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Lombok Pics

Lombok Here I come

I am going LOMBOK...yeah....bored and sick of my life here....If I can go far on my own, I would have done it! Stay away and be far and be happy for at least a month! But too bad, I can't. So this short trip is fine!

Point of no return

Time and again I told you its over
Time and again I took cover
By thinking you are the perfect lover

Time and again you hurt me
Time and again I let it be

I'm tired of the cry
My patience is running dry

The only thing that is keeping me strong
Is this love I have inside

How long more can I endure
That I can't tell for sure
Thought this love we have is pure
You have tinted it to a point of no cure

Teacher

I want to be a teacher
Who will be a giver
It is not about getting richer
But about helping the weaker
I want to be a teacher
Who can be a motivator

Tuesday

Today is Tuesday
I started the day
Feeling gay
But you treated me like hay

Come what may
I'l make sure I don't pay
By keeping at bay
And stop the play

I thought you'd stay
That's what you say
So I just followed you way
But I see that I am heading for the slay

2001 to 2008

Dislikes when first met
Won't last was the bet
Mind was already set
That you would be thrown off the jet

But stayed as friends we did
I think I did my fair bit
To keep up the lid
And we really hit

What was friendship has changed
Into something strange
We went out of range
And put me in lange

An ultimatum I have decided
To leave coz I am jaded
The dreams I had had faded
With my heart embedded

A Glare

You said you can't say it
I know you aren't
Trying to force you to say it
Is something I can't

I have made a choice
Through the coy
I am creating all the joys
Thinking it is just a toy

I know I have said it before
And its a real bore
I need to get to the core
Before I walk out of the door

Friends, we are
Who have crossed the bar
A game that went to far
Have created the friendship
Ajar

Before it is too late
And leaving it to fate
I am opening the gate
And let go all the hate

It is clear
My dear
Of your fear
To set the gear

Coz love is not there
And you dont dare
Coz it may not be fair
As it is a glare
That you dont care

What is Happening

Why have I not been updating?
Coz so much had happened
And I lost count of them

Time is not on my side
It only makes me tired
Thinking of tomorrow

Why must tomorrow comes
When I am still unhappy of today

Celebrate Living

Why are we sad of small matter
When they tried so hard to live
Why do we keep complaining
When they are happy to see the day

Are we ever thankful of life?
When they struggle for theirs
Are we appreciative of our surroundings?
When they work hard to stay living

Travelogue: Bukit Tinggi Colmar Tropicale

I didnt get a chance to go far as I only had a short freetime due to my 'maid' duties. So I went to Bukit Tinggi and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia instead with my friends and my sis. We set off at about 8 am. But reach KL at 4 pm. Super long journey. Pretty tiring too. Then we set off to Bt Tinggi after that. The place was really beautiful

Love

Maybe one day, you'd love me the way I loved
Maybe one day, you care the way I cared
Maybe one day you'd be missing me
Coz I will no longer be there

Maybe one day, you'd want me the way I wanted you
Maybe one day, you'd cry for me the way I cried for you
But maybe on that day,
I will not be there for you
Coz maybe that day, I do not want you

Love or love lost?

If you love it let it go, if it never comes back, it was never meant to be. Is this true?

Quotes

Love is always patient and kind. It is never jealous. Love is never boastful or conceited. It is never rude or selfish. It does not take offense and is not resentful."

Nothing hurts more than realizing he meant everything to you, but you meant nothing to him.

It’s hard to tell your mind to stop loving someone when your heart still does.

Trying to forget someone you love is like trying to remember someone you never knew.

The worst way to love someone is to sit next to them, knowing they don’t love you back.

Why is the heart the most important organ if it breaks so easily?

I don’t run from you, I walk away slowly, and it kills me knowing you don’t care enough to stop me…

I am quick to give my heart away so you took it and throw it away quickly

Where there is LOVE, there is HURT.

Never make someone your everything, because if you lose them, you have nothing.

Why do I keep coming back to you?
Because iIam a fool that believes in hope

Memories

Looking back
This beautiful memory
Will stay deep in my heart

I may keep myself in this fantasy world
But the reality wakes me up everytime
I've invested a lot of time
With nothing in return
Only an illusion

The days we had are good
But I can't have the memories haunting me
So I'm backing off

Surely
These memories are preserved
Deep in this heart of mine
You will be there
Forever

A maze

Look me up when you are dizzy,
When everything is fuzzy,

But when between us is hazy.
The solution is easy,
Am I so mousy?

Are you that crazy
That act is gauzy
Because you are lazy,
So it's cozy
To leave when you are busy
And leave everything misty?

Well, I know I am a nobody,
Just to make them happy
You'd listen to everybody,
And leave me looking sappy?

What is wrong with life?

Oh God, I am so not looking forward to Monday when I will have to take up the duties of my maid for 3 weeks. It is rather sad and miserable to spend the holidays like that. But I dont have a choice.

Oh God, why must it be that way? Am I not destined to be happy? Am I that bad a person that I must stay unhappy all the time?

Oh God, could this be a sign that I should let go? And learn to focus on whats there and not what's not around?

Oh God. I know I should stop questioning. I asked too many questions, all of which have no definite answer.

