Work resumed this week with the usual, one whole day of meeting, 1 day of opening ceremony and the works and one more which is a welcome ceremony for incoming sec 1... and I am having very very bad, extreme work blues.
The night before, I had trouble sleeping, until 3am. Then the first day of meetings after meetings was mentally draining. Some 'new' and 'not-so-new' stuff are leaving me eye-rolling and having to work with extreme short deadlines... Luckily I had KM and went there and felt better somewhat. That was Monday.
Still had disturbed sleep and slept late 1.30-2am and I woke up extremely zombie that the cup of coffee couldn't wake me. I was going cold turkey for the Coke zero and all the caffeine, artificial sweetener. On top of that I was resuming my Chinese meds so that meant no tea. Urgh imagine being zombies and still had to sit through meetings and ceremony. And any spare time I could squeeze out, I was setting up the room. Bloody herculean task... I wondered as I was putting up the wall paper in setting up my classroom, if I would fall over anytime from the height I was in and whether there could be easier ways about it. Having the rock music playing from Spotify helped. I was spewing foul language as I stapled the backing paper up on the partition using just a regular stapler that had many mis-shots from the regular stapling. Bloody hell, can use stapler gun, wth didn't pass to me and I was using regular stapler. Spew more expletives when I was back in the privacy of my own room which I continued doing up. It was very painful cos there wasn't time allocated for us to do it. Had to find own free time after all the periods of staying in the class, with the class and ceremony and so on. Really painful.
Gratefully I went for KM and learnt a new technique. It was rather fun as a senior female student and me partnered up. We were wary of doing with noobs cos of the potential injury from their lack of control and coordination. Thankfully we were fine. I did accidentally punch once but still not at full force which I profusedly apologise. At least I am aware when I hit someone. But I don't see this apology with the noobs. At times they aren't even aware they actually hit someone. So it was good to learn a new technique and we could kinda do it cos we listened and watched and observed. Unlike many of the noobs who kinda rushed into and do their own pattern. Use bull strength cos they are guys. Kinda ironic, which I remarked to my senior partner, how they don't know but just want to rush to do. Cos there were big numbers so we had do in turns and wait our turn. Some just rush to do immediately after the demo by the main instructor and we the more senior students don't get to do first though that was what my batch did and let the seniors do and get more chance to observe. But no... they want to rush to do. So both of us observe and learn more about the common mistakes and when it was our turn. We could do the technique. Well more rest time cos have to wait our turn. Then after class, there's a 30min extra time where those keen, can do more practice. So after the grading in March, where some noobs and most seniors stay back. Now grading is over, once class is over, suddenly all clear out and wow, free space to practice. Generally I have been staying most days that I go. Especially got a higher grade or same grade female training partner. So we refined the technique further and could do it better. Just need to do more practice cos it's muscle memory and practice. It felt good to learn and try something new, keeps things fresh. So that was Tuesday.
I slept earlier about 12am and woke up for the work ceremony. More things piled on. Have to eat lunch in class for 3 consecutive days. Walao. Then got supervise cleaning to do set up for the ceremony. Then got practice. After the actual ceremony where my mind was a complete blank, I still struggled to 'wake up' cos feel my mind is fatigued. The packed hours ain't helping. Then after all these, still had small group meeting that was at least 1.5 hrs until I reminded them I needed to go buy a resource book from Kino. I went home and saw the sinseh, resuming my Chinese medication after a long break. My cough came back from too much iced drinks. So I stopped it. Got my med then I headed to Orchard. Bought the books, got it delivered. Need to claim back the money. I went home straight after despite being in Orchard. I was so sleepy on the journey there, though lesser by the time I went home cos I tried some resting. Went to bed before 11pm. That was Wed.
Today, I used my 'free' time to finished up that wall paper and borders. F&÷₩"ing pain in the ass. I just sucked it up and finished it off and swept the floor. Last bit which I couldn't do was to wipe the tables and chairs with detol water. Had to ride the bus and I took a bus back to thr mrt. Ate my early dinner then headed for training. That wiping will have to wait til tomorrow. Also bought new earphones so I can finally have music in my ears and drown out both language conversations. Sian, work has been sucking these few intensely busy and hectic days. I wondered if it was the lack of music to drown out the noise that was taxing me. Will find out when I use my new earphones at work.
I found KM to be my 'happy' time instead. Had an ok class and a good extra practice with my usual partner. We worked on the full range of the techniques, cos class could only cover the basic simpler technique. Since no time in the usual class to revise and practice the full range we being regulars and have learnt, so we stayed back. Just both of us only. Another did punching the punching bags. It was good cos for unsure parts, the main instructor pointed out and demo key aspects we had missed, forgotten. It's nice to have a dependable training partner. Motivate each other to train. Will miss her when she takes a long half year break from June. In the meantime, I guess I will keep looking forward to KM, especially when there is no serious injury and can train with good partner. I will still keep going cos I am clearing my package which has been renewed again for another 6 months. Wow I have another 104 lessons. Hope to keep this up. Helps keep me in shape and mentally sane.
"Food is the most abused anxiety drug. Exercise is the most underutilised anti-depressant." Very true.
I at least am looking very forward to after work. Managed to skip one very pricey $70/$90 work party. Already made a prior appt with my friends to meet up. No way I am cancelling on them like that. I had about enough of the 'socialising' in these types of work party. My wallet will thank me. My stomach too, from that previous hangover from trying to drink the value in beer and cheap wine. My cough would too, cos I am officially off any cold drinks until further further notice. Don't want to waste my money spent on Chinese medication which is not cheap. But health is definitely worth a lot. I appreciate that even more than before. I hope to sleep before 1am. Will finish up all the outstanding irritating and painful stuff tomorrow. Today is still mine. I will dictate what to do with it.
Friday, April 17, 2015
Sunday, April 12, 2015
Bangkok again, my 3rd trip after so many years
So the first week, I had the Penang trip and slowly my soul flew back. Then it was KM grading with LKY mourning in the second week. The third week was a trip to Bangkok with Quet and the final week was letting my soul fly back, going for more KM to condition, exercise and diet. WWork is starting next week *groans*
Bangkok 3rd trip, 1st - 4th April
Think the previous Bangkok trip was in 2008-2009, making 7-8 years ago. It's been a long while, it seemed kinda fresh yet somewhat stale. This trip was with Quet, Wed to Sat. I didn't have much in mind, save for Thai massage cos it was just 3 days after my KM grading. I wasn't that sore but felt like a long long time since my last massage. Just knead me like a dough for hours... Eat some nice food, especially the Thai food. Go Thailand, must eat Thai food, not like my previous 2 Chiang Mai which was Chinese food, duh...
Quet did ask me what I wanted to do, go, eat. For me, massage, buy mom's stuff - supermarket, eat at the Somboon suggested by my KM friend, After You honey Shibuya toast as per Muttons raving about it. Eat a good meal of Thai cuisine. Go Chaku chupt to look look see see cos I have never been there. The rest I am on with anything. Quet did quite a bit of food research buy we have limited stomach and meals too. So we just played it by ear.
