilience, building emotional skills, etc".

Just thinking aloud: Some human beings are just strange beings...
Some human beings like to challenge themselves, but also like to challenge others. There are always lots of questions to seek clarity to the level they feel comfortable; which however, sometimes is not necessary to reach such microlevel level (though different people of different yardsticks for clarity). Well, that's an attempt to "surpass one's limit", I guess. To strive to go beyond the current status of mindset & thinking.

For such human beings, the assumption is, others also think alike, "like to challenge themselves" and hence unaware that at the 'wrong targets', they are seen as provoking others, testing others to hit their limit and sending others 'to the rooftop', before these human beings start to reflect upon their action and approach that cause the damage.

So, does that mean: Surpassing one's limit sometimes might lend to challenge others to 'surpass their limits', too? Then what's the impact and implication... Hm...

How do we account for such mindsets? Ignorance to others? or Simply as a devil advocate?

Hm... what's the point for going through this "journey" when you know that you have to manage the damage subsequently? Strange, isn't it? I couldn't understand.

Saying "no one appreciate such courage to challenge" is definitely a sweeping statement.

On the other hand, I guess such strange beings probably need to exercise their "sensitivity" to the environment and their 'targets' as it's not nice to test patience (and endurance!?) of others till they start to get flare-up or upset over the situation.

An important learning point:

Be Sensitive.
Hold one's Points of View first.
Position it (there are many ways to present a point yet without loosing its key message).
Think before Act.

Dinner with YL & GC

2011-04-11T22:24:00.000+08:00

Had dinner with Ying Leng & Gek Chew this evening... at Raffles City, our usual hangout place to meet & makan. Today, we tried a new outlet, some Hongkong Noodle stall.

There's this value meal that goes with a dessert as well as a snack. Wow! A pretty good serving, too!
Can you tell the difference between the first and the second picture? Hm... They are 2 different types of noodles. Of course, the third one is obviously different :P

Amongst these 3 glasses, they were all 3 different types of drinks; however, there's one thing that linked one to the other :P

Here's the snack and dessert that came with the set :)

Overall, the food's not bad :)
It's B1-79 (right opposite Thai Express).

Art pieces by Michelangelo...

2011-04-10T17:00:00.000+08:00

The Pieta
Interpretations from Wikipedia

Sistine Chapel, where the famous painting is...

A menu in "The Angel Inside"

2011-04-10T16:32:00.001+08:00

Came across this 'order' by Michelangelo ... Some Italian dishes that I'm curious to find out what they are...
(googled the stuff and there are my 'findings')

1. Carafe of the house red

2. Risotto

3. formaggio gnocchi

4. Halibut with aspargus

5. Lamb with Parmesan

Lunch on a Saturday afternoon...

2011-04-09T14:43:00.000+08:00

Have not eaten Lamb for a loooooong time...
Hopped into Swensen yesterday afternoon for lunch.
It's not that hot and nice... but I like the mint sauce... that's a bit soury :)
The best part was the macademia nut ice cream :)

I think one of the best de-stressing agent is definitely good food :)

Cheers!

Treats to myself to celebrate a milestone :)

2011-04-01T22:12:00.007+08:00

2nd Day of the MOE ExCEL Fest 2011:

Had lunch on my own... it was at around 3 pm... not so crowded...
We were given the $5 food coupon... topped up with a few more dollars to try this 'signature' dish at the corner of "Food Republic". Presentation looked good... hm... ok... one is good enough...

Dinner at Raffles City... again, on my own... wanted to have some quiet time ~ to rest my mind and the body... after standing for the whole day (hm... to be correct, 2 days... and talked quite a bit for the day).
It's a good treat... a simple treat of ramen and fried sotong. Really, food treated in a restaurant tasted different :)

What would be your reaction?

2011-03-26T07:54:00.001+08:00

The piece of land that separates my flat and Tampines Junior College was left vacant since day 1 we moved in... that was more than 20 years ago! After more than 2 decades, development began since February this year and construction work takes place since, every week day, from 8.30 am to about 6 pm. How fortunate, it's the time when I'm about 30 km away from home.

Quite usual to hear noisy work carry out at night as there's some rules that contractors have to adhered to. However, last night, Friday, the piling work continued beyond 8 pm.

What would be the usual reactions?
I think, these thoughts would be immediately surface...

Hey! Time to stop! It's past 6 pm.
It's noisy! Don't they know it's time to stop? People need to rest!

I think the above are common... but some us would ask the question...

Why they didn't stop the work?

Interesting, someone who stays at home the whole day to bear the noise, my mum, responded...
"They must be trying to rush their work to meet the deadline, to do what they couldn't do in the past days because of the heavy rain!"
There wasn't any impatience or frustration (caused by the noise) in her response.

What does this tell?
A good lesson to learn...

Honesty...

2011-03-24T21:43:00.000+08:00

This morning, went to the vegetarian store to da-bao my lunch. Had not patronise this store for more than 2 years. Asked for 2 pieces of fried veg, yes, a little like tempura but it's sinfully coated with fried flour. Then I noticed that the hawker actually put in 4 pieces instead of 2 (I wonder why?)

She handed the pack to me and said, "Usually they come in larger pieces. Because today they are a bit small, I'm giving you 2 pieces for every one piece you order."

I was pleasantly surprise! She needed not do that - especially when nobody knows!
What made her voluntarily picked up the extra piece?
Her conscience has told her, "Do what's right. That's value!"

Yes, honesty counts!
Compare a near retirement-age auntie who has probably did not complete her primary school and a group of "highly educated".
There's something fair to all... it does not come with education. It's about what one values!

生活。意义。快乐。

2011-03-19T10:29:00.002+08:00

某日上午，经过停车场时，偶然，看到送货的司机把货交给同事，有说有笑地。虽然听不到他们的谈话；但，看得出，他们的表情轻松愉快。

突然，起了一个这样的想法：送货司机似乎工作的蛮愉快的；也许工作压力不大吧！？也许，他们的工作目标，就是准时把货物送达目的地就行了。他们的忙，只限于来往的交易；也许，他们的工作都不必用到什么脑力的吧！那么，也许他们的压力，仅限于“准时”把货物送达就行了。其实，他们的工作，也蛮“机械化”的。放工后，就是自己的时间了。工作，是“带”不回家的。当然，终日在路上“跑”，也是件相当累人的事。然而，回到家后，就是自己的时间；可作休息，也可安排时间与家人享受天伦之乐、朋友联络感情。

当然，我所说的，也许是他们不赞同的。但，至少，是我在相比之下，“看”得到了。

当然，也有人说，一分耕耘，一分收获。要赚更多的钱，才能过自己向往的生活，很多时候，我们称它为“生计”。其实，很多时候，“向往”，是指对“物质”上的享受。换句话说，我们若“知足常乐”，不追求物质享受，那么，间接的说，我们不必把钱看得那么重，那么当做出选择时，就没有那么大、那么多的压力与紧张。生活，就过得较开心？

那么，如果要追求无忧无虑的日子，也许，就意味着放弃目前，从新再来？

“从新再来”，包括了生活哲学。。。

Cup-a-Noodle from Japan

2011-03-19T07:32:00.001+08:00

This was one of the 'few stock' left since the last Japan trip in December. Bought a few 'types' of the cup-a-noodle from the supermarket. Simply love the way that they were packaged. Look, this cup came with a cap! Do you recall seeing 'such' design of the cup-a-noodle on the shelves of our local supermarket? It made it so convenient and neat to 'soak' the noodles in hot water instead of having to place my pair of chopsticks to hold down the piece of cover to close the mouth of the cup. It also make the discarding process much easier - cover it properly and the remaining soup would not spill all over the place! Ah! How thoughful!

EarthQuake in Japan (11 March 2011)

2011-03-14T19:52:00.000+08:00

It's not the first time in the recent year that there's reports of earthquakes... Indonesia is one of those countries that's frequently hit by earthquake in the recent years... similarly, there's China and also the recent New Zealand... and further away in the other part of the globe... In fact, it's not new to hear earthquakes hit Japan... however, it's not as disastrous, and impactful as this one... which partly because it's the coastal area being widely affected; what's worse, it's hit by the tsunami. Now, it's followed by the explosions of the nuclear plants. In fact, I think the damages are beyond imagination.

In fact, it did not quite sink in in me after a while. It happened that, I was on medical leave that day; so saw the news at the ChannelNewsAsia website. Just like the one in 2005 December, the first known "bad enough" tsunami hit southeast asia, in particular, Thailand. That time, I was in Paro. But I heard (saw) about it via BBC, which kept me company in those winter nights.

I guess I heart went to those at the affected places... in particular those at the coastal areas because it was just than 12 months ago, I was there for a week - in June, with Karen, Linda and Alice... and we had quite a bit of fun over there... it's also one of those trips that I dared a more dangerous 'stunt' - went out for the boat ride! I still recall those rocky waves of the sea where we held tight to the side of the boat!

Also, the beautiful sunrise that I recorded and did up that very morning...

Here's the GoogleMap that documented where we visited...

View 2010 Tohoku, Japan in a larger map

Here's the Tohoku blog I created for the trip...
http://lohky-tohoku.blogspot.com/p/on-google-map.html

Bad Hair Day 1 of my March vacation

2011-03-14T09:05:00.000+08:00

This is my first 'lunch-out' - on my own - during this March vacation... all the way to the other end of the island, Choa Chu Kang. Haha... I must be crazy... but this is the most comforting thing I did in the first day of the March vacation.

"Unearthy" location
Blame it on this disorganised workshop that took place in the primary school which is situated in this remote part of the island. The closest MRT station to it was the Choa Chu Kang... oh! where is it??? Haiz... it's definitely a real challenge for a easterner who is never attracted to the western part of the island. (Oh yes, I'm bias, but I am always glad that I live in the self-sufficient east that enjoys better quality of air in this small island). Taking a cab from the MRT station to the school cost more than $7. So, you could imagine how accessible the school was! Oh please, do not volunteer your school as the location if it's so unaccessible!

The "best" was yet-to-come

My name was not in the attendance list despite the fact the name was sent in earlier for this workshop! Haha! Good joke! I changed my mind and submitted my name for the workshop because we were reminded that a representative was at least expected since it's one of the targeted training for hit the KPI set at the cluster level!

