Checklist done.
23 Nov 2012:
- Read a book: The Happiness Project (Chapter 1 done)
A wonderful book, rekindled my joy for reading, especially when the learning points from the book came at a timely point in time of my life - just before I plan for 2013 resolution.
- Start on photobook for the Europe trip
Started the photobook for our Europe trip =) it is not as easy as I thought, especially when the template isn't nice. haha...40pages wouldn't be easy, only managed to do 2 pages.
- Facial (done)
Went for a free trial at jean yip. Excellent service and facial, really enjoyed the process. Though much tempted to sign the package that costs 2K for 10 session in preparation for the wedding next year, rationally, I did not. This 2K can be used for other things that I prioritize more.
24 Nov 2012:
- Pack waredrobe (done)
With much inspiration from the the book chapter 1, I took action to clean my waredrobe. Indeed clearing the clutter clears the mind. Realized I like order.
25 Nov 2012:
- Plan wedding first step
Finally we took the first step to actually sit down and discuss our wedding =) wee, it is more fun than expected, but at the expense of lots of money. At inital glance, I thought there wasn't much cash to pay for upfront. But when we added up all the miscellaneous costs, it adds up to a lot. Still lots of things in my to-do list, so have to clear one by one. The end of exams feels really good.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Friday, November 16, 2012
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
19 Aug - 3rd Sept 2012 Italy + Paris
The 15.5 days of touring in Italy and Paris had officially ended.
The trip was excellent and a dream fulfilled. Memories from this long trip would be treasured and reminisced in the years to come. It was tiring lugging a backpack half my size and a spoilt hand luggage across 5 cities (Rome-Florence-Verona-Venice-Paris) but a trip well worth it. Instead of doing a pure recap of the places traveled to, I will instead list the small memorable parts of the trip for keepsake memory.
Day 1: Rome
We were shocked to see a lift within our hotel (WRT Roman Terrance, a free upgrade from WRT Terminal). It took us a few minutes to figure that that is a lift and how to operate it. The rest of the day was at the famous Colosseum area. Came back to hotel by 5pm for a nap after suffering from jet lag, ended up napping till 9pm before we head for dinner downstairs with the much touted for carbonara spaghetti.
Day 2: Rome
Arriving early at the Vatican, happily gloating of our early arrival ahead of the queues, we were appalled to realize that we started off at the wrong queue. Upon getting to the right queue, it took us about an hr before reaching the gates of the museum. Nonetheless, a great day at the Vatican city and St Peter basilica. This was followed by Spanish steps, Trevi fountain etc. Thankfully, with the cold fountains and refillable drinking taps, we were able to save some money on water and quench our thirst under the hot weather in Rome with temperature reaching 37 degrees. We had our first cooked maggie mee for the trip with canned food brought from Singapore.
Day 3: Rome
Took a bus to the small island in Rome and completed the walk in 30min, explored the area. It was a free and easy day with no exact plans, hence we decided to travel to a castle. This sums up our Rome nicely with a good view overseeing the city of Rome. Dinner was chinese food that Mr Ong could not stop salivering over and insisted on having that for dinner.
Day 4: Rome - Florence
Stayed in a 4-star hotel a tram stop away from the city. Mainly florence city sightseeing. Had our 2nd cooked noodles meal.
Day 5: Florence
Excitedly, we embark on our day tour around Tuscany a beautiful city of churches, wine and Pisa. Had our 3rd cooked meal with rice = ) our one and only meal with rice.
Day 6: Florence
Highlight of the day was space outlet where we spent the afternoon shopping for others. It was a place with good bargains, just a pity that we did not get anything for ourselves. Nonetheless, it is a trip worth it.
Day 7: Florence
My most awaited Clique Terre trek along the Mediterranean sea. Beautiful. Limited by time, we grabbed MacDonalds for dinner to head back to our hotel to collect our laundry for washing. Reaching the laundry at 9:25pm, we were rushing to place our laundry to the washing machine. Darling was so kan jiong that the washing powder was placed in the wrong places. I was mad but it was so adorable to see him scooping out the washing powder like a little boy to the right places that I couldn't help but burst out laughing, driving away all unhappiness.
Day 8: Florence - Verona
Verona city is small and we covered most grounds quickly despite only arriving in the late afternoon. We were warmly greeted by the restaurant staff where we had our lunch with their local wine. Great taste. Lots of skilled street baskers with 2 leaving the deepest memories. 1 was able to hold on to another person sitting down with just a stick for a couple of hours that we were roaming there. Very impressive. Another was the row of 3 dressed up mummies standing outside the their Roman arena. We had so much time that we decided to head back hotel early for our 4th cooked meal. Running out of canned food, we bought local spaghetti and ham.
