Advent

It's here again... well for the past 2 weeks.

Entering the 3rd week of advent now & in less than 2 weeks, it will be Christmas. No special plans this year too..then again, Christmas is already special in itself.

I feel like buying a Christmas tree every time I see one, but I usually settled with just admiring it from a distance, telling myself I feel content enough (which is true, for most parts). Had an unplanned shopping stint yesterday - bought 3 basic items - which cost me almost all the money set aside for emergencies. Lucky I had that set aside (although that's hardly an emergency hohoh). Had to hunt down for a courier service tomorrow since I can't take chances by using the local postal service - not when I needed things to get delivered safely on time. I'll still go ask though,just in case -.- It would've been easy to have my friend bring it when she goes back, if only there's somebody to fetch it from the airport - but oh well, some things can't be helped. That's life, but I'll be content.

Resolutions for the new year came early this time: (1) Become best friends with Park, Khurana & Dhingra (at least till March); (2) Scratch "Food" from Hobbies list and replace it with "Exercise"; (3) KIV the termination of online accounts - looks like there's gonna be less & less posts, or nothing at all..

Oh yes, a Blessed Advent & Christmas to all..

Expect the unexpected

Had an unexpected off-day today ^^
..and no, I didn't skip any class. The classes were cancelled due to some exams, and i don't have to burden my head because i took mine yesterday (grins).

Anyhow, i did a lot of sleeping today (hohoh why am i not surprised?). Apart from that, didn't do anything much other than chatting with mom and a few friends. Wrote a page in my journal, tried to squeeze some pages of PJ Mehta in my head, and now I'm updating my blog.. wow, what an accomplishment huehue..

Awhile ago, I did a personality test just for the fun of it (or maybe i was bored -.-'). The result came out and it included the order of priorities in my life:
1. FAMILY
2. LOVE
3. CAREER
4. PRIDE
5. MONEY

^^ I don't have any problem with that order.

Anyway, anyone interested or feeling bored can check out the following link and take the test:
http://www.wordofmouthexperiment.com/dedpyhto/tests/tibetian/index.htm

It's a very short test. I promise ;p

Excitedly looking forward for next week - I'm getting my sushi treat! ^^ Have been putting it off since the last 4 months hohoh (sushi is incredibly expensive here, it's cheaper back home -.-) and now I'm finally getting it. Can't wait!

Time Out!

I need a break. Luckily tomorrow's holiday. I need to reorganize - some things are slowly going out of order because I couldn't pay much attention to every single thing as I go about the hectic schedule -_-"

I just spent some time on Youtube, watching 2NE1 TV huehue ;p It's the final episode for season 2 - somewhat a pity, because I find it entertaining.

Of course I don't understand as much as I would've if there are subtitles but I believe the subs would come out sooner or later as with the previous episodes - all thanks to the subbing team ^^

I don't watch much movies lately since it takes too much time just to load and then watch them. So I find myself watching shows like these, which are short and quite entertaining. Of course, it helps that I'm a fan of this group hahah. What can I do, I have no tv channels to watch ;p It's good in a way though. Watching tv would probably bring more distractions to my already distracted life huehue. I'm trying to prepare myself for the coming months when I'll be sitting for my third IA and finally the finals in the end of March.. not too confident with my current performance in one of the subjects. Let's hope for the best! (and may the motivation keep going huhuh ;p)

As the leaves fall in November..

Lately it seems as if I reach home feeling tired everyday. Of course, the schedule has always been hectic, but lately I feel like I've gotten much older (if my stamina is of any indication hohoh)..Trying to exercise a bit more this term. I should get my stamina up. My body is in bad condition ;p

I couldn't update my blog regularly. Partly because I couldn't squeeze in time for it, partly because I'm tired or lazy hehe.. Sometimes, I felt like deleting the blog altogether. Then while I'm at it, why don't I deactivate my Fbook account as well huh? huehue.. Still, I kept it all. Even my old FS account.. Lou had deleted his for quite some time now. I was tempted to delete mine too, but I didn't. Why?.. I just felt like it's a pity, and some friends are still on it.. makes it more difficult for me to delete.

There's also something sad, or to some it might be a bit creepy. I'm sure there are many others whom have the same experience - a few of those in my friends list are actually static accounts. What I meant is that the owners of those accounts are actually no more (rest in peace dear friends) but the accounts are still there. Yeah, since nobody knows the passwords, it can't be deleted, right? There are, however, some which could be accessed by their close relations i.e. wife, fiancee, etc. but even so, many of them prefer to leave the account on as a memory of their loved ones..

For me, it's sometimes saddening to read through all the previous comments posted while they were still alive, and when reminders of their birthdays appear on screen. Even more so when you're not really aware of the unfortunate event and leave a cheerful message on their page only to realize later after reading previous comments. Still, it gives a platform to those who wish to pay tribute to the person but never had the chance to. Ah, now why am I talking about sad things all of a sudden?! Somehow, as my fingers type away, the topic has come to this...