Male Versus Female

Male Versus Female Jokes
The difference between men and women:A man is driving up a steep, narrow mountain road. A woman is driving down the same road. As they pass each other, the woman leans out the window and yells: "PIG"!!
The man immediately leans out his window and replies with "B-----!"
They each continue on their way, and as the man rounds the next corner he slams into a pig in the middle of the road.

Thats just an opening joke. On a serious front, are there glaring differences between the two genders?

I have identified some difference and have taken the liberty to look them up in different websites and compile it here.

Differences
1. Men are stronger than women
Women are actually biologically stronger than men, especially in the first few years of their lives. More males die before born than females. Delevopmentally, males lag behind and men die early than women all over the world.

2. Males are more intelligent than females
Based on a finding, it is true, but there's a disclaimer as the research is done by a man. He claimed that men are five points ahead on IQ test during the adulthood stage. Men are more likely to win Nobel prizes and achieve excellence simply because they are more intelligent than women, according to a controversial male academic.

3. Men's brains are larger, but as they age, they also shrink faster than women's brains.
This may account, scientists say, for the fact that there are many more male mathematicians, airplane pilots, bush guides, mechanical engineers, architects and race car drivers than female ones. On the other hand, women are better than men in human relations, recognizing emotional overtones in others and in language, emotional and artistic expressiveness, esthetic appreciation, verbal language and carrying out detailed and pre-planned tasks. For example, women generally can recall lists of words or paragraphs of text better than men

4. Women use more of their brains when they think.
Women use the whole brain for activities but men halved that.

5. Women talk more than men.
Women talk almost three times as much as men, with the average woman chalking up 20,000 words in a day - 13,000 more than the average man. Researchers have found that connecting with another through talking will trigger the pleasure centers in a woman's brain, a high second only to an orgasm. And, if that wasn't enough, the simple act of talking triggers a flood of brain chemicals which give women a rush similar to that felt by heroin addicts when they get a high.

6. Women are better at distress sound
I can't find a valid source of that.

6. Men will think about sex more often than women.
Another topic that have many controversial differences.

I am sure there are many more differences between the two genders. Like they said, Men from Mars and Women from Venus. They are totally different but yet they are happy together.

Friends

You are good friends
You look good together
But yet, there can never be anything more

Mixed generation with different concept of commitment

A: He is happy with her but yet they can't be together cause she sees lots of fault in him

B: They are happy together, but the relationship with like an affair. She is hidden everywhere.

C: She is in love with her, he sees her as a "Fun Friend".

D: They are happy together, he sees them together but he can't see himself being committed.

Have you encounter such a situation? More often than not, these are the things that happened these days, the mixed generation issue, it is called. Well, how then can we unhooked this problem and create a better understanding of the two genders? I don't have answers to all the questions. Maybe you have?

My Kids did it!

I am in high moon when I found out one of my students is offered normal acad stream. But in the midst of all the celebration, I had one kid who failed. It was so sad. Being new in this, I had problem informing him that he didn't make it. What was worst when he actually said, "You told me if I work hard, I'll pass. Why I didn't pass when the rest pass?" I was suddenly in tears. I didn't have a reply. I know he has tried his best. I have seen a lot of improvement in him. I know with the right push from the right people, this boy will be able to make it. He just needs more confidence. Today, his mother finally decided to let him repeat another year. I am glad she made that decision. I hope he will make it next year. I've told him to approach me anytime if he needs help. I hope and pray I wont be too busy and be there for him. I want to ensure this kid make it next year.

To my student, Wei Lin, congrats. I am happy with your achievement. I want you to continue to work as hard and achieve your dreams, whatever it takes, perservere and move on. Always remember the fighting spirit.." DIE DIE MUST TRY". Never give up. To the rest, strive harder, the road may be a little bit longer and harder, but that does not mean it is close. It will be open as long as you continue to drive and push your way up.

To all my "Kids" congrats.

A note

Holding on to an empty heart
Really shallow inside

I blame no one for the pain
Only myself to have had it retained
Though there's nothing there to gain

The misery will be over
Just needed to take cover

Only by keeping the lifeline off
Though its hard as the heart is too soft

No despair is needed
Not defeated

Only blessings when expired
And memories be transpired

Suicide Note

I was reading suicide notes from internet. No! I am not planning a suicide attempt and NO I don't have suicidal tendency. Just that sometimes when life is not heading the way I want it to be and the depressive mode is switched on, I feel better after reading such letters and notes. I may sound selfish and self-centred but these notes actually make me feel better and I will realise how minute my problem is as compared to many others. It will then hopefully make me want to be alive and achieve other aims that I've set for myself. I would then want to focus on my objectives and one of which is living itself. It also made me realised, how foolish to live life in such sadness due to such ache

But I can't imagine, if I ever write a suicide note, then what would the content be?

Wiriting one may be my triumph! And my freedom of my own pain. I will write it one of these days. Then you'd be my judge!