Day 9: Verona
Traveled to Lake Garda, 45 min away from Verona city. A scenic place with clear waters, swans and ducks. However, was convinced to go to the other smaller town, only to realize the shops are mainly close between 1pm to 4:30pm. Wandered and lazed around, finally settling down for a drink to chill out for the afternoon, absorbing in the way of life of the local. Our 5th cooked meal.
Day 10: Verona - Venice
Had some difficulty finding our hostel in the outskirts of the Venice city, nonetheless with darling's good map reading skills, we manage to successfully locate it. A very nice homestay with all the essentials required for our stay comfortably with a Taiwanese lady and her Italian husband. The city of canals were filled with tourists and the shops look somewhat the same after a while. After many attempts, we found the only MacDonalds in Venice city to settle our dinner.
Day 11: Venice
Toured the islands in Venice, away from the crowds. Nice islands of Murano and Burano, respectively famous for their stained glass and pretty colourful buildings. At the end of the day, we sold our partially utilized youth pass for 10euros each from our initially purchased price of 22euros. Kudos to darling.
Had our last big home cooked meal with our travel pots. Bought marinated cooked chicken wings from the supermarket and heated up our canned luncheon meat. Finally we got to fry some luncheon meat! Thought embarrassed that we fried and left some lingering smell in the kitchen, we really loved that meal as we had difficulty finding meat in Italy. Lol...
Day 12: Venice - Paris
Our first day in Paris started late, after meeting with train faults for the airport. We only managed to catch our lunch at 4pm where we saw a good deal for a set meal and gobbled up our food in the stipulated 45min at 11.40euros each, a very affordable price including starters and dessert. Travelling to La Vallée Village, it took us 1hr 40 min to reach with the train heading there stalled. Not a good impression to the start of Paris, experiencing 2 train breakdown within a day. Luckily, the shops closed at 8pm that day and it was sufficient time for us to look around.
Transportation is very expensive, spending 43euros each for a zone 1-5 pass for 3 days. False information was given by the airport staff, informing us that the youth pass is only eligible to age 18. Though annoyed, it was too late for us to do anything about it too.
Day 13: Paris
A day trip out to Versailles, 1.5hrs journey to reach from city. A huge palace with a a very pretty garden and lake, no wonder it is for the royalties. We spent a long time wandering around the palace admiring the sculptures and the delicate designs of the palace and its surroundings. Our journey back to the city was very smoothly, taking only 40minutes, time saving of half the journey from a kind lady lending us a helping hand to direct us to the right direction and a direct train.
Day 14: Paris (Disneyland)
Darling's 26th birthday was celebrated at Disneyland this year, specially coincided. Being there at a right time, the closing hours were extended to 11pm and the pass allows special admission to 2 themeparks within a day in celebration of its 20th anniversary. Definitely a day is not enough to cover the 2 parks, but every moment there was a magical experience. The fireworks was well worth the wait.
Day 15: Paris
Museum day where we only covered Louvre museum for the famous Mona Lisa painting. Spend a while at Notre Dame before quickly heading back to hotel to prepare for our simple shoot.
Day 16: Paris - Singapore
Home Sweet Home.
Back to the trip, I learnt a lot, learnt the cultures of 2 European counties and learnt the rich history. Rome is not built in a day but through centuries. It is amazing how each city within Italy are different from the other through just a train ride, each city rich in its own culture. Despite spending most of our excess cash on souvenirs for others rather than for ourselves, I love the trip to bits and pieces because witnessing the country through my own eyes and bringing back the pictures with our memories was the best gift from the trip. I have learnt how gracious and environmental friendly the Europeans are, and I have witnessed the talented performing arts and passion of the people there, something it will be hard to witness in Singapore. Through this trip, my eyes and horizons have widened. It gives a totally different experience from Asia, the areas I have usually been traveling to. I love traveling in Italy and Paris, but I know the moment when I stepped back home in Singapore, this is home. It is time to face reality with a different perspective, this time a widely perspective of life.
During the trip, there were moments where we thought the trip was too long, a little tiring. There was moments where I turned very grumpy either at the unsettled work or from walking under the scorching sun or from just randomness at losing our way. But your patience was greatly appreciated, never throwing temper but kept the map safe in your hands guiding us to the destinations. YOU ARE GREAT. No complains of my laziness at map reading, no complains at my whines and tandram throwing, no complains of your tiredness or aching body. Your eye for details were great and I appreciate every moment with you around. Thank you.