Oh yes, it's supposedly beneficial to the participants. Indeed, I've not doubt about the intent. However, the way it's organised left much thoughts to... Hey, did you get the right person to coordinate? For goodness sake, if it's an ICT-related workshop, let every participant have access to the internet. I'm not being demanding, but it's an expectation in Singapore schools! I would have given my full understanding if it's conducted in some remote schools in Bhutan, but definitely not in an MOE school! Each cluster of participants (ranged from 3 to 6 people at the desk) to share 2 LAN cables! Can you imagine that???

What does this tell about the organiser? An unwilling organiser? We could read alot into it... by simply looking at the logistics arrangement. I'm not being to critical over how people did things, but as a host, there's a baseline to the kind of experience you want your guests to take away.

About the Workshop
This 3-hour session had provided me a good glimpse of what I could draw from the workshop, which I think the thinking behind was good, however, it would definitely be more beneficial if it's conducted within the school, rather than made up by participants from different schools.

I'll share more takeaway in my Learning Journey Blog.

The People I met...
To be specific, it's the first time I participated in workshop that involve fellow educators in the cluster. Unfortunately, people whom I met that morning didn't help to lift up the day... How should I describe? Hm... Just 2 words, "Very UNWelcoming"... that tells alot! I'm not a picky person... but I won't forget this very first experience with this group of participants!

Having to brave through the long and winding road to reach the school, I was already late for 20 minutes. Got myself settled down with the supposedly Maths & Science group - a group of teachers whom I believe were less that 5 years in service.

We were supposed to refer to the shared GoogleDocument and respond to some questions to be put up in a mindmapping software. Remember about the internet accessibility in the school??? Haha.. Of course, I had no access and had no slightest idea of what to answer. All faces were new to me.

All were SOOOO engaged in their own discussion and no one NOTICED this new addition to the group! Hahaha... I was transparent!!! I can't imagine this if it's going to happen back in my school! I'm very sure, this is something that we'll remind our teachers never never do this to fellow participants in any workshop! What does this tell others about YOU!?

Better still when I asked the one beside me to find out what's happening, "Could I take a look at the document?" Without turning or lifting her head, she just turned her laptop a little and carried on her conversation with her partner. How RUDE!!! A RUDE LONG-HAIR CREATURE! Anyway, having learnt what's the task, I carried on to do my mindmap on my own macbook. Anyway, contributed my 2-cent worth in the discussions in the 3-hours of 1st part of the workshop. That's ENOUGH! I guess the key is, an EDUCATOR who possessed NO BASIC MANNERS! and DEFINITELY NOT HELPFUL at all - What does this reflect about our PEOPLE in our service? Filling the vacancies with more and more of the "Mind my own business people?"

Truly disappointing! No, no, no... I'm not going to change my impression of this particular ill-mannered bispectacled long hair creature!

My Consolation after the 3-hour ordeal...
I was glad that I have a good reason to get out of this unpleasant situation - the Wild card was that I was not even registered for the workshop! So what when that creature and others at the table started to express interest in what we do in the school after knowing where I came from...

The morning part ended at around 1 pm. After making my way to Chua Chu Kang MRT station, it was almost 2 pm! The best way to console myself of the unpleasant start of the day was to have a good meal for lunch...

Treat for myself ~ Ramen @ Ajisen, Lot 1, Choa Chu Kang

比较。。。何必呢?

2011-03-13T19:22:00.001+08:00

近日，又碰到友人甲。和甲，认识也有大概十来年了吧！大家都在同一“屋檐”下打工，也在两个老板下一齐同事过。当然，离去后，也没管后来“接班”的老板的故事。既然不管我事，自然而然地，我没兴趣。当然，即使我并不对“新老板”的作风有任何的好奇，友人甲和乙，都经常在我的耳边提及新老板的怎么、什么的。所以，即使我跟“新老板”素未蒙面，对他，我并不陌生。

其实，我认为，每个人都有他的长处与短处。长，即是“擅长”之处。但，甲则喜欢经常有意无意间把这两位“过去”与“现任”老板作比较，尤其是把现任老板抬的高高的，说“过去”老板如何不够交际人缘等等、说“现去”老板如何善于利用口才交际人员关系去为机构、同事们争取机会表现，把该机构推到另一高峰等等。何必呢?

是为了“炫耀”吗？其实，有什么好 “炫耀”呢？
花无百日红。可是，“炫耀”是正常人的心理吗？

当然，甲也时不时地提及该机构如何运用科技。也许，她对目前的所见所闻感到十分的骄傲；可是也不必常常的把它“挂”在嘴里。

天啊！除了“炫耀”，你可知还有“谦虚”这两个字吗？
不要忘了“台上十分钟，台下十年工”。前人种树，后人乘凉。

Rewarding myself...

2011-03-06T22:35:00.000+08:00

Rewarded myself handsomely with a good lunch at Lao Beijing @ Plaza Singapura after a few weeks ot hardwork and stress for the Apple Education Leadership Summit 2011... Ah! It was a good one!

Taking a Break...

2011-02-27T14:23:00.000+08:00

It's the time of the year when people started planning for holiday... it's no different for me... When the travel bug bites... haha... no matter how far, or how short the trip is going to be, it's still a "sure go"! That happened in the recent years.

On the other hand, because of the tight schedule, which somehow, though there's a blackout period, it's getting shorter and shorter... it's scary isn't it? So, it's either plan the trip early or be prepared to stay in the island for that supposedly 'break'.

From the calendar, this March vacation is definitely a gone case... June? The supposedly 2 weeks (10 weekdays) has shrunk to 7 weekdays! The only period currently unoccupied is "9 to 19 June"! Wow! So, easy to remember! I was not so optimistic that it's easy to settle with any tour packages within this timeframe! Anyway, not trying means giving up totally! Well, still plan for it...

To my pleasant surprise, there was one that fitted in nicely! Though not the first choice (which is where CN and me wanted to go since N years ago... N > 4), I think I'm grateful enough to see I'm landed with somewhere far :) (though visited one of the places in the past 1 year...)

Just wondering... am I the 20,027th visitor to the NATAS fair?

It's The End?

2011-02-27T14:03:00.001+08:00

This acronym "ITE" has been used to interpreted as "It's The End" for a looooooooooooong time... If I remember correctly, it was first talked about in Jack Neo's movie. Oh yes, only Singaporean would come up with such sacrastic, saddist description for the abbreviation for "Institute of Techical Education". The institute provides education for students (around the age of 16-18) who are less academically-inclined but benefits from hands-on programmes. In particular, a large number of the students are graduands from the Normal (Technical) stream.

I've no idea, in this globe, how many education systems started streaming learners at the age fo 12 and hence, that would largely dictates the 'specialised' system that they would go through... although some might end in the same destination, as those who are deemed to be more academically inclinded.

In fact, in Singapre, no matter what, meritocracy is highly still emphasized in our education system - that's why we are so used to use terms like "academically-inclined" to describe our learners. And of course, those who have demonstrated that they are more academically-inclined stand an advantage in the education system here. And certainly, this created lots of stress to the learners as well as their parents! Ok, to some extent, also their teachers! Well, it's just like wild fire that spreads so easily and quickly! It makes life much more competitive and competition begins since young. Sometimes, I just wonder, the young learners were 'automatically enrolled' into the competition. It's "By Default". They did not ask for it. So, this is 'life'?

Indeed, it's pretty sad that, in this society, people in general still look up to those who are academically strong; and often neglect reaction of the other group of learners. People, here, I mean, the general public, the general community; unfortunately, I think, also some educators! That makes me wonder...

On the other hand, I think, not so many of us, in particular, those who serve in the secondary schools, are aware that, many of these less academically-inclinded students did very well (in post secondary education... when they go to ITE)... and definitely, I think, the key to success comes through their strong determination and perseverence! I believe that this is something that many of their parents would not have anticipated that their children have gone that far! Look around in polytechnic, I think it's not difficult to 'hit' a few graduads who came through the Normal (Technical) stream, and more are moving towards university, too! In fact, it's heartening to hear that some of the first couple of batches of N(T) students even completed their university education... and at least one is planning to pursue her master degree!

Well Done!

Singaporeans are rare species!

2011-02-20T06:32:00.000+08:00

Met up with Liping when she came back for a holiday break earlier this year... and amongst the many things we chatted, she remarked that we, Singaporeans are rare species!

The trigger of the topic was about the earthquake she experienced at LA last year; and she appreciated the fact that within a couple of hours, someone from Singapore called to check her safety, and it was an official from MFA... because she had registered at the website. She was impressed! Me, too! Wow! So efficient! Then she came, actually, to contact overseas Singaporeans is pretty easy and quick, because, as compared to any other country, there are only so few of us!

Moreover, the birthrate of Singapore has been decreasing... and how many "true" Singaporeans you could get on earth? Hm... while we know we have attracted many foreign talents to settle down in Singapore, "true" Singaporeans, here, I'm referring to those who by-birth, they are Singaporeans and they remain in this homeland... No many. It's only about 3 million! So, everyone of us is a 'significant' contribution to the population size! and hence, our 'market value' amongst the mankind has grown' too!

Well, this was brought to the table when having lunch with some ex-students, when one related her experience in China, the way her driver drove up the hill. Wow! Car-racing, hair-rising experience, haha... then she commented, she felt that the "life" in a huge country with huge population size did not seem significant at all! Ironically, the increase of a new life in such country would be significant. Hahaha... An interesting way of thinking :)

Lunch @ NYNY

2011-02-19T21:39:00.004+08:00

Lunch @ New York New York at City Link... Nice ribs...
Wonderful company of Yuting, Kim Kwang, Suat Khim and Yen Yen :)
Oh yes... thanks for the tasty Green Tea cake, too :)
Enjoyed very much...

Today's Lunch

2011-02-13T20:41:00.000+08:00

This is a modified version of the Hongkong styel "海鲜生面". Instead the Bee Hoon was nicely fried and it goes very well with the hot and tasty gravy... :)

正月初八、正月初九

2011-02-13T20:29:00.001+08:00

正月初八晚，回到家，看到熟悉的“摆设”。。。啊！原来妈咪已经准备好了当晚拜拜天公。虽然我们不是福建人（听说，这是福建人的习俗吧！）；但，从小，这已经是我家的“习俗”，也许是因为我刚好就在正月初九出世的缘故吧！
其实，也是每年的这天，可吃到妈咪亲手烹制的发糕。
啊！美味！

这就是我“初九”的早餐 :-)

Chemistry & People-People Relationship

2011-02-04T22:18:00.000+08:00

Posted the following question in Facebook (the Student account)... no response yet... I guess, maybe none could think of the possible solution yet:

There are 4 solutions A, B, C and D
A & B, when mixed in a beaker, remain as a mixture (A+B). The solution looked homogeneous.