All the memories filled me in a throb
Pretending to be dead
Escaping from reality
But this dead heart
Still bleeds

I am an enemy to my own heart
I just need it to be lifeless
Then the pain will not clasp my heart
So I could set it free

For the first time,
Things will never be the same again
For the first time,
It marks the end

Thought it would be better
But felt battered
Pain and tattered

Drowned beneath the bane
Sinking in the rain
Trying hard to keep sane

Feels like catching the first train
As pain is even in the brain
Already feels drained

PSLE is over....at least for my students

Yessssssssssssss......exam is over! Finally. So tiring! But happy that its over. My kids are also happy. I received many smses from them....all smiles and sounded really super duper happy. In fact, I was also in high spirit today, I never felt that...for the longest time. And what time school ended today for...1030am...the earliest I've ever had...and I left right after that....It sure felt good....finally...I'm able to just go off...without feeling stress that probably I've not given my students enough remedials....I'm called perverted, remedial queen and many other names...well...I had to...I feel responsible to ensure that the kids pass their exam or at least leave the school...I don't expect others to understand...I just need to ensure myself that I have tried my best for these kids...the rest is up to them and fate...not I am leaving everything in the hands of God...pleaseeeeeeeeee....let all my 22 kids pass.

Tired

I am super tireddddddddddddddddd. Waiting for this to be over....one week...and its over. To be precise its actually 4 days before the end....my students PSLE off course!

Ramadhan Gathering:Primary School Mates

Its been sooooo many years after I graduated from Primary School. Little would I know, I would meet all these people I spent those 6 years of my life now. Last Friday, we all had a gathering. It was sweet. Many of them are married with kids, a few changes (like adding a few kilos, and totally changed outlook) while others remain the same (as jovial as ever). I was told that I didnt change much. We spent the whole three hours or so reminiscing the moments.

Thanks to Mimi (Norhamimi), who got all our contacts from various networks(mostly Friendster I suppose), we met up at Seoul Garden. It was definitely a wonderful reunion. Too bad some of them couldnt make it. If not, it would have been so much nicer.

What a day it has been!

Its listening comprehension exam. Nearly half of the teachers from my school went to this particular school. It felt good to have all the 'kakis' there. Then it was a better news when I found out I don't need to invigilate the first part of LC. But kinda bored! I should have brought my marking...urgh...would have done lots of it then. We (4 of us) spent the morning chit chatting and zoning in and out of a few small talks. Then the first LC group came. I found out I also did not need to invigilate....isnt that great! So more sitting down chit chatting nonsense with my collegaues...now minus one as she had to take over someone who was not feeling well. While chit chatting, one of my male colleagues popped up with a weird question...."Why you don't want a bf?" Huh?! Didnt know how to answer that....I think they knew I am uncomfy with the question. Finally I said I am choosy....which is true....I am choosy. So that's the end of it.

Finally the second group came back. The counting of the scripts took ages....finally we left at about 2 plus....I was too tired so I went home...and what I did at home....slept...slept...slept....felt a piglet...heehee..But felt good too...it has indeed been a tiring week for me.

Teachers' Day Celebration in School

Caught in the act

Strike a post gals!

Click that!

Something stuck...

I am glowing...

Orchid Country Club: Teachers' Day Dinner

It was held at the place named above and the theme, Bollywood Nite. Well, it was definitely not a problem as it was my forte. The nite, it was okay, though I personally feel the MC was a crappy man. I can barely understand what he said. He dude is the joke himself...his jokes however, were not exactly funny. The opening for the nite, a Bhangra dance. That was surely cool...interesting acrobats. Show you a snippet of the event...not the event itself...but of a few teachers posing in pitch dark background.

You snap me, I snap you!

Bollywood Beauties

With Colleagues...

When it is over

Is it over?
It looks like it

You never said it
But its shown clearly
That it is over

This time,
No more rambling
A quiet retreat is chosen

Support is still given
Though I'd be gone for good
Tired of waiting,
And knowing it's in vain


Seeking new shores
Going for the dive
But doing it on my own
With no more obligations

Jealousy

“Jealousy is that pain which a man feels from the apprehension that he is not equally beloved by the person whom he entirely loves”Joseph Addison

Will you feel jealous if someone you loves is out with another person though it may be a friend? Spoke to a friend about it. And unbelievably, no jealousy was traced. However, the facial expression revealed a sense of jealousy but when asked further, the party was unpertubed about the issue and insist on having no reason to be jealous.

My question then is: If you are not jealous, does that mean you dont feel anything for the other party? Could it also be a scenario of “Yet he was jealous, though he did not show it, For jealousy dislikes the world to know it”Lord Byron as Love exist when jealousy is in existent" . So how certain can you be about how the person feels when he or she is not disturbed even though the other party the boyfriend or girlfriend is meeting used to like the latter. The reply my friend gave was the other party was no competitor. Maybe the level of confidence one has as "A competent and self-confident person is incapable of jealousy in anything. Jealousy is invariably a symptom of neurotic insecurity.”Robert A. Heinlein. Maybe there's truth to that. Rather than wasting time to be jealous about nothing, its best if one indluge in thinking about improving something.

Met an old friend

Isn't it nice to meet old friends?
Today I met an old friend.
It may be a short meeting,
But it was enjoyable
We catch up on old times
Talked about the new happenings
That was really wonderful

Had lunch at little India
Laughed about the old times
Laughed about new things
It surely felt great
Enjoyed the times

May you will have a great time there
And hopefully meet the girl of your dream
All the best wishes for you
Have fun in Japan

Today and Yesterday

Today is just great
Its wonderful

Today is magnificent
And history begins

Its simply marvelous
And beyond words

Why is it special?

Maybe because it's not yesterday

Yesterday,
That was a dread

Wasn't the day,
I'd rather forget

More of todays should come
And more of yesterdays should retreat
So happiness sets in
And miseries let go.