The trip was excellent and a dream fulfilled. Memories from this long trip would be treasured and reminisced in the years to come. It was tiring lugging a backpack half my size and a spoilt hand luggage across 5 cities (Rome-Florence-Verona-Venice-Paris) but a trip well worth it. Instead of doing a pure recap of the places traveled to, I will instead list the small memorable parts of the trip for keepsake memory.
Day 1: Rome
We were shocked to see a lift within our hotel (WRT Roman Terrance, a free upgrade from WRT Terminal). It took us a few minutes to figure that that is a lift and how to operate it. The rest of the day was at the famous Colosseum area. Came back to hotel by 5pm for a nap after suffering from jet lag, ended up napping till 9pm before we head for dinner downstairs with the much touted for carbonara spaghetti.
Day 2: Rome
Arriving early at the Vatican, happily gloating of our early arrival ahead of the queues, we were appalled to realize that we started off at the wrong queue. Upon getting to the right queue, it took us about an hr before reaching the gates of the museum. Nonetheless, a great day at the Vatican city and St Peter basilica. This was followed by Spanish steps, Trevi fountain etc. Thankfully, with the cold fountains and refillable drinking taps, we were able to save some money on water and quench our thirst under the hot weather in Rome with temperature reaching 37 degrees. We had our first cooked maggie mee for the trip with canned food brought from Singapore.
Day 3: Rome
Took a bus to the small island in Rome and completed the walk in 30min, explored the area. It was a free and easy day with no exact plans, hence we decided to travel to a castle. This sums up our Rome nicely with a good view overseeing the city of Rome. Dinner was chinese food that Mr Ong could not stop salivering over and insisted on having that for dinner.
Day 4: Rome - Florence
Stayed in a 4-star hotel a tram stop away from the city. Mainly florence city sightseeing. Had our 2nd cooked noodles meal.
Day 5: Florence
Excitedly, we embark on our day tour around Tuscany a beautiful city of churches, wine and Pisa. Had our 3rd cooked meal with rice = ) our one and only meal with rice.
Day 6: Florence
Highlight of the day was space outlet where we spent the afternoon shopping for others. It was a place with good bargains, just a pity that we did not get anything for ourselves. Nonetheless, it is a trip worth it.
Day 7: Florence
My most awaited Clique Terre trek along the Mediterranean sea. Beautiful. Limited by time, we grabbed MacDonalds for dinner to head back to our hotel to collect our laundry for washing. Reaching the laundry at 9:25pm, we were rushing to place our laundry to the washing machine. Darling was so kan jiong that the washing powder was placed in the wrong places. I was mad but it was so adorable to see him scooping out the washing powder like a little boy to the right places that I couldn't help but burst out laughing, driving away all unhappiness.
Day 8: Florence - Verona
Verona city is small and we covered most grounds quickly despite only arriving in the late afternoon. We were warmly greeted by the restaurant staff where we had our lunch with their local wine. Great taste. Lots of skilled street baskers with 2 leaving the deepest memories. 1 was able to hold on to another person sitting down with just a stick for a couple of hours that we were roaming there. Very impressive. Another was the row of 3 dressed up mummies standing outside the their Roman arena. We had so much time that we decided to head back hotel early for our 4th cooked meal. Running out of canned food, we bought local spaghetti and ham.
Day 9: Verona
Traveled to Lake Garda, 45 min away from Verona city. A scenic place with clear waters, swans and ducks. However, was convinced to go to the other smaller town, only to realize the shops are mainly close between 1pm to 4:30pm. Wandered and lazed around, finally settling down for a drink to chill out for the afternoon, absorbing in the way of life of the local. Our 5th cooked meal.
Day 10: Verona - Venice
Had some difficulty finding our hostel in the outskirts of the Venice city, nonetheless with darling's good map reading skills, we manage to successfully locate it. A very nice homestay with all the essentials required for our stay comfortably with a Taiwanese lady and her Italian husband. The city of canals were filled with tourists and the shops look somewhat the same after a while. After many attempts, we found the only MacDonalds in Venice city to settle our dinner.
Day 11: Venice
Toured the islands in Venice, away from the crowds. Nice islands of Murano and Burano, respectively famous for their stained glass and pretty colourful buildings. At the end of the day, we sold our partially utilized youth pass for 10euros each from our initially purchased price of 22euros. Kudos to darling.
Had our last big home cooked meal with our travel pots. Bought marinated cooked chicken wings from the supermarket and heated up our canned luncheon meat. Finally we got to fry some luncheon meat! Thought embarrassed that we fried and left some lingering smell in the kitchen, we really loved that meal as we had difficulty finding meat in Italy. Lol...