When C is added to the mixture (A+B): Immediately, all 3 solutions are separated.
When D is added to the mixture (A+B): All 3 become one solution (mixture A+B+C) and look homogeneous.

What are the possibly solutions A, B, C and D?

Indeed, this analogy came about as I was reflecting on the complexity of human working relationships.

Imagine a team made up of 2 people. They were like solutions A & B. They worked together very well and the level of synergy was high. Naturally, the morale was high. They both co-exist as a homogeneous solution :)

(See the parallel?)

Now, came the 3rd person - which could be C or D.

C was the new addition to the team, which supposedly would bring the team performance and capacity to greater height. C came with the relevant expert knowledge and skills that A & B did not possess. However, because of C, the morale of the team deteriorate... Surprise! Isn't it? The team supposed to be stronger now! However, because of the personality and the lack of people-people relationship, the supposedly stronger team now could not exhibit or demonstrate the desired level of work performance!

Whose fault? I guess that was the first reaction from most people, and next, they would probably be all pointing finger at C. Was that really C's fault? On the other hand, A & B might not be at fault too! So, what to be blamed? "Chemistry"?

Of course, the ideal situation is "D", someone who could immediately gel very well with the team and bring it to new heights?

I think, most of the time, we look forward to ideals like "D" and we expect people who join the team would be able to "naturally" gel well with the existing team.

I guess the challenge is to turn all the "C"s into "D"s and for this to happen, possessing good people-to-people skills is important and it's one critical success factor.

“水上人家”与“划山舨人”的故事

2011-02-04T20:43:00.000+08:00

写这个故事时，引子，来自现实生活里，发生在身边几位朋友的事情。写完整个故事后，觉得它是个挺不错的案例，值得研究。研究的是人与人看事情的观点与处事。

仔细读后，自有领悟。其实，仔细想想，这故事不单发生在我的周围；其实，也发生在不同人的周围。

~ 故事画面 ~

河岸的水上人家，正努力地撒网捕鱼。
在附近的划‘舢板’的人儿，不但帮不上忙，还不断地把网上的洞越扯越大！同时，又开始刮风下雨了！真是屋漏又逢连夜雨。

水上人家恨不得“智慧老人”快快出现，伸出援手。

看到这个情景，是否历历在目？仿佛曾经身在其中呢？大家的反应会是什么呢？

~ 同个故事，另一画面 ~

在生物/环境学里，各个主体都是息息相关的。为了维持平衡，当人们在同样环境里进行不同活动时，也许，从他们的角度来看，是百利而无一害的。而且，在他们的眼里，出发点，往往总是好的。

。。。也许，划‘舢板’的人，表面上正在把网上的洞扯大，似乎是在搞破坏。实际上，他们的举动，是否是因为知道网里头出现了有威胁的巨物，而为了出一份力而去“作破坏”呢？但又没通知水上人家呢而造成了误会呢？

其实，当这些活动同时进行时，与其锦上添花，有时由于少了智慧老人来维持次序，让大家坐下来好好的看整个画面，去了解个人的出发点，因此感到徒劳无功。（不然的话，为什么会有“联合国大会”呢？）

也许，水上人家，因为顾虑了其他因素，而没有让其他人知道其实不够人手而因此无法顾及到周边的许多事物，甚至连自己的屋子都漏水了，都来不及修补。另外，是否是“水上人家”与“划‘三舨’的人”都不知道各方所用的方式都有待改善？但，又没跟对方讲呢？

每个状况，都有它的“原”与“因”。“用心良苦”，有时因为没有清楚的表达，而导致“冲突”。其实，在冷静后更深一层的去分析与了解，个人的反应又不一样了。

Lunch on 24 January @ Jurong Point

2011-01-24T19:16:00.000+08:00

Pretty tasty lunch... ^.^

Areca nuts...

2011-01-15T12:21:00.000+08:00

The conversation started when we saw a palm tree along the way to school and OCY pointed out that that particular species bear areca nuts that are not edible.

It generated a pretty interesting discussion.
Indeed, I would connect areca nuts to the Bhutanese. That was my very first encounter of areca nuts... so was so easily and readily available, be it in town or villages... be it in Thimphu or Paro. Be it villagers or educators! It's not related to profession or socio-economic status (I believe). It's a culture, I think.

Oh yes, those unforgetable disgusting red and orange patches on the ground! In my early days in Paro, I was always puzzled why the locals were so careless, spilling red/ orange paint all over the place. Er.. of course, next question was, why these colours only?

After a while, I learnt that it was caused by the chewed areca nuts that were spit on the ground. I just couldn't understand... today, I still do not understand why do people like to chew the dried areca nuts (wrapped in betel leaves)? The entire mouth turned orange, with that er.. smell... and then... spit them on the ground... I really really could not understand this culture/ practice of chewing dried areca nuts! When it's not properly disposed, the only word to describe was, "disgusting".

That's something unforgetable about this country with unique culture... well, what I related was something I observed more than 5 years ago. Well, things would have changed for a better (I believe) as the country progresses :)

Of course, another place once known for it was Taiwan - the betel nut beauties" - sexily dressed young girls who sell betels... of course, they were tapping on the weakness of the opposite sex for extra income. On the other hand, it created a culture in some places in Taiwan. EL and OCY shared that some would just placed the package of nuts at strategic location (of their body) where the buyer would pick up the package of nuts. Well, well... disgusting, disgusting...

Grateful that we don't observe these in the sunny island...

Reflection (I): About Changes...

2011-01-15T08:22:00.000+08:00

It was a very packed week - I guess it's all because work life has returned to its normal course. Picking up the moment is one, but it's also having to adjust to the changes around...

Changes, not because I've moved on to a new environment, it's because of the changes to the existing environment. Yes, these changes include people around, practices, mindsets, expectations(?), etc... There are changes in the ways "things are to be" done - yes, admit that it's for a good course, but sometimes, it's the pace and the format that it takes time to sink in...

As I mentioned in a tweet middle of the week, "Took time to stablise the boat for a smooth sailing journey. Don't like new waves not knowing head or tail to rock the boat uncontrollably."
Yes, there's a concern... but it could be ungrounded one... Well, who says fear need to be grounded? I'm quite sure, the waves are here for a good course... With new waves, that's where the boat could experience the new heights when hit by it... On the other hand, not all rowers are experienced or ready to manage the boat well when it's pushed to mid-air. This is especially so when there are four passengers, each having a different need, in the same boat. One more thing to consider, while it's good stretch the potential to serve more ports, sometimes, some boats are meant for specific purpose and they have its own course.

I agree, branding is important. What draws attention? What does attention draw? Well, it's a chicken-and-egg thing. However, what happens when one keeps connecting all the good work and good intent to creating a brand name? The positioning has become blur the original and genuine intent of all good work that were carried out or to be carried out. While it's survival, over-emphasis from such an angle diluted and blurred our purpose.

Maybe it's just a different perspective... and different individuals pursue different outcomes, in different ways. When one strives hard to do well, some do it because it's their job to do so (that's very real and practical, which is what we are paid for to do a job. Well, realistically, the more you are paid for, the higher expectation the organisation has on you to make the target, and even within a shorter timeframe).

On the other hand, it's imporant to recognise that there are boats that serve a niche clientele. Attempts to change its course to enlarge its scope would lost its niche and novelty.

Hm... think about it, maybe it just need a pair of new hands to steer and redirect?

2010 December 31... HOW the 24h LOOKED like...

2011-01-01T18:18:00.002+08:00

0000h-0330h: zzzzz.....
0330h: rise & shine.
0345h-0600h: clearing email, sorting out documents. preparing for morning workshop.
0600h-0630h: breakfast. getting ready to leave for school.
0630h-0745h: bus 29. mrt westbound line. gentleman offered me a seat in the crowded train.
0745h-0800h: bus 189. bus not crowded. only person alighted.
0807h: meet kh along the linkway, telling me breakfast is ready. wow... so nice of him to make all these arrangement. thanks, kh.
0810h: surprised to learn that furniture not back to their usual arrangement after the training that took place the day before. ah! one thing I must remember: always 'reset' everything back to starting state (when possible) - for the convenience of all users.
0810h-0830h: thanks to kh & mw for helping to set up the room. really appreciate the help.
0830h: getting ready. some new colleagues already there. good morning :)
0840h-1130: workshop begins with mac attack activities. glad that we went through and it gave good opportunities to share experiences and useful classroom management tips. thanks to jn sharing an observation that i was not aware of. meanwhile, received reply from hy that the application was approved. yes. it made my day. thank to the team back in hq! great year-end gift. appreciate the swiftness.
1130h-1330h: discussed programme with ay. good progress for something exciting to happen. am confident it would go well when placed in ay's hands.
1230h: ocy reminded me last year we stayed up till evening. actually we didn't. i have evidence. it was only up to around 1 pm on 31 dec 2009. ok, this time i reached 'new heights'.
1340h: i knew i was late for the 2 pm gathering. replied vy. packed & go.
1340-1400h: at clementi mrt station. tried to reach for the hp to twit. oh no! to my horror, it's not in the bags. oh! i left it on irfan's table while i was packing my stuff. what a day!
1400-1425h: at last, 189 came. what's wrong! had to wait for more than 15 min for the bus. ok. keep cool, but true enough, it tested my patience. yes, i cursed & swear in my heart. not because the bus did not come, but why i was so forgetful. hey, is age catching up? hm... i'm not very optimistic.
1430h: stepped into sst again. 2nd time in the same day, & carrying heavy stuff. what a way to end work. met the guard. saw 2 cars in the carpark. there were still people around.
1435h: stepped into the staff room. dt & cl were still there. i'm not the last to go :)
1450h: ok. sms vy that i'll be late. caught a cab. traffic was really really very slow... why so much vehicles.
1520h-1830h: yes. at reached macdonald. there - only vy turned up. well, well, blessing in disguise. had a really good heart to heart chat with vy. yes. even recalled those good old days (really old 'cos almost 10 yrs ago) in nas, & we even spoke about old colleagues. yes. i missed those good old days where i grew.
1830h-1840h: bought 4 slices of cakes at macdonald. mum said it was good, but did not eat though i bought a couple of weeks ago. bought the same 4 flavours.
1840h-1920h: took bus 20 home.
1920h-1955h: dinner. nothing beats dinner at home. liked the soup very much.
1955h-2030h: turned on tablet, surfed a little. knew that work had arrived - but would only do on new year day.
2030h-2400h: decided not to stay up... off the tablet... zzzzz.....