So the flight was 10.45am so I had to be there 8.45am. I woke up at 6am to get ready. There wasn't much to do since I had packed the night before, so just bathed, changed and double checked all my passport and cash. Took the Mrt with my two backpacks. Loaned a transformable bag from Quet in view of my mom's shopping request. Quet was late due to her sister and while waiting, I had my sg egg kaya toast coffee breakfast. We went in and Quet had her breakfast eggs and coffee. We walked a bit but I decided against the alcohol, unsure if it would wake me in the middle of the night, despite Quet's snoring issue.
On the plane ride over, I was drawing on my own KM 武林秘籍 with stick figures and notes on new techniques. Quet was reading LKY's book on I-pad. We arrived without too much trouble. But the queue for the SIM card took a while. Some dunno why maybe cos is Xiaomi, held up the queue. Got the SIM and went to the taxi queue. Going by meter seemed ok until the cab driver sneakily after Quet dozed off, drove off the highway into the jam. It was hot and stuffy and the jam took extra time. He pretended to have heard the wrong road and feigned until Quet woke and clarified. So it ended up slightly less than the flat rate of 500 baht, 475 but took over an hour. I didn't know the streets enough though I kept awake during the journey. It seemed whether meter or flat, they want to make that 500 bht so the return journey, we went for flat rate and had a smooth journey. Guess, just pay that next time.
Really stoned after that and checked-in. Only have two single bed if on smoking floor. There was a noticeable cigarette smell that after a while went into the background. Got the front desk to bring a pair of scissors and some air freshener. Then we relaxed a bit but hunger drove us cos it was already 4pm plus then. We headed to find Somboon the original one to try their signature Curry Crab. We walked along the sky bridge link from Holiday Inn which I roughly remembered from one of the earlier Thai trips. We walked for 2 stops and reached Siam Square where it gets confusing. Had problem navigating and resorted to turning on Google Map (Thankful for Google Map anytime) and we got to Siam Square One. It's a smaller mall but new and youthful obvious from the many Japanese food and some Korean food, also the retail mix. We asked for directions and went up to the 6th floor. We walked about and found it at a corner.
We sat down gratefully and ordered the medium Curry Crab, fried rice, prawns vermicelli and braised pork knuckles. The fried rice was superb, best one I ever had. Plus eat with the curry crab is very shiok. The Curry crab is not spicy but has an initial mild taste compared to the Punggol seafood chilli crab but as you continue eating, there's a very tasty and flavorful fragrance. I was happily eating. The vermicelli was good but had a spice I kinda disliked, fresh peppercorns or basil? I ate it still and the braised pork knuckle was delicious. Not porky and very soft and tender. Lip-smacking. It wasn't a cheap meal. Almost S$100 cos the crab wasn't as cheap but it was definitely worth it. A full belly.
We walked around Siam Square One and tried to get a massage slot but it was full. Then another didn't allow reservation, just walk in but we had just eaten. Told us to come back Iin 2 hours. Which we did but it was full then. We walked about and headed into one cafe White flower? which had a nice display of cakes but we were too full. So we had a lassi each and shared a coconut ice cream. Very refreshing. We also walked to the beauty clinics as Quet helped checked out the prices for Botox and Ulterea? which I learned about these cosmetic enhancements and their price tags. Ouchy. After our failed attempt at massage, we looked for a pharmacy cos my face had been scratched during the previous KM session on Tuesday. I wanted to get a cream cos it felt itchy and a plaster to cover it so I won't scratch it at night. We headed into Watson which had a pharmacist who looked at my face and suggested an anti inflammation cream. I had an anti scar one. Bought my waterproof plaster too. Then we looked for a other massage place, Lek. It turned out that night we had a good 2 hours of Thai massage under two skilful ones. The subsequent visit wasn't as good. Not even standard. After the massage, my neck didn't creak at all. We walked about a bit along the night market. Stopped at the earrings stall. Then went back to the Watson, buywater and stuff. Walked back tto the hotel. I bathed first and laid in bed. I fell asleep after putting on the amulet.
Fell in a deep sleep but was woken by snores. Checked my watch, it was like 3am Bangkok time. So I was awake until the snoring abated around 4am and fell asleep again. But still woke about 6am. Couldn't sleep anymore so went to the bathroom, freshen up, take a dump, take a shower. Then hang around the room, quietly look at hp wifi and flick the tv channel. Waited for Quet whom woke and by 9am, we left to get a taxi to go to Thong Lor street 13, where Roast is at.
Roast is an all-day brunch place that serves good food. We reached there without the misadventures Quet and her brother had previously. It wasn't opened yet so we sat outside with other customers, at least 3 more tables, mostly in pairs, who were all waiting. Then it opened and we headed in. Famished cos we only ate breakfast in Changi and a later lunch/early dinner at Somboon the night before. I ordered the pan chorizo and a seafood soup. Both are in big portions. Quet ordered her grilled ham and cheese with egg and asked if we could share the french toast. I told her by all means. Super hungry, anything would do. Had their signature espresso cubes latte. It came with the espresso frozen as cubes with a bottle of milk and syrup so you can add to your preference. Food came, and it was the french toast with ice cream and maple syrup. We had our dessert first and just walked it down quickly after taking enough pics. Delicious, the vanilla ice cream had vanilla seeds. Then our mains arrived. Took pics and pics and I started eating. Working through a pan full of potatoes, chorizo, 2 eggs, cheese, bell pepper with crepes and the seafood soup full of 料 but there was a funky basil taste but I still finished it. Quet went to the toilet which was outside and remarked it was very hot outside so we slowly ate and stoned around. After eating all the food, we had their signature tea, a strawberry and a lychee one. Really taste refreshing, dunno how they roast their own tea to that standard. More pics and finally we left. Another S$100 meal but definitely enough to last hours. We walked around the area and there was an After You there and we went in but the thought of another bread was too much. I had hit my bread quota somewhat. Plus their drinks are the milky and heavy chocolate versions. We left without ordering.
Then caught a cab to Terminal 21. It was another mall which had an atas supermarket below. I wanted something light to drink like fruit juices but it was via card and there was a super long queue for the card. Forget it. Saw a bubble tea and had a nice light Osmanthus tea. Glad for the cold drink to cool down. We got a massage slot then walked around a bit. I bought 4 fruity soaps from a shop. Others didn't catch my attention. Just walked. We ended up at the basement and went to this small shop, Mama banana? Which sold fried banana fries and we bought a pandan lemongrass drink to share. It tasted different from the goring pisang expectation and was nice to chew on. The cheese was cold type not melt. Was a bit is good. The drink was refreshing. Then I went for a 30min back and shoulder one which was ok but not great. Mine ended earlier so I headed to the supermarket. Found most of my my mom's request except for dehydrated mangosteen. Looked and bought and later paid. Quet didn't turn up so I waited outside and saw her. I went in and couldn't find her. Then I went out again and saw her so I waved. She pointed me to another shop where I could buy the seaweed requested by a KM friend. Then put all in my bag pack and hold some in hand and we walked back to the hotel. Along the way, we went to the Embassy, a posh mall to go to the food court for dinner. Quet was saying it was pretty good. We headed into a bootes and I bought a facial wash. All the cream for my wound and the sun block on the face is kinda uncomfortable. We headed to the basement which had a cashless card system like Marchie. Walked one round and I got a tea and a Chiang Mai style curry noodle called Kao Soi. It tasted pretty good though it came with onion, pickled veg and a fried thing on the side with the noodles in a bowl. Not sure how to eat, I dumped everything in and ate it. No papaya salad surprisingly cos the food was predominantly northern thai. Quet had a pork knuckle with hard boiled egg. Still ended up in Central world though shops were closing but Quet managed to buy a pair of shoes. Then we walked back to our hotel.