Day 12: Venice - Paris
Our first day in Paris started late, after meeting with train faults for the airport. We only managed to catch our lunch at 4pm where we saw a good deal for a set meal and gobbled up our food in the stipulated 45min at 11.40euros each, a very affordable price including starters and dessert. Travelling to La Vallée Village, it took us 1hr 40 min to reach with the train heading there stalled. Not a good impression to the start of Paris, experiencing 2 train breakdown within a day. Luckily, the shops closed at 8pm that day and it was sufficient time for us to look around.
Transportation is very expensive, spending 43euros each for a zone 1-5 pass for 3 days. False information was given by the airport staff, informing us that the youth pass is only eligible to age 18. Though annoyed, it was too late for us to do anything about it too.
Day 13: Paris
A day trip out to Versailles, 1.5hrs journey to reach from city. A huge palace with a a very pretty garden and lake, no wonder it is for the royalties. We spent a long time wandering around the palace admiring the sculptures and the delicate designs of the palace and its surroundings. Our journey back to the city was very smoothly, taking only 40minutes, time saving of half the journey from a kind lady lending us a helping hand to direct us to the right direction and a direct train.
Day 14: Paris (Disneyland)
Darling's 26th birthday was celebrated at Disneyland this year, specially coincided. Being there at a right time, the closing hours were extended to 11pm and the pass allows special admission to 2 themeparks within a day in celebration of its 20th anniversary. Definitely a day is not enough to cover the 2 parks, but every moment there was a magical experience. The fireworks was well worth the wait.
Day 15: Paris
Museum day where we only covered Louvre museum for the famous Mona Lisa painting. Spend a while at Notre Dame before quickly heading back to hotel to prepare for our simple shoot.
Day 16: Paris - Singapore
Home Sweet Home.
Back to the trip, I learnt a lot, learnt the cultures of 2 European counties and learnt the rich history. Rome is not built in a day but through centuries. It is amazing how each city within Italy are different from the other through just a train ride, each city rich in its own culture. Despite spending most of our excess cash on souvenirs for others rather than for ourselves, I love the trip to bits and pieces because witnessing the country through my own eyes and bringing back the pictures with our memories was the best gift from the trip. I have learnt how gracious and environmental friendly the Europeans are, and I have witnessed the talented performing arts and passion of the people there, something it will be hard to witness in Singapore. Through this trip, my eyes and horizons have widened. It gives a totally different experience from Asia, the areas I have usually been traveling to. I love traveling in Italy and Paris, but I know the moment when I stepped back home in Singapore, this is home. It is time to face reality with a different perspective, this time a widely perspective of life.
During the trip, there were moments where we thought the trip was too long, a little tiring. There was moments where I turned very grumpy either at the unsettled work or from walking under the scorching sun or from just randomness at losing our way. But your patience was greatly appreciated, never throwing temper but kept the map safe in your hands guiding us to the destinations. YOU ARE GREAT. No complains of my laziness at map reading, no complains at my whines and tandram throwing, no complains of your tiredness or aching body. Your eye for details were great and I appreciate every moment with you around. Thank you.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
1 day away from my trip and I am utterly pissed by someone. It is really annoying when ppl don't cooperate and adhere to urgent timeline. Once or twice is fine. When it becomes more than a year of repeated late submission. This is ridiculous. Your lack of timeliness is creating trouble for others.
No amount of sorry matters. It is the time wasted chasing these ppl who has no sense of urgency. Been a while since I have been so mad at anyone. This person really hit my raw nerve.
1 day away from my trip and I am utterly pissed by someone. It is really annoying when ppl don't cooperate and adhere to urgent timeline. Once or twice is fine. When it becomes more than a year of repeated late submission. This is ridiculous. Your lack of timeliness is creating trouble for others.
No amount of sorry matters. It is the time wasted chasing these ppl who has no sense of urgency. Been a while since I have been so mad at anyone. This person really hit my raw nerve.
1 day away from my trip and I am utterly pissed by someone. It is really annoying when ppl don't cooperate and adhere to urgent timeline. Once or twice is fine. When it becomes more than a year of repeated late submission. This is ridiculous. Your lack of timeliness is creating trouble for others.
No amount of sorry matters. It is the time wasted chasing these ppl who has no sense of urgency. Been a while since I have been so mad at anyone. This person really hit my raw nerve.
Friday, July 20, 2012
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Cebu 2012 - a memorable trip indeed
A mountain so high that can be seen from the airplane when we were in the midst of flying. amazing.
Day 1:
Upon arrival at Cebu international airport, we were chauffeured to nalusuan island resort private jetty. Along the way, we manage to grab macdonald to bring over. The jetty had a stunning view by the sea, clear blue waters greeted me. Momentarily, I felt I was in paradise. The view was too pretty.