What will be

I know it won't
Secretly wishing for it

Sadly,
Prediction is coming true

Hopes,
Dashed to pieces

Dreams,
See fading away

Realisation,
Setting in

It may not be
Anymore

Hopes,
Cursed

Sadness,
Overpowering
And remains

Remote

When you need me,
I am searched
When you are busy,
I am thrown aside
How used I felt.

One day, I am thrown away
As I am seen useless
New one in exchange for me

I was sent to well I belong,
The dump
Resigning to my fate,
I told myself,
"This is the new place I will be"
Either with new owner or destroyed
Time will tell

Sad as it is,
Belonging to you,
I'll never be,
Ever again

Questions

Question after question were thrown
As the answers are all vague and blurred
Sounds were made to substitute response
Definite answers are not apparent
Probably since no value is attached to it

What a week it has been...

What a week it has been for me! Super vexed…super tired. Let’s talk about being super tired.

Last Saturday was my school’s CIMO (an open-house cum racial harmony day cum many more). I was in-charged of the Haunted House. The helper I got was super terrible, always disappearing, during the décor as well as during the event itself. Lucky for me, a colleague of mine, Winston, helped me a lot by doing a whole of things for me. He was a superb help although he was busy with own booth. I’m sure the “Haunted House” was a real success with lots of people entering it.

Then Monday and Tuesday, I was an Oral examiner for P6 Oral. On the first day, I had to take 22 students (EM2 kids). I had a hard time judging these kids. Had to be fair according to the EM2 level yet I know these kids were from the tail end. However, felt better when I was testing EM3 kids. I realized I could understand those kids better.

Come Wednesday, I had to go to NIE after school for a refresher course by Prof Chia. He was kind enough to give me a refresher course and Susan (my colleague) a Crash Course on OHP (Orchid Hybridisation). At the same time, we pollinated the first seedpod from our pollination about three months ago. On that day, I got real shocks. First, when I went to the orchid area, I realized that my second seedpod is plucked by someone (I have no idea who though). Rather sad to find out that coz it is such a tedious job to get it (though many people think what I am doing is easy, UNFORTUNATELY).

Then on Thursday, the day for BT Orientation was finally over. Super tiring…the whole day event. Phew, will pass it to the next BT…too tired.

Then finally, just when I thought I’d be free on Friday, my RO smsed me and asked if I do not mind attending a launch at Suntec. Off coz I had to agree…but seriously…I am super duper tired. Then at noon, after school, I finally asked her if its alright if I don’t attend the launch and luckily she said yes.

In btw those times, I also had to prepare slides, called suppliers for oreos and all my markings. But finally, the week is over. Next week will also be another long week for me, sadly though. And this makes me think of the direction I am heading after the 4 years. Do I or do I not want to stay? The question is still left unanswered. One thing for sure, I have the opportunity to leave now if I want, but would I take it? Not sure yet! Though some friends happiness made me want to leave. But leaving everything familiar to unfamiliar ground wouldn’t be easy, definitely!

Time Must Stop

There you were talking about the gals,
There I am thinking...
Thinking about us

There we were sharing,
Sharing about them.
There I am angry,
Angry about us.

Stop!
That I must do
You have your life,
I have mine!

Stop!
The dreams!
As dreams are dreams,
Will never be a reality.

Clarity is determined
Distance is made
No matter the closeness

Star

Twinkle twinkle little star
You are up high and so far
I won't reach even with the best car
I'l put the door ajar
Pray you can enter the bar
But I forget, you are a star!

Wishes Come True

Away, thats the plan
Since asking to stay
Is never going to be

Keeping at bay
It must be
As theres no other way

Trying to say
But it just go away
The moment I m treated like hay

Come what may
Its not an option to stay

Chocolate and Coffee

Chocs and Cafe
Known for short
Both are addictive
But yet so fatal

Chocs
Taste superb
But yet the calories counting
And the pain begins

Cafe
Marvellous as always
But yet the caffeine
Allows the agony to remain

Chocs
You melt in my mouth
The moment you linger on my taste bud

Cafe
You are my friend
My mornings and afternoons

Chocs and Cafe
Both great and wonderful
Wonder which is better
And more flavourable
Not here to decide
Or worst to argue
Both have special ablities
To hypnotize you away

You think I am dumb
I think you are bright
You think I am gory
I think you are right

I think you are proud
You think I am joking

I think you are quite ordinary from the crowd
But you think I am kidding for crying out loud

You think good stuff are meant to be shared
I think it is crap
Just an idea to scare
So what the hell,
I should stop to care

With all those dares
It is so unfair
Its my bloody heart that you tear
So you can blair for all I care

Venture

Venturing in one's heart
Looking for one's self
Fruitless search
Of the uncertainty in the hearts

Searching to clear the doubts
Finally release from the burden
Of being trapped
From the heart
That doesn't care

A week early

I'm back in school, a week earlier that I should. Tiring on its first day. Probably because I have been holidaying for quite a bit that a little bit of work tires me. Did Science to prepare the kids for PSLE (not my own students). Lecturing a class of 40 can be pretty tiring. Also because I don't know most of the kids. I only know a handful of them. But it went pretty well. I hope the kids were able to grasp of the process skills that were taught. Tomorrow will be supplementary lesson for my own students. Hopefully, they will not give me problems in the next six months. Hoopefully, it will be fruitful and nice teaching them the last few months before their PSLE. Above all, I hope they will do well...will promise some rewards for those who do well....bribery... nope...they are incentives...:)