回顾2010：有人云。。。（烧鹅的故事）

2011-01-01T15:20:00.001+08:00

12月31日，特别多人在“脸书”里做出“回顾、感想”。

有人云，意似：“在这一年里，忙忙碌碌地赶鹅；最终才醒觉瞎忙了一场，转身一看，才知道原来美味烧鹅来自另一处。”

其实，是真的“瞎忙”了一场了吗？白白地浪费了一年的时间了吗？并不以为然。若是有这种想法，我相信此人真的是“瞎了”，白活了！难道真的是空手而归了满？那岂不是很对不起自己吗？

换个角度来看看：
也许开始的时候，自己有没有想清楚，到底要吃的“鹅”是如何烹调的呢？还有，到底来对了大草原了吗？也许，去错了地方，哪一家的鹅是吃草的？哈哈。。。或许，你忘了点菜？

另一方面，现在有人端上一盘“烧鹅”给你，是否是因为看到你在“追鹅”时学到或展现出“捉鹅”的潜能、本领；所以才用“烧鹅”来赏识你呢？你若没“追鹅”，也许“烧鹅”未必会出现。所以，我想，也该谢谢给予你时间与空间的草原主人吧！

Rekindling Good Memories...

2010-12-31T16:40:00.000+08:00

It was one of the most meaningful gathering I had this year... indeed, it's just meeting Val, whom I taught... er... I think about 10 years ago, the batch that graduated in 2004 (I think, the year I left for my volunteer work).

Indeed, in the 2 hours of chatting, I realised that whom I was talking to was no longer the Val I saw or I knew in the CPA class, but is a mature lady who is able to draw out lots of observations and analyse situations very well. She has grown so much... Val did not come across as one who would express her thoughts and opinion so well in her secondary school days! Haha... she was definitely one of those quieter ones, but we knew, she was a kan-cheong spider afterall... oh yes, Zubaidah and me had a fair share of her those days... haha... (of course, Zubaidah had another 'nightmare' that she was very proud of, too. Ah! Grateful of the opportunity to catch up with her. I believe I would see similar changes in batches of students whom I spent time with in the computer lab those days.

We spoke over lots of things in those 2 hours. Indeed, it accounts from coping the university workload and stress, based her own self-analysis of the challenges (and what gave rise to the challenges) that she faced these days... to mental models of elderly at home and society, as well as those good old teachers who had taught her in those 4 years. Haha... almost everything under the sun :)

I guess, no matter is work or study, stress is always there... I guess it really goes down to

weighing what is needed and what one wants. And yes, what one wants have another layer: Are we contended with what's enough for survival or we wanted to strive hard enough to actualise our aspirations, which might be set higher than what we are capable of achieving (within our comfort)?
realising that one is actually competition against oneself, rather than others. Take for instance, many a time, we felt good because we saw ourselves progress within the same old environment over the years. We were happy (and to some extent, tend to be contended or happy over the achievements). However, it's still comparison within the same old environment, still within the same wall. Only when one starts to meet people from other communities, then it's the 'testing' time to tell where we are.. and realise there's always mountains higher than those who know :)

Well, lots of good deep thinking behind all these... and we can go on more...

Of course, another common 'topic' is really about the school where she had great memories for 4 solid years, and for me, more than 10 years!

CPA & EOA Lab sessions - ah! Those were the days when all spent hours to work on the coursework
The meetings at the benches outside the then-HOD room
Her teachers... yes, and my ex-colleagues like Mr Lee SL, Mrs Pong, Alice, Zubaidah,... and even Mr Chua! haha... Yes, Val asked a very interesting question that would make us respond with a laugh, "Does Mr Chua still like to put on his pink shirt?" What do you think? Hahaha...

2010 Year-end School Reflection

2010-12-26T23:28:00.031+08:00

Last year, we had one round... I remember the task was more challenging, when we were to create a short clip on it... I recall mine... was in fact, a recap of the journey since Day 1 (that was in 2008 April) till before the tyre started to hit the road (which what Mrs Chew likes to say). That was a recap, not just what I did, but also a promise, a renewal of my commitment to what I did this year...

I'm not sure, if you ask me, a promise to??? myself or the organisation... sometimes, I really could not quite tell the difference... I guess, it's all because I don't see it as a job, but it's a means to fulfill a dream, a dream which I think probably not easy to materialise, but I found a place that I could probably do so?... and there's alignment of my dream and what the organisation aims to achieve, I suppose... though my dream is a smaller one, compared to the organisation's as a whole.

To make it come true... no doubt, lots of hardwork... I guess, not just hardwork, it's also hardship... It takes place in many forms - not only the usual ones, but also the stress to battle with. Often, the stress came from self - for 'wanting' to do well, for the 'fear' to see things go haywire, I guess, lots of this got to do with self expectation, and assumed expectations that others have on me ... well, these are within my circle of influence and I could manage it at my hand. However, there were also stress created by others, which sometimes was unnecessary and undesireable. This 'stress' became stress because it has an impact on (or probably hinder) my work progress or quality of output. So, I think this was the greatest challenge I faced this year.

Getting into real action and 'flowing' along with the action was something that I could not imagine before the project was in action. Not just dealing with projects, but also dealing with humans with different ways of thinking and expectations, dealing with human beings who claimed to be in the same professional field yet acted and behaved otherwise! ah! That caught me in surprise, and of course, those unrefined emails that flew across the cyberspace. I would not have expected such from supposedly refined human beings! oh! Leopards' spots would stay put, no matter how hard it tried ot disguise!

I think, in 2010, I had really turned twitter and facebook status update into another avenue to let my steam off. Yup, needed a place to let it out, sometimes quite badly, all because I could not figure out why some human beings behave or think so 'abnormally' or so 'ridulously'! Or, maybe I was the odd one who rationalised things using a different set of logic or logarithm? I wonder? Well, that also prompted me to let out my frustrations in a more refined manner - have to do what I preach... as a result, have also sharpened my art of writing, became more creative, too!

In terms of achievement, I think, I would measure my success based on others' success. Yes! That's where impact become visible and therefore tangible. Others' gain, indeed, was my gain :) There were also opportunities for me to present and share beyond the local audience. While it's an affirmation of the work done, I would not have these opportunities or exposures without the present "springboard". I am grateful of that :)

Certainly, apart from what I could do within the environment I'm situated at, I'm also very thankful of the help and support from friends who work with me under various context! The encouragement and extra hands :)

Also, something new to the me, was being 'freed up' from my teaching duties in the 2nd half of the year to focus on the projects. Grateful to the management's understanding, and also the confidence on me :) Yes, I was left 'alone' most of the time to work at my own pace own target (of course, it aligned to the bigger targets). It was an experience.

A Christmas Gift...

2010-12-26T08:21:00.000+08:00

Who says that a gift needs to be 'concrete' and physical? Haha... although many a time, when people spoke about gifts, it's usually tied to a physical object... Very often, the first thing one could thought of is, "Buy something." Then people moved on to talk about "Making something" to give an appreciation from the heart... as no two things we make are the same, especially during the process, the kind of thinking and effort... though it might not look 'professional', it's the thought that counts! So, this has moved the gift 'up' another level.

I think the next level, not sure if it's the highest level... would probably be something that's intangible... and probably something not represented by any physical object - it's the bonding between people :) For instance, just a get-together could be one of the best gifts in the world - the "quality" added to the time is factor! Hahaha... Then how about material gift? It serves as a 'recalling point' of the expression of 'gift'.

Of course, I'm not saying that material gifts are unrepresentative of one's thoughts... I beg to see material gift in a different light... and we could tell the difference! Haha... How to tell the difference while it's just an object? I'm very sure, 'cost' is not a consideration.

It's whether the recipient could be 'connected' to the gift - that tells how observant we are... so, it need not be told to the recipient, but from the gift - it tells... also, sometimes, one gives what one likes to other because they wanted to share what they like and their joy with others :)

On the other hand, when it comes to 'gift' exchange, very often, people would go the shop and pick up something - without much thought (i.e. not much of representation between self and others) - then such a gift is just 'any other gift' that's bound to be circulated or ended up...
千里送鹅毛，礼轻情义重。。。

I think "Re-connection" is the best Christmas gift that I received this year... I think it's also technology, the social network to thank :) Well, it's great to get re-connnected to the very first batch of students at NAS. Yes, the girls whom I taught for 4 years... and some were also in the Red Cross CCA. I think it's this reunion that makes the very big difference. Certainly, they are a very nice bunch of people :)

All the best to this group of young ladies... yes... it's great to hear that they are doing well... they've taken the path that's less travelled... and in fact, I guess, they are the winners in their own ways :)

有卡从远方而来，不亦乐乎

2010-12-24T05:41:00.000+08:00

A pleasant surprise from Hokkaido! It's from Megu, an acquaintance met in the Darwin trip almost 10 years ago! ：）
虽是萍水相逢；但每年都会通过邮差的手，传递着丝丝的祝福，丝丝的甜意。。。
Bravo!

Instant Noodles from Kyushu

2010-12-24T04:32:00.003+08:00

When overseas, one of the 'must-go' places is the local supermarkets... which is a good place to learn what the locals buy... and sometimes, we get very good buys - not just value for money, but also really authentic local products :)

In the recent trip to Kyushu, one of the best buys was Instant Noodles! Ha! It's not just any instant noodles... perhaps I 'sua-gu', but it's the first time I see something that's so compact! and easy to prepare!

Just let the 'dried' pack immerse in hot water for about 1 min (we don't even need to cover it...) and it's ready... more importantly, it's very very tasty! I'm pleasantly surprise! I'm amazed!!! It's an innovation!