We took a 45min boat ride across to nalusuan private resort and was brought to our room. We saw the balcony with sea view, immediately wanting to just stone there. The first marine life that greeted us in the waters below our balcony was a bright blue starfish. We started preparing for our first snorkeling experience at this resort. Grabbing a set of gear, we jumped into the waters. Wow the snorkeling view was pretty at the jetty. Corals and many fishes, small and big, one coloured and many colours, many types.
After the snorkeling, we washed up and were ready for some nice photograph sessions on the island. We witnessed sunset at this little island. The island was amazing, with low tide in the evening and a sand bar appeared. I saw many sea creatures, from sea urchins, starfishes, crabs and many fishes that I can't see from elsewhere. I seem to be living with the marine life there, seeing the crabs emerge from their holes as night falls.
Day 2:
We checked out sunrise timing with the staff there and was informed that it is sometime between 5am to 5:30am. I jumped out of bed at 5am, eager to welcome sunrise. afterall, i never get to witness sunrise, often missing that previous few minutes. I was disappointed when i see the cloudy sky, yet i was persistent and camped by the balcony, enjoying the quietness of this island. at 5:55am, i was pleasantly surprised to see a round red circle appearing in between the clouds. excitedly, i ran in the grab the camera, preparing to capture the awaited moment - my first sunrise. it was beautiful and left me with a deeper impression of this island, where i witness both sunrise and sunset. i love sunrise, because that signifies the start of a new day.
The morning was R&R at the resort, going snorkeling among the fishes, by the beach. Many many many pretty and colourful fishes swam alongside me, clown fishes and many others. i spotted at least 10 different types of fishes. i can't emphasis enough of this place, because it amazes me so much, being able to offer much more than my first snorkeling experience at rendang. Furthermore, it brought me closer to the fishes and corals without having to move far from the island. Soon, it was time to check out of the hotel and proceed to our next destination - Movenpick Hotel at Mactan Island. We had a smooth (aka expensive) transportation to bring us to the hotel lobby.
While checking in, we realized there was a shuttle bus ready to bring us to SM mall, the biggest mall of Cebu. The shopping mall was HUGE, so huge that we kind of get lost walking around the mall. Since we only had 3 hours, we grabbed our lunch quickly in their food court, shopped at their supermarket and grabbed a pizza for dinner.
Heading back to our hotel for the night, we spent some time enjoying an S$18 worth of 2 scoop ice cream and enjoyed movie by the beach.
Day 3: Photoshoot Day
Waking up at 6am, we prepared ourselves for breakfast at the hotel and dressed up, all ready for our photoshoot scheduled at 8am. Our photographer offered to bring us to 6 destinations around Cebu city and be our part time tour guide. The destinations for our photoshoot include Lapu-Lapu, Bridge, Fort, Church, Coast side, Top of a hill to oversee Cebu city and lastly our hotel.
Being our first photoshoot, we were directed on the poses by the photographer. Thankfully, he is friendly and able to guide us well. Most importantly, we had fun during the shoot, spontaneous and randomness added to the fun.
By 5pm, nearing the end of the shoot, I was totally exhausted. The photographer's skills were good, with the photos requiring minimal editing, yet looking very professionally taken. His patience was excellent, still taking the photographs with much zest and determination that really impresses me throughout the session.
The trip was great, time well spent together. It was fun, very fun.
A mountain so high that can be seen from the airplane when we were in the midst of flying. amazing.
Day 1:Upon arrival at Cebu international airport, we were chauffeured to nalusuan island resort private jetty. Along the way, we manage to grab macdonald to bring over. The jetty had a stunning view by the sea, clear blue waters greeted me. Momentarily, I felt I was in paradise. The view was too pretty.
We took a 45min boat ride across to nalusuan private resort and was brought to our room. We saw the balcony with sea view, immediately wanting to just stone there. The first marine life that greeted us in the waters below our balcony was a bright blue starfish. We started preparing for our first snorkeling experience at this resort. Grabbing a set of gear, we jumped into the waters. Wow the snorkeling view was pretty at the jetty. Corals and many fishes, small and big, one coloured and many colours, many types.
After the snorkeling, we washed up and were ready for some nice photograph sessions on the island. We witnessed sunset at this little island. The island was amazing, with low tide in the evening and a sand bar appeared. I saw many sea creatures, from sea urchins, starfishes, crabs and many fishes that I can't see from elsewhere. I seem to be living with the marine life there, seeing the crabs emerge from their holes as night falls.