Anyhow, 2 days ago was the All Souls Day, my prayers go out for all the souls that had departed, especially of those beautiful people whom I had crossed paths with at one point in life. I may not have known all of them that well but I'm sure that in the course of their lifetimes they must have touched a few lives in one way or another. Sometimes, when we are reminded of how short and vulnerable our lives are, that's only when we realize that the things that we often took for granted are those that really matter in life; and we should thank God everyday for the wonderful gift that He has given us - Life.

Happy birthday Dad..

It's daddy's 50th birthday. He's finally reached the "golden anniversary" (^^) Although I couldn't go back and celebrate with him and my family, I pray that God's blessings and joy be upon them.

Have been occupied with exams and preparations for the last 2 weeks. Our 2nd IA is supposed to end today, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the last 2 practical exams are postponed. So there we have it - an early holiday with our exams cut short. I've been boring myself to sleep (for use of a better word) for the last 2 days *sigh*. If I'd known earlier, I'd probably have bought a ticket to go back home. It's too late to do so now - tickets are more expensive. Oh well, as I mentioned earlier, it was UNFORESEEN. Who would've known, right?

I refrained from buying a ticket earlier for our 1 week holiday because it's such a short time and I still need to renew my residential permit (I plan to renew it during the 1 week holiday since it's difficult to make time for it in between classes). Besides, I have a mission - I wonder if I'll be able to achieve that target (-_-) I tend to spend more when I get bored or hungry hahah.. Have to fight against temptations! I'm gaining unnecessary extra weight too (><)!! I can't be like this all the time huhu..

I'll persevere. Things are not too bad actually. Oh, and there don't seem to be any riot or public nuisances going on around the area too. Thank God. We were actually given instructions to stay in for the last 2 days for fear of the worst that might happen due to a decades-old sensitive issue being discussed in court. Now that the verdict is out, the worst period has passed and I'm glad nothing bad happened. Religious issue is always a complicated one to tackle, and furthermore when it's seasoned with issues of land-title and political influences - and the Commonwealth Games are supposed to be starting off soon too *sigh* I won't discuss further about this delicate, complicated matter but my prayers go to the people of this country, may they get all the past grievances settled and prosper in peace. May God bless my country too, especially my home state.

As I couldn't go back this time, I could only send my prayers for my family - may all of you be well and healthy. I'll take good care of myself here too so I could go back and see you next holiday! ^^

It's been a long time coming..

Fell asleep early and woke up after 1am. Should be completing my record book *sigh* but I was so tired that I practically passed out. Now I'm sleepy again.

Anyway, in an attempt to stay awake I surfed the net awhile and came across this:

with due credit

They're finally making their official comeback! ^^ I liked them ever since their debut (particularly the main vocal - her voice was what drew me in the first place, plus she's a dork keke). They're the first Korean female group that really caught my interest. I think they're a talented bunch (and so are their songwriters ;p). Let's see what they've come up with this time.

Okay, even this couldn't wipe off my sleepiness. I guess I'll wake up early in the morning and finish up then.

Wake me up when September ends..

September 1st..

Ahh so August ended.. with a holiday ^^. Well, August always ends with a holiday for me because it's the country's official Independence Day. Many people wondered why I'm having holidays even when I'm studying abroad hahah. The answer is simple - our calendar includes major holidays of both our home country and the campus' resident country. Why? The school itself is founded by a Malaysian institute with the collaboration of a local education foundation. So there you go.

I bought my Ricoh AD-1 ^^

Classic looking huh..it's circa 1979. I'm not a skilled photographer, but I've always wanted an old camera to "play around" or rather, experiment with. Plus, I like films (although digital is really convenient). I actually wanted a polaroid, which is harder to find, but I managed to get this model at quite a cheap price. It's still working well, can't wait to try it out.

Yes, I had a good rest today. In fact I slept few hours more than I usually do. If I didn't have backache from lying down so long, I would have probably stayed in bed because it was cold.

There's another IA at the end of the month. Yeah, wake me up when the month ends huhu.

I'll write again when I remember. Signing off.

Catching up..

I decided to stay home this morning because of some minor bowel problem (><) heh.. It's better now but it's too late to catch the bus for field posting. I'll be attending the afternoon class though.

My mom wouldn't like to hear this kind of thing, "If you don't take care of yourself well, you're going to miss out on a lot of things!" is what she tells me sometimes. Although mom is the worrier-type, I think she's handling better nowadays :) It must be the fresh air hehe. Personally, I'm not the type who likes to be late or miss important lessons/appointments because of my own incompetency - my failure to manage time or control my mental and emotional health (in other words managing stress), or failure to avoid something which is preventable (such as getting sick due to lack of sleep or not eating right). Rather than blaming so many factors, I usually tend to blame myself for lack of performance or for not being strong enough because from my point of view, everyone struggles in life and compared to so many others, I'm in a much better situation. That's why people who keep giving excuses or talk about their minor hardships everyday don't really appeal to me, because that's exactly the kind of person I don't wish to become.