I woke up even earlier than the first day... and lay awake until I really couldn't go back to sleep so I went to freshen up and shower. I decided to go eat breakfast and let Quet sleep more peacefully cos she's a light sleeper so I woke up, she also woke up. I bathed, she woke up. I got my stuff and headed over. The 24hour Macs was reminiscent cos we went there before years ago. It had customers sleeping inside. It was still early, 6-ish so I ordered a egg muffin meal with coffee. Tried to read one of the 3 books I brought along for this trip and the progress was slow. As slowly it reached 7.30am, they woke the sleeping customers up. Cos their biz is coming in, not proper to be sleeping. Interestingly those who were woken, soon bought a meal from Macs and ate it and left. That's why I don't want to do crazy flights timing. Anyway by 8.30am plus, I went back to the hotel. Quet slowly got ready and ate her meal at the Starbucks which wasn't open when I went to Macs. My turn to snooze in the hotel. On the way to taking the rail to Chakuchap, I was stoned and went to the fruut juice stall in the rail and bought one and chugged it down. The hit of vitamins and the cold woke me more. It was 9.30am but the sun was out in force. When we arrived, it seemed closed. Though it was meant as a weekend market but Quet mentioned she had gone with Aiwin at 10am on a Friday before. So we hid in the MRT station where they had some shops inside until it was after 10am. We walked back, under the umbrella and some shops had opened. With many parallel lanes that ran parallel, not much signs, just walked down and see what was interesting. I didn't have anything in mind to buy, just to look and see what it's about. Saw many things which even if I buy, won't know what to do with it. Saw a puppy stall when we walked and heard yelping. Puppies were in cages for sale. It was getting hot even in the shelter of the zinc roof stalls. A particular husky puppy looked at me with its blue eyes while the rest just laid down. I gave it a stroke Billy the stall holder reminded me no touching. A pity and pitiful cos as Quet mentioned, if nobody buys, after a certain age, killed. But how to bring a husky back to sg. My home also no air con and it's a bug dog. Later we stopped in a cups, plates shop and bought a Cat cup and a Cat plate for Tab. It's really cheap by sg standards some Korean tourists were buying entire sets of plates and bowls of a particular crab design. We walked on. Nothing much else caught the fancy and the heat made me just want to look for a cold drink which ironically the drinks stall inside weren't selling cos they haven't finished opening. We decided to leave and outside, along the roadside stall, bought a chilled Coca Cola and had another "就是为了这个而活" moment downing gulps of ice cold cola. We headed back to drop the things in the hotel, bought more fruit juices to put in the hotel fridge and came out looking for lunch.
Lunch was a Thai restaurant called Taling Piling inside Central World. We ordered 6 dishes; Tom Yam, Green Curry, Pad Thai, Pork belly slices, Pomelo salad and Pandan chicken and a plate of white rice and I ate them all up, to Quet's amazement. Had the Thai milk tea, super gao, too. After such a heavy lunch, went back to hotel to sleep. We rested and slept and came out about 6pm to look for food. Went to After You in Central World and got a seat quickly. With no qualms about bread, I ordered the Shibuya honey toast with added banana, their most delicious chocolate drink and Earl Grey squash with jelly for Quet. The chocolate drink was delicious. I agree with it being the best. Thick, tasty n not overtly sweet. Then the toast came and we demolished it. The toast was really fluffy and light and crispy and goes wonderfully with the honey and ice cream and bananas. It's like eating a waffle with ice cream and a banana sundae. Excellent. With that we went to look for Quet's Undress shoe shop near Siam Square One area. Using the Goggle Map, we got near there. Saw a Hello Kitty cafe prominently there. We found it without much difficulty and Quet bought 5 pairs ofshoes Iin half an hour. We went to look for another outlet inside Siam Square One too. Then we headed for a massage at Lek, which wasn't as good as the first one. After our 2hrs, we went back to the hotel. Along the way we went into Big C, where I bought some more pork floss love letters cos these were the cheaper brand. The ones I had bought were a pricier brand and I wasn't sure which ones my mom wanted so I bought extra from both. Also found the dehydrated mangosteen. Bought more water and we went back to the hotel.
I still woke up early but since Quet wanted to go pray at the 4faced Buddha, so after some delays where I fell asleep here and there. We headed for breakfast in Macs. Then Quet went to pray and I headed back to dabao more fruit juices and go back to the hotel but the lady was away. I waited almost 10mins but no one came so i went back to the hotel in case Quet came back. Messaged her and on her way back she bought the juices. Then the plan was to stone at the hotel and come out for lunch at the food court in Central World. We rested until noon then walked over. Had the pad thai, a different version from what I had the day before. Finished that and had a papaya salad. And also mango with glutinous rice with coconut milk drizzled. I had hit all the Thai food I wanted to eat. We were too full for dessert so head back to hotel and bathed then check out late at 2pm.
Then walked back to Central World where I suggest going to the Mr Jones Orphanage which Quet mentioned she had seen but never gone in cos always end up too full. It was a teddy bear nautical theme cafe. I had a strawberry waffle with ice cream, syrup and lots of whipped cream inside. And a pink bubblegum flavored milk. Quet had a blue berry cheese cake and a tea. Had pics with the teddy bears and just whiled away the time.
Then it was time to go to the airport. Reached there without much hassle and checked in the luggage, 11th. I checked in both bags and hand carried a small bag of the pork floss and my bag pack. We ate at a restaurant which was pricier but better than the rest according to Quet. My special noodles reminded me of BaCuoMee, only it's a bit spicy and had luxurious 料 and with a drink, costing like S$15+. That was dinner and we boarded without any problems. Once the plane took off, I fell asleep and woke and we were almost there. Another 45mins more thing.
Arrived in Sg but getting the luggage took quite a while before they appeared. Bought a Lemon cello and a beer. Since it was 10.30pm, took the train back and then at 12am I took a cab from the mrt station. Just to help save a bit overall from buying the alcohol. Bathed and slept.
This Bangkok trip, I revisited some parts that we went to in the first trip. Things have changed a lot since then especially the retail mix, the malls and the cafes. Definitely ate a lot until it's like 3 pax. Did have a small few items for myself. Mainly the Herm soap and my few box of food. The rest are the photos and experiences.
Bangkok 3rd trip, 1st - 4th April
Think the previous Bangkok trip was in 2008-2009, making 7-8 years ago. It's been a long while, it seemed kinda fresh yet somewhat stale. This trip was with Quet, Wed to Sat. I didn't have much in mind, save for Thai massage cos it was just 3 days after my KM grading. I wasn't that sore but felt like a long long time since my last massage. Just knead me like a dough for hours... Eat some nice food, especially the Thai food. Go Thailand, must eat Thai food, not like my previous 2 Chiang Mai which was Chinese food, duh...