Day 2:We checked out sunrise timing with the staff there and was informed that it is sometime between 5am to 5:30am. I jumped out of bed at 5am, eager to welcome sunrise. afterall, i never get to witness sunrise, often missing that previous few minutes. I was disappointed when i see the cloudy sky, yet i was persistent and camped by the balcony, enjoying the quietness of this island. at 5:55am, i was pleasantly surprised to see a round red circle appearing in between the clouds. excitedly, i ran in the grab the camera, preparing to capture the awaited moment - my first sunrise. it was beautiful and left me with a deeper impression of this island, where i witness both sunrise and sunset. i love sunrise, because that signifies the start of a new day.
The morning was R&R at the resort, going snorkeling among the fishes, by the beach. Many many many pretty and colourful fishes swam alongside me, clown fishes and many others. i spotted at least 10 different types of fishes. i can't emphasis enough of this place, because it amazes me so much, being able to offer much more than my first snorkeling experience at rendang. Furthermore, it brought me closer to the fishes and corals without having to move far from the island. Soon, it was time to check out of the hotel and proceed to our next destination - Movenpick Hotel at Mactan Island. We had a smooth (aka expensive) transportation to bring us to the hotel lobby.
While checking in, we realized there was a shuttle bus ready to bring us to SM mall, the biggest mall of Cebu. The shopping mall was HUGE, so huge that we kind of get lost walking around the mall. Since we only had 3 hours, we grabbed our lunch quickly in their food court, shopped at their supermarket and grabbed a pizza for dinner.
Heading back to our hotel for the night, we spent some time enjoying an S$18 worth of 2 scoop ice cream and enjoyed movie by the beach.Day 3: Photoshoot DayWaking up at 6am, we prepared ourselves for breakfast at the hotel and dressed up, all ready for our photoshoot scheduled at 8am. Our photographer offered to bring us to 6 destinations around Cebu city and be our part time tour guide. The destinations for our photoshoot include Lapu-Lapu, Bridge, Fort, Church, Coast side, Top of a hill to oversee Cebu city and lastly our hotel.
Being our first photoshoot, we were directed on the poses by the photographer. Thankfully, he is friendly and able to guide us well. Most importantly, we had fun during the shoot, spontaneous and randomness added to the fun.
By 5pm, nearing the end of the shoot, I was totally exhausted. The photographer's skills were good, with the photos requiring minimal editing, yet looking very professionally taken. His patience was excellent, still taking the photographs with much zest and determination that really impresses me throughout the session.
The trip was great, time well spent together. It was fun, very fun.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Short Getaway 2012 Part 1 - Batam (11-12th Feb 2012)
Having bought a deal from the online portal sometime in Nov 2011, we finally reached the day of our departure to Batam after a long awaited 3 months. On Saturday morning, 6:15am, we reached the ferry terminal waiting to collect our tickets for the first ride there. Thankfully it is at Harbourfront, just a short distance from my house.
Excitedly, we embarked on the journey. With prior arrangements, our massage palour, Isabella, arranged pickup for us from the terminal upon our arrival. Off we are chauffered to our destination at Nagoya for our massage. Excellent massage, excellent service. We decided to have our lunch and shopping done at Nagoya, but the shopping was so short that i can't find anything suitable and of interest to shop. our only memory from our first trip to batam were 50cents socks which were no longer available. Hence, we decided to check in to our hotel - Harris Batam Center. Excellently located so conveniently beside the ferry terminal and shopping center, it left a great impression on me. I realized the deal was a steal, inclusive of the ferry ride, the hotel stay, breakfast, lunch and tea. Nice hotel with their motto of 'simple, unique, friendly' to my liking. And of course, not to mention, the swimming pool :)
Deciding to give harbourfront bay seafood a try, we cab our way down. I can't remember much of golden prawn seafood from our first visit except that the food was good, but we wanted a different experience this time. Dinning by the seaside, it was a different experience. For the first time, we had a really romantic dinner, being able to watch sunset while enjoying seafood. Though the view is not excellent, all i wanted to do at that time was just to watch the sun setting. At that moment, i only remember how beautiful sunset is. Dinner was good and cheap, except that...i thought i didn't have much appetite and didn't eat much, only to have to order supper at night. such a pity when the chilli crab only cost approx S$8 for one. had we known that earlier, we would definately have more crabs.
Reaching back hotel by 7+ batam time, we were in time for Man U vs Liverpool match. Supper was JCo donuts and KFC when I realized i can't stop thinking of food. Sunday was a lazy food day, where we enjoyed breakfast and lunch at the hotel, nua-ing the rest of the time away.