However, blaming oneself too much is not a good thing. It was said that too much or too less of something is not good - everything has limitations. In my case, my relationship with other people is affected. I take relationships e.g. friendship seriously. When things go wrong, turn sour or the mood becomes a bit awkward, I have the tendency to feel responsible - although I may have done nothing wrong. This is tiring. But I was taught that if we entertain our personal troubles or thoughts too much we won't get anywhere in life - we won't be able to move on. So I tried my best to put unhappy experiences behind but there are times I feel uncomfortable too.

Many people say I talk a lot - and that's all they know about me. These people noticed when I'm noisy but what they don't notice is that I have quiet moments just like others too; and that might be because they're in their own world as well ^^ I agree that I have strong opinions about things though haha, maybe due to the way I was brought up and education I received in school (I used to join debates ;p). I'm a little bit apprehensive in trusting people. I make friends but I'm only close with a few, and my innermost thoughts, difficulties and worries are usually shared only with my parents, Lou or on some rare occasions with people I'm close or comfortable with. Most of the time they are kept to myself, which I try to bring to prayer. There are times I break down. It's not like I'm a perfect being, I am only human after all.

Ahh, now where am I going? This is turning into serious talk. Am I trying to be philosophical?Haha.. Anyway, there's one good thing about missing the bus today. I get to catch up with some of my reading. There's just too many subjects to read about and I have short term memory (excuses, excuses hehe). I need to read more but I always feel tired and sleepy at the end of the day. Have to find solutions for that! ^^ Break finished! Back to book mode.

August Rush

I thought of leaving a quick post today (but it seems like it has to be one of those long updates again) ^^ since i haven't been able to get online much lately.

There are 3 main reasons for that:

1. Internet line is, in short, just problematic! i don't know why, i hope it gets solved soon.

2. Frequent electricity cut-offs. Almost 5-6 times in a day since last week, which is a bit frustrating. Tonight is actually the first night free of blackouts after several days in a row.

3. Hectic schedule ^^

I noticed i haven't uploaded any pics for a very long time. Come to think of it, i don't think i took any pictures lately too. Even my phone's camera is not working - i'll fix it when i go back home (i don't know when will that be T_T)

Anyway, feeling the importance of electricity in this modern world (blackouts are certainly inconvenient for me), i wonder what will happen if the world runs out of the resources (e.g. coal, etc.) needed to produce electricity someday. Then the whole world will come to a halt! Maybe we could work more on solar power and hydroelectric and try to prevent opening of new coal mines? ^^ Meanwhile, what we common people can do, rather than complaining everyday, is to save electricity (and water - here, there's a shortage of that too at times)! Don't waste! huehue.. and give thanks when we have good, stable electricity supplies v^^v

Today's the Indian Independence Day - I was able to participate in a small flag-raising ceremony by the local church members after mass, followed by singing of the national anthem. I just stood at first, feeling a little bit awkward, but a little while later i sensed their pride - how important the event was to them and i felt like i could understand the sentiment ^^ i was honoured to be able to join them.

I seem to be running in a better condition recently. It may be because I've had some good rest, prayer time and some motivations/revelations(?). Thank God. I hope i'll continue to be healthy and not go into a "slump" period any time in the near future. Short conversations with mom and dad, and sometimes with my siblings and my faithful confidante (^^) have also been helpful. Thank you!! I always keep in mind that i have to be strong for myself and for them; and i will be - with God's grace, especially in these present trying conditions for all of us.

I'm blessed since there are people continuously praying for me, even though things may be tough for them too. For these important people - although it may take a long time before we meet again, just remember that you are all in my prayers too.

Midnight in July

Okay, *clears throat, sitting straight* it has been a very long week. Or month? Anyway, i had thought of leaving an update last Sunday but i got too occupied... with laundry, cleaning n tidying up the room.

There was a box under my bed, filled with stuffs which i had planned on sorting out ever since we moved into the apartment in October last year, but i only got around to do it last Sunday. Finally! i guess i can now say that i've officially completed the move and settled in hohoh. Took me a long time huh? i was quite proud of myself last Sunday - that's the longest procrastination yet, and i'd finally put an end to it. I'd like to point out that i had too much preoccupation but that would sound like an excuse haha. Lame.. Anyway, it was a good day since I accomplished much of my to-do list and had a good dinner out ^^ my craving for samgyupsal and jjajangmyun was fulfilled hahah. Yes, it's surprisingly pleasant to find a nice, small korean restaurant here. That and the chinese restaurant across the campus are the only places serving food that i consider closer to the kinds of food i'm used to having back home. At least, those little things help me cope with my daily routine since i have something to look forward to - especially when i'm getting bored of eating the same food or too tired to cook.

Aah, so the 1st internals has just passed. I could have done better but the only thing i remember was sitting for it in a somewhat fatigued state huehue. 2 weeks flew by just like that. The clinical/practical part was a new experience though. I actually had a patient i could communicate with comfortably in english.. so thankful. I feel i had more connection then, since i had my own share of frustrations due to difficulty in communication during our postings. I always feel that i have to do more, learn more.. but sometimes my body and mind just can't seem to agree huehue.