I wished I had bought more!

Click HERE for the Kyushu trip

When travelling abroad, would you let others know that you are a...

2010-12-18T21:02:00.000+08:00

This is something that made me very puzzle... or maybe it's "ME" rather than others are practising this seemingly (to me) 'strange' behaviour... of keeping our profession as a SECRET.

Interesting 'disguise'... Once I travelled with a friend to Taiwan... guess what she filled up under "occupation"? "A Clerk". I wonder why? Then recent years, travelled with a few other teacher friends in tour groups, they would agreed unanimously not to disclose our identity when asked or during the conversation. In fact, I wonder, "What's wrong being in the education?" The same happened in the most recent trip too...

No questions posted to my friends... anyway, I guess the main reasons (would not go beyond these) include

So that others would not ask questions about our school? er... especially to parents who are 'shopping' or comparing schools... then we would be easy target to answer questions (or being a pseudo spokesperson)?
In case we meet teachers from the 'rival' schools, and in exchange of 'glares'?
Hear 'misconceived' ideas of 'good' lives of teachers and having the need to clarify?
People making assumptions that we know all, so expect more questions to come?
We could not enjoy the 'play' and 'fun' because we need to maintain our image as a no-nonsense teacher?
Uncalled for kind of attention because we are expected to 'enforce' certain attitude/ behaviour?

Oh! So many reasons... so much so that many of us (without second thought) would asked to have our profession 隐姓埋名？
Just wondering... is that fair to who we are actually...

The Perfect Park

2010-11-27T22:05:00.002+08:00

by Leon Sooi (HCI)

One of those animation clips that are showcase at the Esplanade.

Pretty interesting way of posting a question: Are we trying to strive perfectionist outcome within the imperfect environment?

The very first impression was, the driver was a perfectionist; however, in an unrealistic situation. While the cars around him were imperfectly parked, how was he going to strive for perfect parking?

Tried to draw some parallel... have I been a perfectionist in an unrealistic situation? There is no doubt, to a large extent, I'm a perfectionist... however, depending on situation. Just 2 days ago, I exclaimed, "It's a glaring error!" when checking an A1 poster meant for people who are not within the school community. Immediately, I got reactions from my neighbour. Haha... well, well, well, if they know it's meant for the public and the mistake was one on the sub-heading, would they still react in surprise? These days, have learnt to close one eye... and yes, more mistakes were surfaced along the way... so, I'm not really that demanding... having said that, I think, it largely depends on the context, too.

Cinderel-lah

2010-11-27T20:40:00.002+08:00

Have not stepped into the theatre for almost half a year, I think... Today's a local production - Cinderel-lah. Indeed, it's put up by a pretty strong cast, like Emma Yong, Sebastian Tan, Chua Enlai, Lim Kay Siu, Najip Ali & Gurmit Singh.

With Gurmit Singh and Najip, how 'serious' a show could be? Haha... It was definitely funny and they took the limelight (though the main stars are Emma Yong and Sebastian Tan). Enjoyed the show thoroughly... indeed, one of the best ways to unwind (for me) is to immerse in a show and forget any other thing :)

I guess, one of the greatest takeaway was towards the end, when I saw the sign of relief and satisfaction in the eyes of the cast! Yes, eyes 'talk'... well, it could be the limelight they enjoy... but really, it's the look that says, "I am totally immerse in it and enjoying what I do!".

My tweets after the show:

Could see from their eyes... They are thoroughly enjoying what they are doing :) #iwant my eyes to 'speak' my satisfaction & joy, too! :)
眼睛是灵魂之窗。双眸最美丽的时候，是当它充满了希望，满足，感激和开心的时候。。。那也是它最动人之际。。。

er... Do I sound a bit...

2010-11-20T17:01:00.002+08:00

Early afternoon, I tweeted:
lohkwaiyin
Getting ticket for Cinderellah musical... Looking forward to next weekend :) Why that guy needed >20 min just for those 2 cheap tickets? :(

Came back.
Sat down.
Went through the tweets (yes! I have this habit of revisiting what I posted).

A thought just crossed my mind... ok, I sounded arrogant...
Well, the key understanding was actually not because it's cheap... but just could not understand why that guy took ages (about 20 minutes) to decide the seat he wanted, even contemplating of changing the seats after the tickets were printed.

Maybe it's just because I've got all the necessary ready and finished the transaction in less than 5 min. Yes, that's efficiency.

Lunch & Dinner when mum's away

2010-11-07T19:14:00.004+08:00

Varied versions of noodles - western & oriental... my masterpieces over this weekend :)

Have not prepared meals for a long long time... though simple, all in all, it took me about 2 hours to prepare a day's breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Simple Meals

2010-11-07T13:14:00.002+08:00

Two of my 'masterpieces' of the day... yummy...

Eruption of Merapi volcano

2010-11-07T10:57:00.003+08:00

There's vast coverage of the eruption of the Indonesian volcano.

It's the second of this kind of major natural 'activity' that took place this year.
This first was the eruptions of Eyjafjallajökull in Iceland.
Little is Eyjafjallajökull known to this part of the world. But the 'powerful' volcano ash spread had caught the attention of all. More, being the impact, rather than the interest of the eruption; at least, I think. It's the serious economic impact - where flights were cancelled and the disruptions to the activities in the countries 'nearby', in particular Europe, thanks to the 'support' from the powerful seasonal winds.

Nearer to home, now is a volcano which already sounded the alarm many months ago - since it started to become active. However, the real impact on came these couple of weeks when it finally erupted! Yes... the ash, the gas, the lava... and the scale of destruction that it brought about.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Merapi

What's alarming to me... not sure if it was also reported in the Eyjafjallajökull eruption, where some villagers refused to leave their homes! Not that because they could not leave behind the cattle, but it's where they wanted to remain true to their beliefs, and leave their lives to the hands of nature!

Well, is this something that only happen to Asians... and of course, not all Asians, but the ones who clinged on to their old beliefs, practices and rituals? I wonder.

As reported at http://en.vivanews.com/news/read/185003-most-merapi-people-refuse-to-take-refuge
"However, the evacuation process is delayed as many inhabitants refuse to leave their homes"
"The evacuated locals include the elders, pregnant women and babies. Most men and youths refuse to take refuge."

Also reported in http://news.softpedia.com/news/Red-hot-Lava-Begins-to-Flow-from-Merapi-volcano-in-Indonesia-23859.shtml

"The evacuation is now compulsory but many residents are still reluctant to leave. Traditional beliefs hold that Merapi - which means Mountain of Fire - will only erupt after certain omens, some of which appear in dreams, leaving many more superstitious residents reluctant to leave without them becoming apparent. Others are worried about their property, cattle and crops being taken if they depart."

Spiritual caretaker who villagers relied on to 'appease' Indonesian volcano dies in eruption: http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5g0XMcESuan-BaYitIZyJsRQonG1g?docId=4960528

"As Merapi began spewing 1,800-degree Fahrenheit (1,000 Celsius) gases and thousands of panicked people streamed down the mountain's slopes, Maridjan refused to budge from his home deep in the evacuation zone, just four miles from the crater.
His rigid body was found Wednesday, prostrate in the Islamic prayer position and caked in heavy white soot. Nearby was an Indonesian Red Cross volunteer who had been trying to persuade him to leave."

Well, amongst the many reports, what strucked me was the last one - the greatest saddness came when one's stubborn belief caused the life of not just himself, but others!

Do no harm to self. Do no harm to others!

Korean Drama Craze

2010-11-07T09:25:00.005+08:00

I'm not a big fan of the Korean drama.

However, I must admit that it's kindof difficult to 'quit' once started one episode - regardless it's the 1st episode, or somewhere half-way!

I guess I'm not a 'fan' because I'm fully aware that it's 'untouchable' else, would ended up spending hours to race through the "drama marathon" - it's going to be difficult to calm the "urge'"! hahaha... sounded like a contagious disease.

Well, once in a while, I do get myself caught in such disease - when I happen to laze around at home on a weekend afternoon.

So, what's this "Korean Drama Craze" about?

Indeed, I think one of the attractions is the storyline that's 'too real' to be true... So far, at least for those contemporary drama that I watched... there's this element of "unreality" in them. I think that's where we seek to unwind (er... escape!) in an unreal world
The ways the scripts were written and said are pretty different from the 'real world' yet it sounded comfortable to the ears.
Oh yes, the characters in the story... too unreal yet somehow sought-after in our dreams!
and something that's a must to-have: Good looking leads! You just wanted to look twice or thrice, and more! haha... the look that 'engages' the viewers
And there are lots and lots of tears, ah! their expression of frustration and anger! and the one powerful feature I notice - their eyes, where emotions were portrayed. Oh yes! The heart and soul are portrayed through the eyes! So, that's a must 'quality' of any successful Korean star! (I guess)

One of the dramas that I'm following now...

【韓文劇名】：대물【中文劇名】：大物
Dae Mul (Korean Drama) Facebook
徐惠琳 - 高賢廷 고현정飾; 何陶冶 - 權相佑 권상우飾
http://blog.yam.com/yoonpcjo/article/31540615

Start the Day with Joy :)

2010-11-07T09:21:00.005+08:00

It's a Sunday morning... cool and breezy...

Have not "made" my own breakfast for quite sometime... half-boiled egg to go with toast, with a cup of coffee... and indulge in the papers.

Yeah... a relaxing way to start the weekend :)

谁的错？

2010-11-05T09:42:00.005+08:00

曾经有人跟我说，我总喜欢扮演“好人”的角色；很少，（甚至）没有扮演过“坏人”。其实，我相信，没有任何人愿意当“坏人”。也没有人愿意在别人的眼里是“坏人”。天底下那么大，没有事是绝对的。损他人的事，既不利己；又为什么要去做呢？与其“损人”，不如“造就”，那更可造福大家。

可是，“好人”的角色不易当；有时“好人”被“当局者”当作“贼”来扮！

有时，当“当局者”的第六感告诉自己面前的情况不利于他时，很自然而然的，他就会陷入“怀疑”，“自卫”的状况。那是因为“当局者”对大环紧缺乏 “信任”与 “安全感”吗？那是“心有鬼&愧”吗？

也许，只能说，“当局者”没有把握好给予的机会，清楚地认识大环境，没有好好地去了解环境，从而利用 - 天时、地利、人和；在“自卫”的情况下，抹煞了所有的给予的机会与支援；去找借口来掩饰自己的不足。那是谁的错？没有平衡的分析各个根源的利害关系，以其回头探讨内在因素，却一味认为问题来自外来因素，呐喊“巧妇难做无米之炊”；上演了一幕“以小人之心，度君子之腹”！

好人“们”（当然，指的是他人啦！）会在给“当局者”另一机会，希望“当局者”好好的把握，否则，“当”的不只是“小人”，而且是“瞎子”！那么，就做井底的“永久居民”吧！

Dinner on 20101104

2010-11-04T08:31:00.000+08:00

It's the last working day of the week... and probably the last day of this week that I would eat out... Would try to hiberate home in the next 3 days... hence bought enough groceries to survive without leaving the house.