Quet did ask me what I wanted to do, go, eat. For me, massage, buy mom's stuff - supermarket, eat at the Somboon suggested by my KM friend, After You honey Shibuya toast as per Muttons raving about it. Eat a good meal of Thai cuisine. Go Chaku chupt to look look see see cos I have never been there. The rest I am on with anything. Quet did quite a bit of food research buy we have limited stomach and meals too. So we just played it by ear.
So the flight was 10.45am so I had to be there 8.45am. I woke up at 6am to get ready. There wasn't much to do since I had packed the night before, so just bathed, changed and double checked all my passport and cash. Took the Mrt with my two backpacks. Loaned a transformable bag from Quet in view of my mom's shopping request. Quet was late due to her sister and while waiting, I had my sg egg kaya toast coffee breakfast. We went in and Quet had her breakfast eggs and coffee. We walked a bit but I decided against the alcohol, unsure if it would wake me in the middle of the night, despite Quet's snoring issue.
On the plane ride over, I was drawing on my own KM 武林秘籍 with stick figures and notes on new techniques. Quet was reading LKY's book on I-pad. We arrived without too much trouble. But the queue for the SIM card took a while. Some dunno why maybe cos is Xiaomi, held up the queue. Got the SIM and went to the taxi queue. Going by meter seemed ok until the cab driver sneakily after Quet dozed off, drove off the highway into the jam. It was hot and stuffy and the jam took extra time. He pretended to have heard the wrong road and feigned until Quet woke and clarified. So it ended up slightly less than the flat rate of 500 baht, 475 but took over an hour. I didn't know the streets enough though I kept awake during the journey. It seemed whether meter or flat, they want to make that 500 bht so the return journey, we went for flat rate and had a smooth journey. Guess, just pay that next time.
Really stoned after that and checked-in. Only have two single bed if on smoking floor. There was a noticeable cigarette smell that after a while went into the background. Got the front desk to bring a pair of scissors and some air freshener. Then we relaxed a bit but hunger drove us cos it was already 4pm plus then. We headed to find Somboon the original one to try their signature Curry Crab. We walked along the sky bridge link from Holiday Inn which I roughly remembered from one of the earlier Thai trips. We walked for 2 stops and reached Siam Square where it gets confusing. Had problem navigating and resorted to turning on Google Map (Thankful for Google Map anytime) and we got to Siam Square One. It's a smaller mall but new and youthful obvious from the many Japanese food and some Korean food, also the retail mix. We asked for directions and went up to the 6th floor. We walked about and found it at a corner.
We sat down gratefully and ordered the medium Curry Crab, fried rice, prawns vermicelli and braised pork knuckles. The fried rice was superb, best one I ever had. Plus eat with the curry crab is very shiok. The Curry crab is not spicy but has an initial mild taste compared to the Punggol seafood chilli crab but as you continue eating, there's a very tasty and flavorful fragrance. I was happily eating. The vermicelli was good but had a spice I kinda disliked, fresh peppercorns or basil? I ate it still and the braised pork knuckle was delicious. Not porky and very soft and tender. Lip-smacking. It wasn't a cheap meal. Almost S$100 cos the crab wasn't as cheap but it was definitely worth it. A full belly.
We walked around Siam Square One and tried to get a massage slot but it was full. Then another didn't allow reservation, just walk in but we had just eaten. Told us to come back Iin 2 hours. Which we did but it was full then. We walked about and headed into one cafe White flower? which had a nice display of cakes but we were too full. So we had a lassi each and shared a coconut ice cream. Very refreshing. We also walked to the beauty clinics as Quet helped checked out the prices for Botox and Ulterea? which I learned about these cosmetic enhancements and their price tags. Ouchy. After our failed attempt at massage, we looked for a pharmacy cos my face had been scratched during the previous KM session on Tuesday. I wanted to get a cream cos it felt itchy and a plaster to cover it so I won't scratch it at night. We headed into Watson which had a pharmacist who looked at my face and suggested an anti inflammation cream. I had an anti scar one. Bought my waterproof plaster too. Then we looked for a other massage place, Lek. It turned out that night we had a good 2 hours of Thai massage under two skilful ones. The subsequent visit wasn't as good. Not even standard. After the massage, my neck didn't creak at all. We walked about a bit along the night market. Stopped at the earrings stall. Then went back to the Watson, buywater and stuff. Walked back tto the hotel. I bathed first and laid in bed. I fell asleep after putting on the amulet.
Fell in a deep sleep but was woken by snores. Checked my watch, it was like 3am Bangkok time. So I was awake until the snoring abated around 4am and fell asleep again. But still woke about 6am. Couldn't sleep anymore so went to the bathroom, freshen up, take a dump, take a shower. Then hang around the room, quietly look at hp wifi and flick the tv channel. Waited for Quet whom woke and by 9am, we left to get a taxi to go to Thong Lor street 13, where Roast is at.
Roast is an all-day brunch place that serves good food. We reached there without the misadventures Quet and her brother had previously. It wasn't opened yet so we sat outside with other customers, at least 3 more tables, mostly in pairs, who were all waiting. Then it opened and we headed in. Famished cos we only ate breakfast in Changi and a later lunch/early dinner at Somboon the night before. I ordered the pan chorizo and a seafood soup. Both are in big portions. Quet ordered her grilled ham and cheese with egg and asked if we could share the french toast. I told her by all means. Super hungry, anything would do. Had their signature espresso cubes latte. It came with the espresso frozen as cubes with a bottle of milk and syrup so you can add to your preference. Food came, and it was the french toast with ice cream and maple syrup. We had our dessert first and just walked it down quickly after taking enough pics. Delicious, the vanilla ice cream had vanilla seeds. Then our mains arrived. Took pics and pics and I started eating. Working through a pan full of potatoes, chorizo, 2 eggs, cheese, bell pepper with crepes and the seafood soup full of 料 but there was a funky basil taste but I still finished it. Quet went to the toilet which was outside and remarked it was very hot outside so we slowly ate and stoned around. After eating all the food, we had their signature tea, a strawberry and a lychee one. Really taste refreshing, dunno how they roast their own tea to that standard. More pics and finally we left. Another S$100 meal but definitely enough to last hours. We walked around the area and there was an After You there and we went in but the thought of another bread was too much. I had hit my bread quota somewhat. Plus their drinks are the milky and heavy chocolate versions. We left without ordering.