Hm, this update is taking longer than i anticipate since my space-bar is making it hard for me to type properly. Yes, sometimes this laptop gives me frustrations too, especially when i need to do my commed assignments arghh.. and i thought handwritten ones would be sufficient *sigh* i didn't expect there to be more than 2 or 3 typed assignments, all in thesis-like formats. Oh well, i can't possibly lash out at the faithful 5 year-serving laptop. It's not like i could go out and buy a new one now, i can't get rid of it easily either.

Let me see, current updates:

-bought a keyboard about a month ago to mess around with haha - i missed playing some notes although i'm not good (it's been years since i stopped playing!);

-planning to buy ricoh ad-1 soon, since i found a good bargain, film i know but hey, i love films! hehe.. and old junks (not rubbish), old buildings, etc. Call me sentimental, i don't care ^^ dad used to comment about me liking old stuffs, but maybe i just like something with history?; and

-i think i'm undernourished haha.. yes, i think i'm chubbier but maybe that's just fat i'm gaining and my metabolism is slowing down but i feel i lack some nutrients in my diet, my skin and cycles seem off too lately - i'll see what i can do about it, i don't want to be sick either (i know mom likes to freak out when she hears such things. Well she doesn't have to).

-it's entering august and it's gradually getting colder here - i'm starting to wear sweaters in the house again..

Hm i think enough of updates. I wasn't really in a cheerful mood tonight but a chat with a friend lifted my mood up a bit - much appreciated. A junior posted this song on her page - it's an old favourite of mine and i haven't listened to it for quite sometime. Somehow puts me in melancholic/sentimental(?) mood. I'm ready for bed huehue. May God bless you all..

p/s i used to think Leehom was cool! he was the piano-playing heart-melting hot guy haha.. he's still cool ;P

July!

It's Monday!

I don't have the Monday blues today, because it's off-day!

I'm not sure why, but there seem to be some kind of strike(?) going on today. The information I received was that all classes and postings are cancelled due to "mogok" (strike), and the reason for that strike or whomever are involved in the strike is unknown to me huehue. Anyway, people said it's probably due to the increasing oil/gas price.

Since there's no class today, I thought I'd do some studying, which is still not showing any progress (><) Took nap twice this afternoon. Haish...

I'll try my best to be productive. I actually had to stop in the middle of typing this post because of power cut-off hohoh.. happens quite a lot here -.-"

By the way, the cause of the strike is confirmed. I had a phone call awhile ago and my friend was coincidentally listening to a radio news report regarding this hohoh.. Another thing that is quite common here - strikes ^^ I guess the people had a lot of things to their discontent huehue. This time, it's the oil price hike. Well, as long as it's done peacefully without any public chaos, I'm fine.

Okay, I should really start living the life I'm supposed to live now - student life huhu..Time to start reading and revise -_-

Stacks of books..

..they're everywhere in my room - arranged in stacks on my bed, on the floor, on the bookshelf, on the table... i have lots of books and not enough space to keep them *sigh*.

The room is a bit disorderly at the moment - too many things, so little time to sort them out (or throw some out >.<). It doesn't appear dirty or as if it was hit by a tornado though - the floor and table surfaces are not dusty and I make my bed every morning - it's clean hehe.

Anyway, I changed the template again. Blogger has new templates and I like them better. Since I've opened the blog, I thought I might as well post an entry. So I did.

Today I barely managed to do a 10 minutes exercise. I haven't had the chance (or will?) to exercise lately. Everyday is tiring. I usually go home feeling sleepy or very hungry or both haha. Even my face is having break-outs lately. It started since end of last year. I don't know, I never really had bad acne break-outs before. This time however, although they're more of small rashes-like pimples rather than the red, angry-looking acne, I think I'm having the worst skin condition I ever had.

My current wish-list:

1. Smaller, lighter laptop (which is easier to carry around) - will have to wait til I have enough savings ;P

2. Instax mini - hard to get from where i am now, will have to wait too ^^

3. A vacation..... (>.<)

I feel sleepy now. I must be tired. I even fell asleep in the bus throughout the trip home. I think I'm going to sleep in a few minutes - there goes my ambitious plan to read hahah. I'll try to wake up early (>.<)

P/s This coming Sunday is Father's Day - Happy Father's Day to my dearest dad! ^^ also to both my grandfathers and all great fathers and father-figures in the world. May God bless you.

May

It's one of my favourite months.. or used to be.

I don't know, every month feels the same lately ^^

Anyway, Mother's Day falls in May, so Happy Mother's Day to my dearest mom. When I feel overwhelmed, bored or even out of place, she's the one I always call (sometimes if I call dad, he'll still pass the phone to her anyway haha). I wish her health and joy and may God bless both her and my dad (and also my grandparents..I know I'm blessed to still have all of them..)

May also happens to be the month of Rosary, but I haven't made time to pray the Rosary even once yet. Hmm.. I got busy? So busy to even spare half an hour for that? Oh no, I shouldn't be that way (>.<) I'll make time. I definitely will.