After this trip, I realized why I enjoy going overseas, because it brings me to forget everything about work and routine. Going overseas could be tiring when you want to visit many places and explore, but i realize that is where the pleasure lies too. Definately hope i can apply this in all aspects of life, and strive not to be trapped in the daily routines and forget about the simplest pleasures in life.
Looking forward to the short getaway next - CEBU! With a private beach resort island to snokkel around as well as a day of photoshoot planned by a local, this is definately going to be more exciting. to our first trip to the philipines, this is going to be an eye opener! With a local photoshoot coming up nxt week, every week in Feb is passing with happiness. My brother commented that wedding photoshoots always look so poised, but this is definitely not true for us because each of the photoshoot we have together, it is riding on the opportunity of our travel log either in singapore or overseas. yes, this is our story and we are in the midst of writing it.
Recently, there were a lot of thoughts going on in my mind which got me thinking of the simple word of 'Yes'. The implictions are far and wide and i only gave it a serious thought recently. i was undeniable scared initally, scared of the commitement to come, the responsibility to bear and the future to think of. As each day drew closely, i grew more heavy hearted and scared. it was afterall a lifelong decision and the pacing back and forth is a matter of being part of the decision making process. i didn't know who to turn to, so most thoughts were kept within. But i realize, there is no definite reassurance we can ask for, except to believe in each other. after speaking my thoughts, my heart felt immediately relieved of the tension building within. And i know, the decision is final and i have chosen to believe in you. *smiles* hence, with no more questions, no more worries, i have made the final stamp to the decision. Like all other decisions i have made, i know, i will never regret this, regardless of the future to come.
it's going to be a short work week ahead. Feb and Mar is a building up for the preparation for year end closing, something I am looking forward to. haha i think i am too much of a workaholic as i am looking forward excitedly to pile of work ahead to be completed for year end within the short timeframe. weekends are likely to be burnt for 2-3 weeks, but this time, i am more confident of the work to be done =)
Having bought a deal from the online portal sometime in Nov 2011, we finally reached the day of our departure to Batam after a long awaited 3 months. On Saturday morning, 6:15am, we reached the ferry terminal waiting to collect our tickets for the first ride there. Thankfully it is at Harbourfront, just a short distance from my house.
Excitedly, we embarked on the journey. With prior arrangements, our massage palour, Isabella, arranged pickup for us from the terminal upon our arrival. Off we are chauffered to our destination at Nagoya for our massage. Excellent massage, excellent service. We decided to have our lunch and shopping done at Nagoya, but the shopping was so short that i can't find anything suitable and of interest to shop. our only memory from our first trip to batam were 50cents socks which were no longer available. Hence, we decided to check in to our hotel - Harris Batam Center. Excellently located so conveniently beside the ferry terminal and shopping center, it left a great impression on me. I realized the deal was a steal, inclusive of the ferry ride, the hotel stay, breakfast, lunch and tea. Nice hotel with their motto of 'simple, unique, friendly' to my liking. And of course, not to mention, the swimming pool :)
Deciding to give harbourfront bay seafood a try, we cab our way down. I can't remember much of golden prawn seafood from our first visit except that the food was good, but we wanted a different experience this time. Dinning by the seaside, it was a different experience. For the first time, we had a really romantic dinner, being able to watch sunset while enjoying seafood. Though the view is not excellent, all i wanted to do at that time was just to watch the sun setting. At that moment, i only remember how beautiful sunset is. Dinner was good and cheap, except that...i thought i didn't have much appetite and didn't eat much, only to have to order supper at night. such a pity when the chilli crab only cost approx S$8 for one. had we known that earlier, we would definately have more crabs.
Reaching back hotel by 7+ batam time, we were in time for Man U vs Liverpool match. Supper was JCo donuts and KFC when I realized i can't stop thinking of food. Sunday was a lazy food day, where we enjoyed breakfast and lunch at the hotel, nua-ing the rest of the time away.
After this trip, I realized why I enjoy going overseas, because it brings me to forget everything about work and routine. Going overseas could be tiring when you want to visit many places and explore, but i realize that is where the pleasure lies too. Definately hope i can apply this in all aspects of life, and strive not to be trapped in the daily routines and forget about the simplest pleasures in life.
Looking forward to the short getaway next - CEBU! With a private beach resort island to snokkel around as well as a day of photoshoot planned by a local, this is definately going to be more exciting. to our first trip to the philipines, this is going to be an eye opener! With a local photoshoot coming up nxt week, every week in Feb is passing with happiness. My brother commented that wedding photoshoots always look so poised, but this is definitely not true for us because each of the photoshoot we have together, it is riding on the opportunity of our travel log either in singapore or overseas. yes, this is our story and we are in the midst of writing it.