A message that shouldn't be

A text sent,
Hoping for a reply,
From the one that's missed

A sincere reply
Seeking by you
Expects nothing else

Many received
None from the one you wait

The distance makes the bridge harder to cross

So a wish made,
Knew truth isnt what you seek
But its what you deserve

Gone are the smiles
Coz the truth is out

New adventure seeks
No more of the dream
Pursuing the ordinary

Black

Absence
Black Tie
Cultures
Dress and death
Elegant
Funeral
Gemstone
Hats
Inconspicuous
Lack of light
Mysterious
Night
Onyx
Polarities
Restful emptiness
Solemnity
Threat
Uncertainty
Vanity
White

Travelogue: Turkey

Destination: Turkey aka Turkiye by the Turks
Time Frame: 10 Days
Cost: $2160 (plus Insurance)
Important information: 5 hours behind Singapore
Important Information: Bargain is a must in Turkey (@ least 50% off the price)

Day 1
At the airport at 9 pm. Set off at 11.10 pm (SG time) to Turkey on Flight TK67.

Day 2
Arrived in Turkey at about 6.30 am (TK time). Changed some US currency to Turkish Lira. First place of visit was the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii). Magnificent sight which looks heavenly. Then next to it was a memorial place for the Earthquake's victims in 1999. Then proceeded to Aya Sofya (St Sofia Museum). Unique, with features of Islamic and Christian beliefs, bounded by many histories. Next was the Topkapi Palace ("Palace of the Cannon Gate"). It was home of the Ottoman (Osman) sultans for nearly 400 years. Then went onboard a ship with the bus on it to Bursa which is the 4th largest city in Turkey. On board, drank Turkish tea, really bitter. Also had a taste of the pita bread which was super hard and difficult to swallow. Then proceeded to the first hotel at Bursa, Kervansaray. The hotel is nicely decored and looks beautiful. Rested for the night there.

Day 3
Set off at 730 am. First place visited was the Grand mosque (Süleymaniye Mosque). It was the oldest and the largest mosque in the city. Then we went to Green Mosque (Yesil Mosque). It is an elaborate and significant building in the new Turkish style. Got its title "Green" from its gardens and parks, and of course from its being in the middle of an important fruit growing region. Then we went straight to Koza Han (Silk Market). A covered bazaar with many beautiful scarfs and shawls. After lamb kebabs for lunch, we had a treat to Turkish delight. Bought quite a number, rather expensive in US dollars. Then was a long journey to Kusadesi. Rested at Grand Ozcelik Hotel. Sea view. From the balcony, you can see a beautiful sight of the sea. Took several pictures of sunset and sunrise.

Day 4
After breakfast, went to leather factory. Watched fashion show. All the stuff were super ex, so didnt get anything from there. But the models, at least one of them was gorgeous. Then after that, went to the House of Virgin Mary. Located in located in a nature park between Ephesus and Seljuk. Then went to the Ephesus (Efes). Believed to be under the Roman empire. What was left was its ruins. It would definitely be a beautiful place. It was located at Izmir. After lunch, headed to Pamukkale, which was about 2 and half hour drive. Stayed at Pamukkale Lycus River. They had a thermal pool. We didnt go in though.

Day 5
The morning started with a long journey to Capadocia. The first pitt stop was after 1.5 hour jouney, the first one before lunch. After another 1.15 hour, we had our lunch, another Turkish lunch. The food served was good. After that we continued the journey for yet another 1.5 hour before we had another pitt stop. The next stop was Traders' Hotel. There we met a cute two-year-old boy named Yahya. If you were to see him, you may not guess he is 2 years old, look like 4 to 5 years old. During our jourey, the guide also pointed out about the significance of huge cola kinda can on the roof of some houses in an Anatolian area. The purpose of the cans is to signify that there are virgin ladies who are ready for marriage in the house. Interesting right, can't imagine that in Singapore. We continued our journey and eventually reached the Dinler hotel, where we stayed for 2 nights. It was big and nice. It was pretty cosy and was located at Shihir town.

Day 6
The day started with a carpet factory. We saw a lot of beautiful carpets with magnificent designs. It was however super duper expensive. Next was Gerome museum. There are many churches in between the museum. The kitchen area is spacious yet constricted. You should be there to witness it. Words can't describe it. Food was served in a cave restaurant in Capadocia. Then we went to the Jems store called Pyramid.It sells gold, silver, onyx and stones. It is well-known for its stones and I found out that turqoise is actually known as Turkish blue and a popular and expensive stone in Turkey. Interesting to watch how the stone suddenly becomes translucent and shiny after polishing. After that, we went to Underground city. It was stuffy. We had to bent and the pathway was small and narrow. We were told that there are still a small group of people living in such caves. The temperature was 15 degrees celcius so it was rather cold. We went back to Dinler Hotel at 4.30 pm. We didn't managed to go on hot-air balloon as it was super expensive, priced at US$180.