May is also the month of the Harvest Festival ^^ Kaamatan (Kadazandusun - Harvest Festival) used to be one of the celebrations I look forward to when I was in school. It usually falls during the school holidays so my family would usually drive from Sandakan to Tambunan to celebrate with my grandparents and relatives. That was nice. Since we lived far from Tambunan, we could only visit them once or twice a year (the other time being Christmas in December, which also falls during the school holidays). So balik kampung becomes one of the main highlights for my siblings and I. In that 7 to 8 hours trip (depending on which route we take) , my dad usually made stops at various interesting places including Kundasang, Poring, waterfalls or fresh river banks, etc. We enjoyed those trips...

It may be different now. May might not be the time where I get holidays, vacations, rest, or meet my family and get surrounded by some special people who knew me since I was little and love me in spite of who I am, but I still get this sort of relaxed feeling when I think I'm in the month of May. I guess I took a trip down the memory lane for a moment there ;P Well, since it's May, it's also the time of the year when I turn a year older.. age-wise hohoh. The heart is still lively, but the physique is getting fatter and wrinkled hahah.. yeah whatever shirley ;P

Yes, I haven't updated the blog for quite sometime. Just came back after holiday more than 2 weeks ago and plunged straight into a hectic schedule. Welcome to the new phase!! >.<"

Will probably have lesser time to update but I'll try to when I can and if I feel like it heheh. I'll probably post about my recent holiday (with pictures) if I could make time for it.

I'm a bit tired today since I arrived home a bit late after lectures - had dinner and went to Reliance TimeOut where I bought an emergency lamp and a Kannada movie DVD with subtitles hahahah. Let's learn how to speak Kannada!! I watched a bit after I had my shower a while ago - ermmm I still have a long way to go before I can have a proper conversation or exchange more than a few sentences with the locals (especially those whom don't speak English -_-"). Just as expected, I can't survive my clinical years knowing just English, but at present my level of communication with the non English-speaking locals is just like how you imagine a chicken and duck would communicate to each other hahaha...

Oh, I'm drained.. will be back again soon to bore anyone with more of my "stories" and a bunch of other nonsense ^^ Till then.

Here I Am, Lord

I the Lord of sea and sky

I have heard my people cry

All who dwell in dark and sin

My hands will save

Chorus

Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?

I have heard you calling in the night.

I will go, Lord, if you lead me.

I will hold your people in my arms.

I, who made the stars of night,

I will make their darkness bright.

Who will bear my light to them?

Whom shall I send? (Cho)

I, the Lord of snow and rain,

I have borne my people’s pain.

I have wept for love of them.

They turn away. (Cho)

I will break their hearts of stone,

Give them hearts for love alone.

I will speak my words to them.

Whom shall I send? (Cho)

I, the Lord of wind and flame,

I will send the poor and lame.

I will set a feast for them.

My hand will save. (Cho)

Finest bread I will provide,

'Til their hearts be satisfied.

I will give my life to them.

Whom shall I send? (Cho)

Chorus

Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?

I have heard you calling in the night.

I will go, Lord, if you lead me.

I will hold your people in my heart.

*Holy Thursday - a day when I am somehow reminded about my vocation and reflect on it. What am I called to do in life? I feel like I'm embarking on the journey now. Whatever Your will is for me, let me find the strength to carry on and not give up. As You have called on Your disciples, so You have a plan for each and everyone of us. Let my belief and faith not crumble even when I am at my weakest hour, let me find joy and strength in serving You. Amen.

When my mind goes blank..

I'm not in a very good mood while writing this.

Today is the last day of my theory finals. Next week will be the practicals.

Today's last paper "killed" me.. *wuahhhhhhhhh* Hm.. at this rate I just hope I could pass the exams; doing really well is probably out of the question for this subject. The first half of the paper yesterday wasn't bad but today my mind went blank and I could barely remember some things. I'm disappointed and frustrated because of that. It reminds me of the times I was in college when my results seemed to be getting worse the harder I tried. I felt really down during those times. I even started thinking, "Really, how stupid can I be?" *sigh* the limits of my academic ability...

Anyway, I survived that period and things became better after that. It would be really stupid of me if I were to repeat the whole process again. "No, I won't go there anymore, I should know my learning style and subject approach better by now", I kept thinking that way. Oh well, if I'm disappointed today then I only have myself to blame. Throughout these 1 month I prayed for peace of mind and calmness so I could absorb and recollect well, but then again, there's still a lot of lacking on my part. I'm sure God has blessed me with all I need but I could've done more to be worthy of His blessings.

Now, I could only pray for the strength to receive whatever outcome it may be. If I succeed then I'll dedicate it to Him whom has given me abundantly. To be honest, failing is not an option for me since I don't want to waste more time (I'm already behind as it is) and money would be a big problem since I don't think I have 2000 bucks to repeat a paper *shivers*. My sponsor wouldn't pay for exam retakes (of course, who would sponsor for failing huehue) and I, for sure do not want to burden my family with that amount. Besides, if I could work out that much amount of money, I would rather use it to help my sister with her tuition fees since she didn't get a full sponsorship (it's a pity because her MCE results was way better than mine - she got straight As! sometimes the world can be a bit unfair, i know. Still, we're continuously praying for her). It was good enough that my parents do not have to worry about my expenses or bother about sending me money since I know they've got a lot on their hands at the moment. I definitely wish to contribute to their ease not add on to their burden, or else I wouldn't have decided nor could I have afforded to continue studying.