So, to conclude the "week", went for something that's more 'sinful' than the past 3 evenings...

Dinner on 20101103

2010-11-03T21:16:00.008+08:00

This was unplanned for... took a lift from a colleague to Raffles City and ended up having this for dinner :)

Dinner on 20101102

2010-11-02T21:07:00.006+08:00

"Binary" Dinner @ Zhou Kitchen

2010-11-01T20:36:00.000+08:00

Lemongrass and Spa

2010-10-26T18:54:00.002+08:00

Brought a bottle of spray to the office today. A colleague commented that people tends to associate "Lemongrass" with "spa"... so, to create a spa atmosphere at home, it's the fragrance to go for :)
Interesting. Indeed, I only associate lemongrass with 'insect repellent'. Learnt that it's a natural 'insect repellent' when I was hit by unknown insect in Bhutan. Unfortunately, it was not available despite the fact that I combed through the shops in Paro and Thimphu.
It was 2005 August then.

Coincidently, in the same morning, received a brochure. What caught my eyes was the fragrances that are in promotion for Deepavali - Jasmine, Rose, Frangpani, Coconut adn Sandalwood. Hm... Lemongrass is missing from the list.

Just wondering, do people associate scents with culture.

The Entertainer - SCOTT JOPLIN ¤ Ragtime Piano Legend

2010-10-24T18:31:00.004+08:00

This light-hearted piece brings back good memories of the JC days :)

Hm... however, couldn't find the lyrics that I am familiar with in the web, despite the fact I spent more than an hour 'digging' it... ah! It's worst off than finding a needle in the hay!

Vaguely....

"A way back in a long ago, there was a man who would put on a show... He would sure dance his old soft shoes... and sing anything you ever know"... "He always walk so proud, he always drew a crowd"...

Hm... Just wondering if anyone knows where to get the full version of the lyrics...

More at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Entertainer_%28rag%29

More about Scott Joplin http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scott_Joplin

Shoes & Socks...

2010-10-24T10:11:00.002+08:00

The examination week was over, at last.

Went into the same class for a few times for invigilation in that week. Something caught my eyes - shoes and socks they were.

Well, there is no specific requirements with regards to shoes and socks that students should wear, except the basic rule - it's a comfortable pair of shoes that suits the needs of the activities, be it "Bata School Shoes" or sports shoes.

So, it's really a display of shoes - colours and designs. Did not spot any identical design. But I guess, the students are wearing something they need in their feet. Also spotted, at least one student, who wears different designs almost everyday too! Wow! I guess, he might have one pair of shoe for each day!

I guess, sports shoes are easier to maintain? I don't recall washing my pair of sports shoes. They just 'grew' old.

In those good old school days, we wore white canvas shoes. Sports shoes were no no, and I believe it's still a 'rule' in many schools here.

Those were the days when every Saturday afternoon, after ECA (oh yes, that time was still known as extra-curricular activities), it would be time to scrub and wash my school shoes clean, and paint it white with a layer of the shoe polish. Sometimes, we were so afraid to be caught having dirty shoes that we have to coat it with another layer of white shoe polish on top of the existing layer of dirt.

Looking at socks, in the recent years, we also saw an increasing number of schools that came up with their own 'brand' of socks - where the initials of the school name were printed/ sewn on the ankle socks! Hahah... I guess it's a means to promote school identity? Hm... or it's a means to see to students to put on their socks to a decent length? I wonder.

Well, back to that class, it's not difficult to find a variety of socks too! Red and pink are amongst them. There were also those who roll their socks up like those long-time ago law-enforcers, there were also some which I'm not sure if they put on any socks. Well, socks are a means to keep the feet and shoes clean, especially in humid places like Singapore. I guess some students did not know (or not aware of) its practical functions.

From http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sock

"A sock is an item of clothing worn on the feet. The foot is among the heaviest producers of sweat in the body, able to produce over a pint of perspiration per day. Socks help to absorb this sweat and draw it to areas where air can evaporate the perspiration. In cold environments, socks decrease the risk of frostbite. "

A Good Breakfast

2010-10-24T08:03:00.002+08:00

A good breakfast needs not be lavish, although once in a blue moon is a joy to be pampered, especially when am overseas, enjoying a good spread - choices! choices! choices! Remember: It's not a must, it s a good to have :)

Coffee is a must... 2 cups for the weekend... it lays the foundation of the day.

This morning, enjoyed peeling layers of the Lapis Sagu (in Chinese is the "9-layer cake", 九层糕). In particular, I like the one from Bengawan Solo... although the size shrinks over time, I like the taste and the ease of peeling off every layer with the tip of my tongue. Haha... that's a habit developed since childhood times - that creates joy of eating :)

Also had a slice of the Lapis Surabaya for breakfast... nice cake with chocolate... yummy...

"Tai-Tais by 20"

2010-10-24T07:20:00.003+08:00

The headline (Sunday Times, October 24, 2010; Home 11) caught my eyes!

Wow! I thought it was about a change in the trend - people tying a knot at in the early 20s?
No, I was wrong! It's about teenagers/ youngsters leading the life of the a tai-tai, where main their source of income is their parents!

From the article: $10,000 for a bag, more than 50 pairs of shoes, monthly allowance of $1,500 plus $2,000 a year for skincare expenses. Wow! Wow! High maintenance cost for youngsters nowadays.

I think what made me think again were what they said

"... After all, my parents do not mind" (Li Lin, 20)
"I don't think it has to do with peer pressure. Perhaps it is more a matter of upbringing. My family values quality, and branded items are usually of a higher quality." (Rachel, 19)
"If you can afford to buy things you think look nice, then why not?" (Parent)

I was amazed of the lavish lifestyle these teenagers lead! and their responses to the spending pattern! Values! Values! that we emphasized so much... "Want" vs "Need".

But I do agree with one line "a matter of upbringing". Yup, the "desire" of lavish spending could be either encouraged by their parents because it's the "family belief", or it could be developed (over time) because parents felt obliged to give their children the "best" (or it's a compensation of what areas they lack to fulfill as parents such as spending time with their kids?)

At a get-together last week, a friend shared another suprising 'practice' - surprising because the mother is an educator! The child just completed her university and started to look for a job. However, none of the jobs offered had the salary pegged at the amount she expects. Guess what? The mother actually "top up" the salary! It's the most outrageous practice I ever heard!

Indeed, using simple mathematics, we would be able to see the impact of spending equivalent amount of money to provide support to the needy in the other part of the world (http://www.unicef.org/emerg/index.html)

Wait a minute... why only females were featured in the article... hm....

Value system...

2010-10-16T07:07:00.004+08:00

Last night, attended the 1st session of the 1st intensive of the new module, "Multicultural Society and Education Policy". Indeed, this is a very fairly class, with more than 30 students.

At one point, the discussion was on a photo that shows a landlord in a commanding posture, with both arms rested on 2 subordinates. We were to talk about "How different is the theory of culture from the one you used in your teaching".

When it comes to CLOSE interaction with students, I guess there are always 2 schools of thoughts - from the administrator's and the teacher's perspectives.

It's natural that one's care and concern is usually demonstrated through body language - gestures and tone. There's no doubt that sometimes teachers would pat the child's shoulder as an expression of encouragement... however under a different context, in a different culture, the child might interpret it differently. The 'messaging' would be totally opposite and taken as a negative act! So, could one defend himself or herself for the gesture or act? Something I wonder...

I was also totally surprised, or stunned when some fellow educators reacted - "I touch my students and there is nothing wrong!" and added they go clubbing with students, etc... and they felt that it was fine! ... while back in school could retain that student and teacher relationship...

I just wonder... what's the reaction of the school leaders of these teachers?
My first reaction: It's ridiculous! It's unacceptable... definitely it's against my value system.
Hm... or... I belong to the "older generation"?

It's not the only channel to build rapport with students. There are more than one ways to get to know them better, to build the relationship with the students....

When nothing goes wrong... It's alright...
When it goes wrong... it becomes ugly...
I think it's no longer just a matter of maturity... it's a matter of values that one upholds...

It's so 'humane'

2010-10-09T21:12:00.001+08:00

I was a bit surprised when first saw this error message.
OK, surprise not because of the 'problem' the browser encountered; but it's the way the 'problem' was expressed... with the human touch! Haha... so, the browser has feeling, too!

Bravo, I like this... it's a step closer to incorporate 'humanity' into seemingly emotionless software and programming!

Cheers!

宽容（二）

2010-10-05T21:19:00.003+08:00

不知不觉，离上回的上载，已经有三个星期了。

上回写的，是课堂观摩后的一些感想、感触。

其实，要待人厚道，对人好，并不是开口说那两三句就行的。

身体语言是十分重要的一环；相信，很多人就是败在这一点。

身体语言很自然而然的，有意无意之间的跟“对方”说出自己的态度；
表达了自己的不悦与不满，或不同意。
当然，“脸色”也是另一表达的“工具”；
说话的语气、口吻，更是可锋利的刺痛被针对的人。
旁人看了那种“霸气”，不可恭维。

其实，要表达自己的不悦、不满，或不同意，其实方式多得很。
是可以心平气和又不“刺”的。。。

宽容

2010-09-25T13:35:00.002+08:00

Recently, someone made a comment: "Saw you in that classroom (doing lesson observation) and were grinning throughout..."

Hahaha... What do you infer from the above comment?