Day 7
I woke up at 5 am though the wake up call was 5.30 am. After breakfast at 6.30 am, we set off at 7.30am. The first stop was Pottery store. It was underground. There, I was picked to try out pottery. My end product looked terribly ugly. We bought a clock at 45 Lira in the store. On the way to Ankara, we were stopped by the police for random check. The officer was super good-looking...ahaha. At the pitt stop, I had a back massage using the massage machine. It only cost 1 Lira. The things there are super bloody expensive. We had lunch at Uchisar. We were told that the restaurant is popular amongst Ministers. The food served was Iskender kebabs and lentil soup. Desert was a turkish dish, a vermicelli like sweet with cheesy....it was cheesily sweet. We reached Ankara about 2 hours after lunch. Ankara, the capital of Turkey is a business district. However, Istanbul is seen as the commercial capital. We then visited Ataturk Mausoleum. Atarturk was seen as the Father of Turkey. His name was Mustafa Kemal. He brought independence to Turkey from the Greek empire. He was the first president of Turkey. According to the guide, he was a women's man but he never got married. The Mausoleum is adorned with statues, relief's and embellishments created by many of Turkey's artists. Then we went to Yadoer Otel. The hotel was well-decorated. It has a beautiful tree-top at its garden. Dinner was a 3-course dinner. However, the breakfast was one of the worst one. During our journey back to Istanbul, we had a stop over for photos. We also paid for the Bosphorus Cruise which cost US$55. We also had XXL meal at Burger King. It cost 10 plus Lira, shared between the two of us. At night, we went for a belly dancing show at Kansaray Club. There we met a superb singer. An old man who could sing songs from many different languages. He was very entertaining. Though I wasn't entertained by the belly dancing, I think their Anatolian dance was fun and interesting.

Day 9
The final day in Turkey was a free day. However, having taken the cruise, the guide first brought us to the Spice bazaar. Unfortunately, it was closed. We only got stuff outside the bazaar area. Things were pretty cheap there. Then we went ahead to the Bosphorus cruise. The cruise was an hour long. We took lots of photos during the cruise. After that, we went to a place like Clarke Quay. We didn't buy anything much as nothing there interest me. We spent some time at burger king. We noticed that the service people there are all men. After that, we went shopping at the biggest shopping centre in Europe. It looks like our Takashimaya. Stores like Zara, Topshop and a few known brands are there. It was however a bit more expensive that Singapore. After two hours, we headed to the airport. It was parting time for Sibel (our guide) and us. After hugging sessions, we checked-in. We took TK66 home at 11.45 pm.

Day 10
At 33o pm, we reached Singapore. Home sweet home at last.

Some Turkish words we learnt there:
Yavash yavash: slowly slowly (often said by our guide)
Gooniden (Good Morning)
Fine (Iem)
Giris (Entry)
Cikis (Exit)
Kach para (How much)
Choke para (Very expensive)
Yo para (No money)
Indrem (Discount)
Teasyukur Enderum (Thank you)
Monduer (candle)

Couting the days...

Wow, before I know it, holiday is here. The time I look forward to. But I realise I feel quite empty. Hahahaha, weirdly, I want school again. Ya, crazy. Maybe because of the sudden feeling of being free after a hectic and quite scary period. Well, many things happened during this semesters.

Besides having many meetings with one of the big bosses because of the kids under my charge, I also got into a few troubles myself (trying to forget the details). Whatever, it is, everything is solved now. I sure hope the new semester brings new beginning and challenges but not problems for me.

Anyway, next week, I'd be flying to turkey for 10 days. Initially, I was excited and looking forward to it but after the bomb blast, not really. I am kinda worried. Hopefully nothing happens, especially to my sis. I don't really care about me, just doesnt wanna go home and face problems. So hopefully we will both be fine. Then it will be an experience I wont forget, an exotic place.

The truth

Then, there were the doubts
Now its obvious

Then, swooned
Now broken

Previously, sweetness
Now shattered

Happiness and wonderful
Turned sour
When the truth emerged
Reflection seen directly

Pretense
Ignorance
But never forgotten

Steps to Don't Know What

First Step: Friendship

Second Step: Humiliation, Beginning of the end?

Third Step: A fight, Number deleted (stupidly memorised it)

Fourth Step: Silent

Step 1, 2 and 3

Next Step: Message after message ( Due to stupidity)

Anger thrown

Then, an invitation but rejection

Expected

After which, pictures erased

Memory still clear

Hopefully fading away

With the distant

Strength surfaced

Disappearance

All change

James Blunt - Tears And Rain Lyrics

How I wish I could surrender my soul;
Shed the clothes that become my skin;
See the liar that burns within my needing.

How I wish I'd chosen darkness from cold.
How I wish I had screamed out loud,
Instead I've found no meaning.
I guess it's time I run far, far away;
find comfort in pain,
All pleasure's the same:
it just keeps me from trouble.
Hides my true shape, like Dorian Gray.
I've heard what they say, but I'm not here for trouble.
It's more than just words: it's just tears and rain.
How I wish I could walk through the doors of my mind;
Hold memory close at hand,
Help me understand the years.

How I wish I could choose between Heaven and Hell.
How I wish I would save my soul.I'm so cold from fear.
I guess it's time I run far, far away; find comfort in pain,
All pleasure's the same: it just keeps me from trouble.
Hides my true shape, like Dorian Gray.
I've heard what they say, but I'm not here for trouble.
Far, far away; find comfort in pain.
All pleasure's the same: it just keeps me from trouble.
It's more than just words: it's just tears and rain.