Oh, I just found out that there is a crack on my laptop huehue. It's been working faithfully for me for the last 5 years..poor lappy. Okay, I feel better now. Mood is slightly increased ++ kekeke ^^

I think I'll go search for some interesting vids to watch now. It's an off day!!

At A Drop Of A Helmet...

The IA results and carry-marks for all the subjects are out today.

I'm thankful I passed all, although some barely - I'm content with the carry marks. I'll try to do better for the finals next week. Definitely expecting it to be tiring -_-" Even this last IA is so tiring huehue..

I went out with Glean today. We went to the forex, eat and do a little bit of shopping (a little bit??) *sigh* I admit I indulged more than intended today. My main purpose was actually just to accompany her and stop by at Gourmet for some soy milk and tofu. I ended up doing more (of buying, that is). Oh well, I won't be going out again any time soon anyway. Next week, examination will be kicking off (again!) and it's going to be two "very long" weeks for me. Hm, let's not think about how hard it will be and focus on doing well ^^

Oh, I have something to share from my numerous auto-rickshaw rides. One thing I noticed is the different shapes and styles of helmets worn by the motorbike riders. Back home, they would all be almost the same - having to pass certain standards before being allowed for sale and use by traffic users. Here, however, the scenario is different. I see some old-school helmets which are not allowed for use in Malaysia anymore and also some very interesting styles of helmets - there are some that look like polo or baseball cap, some rounded bowl-like shape, etc. They're pretty amusing to look at, some look cute too (especially if they are worn by those cute grandfathers) haha.

Oh well, just like sticking to the right lanes, use of a standard helmet seems difficult to be implemented here (is it?). Anyway, I had 2 of the worst auto rides I've ever experienced today. There were a number of times I thought we almost hit other traffic users, but I must admit, to be able to drive here is really a skill on the auto-drivers' part. I would've got a headache and a heart attack if I were to drive in these conditions hohoh.

Now, decision-making time: sunglasses - should i keep the "unusual frame" or exchange it for the aviator look huehue. Decision remains to be made till tomorrow..

Kaapi Nirvana (with ice-cream please)

Officially announcing the 3rd IA is over. Today is the last day - I ended with Pharmacology practical. I hope I did well? I'm too sleepy to think about it now. Will update tomorrow.... or soon. Soft pillows are calling me. Goodnight. God bless one and all.

Past and Present (and I love music)

It's late, and I'm still up.

I had a very long afternoon nap today. I couldn't sleep the night before and ended up sitting for my exam with a heavy head -_-". Oh, what is to happen to me?..

Exam went well. Thank God.

Only 2 papers and practical exams left next week, and then a 1-week break ^^ yeah! except there's still a bigger monster of an exam - finals take place right after that (huehue) I should keep up with the preparation.

Have been spending some time with the Youtube today since tomorrow is Saturday ;p I was checking out various music videos (from instrumental to rock bands to K-pop LOL) when I came across videos of the "Old" KARA (that was when there were only 4 members with the former member SungHee) .

Personally, I like the old KARA better huehue. They seem to be this strong girl-group when they first debut. They sang live well (may I say clearer and less breathlessness?>.<) than most of the other girl-groups debuting around the same time (although i listen to them too). That's in my opinion. Oh well, those were the good old days. Sunghee left the group in 2008 and 2 new members were recruited to replace her. The new KARA is not bad, their songs are quite catchy (although I love the old sound better, they don't sound the same anymore after Sunghee left) but maybe the new concept is less appealing to me (but Lupin is not bad ^^).

Anyway, the group became more successful after Sunghee left, which is a pity. I would have loved to see her as part of the group. Anyway, I wish the best for her and also the present KARA members. I hope I hear more of Sunghee in the future though, because I love her voice and style, and I think she was born to be a singer ;p

Here's a video of an old Kara stage performance with Lee Hyori. Signing off for the night!

Another Visit From The Monkey God

I was about to have my coffee break. I didn't have one yesterday (which is good?hehe)

I just entered the kitchen when I heard the sound of water gushing from the adjacent balcony, where the washing machine was. I figured the hose got disconnected again -_-" so I went to the door intending to turn the water tap off. As soon as I opened the door, I was greeted with the sight of 2 monkeys sitting on the washing machine - one was holding a baby monkey! (o.o) Before they could enter the kitchen, I quickly shut the door ;P However, I didn't manage to turn off the tap huehue..

monkeys at the balcony

It's the the third time monkeys had come and made mischief in the house. The first was at our old apartment. I wasn't home at that time but when I arrived I was met with an apology by my housemate for using up a can of Mortein (insecticide spray) I had newly bought LOL. Apparently, the monkey was big and ate up a whole bunch of bananas on the dining table. I could only laugh when my friend told me she sprayed Mortein at the monkey but it wouldn't budge hahahaha....

Second time was sometime around last month when the monkeys broke into the kitchen, ate my bananas (luckily, there was only a few left, I had eaten most of them ^^) and broke some eggs into the wok. Now how clever was that? They must have seen some people frying eggs before LOL. What they didn't know was that you need to turn on the stove and put in some oil before you can fry hahaha..