Recently, there were a lot of thoughts going on in my mind which got me thinking of the simple word of 'Yes'. The implictions are far and wide and i only gave it a serious thought recently. i was undeniable scared initally, scared of the commitement to come, the responsibility to bear and the future to think of. As each day drew closely, i grew more heavy hearted and scared. it was afterall a lifelong decision and the pacing back and forth is a matter of being part of the decision making process. i didn't know who to turn to, so most thoughts were kept within. But i realize, there is no definite reassurance we can ask for, except to believe in each other. after speaking my thoughts, my heart felt immediately relieved of the tension building within. And i know, the decision is final and i have chosen to believe in you. *smiles* hence, with no more questions, no more worries, i have made the final stamp to the decision. Like all other decisions i have made, i know, i will never regret this, regardless of the future to come.
it's going to be a short work week ahead. Feb and Mar is a building up for the preparation for year end closing, something I am looking forward to. haha i think i am too much of a workaholic as i am looking forward excitedly to pile of work ahead to be completed for year end within the short timeframe. weekends are likely to be burnt for 2-3 weeks, but this time, i am more confident of the work to be done =)
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
CHINESE NEW YEAR 2012
Started the celebration with our yearly reunion steamboat dinner at home.
Something different this year - Abalone Lao Yu Sheng
Happily lao-ing our yu sheng! HUAT AH! *smiles*
Our yummy steamboat :) it always tastes the best at home where we can eat to our heart's content :)
First day of cny
Visited our grandma's house and relative visiting.
the ladies and an aunty :)
Cousins gathering! :) haha reminds us of our younger days :)
Cousins went for late night movie - Jack Neo's movie at Tiong Bahru. Thought the show wasn't suitable for chinese new year, not my type of show.
Thank you for your generosity towards my cousins, sending them home past midnight from tiong bahru to bedok and travelling home to bukit batok. I realized how generous you are to not just the people you care, but also to the people I care. That is the greatest gift i can ever get from you and it really touched me deeply. Thank you for that gesture, this is one of your greatest virture that i appreciate and admire deeply of you :)
Started the celebration with our yearly reunion steamboat dinner at home.
Something different this year - Abalone Lao Yu Sheng
Happily lao-ing our yu sheng! HUAT AH! *smiles*
Our yummy steamboat :) it always tastes the best at home where we can eat to our heart's content :)First day of cny
Visited our grandma's house and relative visiting.
the ladies and an aunty :)
Cousins gathering! :) haha reminds us of our younger days :)
Cousins went for late night movie - Jack Neo's movie at Tiong Bahru. Thought the show wasn't suitable for chinese new year, not my type of show.
Thank you for your generosity towards my cousins, sending them home past midnight from tiong bahru to bedok and travelling home to bukit batok. I realized how generous you are to not just the people you care, but also to the people I care. That is the greatest gift i can ever get from you and it really touched me deeply. Thank you for that gesture, this is one of your greatest virture that i appreciate and admire deeply of you :)
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Monday, January 16, 2012
Deep in thoughts. I can finally feel my parents' pain. They never explicitly says how much they love me, but I realize their every actions are filled with love. Yesterday I had a heart wrenching session before I realize how different things were from the past. I did not know the cause of the changes but I realized I never bother to find out. I am really sorry for my sensitivity earlier.
I thought I had grown up. But I am still far from growing up. I still live in a naive world. It all doesn't matter now, only my mum, my dad and my brothers matter to me now. Of course, I will still treat everyone else with a kind heart. Do not let how others mistreat you to be a reason to mistreat others. Let others know how to learn to be benevolent. I can do it.
On a side note, I went Chinatown with mummy yesterday evening. It felt great to see her face light up :) been quite reflective these few days, thinking how I can pack my mummy off with me to my new house. Haha I am such a lazy bum, having a mum who takes care of my every need. I would miss spending quality time with her nxt time, so I am learning to treasure such moments more :)
I thought I had grown up. But I am still far from growing up. I still live in a naive world. It all doesn't matter now, only my mum, my dad and my brothers matter to me now. Of course, I will still treat everyone else with a kind heart. Do not let how others mistreat you to be a reason to mistreat others. Let others know how to learn to be benevolent. I can do it.
On a side note, I went Chinatown with mummy yesterday evening. It felt great to see her face light up :) been quite reflective these few days, thinking how I can pack my mummy off with me to my new house. Haha I am such a lazy bum, having a mum who takes care of my every need. I would miss spending quality time with her nxt time, so I am learning to treasure such moments more :)
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