Then caught a cab to Terminal 21. It was another mall which had an atas supermarket below. I wanted something light to drink like fruit juices but it was via card and there was a super long queue for the card. Forget it. Saw a bubble tea and had a nice light Osmanthus tea. Glad for the cold drink to cool down. We got a massage slot then walked around a bit. I bought 4 fruity soaps from a shop. Others didn't catch my attention. Just walked. We ended up at the basement and went to this small shop, Mama banana? Which sold fried banana fries and we bought a pandan lemongrass drink to share. It tasted different from the goring pisang expectation and was nice to chew on. The cheese was cold type not melt. Was a bit is good. The drink was refreshing. Then I went for a 30min back and shoulder one which was ok but not great. Mine ended earlier so I headed to the supermarket. Found most of my my mom's request except for dehydrated mangosteen. Looked and bought and later paid. Quet didn't turn up so I waited outside and saw her. I went in and couldn't find her. Then I went out again and saw her so I waved. She pointed me to another shop where I could buy the seaweed requested by a KM friend. Then put all in my bag pack and hold some in hand and we walked back to the hotel. Along the way, we went to the Embassy, a posh mall to go to the food court for dinner. Quet was saying it was pretty good. We headed into a bootes and I bought a facial wash. All the cream for my wound and the sun block on the face is kinda uncomfortable. We headed to the basement which had a cashless card system like Marchie. Walked one round and I got a tea and a Chiang Mai style curry noodle called Kao Soi. It tasted pretty good though it came with onion, pickled veg and a fried thing on the side with the noodles in a bowl. Not sure how to eat, I dumped everything in and ate it. No papaya salad surprisingly cos the food was predominantly northern thai. Quet had a pork knuckle with hard boiled egg. Still ended up in Central world though shops were closing but Quet managed to buy a pair of shoes. Then we walked back to our hotel.
I woke up even earlier than the first day... and lay awake until I really couldn't go back to sleep so I went to freshen up and shower. I decided to go eat breakfast and let Quet sleep more peacefully cos she's a light sleeper so I woke up, she also woke up. I bathed, she woke up. I got my stuff and headed over. The 24hour Macs was reminiscent cos we went there before years ago. It had customers sleeping inside. It was still early, 6-ish so I ordered a egg muffin meal with coffee. Tried to read one of the 3 books I brought along for this trip and the progress was slow. As slowly it reached 7.30am, they woke the sleeping customers up. Cos their biz is coming in, not proper to be sleeping. Interestingly those who were woken, soon bought a meal from Macs and ate it and left. That's why I don't want to do crazy flights timing. Anyway by 8.30am plus, I went back to the hotel. Quet slowly got ready and ate her meal at the Starbucks which wasn't open when I went to Macs. My turn to snooze in the hotel. On the way to taking the rail to Chakuchap, I was stoned and went to the fruut juice stall in the rail and bought one and chugged it down. The hit of vitamins and the cold woke me more. It was 9.30am but the sun was out in force. When we arrived, it seemed closed. Though it was meant as a weekend market but Quet mentioned she had gone with Aiwin at 10am on a Friday before. So we hid in the MRT station where they had some shops inside until it was after 10am. We walked back, under the umbrella and some shops had opened. With many parallel lanes that ran parallel, not much signs, just walked down and see what was interesting. I didn't have anything in mind to buy, just to look and see what it's about. Saw many things which even if I buy, won't know what to do with it. Saw a puppy stall when we walked and heard yelping. Puppies were in cages for sale. It was getting hot even in the shelter of the zinc roof stalls. A particular husky puppy looked at me with its blue eyes while the rest just laid down. I gave it a stroke Billy the stall holder reminded me no touching. A pity and pitiful cos as Quet mentioned, if nobody buys, after a certain age, killed. But how to bring a husky back to sg. My home also no air con and it's a bug dog. Later we stopped in a cups, plates shop and bought a Cat cup and a Cat plate for Tab. It's really cheap by sg standards some Korean tourists were buying entire sets of plates and bowls of a particular crab design. We walked on. Nothing much else caught the fancy and the heat made me just want to look for a cold drink which ironically the drinks stall inside weren't selling cos they haven't finished opening. We decided to leave and outside, along the roadside stall, bought a chilled Coca Cola and had another "就是为了这个而活" moment downing gulps of ice cold cola. We headed back to drop the things in the hotel, bought more fruit juices to put in the hotel fridge and came out looking for lunch.
Lunch was a Thai restaurant called Taling Piling inside Central World. We ordered 6 dishes; Tom Yam, Green Curry, Pad Thai, Pork belly slices, Pomelo salad and Pandan chicken and a plate of white rice and I ate them all up, to Quet's amazement. Had the Thai milk tea, super gao, too. After such a heavy lunch, went back to hotel to sleep. We rested and slept and came out about 6pm to look for food. Went to After You in Central World and got a seat quickly. With no qualms about bread, I ordered the Shibuya honey toast with added banana, their most delicious chocolate drink and Earl Grey squash with jelly for Quet. The chocolate drink was delicious. I agree with it being the best. Thick, tasty n not overtly sweet. Then the toast came and we demolished it. The toast was really fluffy and light and crispy and goes wonderfully with the honey and ice cream and bananas. It's like eating a waffle with ice cream and a banana sundae. Excellent. With that we went to look for Quet's Undress shoe shop near Siam Square One area. Using the Goggle Map, we got near there. Saw a Hello Kitty cafe prominently there. We found it without much difficulty and Quet bought 5 pairs ofshoes Iin half an hour. We went to look for another outlet inside Siam Square One too. Then we headed for a massage at Lek, which wasn't as good as the first one. After our 2hrs, we went back to the hotel. Along the way we went into Big C, where I bought some more pork floss love letters cos these were the cheaper brand. The ones I had bought were a pricier brand and I wasn't sure which ones my mom wanted so I bought extra from both. Also found the dehydrated mangosteen. Bought more water and we went back to the hotel.
I still woke up early but since Quet wanted to go pray at the 4faced Buddha, so after some delays where I fell asleep here and there. We headed for breakfast in Macs. Then Quet went to pray and I headed back to dabao more fruit juices and go back to the hotel but the lady was away. I waited almost 10mins but no one came so i went back to the hotel in case Quet came back. Messaged her and on her way back she bought the juices. Then the plan was to stone at the hotel and come out for lunch at the food court in Central World. We rested until noon then walked over. Had the pad thai, a different version from what I had the day before. Finished that and had a papaya salad. And also mango with glutinous rice with coconut milk drizzled. I had hit all the Thai food I wanted to eat. We were too full for dessert so head back to hotel and bathed then check out late at 2pm.
Then walked back to Central World where I suggest going to the Mr Jones Orphanage which Quet mentioned she had seen but never gone in cos always end up too full. It was a teddy bear nautical theme cafe. I had a strawberry waffle with ice cream, syrup and lots of whipped cream inside. And a pink bubblegum flavored milk. Quet had a blue berry cheese cake and a tea. Had pics with the teddy bears and just whiled away the time.
Then it was time to go to the airport. Reached there without much hassle and checked in the luggage, 11th. I checked in both bags and hand carried a small bag of the pork floss and my bag pack. We ate at a restaurant which was pricier but better than the rest according to Quet. My special noodles reminded me of BaCuoMee, only it's a bit spicy and had luxurious 料 and with a drink, costing like S$15+. That was dinner and we boarded without any problems. Once the plane took off, I fell asleep and woke and we were almost there. Another 45mins more thing.
Arrived in Sg but getting the luggage took quite a while before they appeared. Bought a Lemon cello and a beer. Since it was 10.30pm, took the train back and then at 12am I took a cab from the mrt station. Just to help save a bit overall from buying the alcohol. Bathed and slept.
This Bangkok trip, I revisited some parts that we went to in the first trip. Things have changed a lot since then especially the retail mix, the malls and the cafes. Definitely ate a lot until it's like 3 pax. Did have a small few items for myself. Mainly the Herm soap and my few box of food. The rest are the photos and experiences.