Oh well, enough about the monkeys. I'm enjoying my coffee now, finally..

The first paper today was okay, although I didn't do that great but at least I managed to answer all questions (even though they might not be all correct huehue). I thank God for lending me His calmness ^^. I'll try my best for the next one too. I really hope I could do well in this last IA to prepare myself for the finals in...3 weeks? That's a week after this IA papers hohoh. Okay, break's over! ^^ Blessed week everyone.

10 chicken nuggets

I ate a lot of chicken Macnuggets today. It's Lent (o.O)~~~

(-_-)"

Anyway, D-day is about 72 hours away. I can't say I'm totally freaking out, I don't wish to be. I feel a bit uneasy but the kind lecturers have been telling me not to get all worked up. I'm still sprawled over my notes and books had somehow found their way onto my bed. Yes, there's a serious invasion of the private resting space. I've a long way to go!! -slowly sinking to the floor-

Okay, I promised to give my best shot, right? I'm sorry if I'm not doing such a great job at it, but I'll try not to panic to prevent blackouts. I'm not so much of a confident person as some people may think. At least, I'm not that cool all the time. There are times when I'm not at my best, but that part of me may come as a surprise to some people.

What other things happened today? (besides gobbling up 10 pieces of chicken Mcnugget, hm at least it's not Friday or day of obligation huehue...) Ah, nothing much I guess. I'm getting backache due to lying flat on my stomach for a long time. I have clinical tests tomorrow. 2 subjects are up in the afternoon. I wish there were no other tests before the big exams aarrghh.. preparing for that is hard enough, yet I still have to prepare for this?! *sigh* I guess it can't be helped.

-reluctantly looking back at her books-

I'll go to sleep now. It's late, I'm tired.

p/s 10 pieces?! Geez, I'm not eating any more chicken nuggets at least for several weeks to come -_-"

Auspicious day?

Happy Chinese New Year & Happy Valentine's Day! ^^

This year, both celebrations fall on the same date. Auspicious day? Of course, any day could be a day to celebrate (if we want to). Let's welcome the new lunar year with love ^^ kekeke.. (I know, sounds corny?).

Anyway, I decided to change my template today. I'm bored of the old one. I need a new look. Hm, I wonder if it's more refreshing this way? I didn't make a very big change because I don't have hours to spend on this. I haven't been really productive today. I barely read a chapter of pharmacology and I have yet to return to "kidney" in pathology. No good huh? Will continue to finish at least another chapter right after this *sigh*.

I felt a bit down yesterday. So I decided to leave the books halfway (sounds risky considering exam is a week away and I haven't finished revising -_-" huehue). It's just that nothing seems to be entering my head properly. I ended up spending more than an hour watching "We Got Married" in Youtube - pretty interesting. I like the Andy-Solbi couple. Andy makes a pretty good husband (my type of guy? LOL am i acting like a teenage schoolgirl? haha). I wasted precious time huh? hmm...(disappointed with herself)

I woke up determined to start afresh today. Still, I took some time out to check the Net (;p) and discovered I've a message in my inbox. Someone's trying to cheer me up...and succeeded ^^ Thank you. I know it seems I kind of lost the feeling and seem a bit cold hearted sometimes, but I'm thankful for the support and effort to make me feel better to continue to fight. I know, I shouldn't lose the battle before it even starts. I feel a bit disheartened but I haven't lost all faith. I'll do what I can to prepare and the rest, I guess, is up to Him. Amen.

Geez, I've been eating at odd hours and I know it's not good, but I keep on getting hungry! :? Comfort food - could I be a stress-eater? At this rate I may become fatter at the end of this course huhu ;p ooh, it's getting late..

(urgently) Signing off. Have a great weekend everyone!! ^^

Coffee break anyone?

I feel like I need one.

I think there is seldom a day that pass by without me having a dose of coffee lately. I don't know if it is bad or good but I love coffee although I didn't use to drink coffee so much in the past.

I just came home a few hours ago. Woke up early for postings, attended classes and had an early "dinner" at Pizza Hut. I was craving for pasta but too lazy to make my own at home ^^. Today I visited Samsonite. Hohoh, even that one statement itself is enough to give people a hint on what happened afterwards. Needless to say, I made a purchase. Was I being too careless in spending? I usually think I'm quite thrifty huehue. Anyway, it was something I need, and getting it for 40% discount with 10 years warranty at a well-reputed outlet like Samsonite is not a bad buy eh? What do you say?

I messaged Lou soon afterwards telling him of yet another adventure of mine down the shopping lane (it was just 1 purchase, hardly a shopping spree?). Just as I expected, he reflected my buying principles (even if it was just to make me feel good) - If it was something that I could use for a long time to come, then it should be a worthwhile buy ^^ and I should not run out of money for the basic essential things (like eating and surviving?) after making the purchase. I do not feel any regret or guilt after that so I guess there was nothing wrong to it? I do not wish to become a spendthrift but I do make impulse purchases once in a while (-_-)"

Anyway, it's back to business now. The books are calling me, arghh.. Coffee break's over (for now ^^).