Crestfallen

Fallen tree
What happened?

Just yesterday,
You triumph in success
You stood tall
Fruitful

Today,
Crestfallen
Bare and abandoned
Dried and dejected

Are the days cruel?
Were the weather against you?
Were there troubles?

Obviously
You've taken so much pain
All your best dreams
Shattered
Trashed
Because of the rainy days

Life isn't treating you well
But you endured
For whatever it is,
You were once strong

The End of Beginning

Do I mean anything
Off course not!
Don't I know about it?
Off course you do!
Do I really care?
Off course you do, at least you did!

I definitely chose the wrong path?
You give as good as you get.

I am doomed
Sadness succumbed me!
Don't be a fool
It's not the end of the world

It's something that I should never plunge into
Now I am burnt deep
It has always been a game
A foolish game

I have set myself on fire
Igniting the flame
It will only hurt you
Let it die

I know I am dumb
I know I am a rat
But never did expect such terms from you
You can't expect anything
Nothing will come from me
Whatever is given is taken
But don't expect anything in return

Admitting defeat now
Or jump to the end
Don't be silly
Just declare that you are trounce
By me, Your Friend

Whats unspoken is articulated fluently

Recently, a friend said something that may not be music to the ears. It was a rather nasty remark thrown for no apparent reason, at least not whatever is said.

It made the mind thinking. Is that true? Does that reflect who I am? Am I that terrible? Would I have done the same had there been a twist of fate? Would I say nasty things to the person I care, even if its friendship that I am seek? Would I treasure the friendship and not give such comments?

Maybe I gave the person an avenue to pass such demeaning judgement on me? Would I do the same to anyone, especially my friends? Maybe not, not to even my enemies.

But what to do, the hurt is done. Its non reversal. Probably, its God's way of showing me the signals I am asking for. At least, now I know better, at least I can see clearly how I am perceived in your eyes so I will accept it.

Apology offered and accepted. But will it be forgotten? That remain a mystery as the hurt left a deep cut in the heart as you are the last person I would expect such remarks from.

Hurt

Sometimes, intentionally or not, a friend hurt our feelings. Maybe its never the intention. Its always easier to accept such pain from enemies and strangers, but never from a friend.

Weeks

A week left for school

Two weeks left before the departure

Two weeks away from reality

A week of drilling for the kids

Then thats it,

Back to all the routine

Insults

Smouldered by such apprehension
Offensive utterance
Malicious utterances
Wouldn't that cause abrogation

Slashed with explosion
Garbage was more admirable
Maybe not meant to be
What's said can't be condensed

Now truth is clutch to the soul
Tears fallen
Gone are those spirit and joy
Along came the hurt

If only reality was slapped earlier
Departure will be made ahead
Leaving the agony of knowing
Far from the knowing self

Jealousy

Last Friday, feeling happy for my students, I shared my happiness with a few colleagues. One of my kids (22 of them altogether) scored 90 marks for Mathematics. I felt extremely happy for her, thats why I shared it with the fellow teachers.

Then a teacher threw a nasty remark. Well, maybe she has been like that all along. Off coz, her underlining meaning is "It's not you who helped her." I told her off by saying " I am not taking the credits, I am just happy for my students and I wanted to share with those who would be able to understand how that feels. Actually I think she should too as she is also in the same league, teaching less abled kids who are are academically slower than the rest of their cohorts.

What I don't understand is the jealousy one feels. If it were me, I would be happy and congratulate the teacher. Such remarks will not even cross my mind, let alone throwing it to another person. But what to do, some people are just so competitive. Anyway, though that person will never be able to read this blog, I would like to highlight to anyone who reads this and have such a thought on others, stop and reflect. When it comes to the kids, teachers should never compete like that. You can compete healthily.

Like two colleagues of mine. SUperb. They are super competitive against each other. But ultimately, its to the kids benefit. They don't put the other down (hmmm....in a manner that is condescending off coz). It can be quite scary but yeah, their competition seems much healthier than what this person is competing. Horrific!

To love or not to love

To love and to be loved is to feel the sun from both sides. "Do you love me or not?" That question may have been asked by many. But how does one answer that question. How do you know you are in love? What is love? It is definitely not an easy question to tackle no matter how hard one cracks his head.

Love is an intense feeling of caring for another person. It can take many different forms (romantic, friendly, familial) but it is always about caring. When you love another person you don't ask them to sacrifice a part of themselves in the name of that love. Love should make you feel happy, secure and appreciated.

Lust is confusing quasi-love feeling. Its a physical attraction two people feel about each other. But its definitely not love.Its based on instant chemistry rather than caring for the other. You may lust for someone and not care for them. Sex is all that matters in lust but love goes much deeper than that. Love makes you feel as serene when you and your partner are together.

However, is love enough? What if the love you have for each other has many objections? Is it better not to be in love when love only give heartaches? Well, definitely not so for those who are in love.


Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails

Turkey...here I come

Today, in a month time, if everything goes smoothly, I would be in Turkey, enjoying myself for 10 days.....so looking forward to that.

But before that can happen, I have a list of things to do:

1) Mark English exam papers
2) Mark Math exam papers
3) Key in exam results
4) Key in attendance (for absentees)..I have done till April
5) Prepare slides for Science
6) Call up the orchid vendors (he didnt response to my email...hmmm)
7) And some other stuff not related to work

Then holi holiday for me...away from this reality to my dream mode...the feel good mode (will I be missed by anyone in Singapore...hmmm sadly, its unlikely)...then when I come back, back to work on the last week of school holidays.