I guess, the first reaction is, the lesson must be excellent! (or at least very good). That's what my face showed?
Further inference: The teacher must have done a great job?
Hahahah.... having a smile on the face at a certain context could lead to so much inference... and probably people start jumping into conclusions.

So, am I suppose to be more stringent with my smiles? hahah... ok, no offence to the one who commented.
Hm... I thought, I would just laugh it out without giving him my reply.
However, I added, "that's to create a comfortable environment to the teacher."

I subscribe to this practice - regardless of how good a lesson is. Basically is to create a conducive environment. Be the visit is for evaluation or developmental purpose, I think it's my responsibility to create a safe environment for my colleague to demonstrate their best. This, in fact, is an extension of the PETALS model (which is meant for students).

I guess I learnt from my experience. I could be easily pick up facial responses or body language from the observers and somehow make inference of the spot. Hm... one might say, I lack confidence? Haha... maybe, maybe not. But it does affect how I carry on with my lesson, my interaction with my students - my 'mood' is affected. I dislike to have a very stern and strict faces, worst still, one that looks thinking so deeply and seems to be trying to figure out what I'm teaching. Ah! I definitely hate those faces. I would be distracted!!!

Haha... see, these are unpleasant experiences that I do not want my fellow colleagues to have during the lesson - 己所不欲，勿施于人

I think, no matter if it's for evaluation or developmental purpose, the primary objective is to bring out the best of our colleagues :)

What makes you look forward to go to....?

2010-09-25T12:51:00.002+08:00

Haha... let me generalise the question... it applies to almost everything:

"What makes you look forward to go to....?"

meet up with new faces?
meet up with old friends?
talk to somebody?
work?
to go school
the class?
attend the meeting?
shopping?
a place that we are familiar with? (this is rather event-based)
a place that we never been to?
a place that we have gone so many times?

Haha.. there are unlimited ways to fill up the rest of the question... I guess the key is the first part of the question and 3 key words "look forward to"

Let me make an attempt to answer some of these questions... but these answers could change over time. Indeed, what does that tell us? The response is very much dependent on one's emotion, passion, and feeling at the point of answering the question. The response could just change in the next second... of course, some of these responses are 'beliefs' and therefore, they are here to stay for quite sometime, until some factors that is 'strong' enough to change it... (at varying extend). Responses could come direct from the heart, it could aslo be some politically correct responses. Oh! Human beings are simply.... complex!!!!

meet up with new faces because it's an extension of network... I know the opportunities these new faces come with...
meet up with old friends because friends are hard to come-by... and what's more... friendship that lasted more than 10 years. It's not a given and we must not take for granted.
talk to somebody because of the richness of the interaction, I get to hear from another perspective... it's how a frog breathes fresh air beyond the well...
work because there's where I could make my dreams come true, that's where I contribute to the growth of the society, to mankind through little means and effort that I could afford. I make an impact in what I do - big or small.
to go school because I get to hear something different from what I 'preach' at work, I get to hear from other perspectives, I get to know how people's experiences were different from mine.
the class because there's where I re-live the days I learn, but in the
attend the meeting because I know I'm going to get wisdom over the next couple of hours, I know I'm going to hear new ideas, it's embedding with opportunities.
shopping because that's the most immediate way for me to relax and unstress!
a place that we are familiar with? (this is rather event-based)
a place that we never been to... love the mystery and uncertainty... (as long as I've factored in the essential before setting off)
a place that we have gone so many times... because of great memories... for instance, I love London, not because I'm not tired with the 'time-stand-still' scenery, but it was the good memories I had with the different people I was with for different occasions... I treasure those 'time-stand-still' memories :)

World's Most Outrageous Guest Requests

2010-09-25T11:42:00.002+08:00

Chanced upon this site was browsing the web: World's Most Outrageous Guest Requests

I was totally amazed... and totally surprised on the kind of requests that people could ask for... not because when they are travelling... definitely 'travelling' is just one platform where they exhibit their habit and mindset... it's their lifestyle, and I guess, in directly, their personal values and beliefs... that are exhibited through such... not just outrageous, but also exorbitantly expensive "wants".

Can't imagine... for instance, the request at Cancun's Ritz Carlton: "A few years ago, a loyal (and extremely wealthy) guest of the hotel wanted to watch a film, privately, on the beach fronting the hotel. However, the guest did not like sand and asked the concierge to "cover it up somehow." A team was dispatched to Mexico City to buy a panoply of rugs that were carefully rolled out on the beach."

Oh mine! What's this????? What difference does that make? I wonder... Well, what if it rained... Could he pay for the sky not to rain so that he could enjoy his movie there?

Another example, 'entertained' at Hotel Adlon Kempiniski Berlin, Germany:
'When a family vacationing from Hanover, Germany, realized they had left their 4-year-old daughter's stuffed bunny at home, they asked the concierge, Raffaele Sorrentino, to remedy the situation since she could not fall asleep without it. When it was clear no substitute would do, the concierge arranged for a bellhop to drive the five hours round trip to retrieve the beloved bunny from the family's residence. '

This is how the mindset that money could pay for practically everything is cultivated?

Is the money well spent? How many people in the developing country would have benefited from this money spent? How many decent meals could that sum of money be used to pay for those who have not had a gain of rice for months?

That's talking about SES divide!
In fact, look closer to home, or even fast-developed countries like China. Isn't it true that many parents have cultivated in their children money can almost do anything and everything? Look at the branded stuff that the kids don on and use; look how parents give in to their children (for no good reasons)...

Well, what has the world become?????

你“赢”了！

2010-09-19T10:41:00.005+08:00

I'm simply amazed... when I visited the EXPO 2 weeks ago. Amazed in the mentality and the behaviour of some of the locals.

In fact, I always think twice before I decided to make a trip to China. No, not because I'm anti-Chinese... but I simply could understand and quite get use to the local culture. Each time I was there, I would be 'shocked' by at least one encounter... haha... the recent official trip was not spared either.

I'm a Chinese, by ethic group. But I think the environment shapes the way I think, I behave... and maybe because of this, seeing the "Chinese" behaving differently from what I do... I still find it hard (or maybe I need more time) to accept "their way".

This time, it's the World Expo, which is a world class showcase.

That reminded me what MM Lee said in the documentary about Singapore, transforming Singaporeans into WORLD CLASS Citizens!

It's not easy to have citizens to behave "world class"... But I applaud the Chinese's effort in puttng up reminders all over the place in the EXPO, and having security guards, policemen stationed at the very popular pavilions (with lots of long queues) to enforce order.

Yes, there are queues... But I'm simply amazed by the fact that the locals would still squeeze their way through... not "like" but definitely in "nobody's business" way! Basic courtesy? NO! NO! NO! They look out for every single chance to slip through a tiny gap!

My worst experience was definitely the almost 4-hour queue to the Japan Pavilion. See the picture below... the one with red fan, the one in green shirt, and the one at the bottom left corner). They 'made' their way before along the way... well, really had no idea where they were when I started the queue... those are typical queue-jumpers who were not ashame of their behaviour. Another observation: Such behaviour does not apply to the older generation, but the young ones too... as young as school children.

Just wondering... what does one gain out of jumping the queue. We would still enter the area together. So, just one step before... Great deal???? Hm... I guess, it matters for those who are really kiasu... (ok... now, you see "kiasu" does not just apply to us!)

Indeed, the best part was the one with red fan had her bag pushed against the one in green. In return, the one in green gave her a fierce look and scolded her for hurting her. Hahaha... 五十步，笑百步 I guess both deserve it... Well, mind you, the green one, you also pushed your way through... Anyway, it gave the impression (or further reinforce the impression) that those with a loud voice wins! Haha... the unreasonable beings!

Of course, there's one more thing that clearly distinguishes the locals from the rest... indeed, there were many times more locals than the rest... their voice... haha... the whole world heard what they say, and they were so used to 'throwing' their voice across... ahahaha... "Human" thunders! Talk about "not noising" (see photo above).... oh! How do they measure the 'success'? I wonder...

Here's another common sight in many pavilions... getting their EXPO passports stamped. Order? No, no, no... but the 'stamping' exercise becomes the key thing people would normally go for... and worst still, they rushed and put up a few "passports" at a go to be stamped. What'st he point of 争先恐后?Hey, hey... focus! What's the purpose of visiting the pavilion!? I wonder... or to many, it's the "到此一游"stamp is more important? Hm...

Be Gracious. Be Courteous.

What's the underlying motivation?

2010-09-18T13:30:00.003+08:00

This topic came about when I was talking to someone who was not quite able to see the rationale of his mother's reaction and action that displeases him. Ok, he said, to an extent that he was "fed-up".

I think, many a time, we react or respond to our immediate experience. Of course, some people said, it's good not to make second guess. Things in life are not that complicated after all. However, if we think deeper. There are layers and layers of meanings just behind an act. Even for the one who acts on it, might not be aware of the hidden 'motivation' behind his/her action! (I belief, sometimes). And also, it's sending messages across... be it explicit or not.

That's why, sometimes we ask, "Why do you act in this manner?" We'll get superficial answer.
However, if we probe, we are helping one to ask his/her internal self, "why" he/she act in a certain manner, and "what" he/she wants to get out of it, and we might even uncover one's belief, too!

In the instance when the mother attempts to "stop" her child's internet addiction by installing various kinds of software to deter the access. At the surface, it seems like, from the child's perspective, she is being "unreasonable" to deprive him from doing what he likes. So, the child would see the "impact" through what he experience.

On the other hand, think deeper, are there ways to address the same issue without imposing restrictions to the internet access? Certainly there is... However, why the mother thinks of "acting" on the device? Well, usually we'll see that, by imposing restriction on the device, it means the device is no longer 'able' to accessible to the child! It is a form of distraction! So, the device is to the fault! It is to be blamed! Without the device, the child would not be indulge in internet related activities.

So, all this sounds logical? Yes, yes, yes... no doubt.
Now let's look back... The device is non-living thing! It doesn't "ask" the chlid to "come", to be "indulged"... though it 'creates' a temptation after one has cultivated some kind of habit or means of using it.
Notice that: "One cultivate some kind of habit of means of using it"?
So, the point I'm trying to drive is... it's human... to blame

So, back to what the mother did... "Who/What" did she think is at fault?
It think her action is sending a message... the fault lies on the device and the internet. The child is the 'victim' to the circumstance where he is being distracted.