Soy beans are good for you

What kind of a title is that? hahaha...

Anyway, I just got reacquainted with soy bean products yesterday ^^ I've bought a carton of soy milk (for a whooping price of Rs 200!!) and a packet of tofu from Gourmet, which I only cooked yesterday. Why is it so hard to find soy bean products here??

It's one of those days..

Let me first and foremost declare that I'm not in the right frame of mind at the moment. (note that i mentioned "frame" not "state" so I'm not that crazy)

I haven't been feeling so well the whole day, and I made a stupid mistake before coming home this evening that left me feeling down the rest of the day. It's the second time. Second time I've recharged quite an amount to the wrong number! Forgive me if I seem too furious over something that seem quite small, but I feel like kicking myself in the butt because I feel stupid for having done the same mistake twice! *sigh*

Anyway, what can I do? It would be naive of me to expect other people to be honest about it (although I know I would be honest xp), but I gave the number a miscall anyway (just to make myself feel better) and the person called me back. He seemed to have understood a bit but we had communication problem (he doesn't seem to speak english). He asked for my name in Hindi, but I don't think that was necessary so I left him a message explaining that it was a mistake, the shopkeeper recharged his number with a certain amount that should've been recharged to mine, and if he could be so kind as to replace that by recharging the same amount to my number I would be ever so thankful. The result? Nothing until now..

Oh well, at least I tried, but deep in my mind I really feel like shouting *%#$*! just when I needed money the most! (feeling down again) It's end of the month and I've bills to pay plus I have to save up if I were to go back during the holidays. Ah, I shouldn't have recharged my phone. I was contemplating against doing that earlier. I should've just let my credit go 0.00 before recharging it huhu. Still, I decided to invest some of my budget into my phone usage! I thought I'd save a bit by recharging a lesser amount than I usually do but I ended up paying the same amount for lesser recharge value..wuuaaahhhhh.. Hm, let's hope the money I wasted on other people is for a good cause. Who knows the person really needed it and he has a sick family member or something, whom he badly needs to call...huhuhu..i'll pretend it's that way then (cheating herself again, way to go!)

Anyway, that was a bit emotional huh. I'm a bit miserable today because I have sudden loss of appetite. I, a person whom likes to eat is now finding almost everything distasteful. What is wrong with me? I get this nauseating feeling even when I hear other people mention bread, noodles or anything huehue, and it gets worse after eating. I've been feeling somewhat nauseous for the past 2 days. I don't know why.

I think what I need is green mango ;p my friend mentioned that today and so far that's the only thing that doesn't make me think of throwing up (apart from sushi). Oh well, i think i'll be fine though because I haven't been vomiting, nor do I have loose motions, dizziness or abdominal pain. I just discovered one of my housemates feels the same way too today. I hope I become normal again soon. Maybe by tomorrow? As much as not eating may be good for my purse but I'd rather have my appetite back, thank you. Of course, it should be in moderation ^^ (i do not wish to be the person who gets hungry every 2 hours ;p).

signing off.

-she's getting back to the harsh realities of the world now-

A new beginning..

It's 2010! Although it might seem a little bit late, i still would like to wish Happy New Year! to everyone..

2 weeks had gone by since new year's day. This year i celebrated my new year's day in the airport just like how i spent my Christmas Day (huehue). Still, it was an experience and I am happy (^^). I was grateful i wasn't alone the entire day though. I'd like to thank those whom kept me company during some moments of the day.

Thinking back, I haven't taken time to reflect on the year that has passed and so this post is going to be one of those. To summarize, 2009 was a year that has offered me lots of experience and knowledge. I thoroughly enjoyed some parts of it and struggled a bit in others. Yet, they were all good experiences, from which i learnt a lot. I thank God immensely for all the blessings He has showered me with, for guiding and keeping me safe no matter where I am, and also for the bond and times I shared with my loved ones. I met a lot of people whom I learnt a lot from, and for that I'm also grateful.

One lesson that I'm often reminded of in 2009 is this:- No matter where I go, and in times when I feel down, I found that there are some kind people around whom offered me assistance, company or even just a smile; and I felt that things are going to be alright. They may be someone i know or they may even be a stranger but it gave me hope, even if just a little, that good people still exist, no matter how bad or how stressful and frustrating the world seemed to be. Most importantly, it gave me the strength and inspiration to continue to be kind to others and to be patient even when the world is not being kind to me. Isn't life more meaningful that way? Of course, being kind doesn't mean that you let the world trample over you but that's a different thing - there are times and places where we have to be cautious and alert.

Here comes 2010, marking a new beginning. Sure some challenges are heading my way, the final exam and postings at a new hospital to begin with, but with challenges come experiences, knowledge and the opportunity to become a better person, which i hope i will be. Hey, it looks like I just got myself a new year resolution :D What had I done so far? Yes, I didn't write down any new year resolution but I've had a haircut, cleaned and rearranged furnitures in my room, and organized my desk and wardrobe. I can't promise i'll be a wonderful person throughout the year, but i'll try my best ;p

So here's cheers to everyone, for a new beginning and the wonderful experiences to come. Cheers!