Saturday, April 11, 2015
Krav Maga P3 Grading
I didn't have any intention to go for grading when it was first announced that one would be coming. Then I was glad to have restarted KM after the whole migraine incident and sickly period of time. I had just gotten my P2 just about six months. Including that 5-6 weeks absence, technically less than 6 months. Had no intention to go for any.
Then the main instructor asked me if I would be going for it. Huh? You mean I can go for it? I just got my P2. He said can try to train for it. Just before it, he'll tell if can or cannot. Hence began my more intensive KM sessions. The more senior students also wanted to try for the next level, P4 n P5. So we trained harder than before. Going for 4-5 sessions per week. Staying on an extra half hour after class to practice our level's requirement.
It was good for me that I had learned most of the syllabus with exception of 2 moves. First was high forward roll and second was side headlock on the ground with hands trapped. Those I learned and practiced and fumbled. Then for the high forward roll, I started jumping over and landing in a roll one pad at a time. The senior students gave advice and pointers. Gradually over time with many "aiyos" and backaches, I could jump and roll cleanly over 4 stacked pads. Finally on the Thursday before grading, I tried to do with one small pad extra and could clear it.
Grading coincidentally was on the same day as LKY's state funeral. But mere coincidence cos it was decided 2 plus months ago. I had to buy the gee pants and a black KM shirt as they are grading uniform. I had gotten the side KM legging to sew onto the sides of your own long exercise pants but I don't have one. It was too hot and i bought 3 quarters all these while. So for me, just pay and settle once and for all. So $140 grading fees, $20 t-shirt, $60 for gee pants. $220, a commitment to see it through. I had to buy new contacts, finished my supply, another $172. Pricey. Next time I want the normal ones. Bought 2 bottles of 3litres isotonic drink. Packed my gear and I was about done. Prepared.
I woke up before 6am. Close to 5.45am. Cooked a pack of my chicken breast meat with some cherry tomatoes, butterhead lettuce. Ate that and got ready. I reached the grading venue before 9.30am. There were a few who were earlier. I got ready and went in. In terms of the duration and pace, it was easier than before, except I felt uncomfortable and taxed due to the humidity. It started to rain. And my legs were still a bit sore from the day before and the 4hours sleep left me a bit zombie like as the time wore on. Made it through the rounds of Pl, with 4 stations. Then continue on with the P2 rounds, not 4 stations but still running through. Then into the P3 rounds. I was feeling the effects and at every break, luckily more breaks than earlier gradings, so I guzzled the isotonic and went to the toilet. Especially once P3 was over except for the pressure drill. Then have to do the pressure drills and multiple assailant drills. Felt tired and lost track of time cos no watch nor clocks. Then it was over.
Or was it? We had to gather around and interlock our arms and we did 50 sit-ups, 50 squats and 20 dive bombers. New fitness requirements in the test. Then took a group photo beforetthe results were announced. Before that, there was a long talk about how if ya fail, have to try, didnt meet the requirements of the level. From P3 onwards it isnt an assured thing to pass. There had been cases of failure. But they only charge one grading fee. So the regrading is free. As the results were announced and it progressed from P1 to P2. The upper Ps were anxious. What if I fail? My light sparring wasn't there. Kinda screw up there. Our self confidence of passing was wavering. Then my name was called for P3. So happy, I lifted both my hands in a cheer. Went forward to get my certificate and a photo with the main instructor. My hands had the familiar trembling but no stitches this time.
Then it went on and in the end one didn't make it. He was my partner just for the P3 part. I had a different partner until P2. Both of us passed P2 and were partners. This time I was surprised he signed up for P3, cos didn't see him much. Even for the intensive revision and training period, he wasn't present as frequent. The other guy down for P3 passed. I had thought only 2 people were down for P3. But he wasn't happy with the result later on. The main instructor called him aside and spoke to him. It was the decisions of the 4 sub-insructors who graded us. Hence we didn't take any high P, group photo, kinda like rubbing in his face.
So we kept our stuff and headed back. Got a ride to the nearest MRT and I made my way to Tab's place. Planned to eat my foot long subway and bathed and watch the remaining part of the state funeral. Can't help tearing up at some parts, when the people cheered as the gun carriage drove past. Later the aches started. As I groaned and moaned as I got up the couch, Tab pitied my state and offered to order in pizza. But I rather go out. So with the idea of eating Chinese style zhi char, we settled on Punggol seafood. Quet drove over and got valet parking, luckily cos the traffic police were up in pairs and all those tio. Her pi-xiu worked again, make her get valet and so avoided the parking tickets.
We weren't intending to eat crab until we saw the picture on the menu. Then all three of us agreed on the crab. But we over ordered. The chilli crab was delicious, with all the roe, eggs, sauce and eating them with the fried man tous and plain rice. I was mopping up the crab and really enjoying the rice. Mmmm... A kick as version of chilli crab, I wouldn't mind eating again. Then we walked around the pungent settlement area that was more developed with more dining options. Enjoyed the breeze and walked to the small pier. But as it was nearing 10.30pm and my aches had intensified even more, I asked Tab if I could spend the night over? I dread taking public transport home in my current state then. She kindly agreed after informing DF and I borrowed a tshirt for the night. Luckily she had the Counter pain muscle cream and loaned to me. I applied on every part that was hurting and fell asleep almost immediately after Tab retired for the night.
It was very peaceful and dark and I fell into a deep slumber. Woke up around 7 but turned and slept more. By the time I woke and got out, it was 10am plus. Magically my body didn't hurt so much, dull slight aches. Don't underestimate the power of analgesic cream. There was a set of spare keys which I could use to get out of the then empty house. I slowly got ready. Took down my gear which were hanging to dry and packed. I was getting hungry but it wasn't nice to impose too long especially raiding the kitchen etc. So I locked up and threw the keys in, then realised I had forgotten to change out of Tab's tshirt. I had left my own tshirt and bra behind. Quickly msg her. So I went home braless... luckily the third is large and dark colored, very comfy too. I reached the Kent Ridge link and bought 7 triangle onigiriwhich I munched 4 on my way home. Fell in a deep sleep and woke up that nobody ate the 3 remaining onigiri so I ate them as dinner. Think I would stave off that onigiri for a while. Delicious as they were.
Then the main instructor asked me if I would be going for it. Huh? You mean I can go for it? I just got my P2. He said can try to train for it. Just before it, he'll tell if can or cannot. Hence began my more intensive KM sessions. The more senior students also wanted to try for the next level, P4 n P5. So we trained harder than before. Going for 4-5 sessions per week. Staying on an extra half hour after class to practice our level's requirement.
It was good for me that I had learned most of the syllabus with exception of 2 moves. First was high forward roll and second was side headlock on the ground with hands trapped. Those I learned and practiced and fumbled. Then for the high forward roll, I started jumping over and landing in a roll one pad at a time. The senior students gave advice and pointers. Gradually over time with many "aiyos" and backaches, I could jump and roll cleanly over 4 stacked pads. Finally on the Thursday before grading, I tried to do with one small pad extra and could clear it.