Haha... what kind of reasoning, some of you might think...
Well, by removing the device doesn't necessary mean the child will be able to focus... there are other distractions (though the main 'distraction' is the device).

So, I guess that's how mothers think.

In another instance, the child said he has been disrespectful to his mother as he tends to shout back at his mother at the fiery moment, but would apologise after he cools down each time.

I just wonder: Is the mother hurt each time the child shouted at her because of her good intent? Definitely... but would the mother forgive the child and continue to care about him?
The child answered, "Yes" - a very definite reply.

Why does that happen? Isn't it strange... Doesn't that sound illogical?
One would not reciprocate in this manner in a long run - but it happens here.
The reason is simple - It's the Love of the Mother. It's the relationship between the Mother and the Child.

No matter what... the child, in the eyes of his mother, no matter how old he is, how wrong he did - it's still her child. Because she has HOPE in him! That was what the child added.

Hope the child have undertood this... and treasure what he has...

Aside... about how great Mother's Love could be...
A Touching Story in the Sichuan Earthquake: Young Mother Breastfed Baby as she lay dying in the rubble
Photo: Mother's Love in EarthQuake

Beliefs... & Dreams...

2010-09-18T13:04:00.004+08:00

My Belief. Your Belief. Whose Belief? Sometimes I just wonder... how often could we find another person who has the same belief as ours?
Of course, I'm vague... What beliefs am I talking about?
Certainly, one could have many many beliefs... on many many different things.

On the other hand, when we talk about dreams, one could have many dreams - be it realistic or not. Haha... that's why they are call 'dreams'! There are also dreams that belong to somewhere in-between, which means if we pursue further, it may just actualise and come true!

To actualise a dream, to make it come true, I think, it must come with a strong belief of "I can" and "we can"... that is, not weaken by other influences and environment; or worse still, "threats" from our old beliefs.

As mentioned before, we hold many beliefs - old ones, and new olds, especially those related to new dreams we want to actualise. There are times when old beliefs are in conflict with new beliefts (that yet have established a foot hold in us yet). This is the utmost challenge - either we can make it or we can't make it (2 versions of CMI).

Certainly, it comes to actualising a dream as a team, as a community, it's even more challenging. First of all, when all come form a community, I believe all must have some common goals - at least one. However, it does not necessary that these individuals come with the same beliefs or they would have new beliefs that are common. New beliefs are influenced by the old beliefs, depending on the degree. Some hold to heart the old beliefs and think that would enable them to achieve the new dreams.

I wonder...

"Who" or "What" to blame?

2010-09-18T12:35:00.002+08:00

Was talking to someone about "Internet Addiction". This is one of the most common concern raised by parents on their children's use of the computer and access to internet.

Very often, parents would think of means to "block" access to the device or the internet. So, I guess, the indirect message is... hey, "Computer" and "Internet", you are at fault! Because of you, we loose our focus, our concentration, and we are distracted from our daily routines... all BECAUSE OF YOU!!!!

Hahahaha... I'm not joking. In fact, many a time, went faced with a problem, we jump into 'conclusion' very quickly and we also tend to be able to identify the MAIN CULPRIT almost immediately - that is the device or whatever that distracts us!

Look inward... did the device say to us, "Come, come, come... use me!"

or....

so, who's to blame? who's fault?

有感而发。。。

2010-09-04T05:43:00.002+08:00

While studying for the exam (another 4 more hours to go before entering the exam hall), this suddenly flashed across my mind:

"Being a head of department is not easy; being a head of department in SST is even more demanding."
Hahah.. I guess, it's EXPECTATION from self? hm... also an expectation from others? (indirectly).

In fact, there's an expectation for the head of department. Like what a student commented on another matter (which is not related to this context) "What so big deal?"

Yes, what's so big deal being the head of department in a school? It's just another job designation with added responsibility (anyway, work responsibility goes with the job designation, isn't it?). I think, what makes a difference is how we want ourselves to carry out the duties and responsibilities. To what degree we wanted to perfect it as an art? To what extent we wanted to push the boundary... That's where it makes a difference. This is still very much - SELF.

The next is the link between SELF and PERCEIVED Expectations; followed by SELF and OTHERS' Expectations.

Happy Teachers' Day to all...

2010-09-01T08:17:00.001+08:00

It's been a good year of learning... though real 'business' only started this January 4 when we welcome our first batch of pioneer students. Yes, I love to use this term "Pioneer" because its a privilege to be given an opportunity to be one... not anyone would experience that in their life time... I think I was lucky enough (am still) to be one of the Pioneer Teachers in 2 schools!

There are lots to learn... not just from the "teachers" in the formal sense, but also through the interaction with others, in the midst of doing new stuff... and even troubleshooting! Of course, that includes my fellow colleagues - be it they are in the admin or academic faculty. Not forgetting others like working partners (e.g. IDA and Apple), thanks to them, too!

Hm... how about my students? Ha! The "Back to School" feeling was very different... esepcially 'first' encounters of the digital natives (I think they are truly dignital natives) since I left NAS in 2005 December. Yes, who says teachers don't learn from their students? Lots of learning points to draw from, lots of strengths and yet-uncovered goodies to draw from all of them :)

It's Teachers' Day

2010-08-31T15:35:00.007+08:00

Greeted by a string of words that was said in high speed...

ah! ZQ is the choo-choo train :)

Should have used speedometer to measure... hahaha...

Would love to have recorded that...

Then came ZY's angelic stare... Hm... that mi-mi eyes... pause...

and a er.... pause, pause, pause... a hug?!

hahaha... Something that I rarely do...

Hm... my 1st hug at SST

There's one little eraser...

JJ was giggling when passed that to me... and showed me he has a bad of

Hm... that reminds me of those good old days

Guess what country was presented to me?

Hm... maybe that's my next destination? Haha...

Thanks for helping me to plan

Wow! Beary is enjoying the Bed of Roses!

Hm... Life is not a bed of roses? Hm... it's really up to our imagination...

Certainly, there's a chocolate to sweeten the day

Weighty "LOVE"

A short froggy story behind this little er... bear bear?

Hahah... So, Ponda loves virtual frog porridge too?

Yummy...

Cute little white bear with a red heart sat in the Pigeonhole

TWO big words inside the card: "Work Hard!"

hahaha... Just wondering...

Is JH making a promise to work hard or asking me to work harder :)

Cheers! Let's work hard together!

A big card... with signatures, email addresses & handphone numbers of the class...

Hm... indirect message: Keep in Touch

Practical use: during emergency relay!
Hahahah....

My Firsts...

What my horoscope says...

Young children...

Our Firsts in SST...

能帮，是一种福气！

Communication...

Book Shelf Wallpaper

Doll & Bears

A Transformation...

Just let your fingers fiddle around

First post from iPad using BlogPress

Ideal Schooling is about....(?)

Still... about the Design

Good design? Practical design?

Circus of Life

Beautiful collection of People and Memories and Hardwork of the new venture

Heartwarming gifts...

Magically...

心思

Digital imaging

The Singapore Spirit...

Into the Woods... Into Multi-Fairytale land?

"Specialised Talents" surviving in today's society? Just some thoughts...

Thinking about Thinking Questions...

Stretching & Extending our Threshold

1st Time @ Marina Bay Sands...

It's Saturday morning

Getting to know my new gadget...

2011 端午节

Simple is Beautiful

Dinner @ NEX

Food for Work? Work for Food?

清明时节雨纷纷

Eating @ School Canteen

Surpassing the Limit.... of Others(?)

Dinner with YL & GC

Art pieces by Michelangelo...

A menu in "The Angel Inside"

Lunch on a Saturday afternoon...

Treats to myself to celebrate a milestone :)

What would be your reaction?

Honesty...

生活。意义。快乐。

Cup-a-Noodle from Japan

EarthQuake in Japan (11 March 2011)

Bad Hair Day 1 of my March vacation

比较。。。何必呢?

Rewarding myself...

Taking a Break...

It's The End?

Singaporeans are rare species!

Lunch @ NYNY

Today's Lunch

正月初八、正月初九

Chemistry & People-People Relationship

“水上人家”与“划山舨人”的故事

写这个故事时，引子，来自现实生活里，发生在身边几位朋友的事情。写完整个故事后，觉得它是个挺不错的案例，值得研究。研究的是人与人看事情的观点与处事。

仔细读后，自有领悟。其实，仔细想想，这故事不单发生在我的周围；其实，也发生在不同人的周围。

~ 故事画面 ~

河岸的水上人家，正努力地撒网捕鱼。在附近的划‘舢板’的人儿，不但帮不上忙，还不断地把网上的洞越扯越大！同时，又开始刮风下雨了！真是屋漏又逢连夜雨。

水上人家恨不得“智慧老人”快快出现，伸出援手。

看到这个情景，是否历历在目？仿佛曾经身在其中呢？ 大家的反应会是什么呢？

~ 同个故事，另一画面 ~

在生物/环境学里，各个主体都是息息相关的。为了维持平衡，当人们在同样环境里进行不同活动时，也许，从他们的角度来看，是百利而无一害的。而且，在他们的眼里，出发点，往往总是好的。

。。。也许，划‘舢板’的人，表面上正在把网上的洞扯大，似乎是在搞破坏。实际上，他们的举动，是否是因为知道网里头出现了有威胁的巨物，而为了出一份力而去“作破坏”呢？但又没通知水上人家呢而造成了误会呢？

Lunch on 24 January @ Jurong Point

Areca nuts...

Reflection (I): About Changes...

2010 December 31... HOW the 24h LOOKED like...

回顾2010：有人云。。。（烧鹅的故事）

Rekindling Good Memories...

2010 Year-end School Reflection

A Christmas Gift...

有卡从远方而来，不亦乐乎

Instant Noodles from Kyushu

When travelling abroad, would you let others know that you are a...

The Perfect Park

Cinderel-lah

er... Do I sound a bit...

Lunch & Dinner when mum's away

河岸的水上人家，正努力地撒网捕鱼。
在附近的划‘舢板’的人儿，不但帮不上忙，还不断地把网上的洞越扯越大！同时，又开始刮风下雨了！真是屋漏又逢连夜雨。

看到这个情景，是否历历在目？仿佛曾经身在其中呢？大家的反应会是什么呢？