Grading coincidentally was on the same day as LKY's state funeral. But mere coincidence cos it was decided 2 plus months ago. I had to buy the gee pants and a black KM shirt as they are grading uniform. I had gotten the side KM legging to sew onto the sides of your own long exercise pants but I don't have one. It was too hot and i bought 3 quarters all these while. So for me, just pay and settle once and for all. So $140 grading fees, $20 t-shirt, $60 for gee pants. $220, a commitment to see it through. I had to buy new contacts, finished my supply, another $172. Pricey. Next time I want the normal ones. Bought 2 bottles of 3litres isotonic drink. Packed my gear and I was about done. Prepared.
I woke up before 6am. Close to 5.45am. Cooked a pack of my chicken breast meat with some cherry tomatoes, butterhead lettuce. Ate that and got ready. I reached the grading venue before 9.30am. There were a few who were earlier. I got ready and went in. In terms of the duration and pace, it was easier than before, except I felt uncomfortable and taxed due to the humidity. It started to rain. And my legs were still a bit sore from the day before and the 4hours sleep left me a bit zombie like as the time wore on. Made it through the rounds of Pl, with 4 stations. Then continue on with the P2 rounds, not 4 stations but still running through. Then into the P3 rounds. I was feeling the effects and at every break, luckily more breaks than earlier gradings, so I guzzled the isotonic and went to the toilet. Especially once P3 was over except for the pressure drill. Then have to do the pressure drills and multiple assailant drills. Felt tired and lost track of time cos no watch nor clocks. Then it was over.
Or was it? We had to gather around and interlock our arms and we did 50 sit-ups, 50 squats and 20 dive bombers. New fitness requirements in the test. Then took a group photo beforetthe results were announced. Before that, there was a long talk about how if ya fail, have to try, didnt meet the requirements of the level. From P3 onwards it isnt an assured thing to pass. There had been cases of failure. But they only charge one grading fee. So the regrading is free. As the results were announced and it progressed from P1 to P2. The upper Ps were anxious. What if I fail? My light sparring wasn't there. Kinda screw up there. Our self confidence of passing was wavering. Then my name was called for P3. So happy, I lifted both my hands in a cheer. Went forward to get my certificate and a photo with the main instructor. My hands had the familiar trembling but no stitches this time.
Then it went on and in the end one didn't make it. He was my partner just for the P3 part. I had a different partner until P2. Both of us passed P2 and were partners. This time I was surprised he signed up for P3, cos didn't see him much. Even for the intensive revision and training period, he wasn't present as frequent. The other guy down for P3 passed. I had thought only 2 people were down for P3. But he wasn't happy with the result later on. The main instructor called him aside and spoke to him. It was the decisions of the 4 sub-insructors who graded us. Hence we didn't take any high P, group photo, kinda like rubbing in his face.
So we kept our stuff and headed back. Got a ride to the nearest MRT and I made my way to Tab's place. Planned to eat my foot long subway and bathed and watch the remaining part of the state funeral. Can't help tearing up at some parts, when the people cheered as the gun carriage drove past. Later the aches started. As I groaned and moaned as I got up the couch, Tab pitied my state and offered to order in pizza. But I rather go out. So with the idea of eating Chinese style zhi char, we settled on Punggol seafood. Quet drove over and got valet parking, luckily cos the traffic police were up in pairs and all those tio. Her pi-xiu worked again, make her get valet and so avoided the parking tickets.
We weren't intending to eat crab until we saw the picture on the menu. Then all three of us agreed on the crab. But we over ordered. The chilli crab was delicious, with all the roe, eggs, sauce and eating them with the fried man tous and plain rice. I was mopping up the crab and really enjoying the rice. Mmmm... A kick as version of chilli crab, I wouldn't mind eating again. Then we walked around the pungent settlement area that was more developed with more dining options. Enjoyed the breeze and walked to the small pier. But as it was nearing 10.30pm and my aches had intensified even more, I asked Tab if I could spend the night over? I dread taking public transport home in my current state then. She kindly agreed after informing DF and I borrowed a tshirt for the night. Luckily she had the Counter pain muscle cream and loaned to me. I applied on every part that was hurting and fell asleep almost immediately after Tab retired for the night.
It was very peaceful and dark and I fell into a deep slumber. Woke up around 7 but turned and slept more. By the time I woke and got out, it was 10am plus. Magically my body didn't hurt so much, dull slight aches. Don't underestimate the power of analgesic cream. There was a set of spare keys which I could use to get out of the then empty house. I slowly got ready. Took down my gear which were hanging to dry and packed. I was getting hungry but it wasn't nice to impose too long especially raiding the kitchen etc. So I locked up and threw the keys in, then realised I had forgotten to change out of Tab's tshirt. I had left my own tshirt and bra behind. Quickly msg her. So I went home braless... luckily the third is large and dark colored, very comfy too. I reached the Kent Ridge link and bought 7 triangle onigiriwhich I munched 4 on my way home. Fell in a deep sleep and woke up that nobody ate the 3 remaining onigiri so I ate them as dinner. Think I would stave off that onigiri for a while. Delicious as they were.
Friday, April 10, 2015
Attending LKY's wake on the Sat
It was a somber week for the entire Singapore. As the news of LKY's death spreader on Monday morning. Just into the second week of the holidays, I was up until 3.40am on Sunday morning. When I opened FB on Monday just to see any updates, saw the news. I told my Mom and later my Dad about it. As we watched, Singapore went into national mourning.
I was still focusing and busy with getting ready for grading. Going for extra classes more intensively before my break began, and after the Penang trip, I resumed KM intensively. Later as LKY's wake became a public one, the question was whether I should go? As I am not a Singaporean. But as a PR, having studied and working here, it is undeniable that I had benefitted from the education here. So as I would continued to wonder, I checked with friends as the queues swelled and appeared on the news. My friends hadn't gone yet and were hesitating from the news of 8hours queue. My friends at KM, we also talked and asked each other if anyone had gone. Some went after training ended. But later on, found that they gave up due to the long queue hours and work commitments. I pondered if I could go down by myself but wondered if I would be intruding on Singaporeans.
My friends replied and wanted to brave the Friday queue but were deterred by the news of 8hours queue time. So the plan was to go down to Tanjong Pagar CC, to write and pay respects at the memorial set-up there. I didnt go for the usual KM training on Sat because the next day, Sunday was grading day. A mere coincidence that it was the same day as LKY state funeral. I had gotten my stuff ready and was resting up at home. Then I headed out to go to Tanjong Pagar. Before that my Mom heard the news that the queue was 4hours over the radio. I was early and the first one there. Friends were still at home when I messaged them I had reached. Over WhatsApp chat, they were contemplating going for the wake instead cos the queue time was manageable, 4hours over the news.
I went to City Hall first and waited for them. I wasn't sure if I was joining. Now I was reluctant cos I had mentally prepared for just going to Tanjong Pagar and not for a 4-5h hours queue. Obviously I didn't prepare drinks etc except what I had in my new Shark bag. While waiting for both to come from their homes, I went to check out the llao llao queue, too long and settled for the very short Koi queue. Bought myself a small sized drink and finished it, then go to the toilet. In my mind, I was still thinking I won't join. Perhaps just meet up then I see them off as they proceed to the queue.
Things changed when they arrived. Kena psycho-ed to going with them. I walked and was still thinking, I'll see them off bit later realised in the Padang holding area, there wasn't anyway out. So liddat, I was in the queue. Huh? The queue started with a walk to the underpass, up the road and winded until the Padang. We were put into sectors and bottled water was provided. With the tented shelter and the fact that it was 5pm plus then and it had drizzled earlier. It felt cooler than what the previous few days had been. So we sat there, like a picnic of sort for an hour? Then we started moving. It went from the Padang, winded and before we know, we were heading along Merlion park, towards the Esplanade and did a big U-turn just before the floating platform and reminded back along the Merlion park, along Fullerton, the Asian Civilisation museum and the final stretch to the security checks and tents. And into the queue that moved into the Parliament House.
Along the way, we talked about many many things including his role in Singapore. To me, it's simple. Look at Singapore and my country Malaysia 50 years later. What had progressed, improved and continued? It was that clear and obvious. While I don't entirely like the way that Sg is becoming such an expensive place in terms of housing, costs, immigration policies etc, we cannot take away the pivotal roles he and his team had played. So whatever the shortcomings, they did it in that uncertain era. Look at where Malaysia is after all these years. It's an undeniable fact of the matter.
So the mood saddened as the queue moved to the Parliament house. I chose not to take any pics or selfies either for remembrance or posting on Fb. It's supposed to be sad, pictures are not proper in my books, in a more traditional Chinese sense of mourning and attending a funeral wake. I was appalled when my KM friend showed me how some were posing in pics at the queue just to gather likes. Really OMFG to those. I did tear up inside bit luckily I didn't go into full tear-nonstop mode. It's uncontrollable if it had bit it didn't. I walked to the middle, where the coffin and pic was. Though there were people in front of me, I didn't go up to the front to try to look inside the open casket like some did. I overheard some talking if they had seen the face. Huh, come on... I stood looking at the pic and did a deep bow and then left. Thanking him for my education and life here. Then we joined up and went out through another queue, out another entrance.
It was a somber mood and we headed to the Esplanade to eat our late dinner, about 10.30pm, after a 5.5hours queue. My calves were numbing up as we had our dinner. I was famished and had an entire pasta and a beer, shared a pizza and a tiramisu. Quet gave us aride home and I reached home and got ready for grading. My calves were numbing up and actually started to have sharp aches. I quickly massaged them, put on the analsalgic cream and lied down with a pillow holding up my legs. Later perhaps with too much stuff in my head, keeping me awake. I slept rather late, 2am-ish. I had to wake up at 5.50am to get ready for grading at 9.30am, held at the Silat federation at Bedok... It's due to having to eat a filling breakfast and the travelling, that I had to wake up so early.
Another story for another entry.
I was still focusing and busy with getting ready for grading. Going for extra classes more intensively before my break began, and after the Penang trip, I resumed KM intensively. Later as LKY's wake became a public one, the question was whether I should go? As I am not a Singaporean. But as a PR, having studied and working here, it is undeniable that I had benefitted from the education here. So as I would continued to wonder, I checked with friends as the queues swelled and appeared on the news. My friends hadn't gone yet and were hesitating from the news of 8hours queue. My friends at KM, we also talked and asked each other if anyone had gone. Some went after training ended. But later on, found that they gave up due to the long queue hours and work commitments. I pondered if I could go down by myself but wondered if I would be intruding on Singaporeans.
My friends replied and wanted to brave the Friday queue but were deterred by the news of 8hours queue time. So the plan was to go down to Tanjong Pagar CC, to write and pay respects at the memorial set-up there. I didnt go for the usual KM training on Sat because the next day, Sunday was grading day. A mere coincidence that it was the same day as LKY state funeral. I had gotten my stuff ready and was resting up at home. Then I headed out to go to Tanjong Pagar. Before that my Mom heard the news that the queue was 4hours over the radio. I was early and the first one there. Friends were still at home when I messaged them I had reached. Over WhatsApp chat, they were contemplating going for the wake instead cos the queue time was manageable, 4hours over the news.
I went to City Hall first and waited for them. I wasn't sure if I was joining. Now I was reluctant cos I had mentally prepared for just going to Tanjong Pagar and not for a 4-5h hours queue. Obviously I didn't prepare drinks etc except what I had in my new Shark bag. While waiting for both to come from their homes, I went to check out the llao llao queue, too long and settled for the very short Koi queue. Bought myself a small sized drink and finished it, then go to the toilet. In my mind, I was still thinking I won't join. Perhaps just meet up then I see them off as they proceed to the queue.
Things changed when they arrived. Kena psycho-ed to going with them. I walked and was still thinking, I'll see them off bit later realised in the Padang holding area, there wasn't anyway out. So liddat, I was in the queue. Huh? The queue started with a walk to the underpass, up the road and winded until the Padang. We were put into sectors and bottled water was provided. With the tented shelter and the fact that it was 5pm plus then and it had drizzled earlier. It felt cooler than what the previous few days had been. So we sat there, like a picnic of sort for an hour? Then we started moving. It went from the Padang, winded and before we know, we were heading along Merlion park, towards the Esplanade and did a big U-turn just before the floating platform and reminded back along the Merlion park, along Fullerton, the Asian Civilisation museum and the final stretch to the security checks and tents. And into the queue that moved into the Parliament House.
Along the way, we talked about many many things including his role in Singapore. To me, it's simple. Look at Singapore and my country Malaysia 50 years later. What had progressed, improved and continued? It was that clear and obvious. While I don't entirely like the way that Sg is becoming such an expensive place in terms of housing, costs, immigration policies etc, we cannot take away the pivotal roles he and his team had played. So whatever the shortcomings, they did it in that uncertain era. Look at where Malaysia is after all these years. It's an undeniable fact of the matter.
So the mood saddened as the queue moved to the Parliament house. I chose not to take any pics or selfies either for remembrance or posting on Fb. It's supposed to be sad, pictures are not proper in my books, in a more traditional Chinese sense of mourning and attending a funeral wake. I was appalled when my KM friend showed me how some were posing in pics at the queue just to gather likes. Really OMFG to those. I did tear up inside bit luckily I didn't go into full tear-nonstop mode. It's uncontrollable if it had bit it didn't. I walked to the middle, where the coffin and pic was. Though there were people in front of me, I didn't go up to the front to try to look inside the open casket like some did. I overheard some talking if they had seen the face. Huh, come on... I stood looking at the pic and did a deep bow and then left. Thanking him for my education and life here. Then we joined up and went out through another queue, out another entrance.
It was a somber mood and we headed to the Esplanade to eat our late dinner, about 10.30pm, after a 5.5hours queue. My calves were numbing up as we had our dinner. I was famished and had an entire pasta and a beer, shared a pizza and a tiramisu. Quet gave us aride home and I reached home and got ready for grading. My calves were numbing up and actually started to have sharp aches. I quickly massaged them, put on the analsalgic cream and lied down with a pillow holding up my legs. Later perhaps with too much stuff in my head, keeping me awake. I slept rather late, 2am-ish. I had to wake up at 5.50am to get ready for grading at 9.30am, held at the Silat federation at Bedok... It's due to having to eat a filling breakfast and the travelling, that I had to wake up so early.
Another story for another entry.
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