Why do people make so much noise in cinema

I watched a hindi movie recently and boy, it was a rather shocking experience. At first, I was quite shock that the theatre was rather crowded...well, maybe because its a weekend. Secondly and most irritating part, it was super noisy. They were clapping and there were kids running around and making so much noise.

Anyway, probably because the movie was rather boring except for the good looking hero but then the kids wouldnt be keen on that part...hehe.

Then I received a message from my friends asking me to rescue them. I was like " Huh?!" After hearing what had happened, I still thought it was a joke. They claimed that they had a super duper bad stomach pain after eating the food at this famous restaurant where we frequent. Thinking that they were kidding, I told them I can't as I was busy watching a movie. Then another message came...off coz its for real. Then I was worried (They are rather frail and thin...they might just collapse and die..I cant have that on my conscience)...so I told one of them, I will come over if they seriously need some help. But my two frail friends managed to get a cab and sent one of them home. The other, who did not suffer as bad as the first one, continued her DATE (off coz she claimed its not a date...she was just going out with a fren) but I bet it was a date.

Yeah, so overall, not a bad weekend..In fact it was a good weekend for me.

Poem: Wei Sheng

My student's poem: Wei Sheng

HER NAME IS SANDY
SHE LOVES MONEY
SHE HATES BABY
SHE IS A FATTY
WHO LOVES HER DADDY

Poem: Wilson

My student's poem: Wilson
her name is sandy
she loves money
and she hates monkey
but she loves mummy and daddy

Poem: Ye Hao

My student's poem: Ye Hao

l am walking in the night
l saw a robber running in the night
l began to on the light

Poem: Yue Ling

My student's poem: Yue Ling

SnowWhite
If i am SnowWhite
i will be as white as candy
If i am SnowWhite
i will be as pretty as money
But what a pity,
That's not what really fancy.

Poem: Auckland

My student's poem: Auckland

If I am Elmo

I can be Elmo and gain a kilo
First,I will add but I don't know
After a cup of milo
I will be that hero.

Poem: Sharnesh

My student's poem: Sharnesh

It was a spooky night.
I saw a gang fight.
I call the whole block to come and fight.
But when the gang came back
It gave the block a fright.

Poem: Yi Jie

My student's poem: Yi Jie

His name is Andy
He hates money
but loves his Mummy and Daddy

Poem: Wei Lin

My student's poem: Wei Lin

Hello today i'm going to write my poem!!

Her name is candy
She s money
She hates monkey
She is skinny
She is good at hockey .

Poem: Hui Sheng

My student's poem: Hui Sheng

I feel like flying.
I feel like weeping.
I feel like sleeping.
But I want to keep winning.
So I have to stop dreaming.
And start studying.

Poem: Hsueh Erh

My student's poem: Hsueh Erh

If I am happy
And not angry
If only I am chatty
but a beauty.
I will truly feel happy

Poem: Nuruddin

My student's poem: Nuruddin

It was a creepy night.
I saw someone fight.
so I called the police and turned off my light!

POEM: Yu Sheng

My student's poem: Yu Sheng

I WISH FOR A GENIE
I WANT TO BE BRAINY
BUT MY MUMMY SAID TO MY NANNY
I AM JUST A BABY.

Poem: Kwang Wei

My student's poem: Kwang Wei

I shall be what I want to be
So that I can be happy
not dreamy.

POEM: Yu Shan

My student's poem: Yu Shan

If i am a strawberry
I will add a cherry
To my strawberry
Than I would be merry and happy

Poem: Ashik

My student's poem: Ashik

I am winner
I am not loser
I am a striker
But not a better
I am a giver
But not a taker
I am the best

POEM: Shahfiq

My student's work: Shahfiq

I WISH I AM DREAMING I WISH I AM FLYING
BUT I CAN NOT BE caught napping
AS MY teacher will be beeping
AND MY PARENTS WILL BE NAGGING

Poem: Fathullah

My student's poem: Fathullah

I wish i am dreaming,
I wish i am flying ,
I wish i singing,
But my teacher will runt ,
And my parents will hunt,
Then I won't have fun.

Poem: Melvin

My student's work: Melvin

If i am sleepy
i would sleep like a baby
if i am noisy
i can be quite naughty
when i am happy
i can be quite funny

Poem: Jeffrey

My student's poem: Jeffrey

I play Hockey because I am sporty
and I am not a shorty
I wish I was brainy so I do not need to study.
If I do not win I will be crazy

Poem: Yao De

My student's poem: Yao De

If I am crazy.
I will be mad.
If I am friendly.
I will be nice

POEM: Zhi Chao

M student's work: Zhi Chao

I LOVE TO FLY
I WOULD LIKE TO TRY
TO FLY IN THE SKY
I WILL BE HAPPY TO FLY

POEM: Anatasha

My student's work: Anatasha

Hi, Hello, Today I'll be writing a poem for you.

If I am a dreamer,
I would have the greatest dreams
If I am a shooting star
I could fly like a bee
If I am a bee in a flower
I'm just a girl in the tree
But there's just one problem
Whta will I grow up to be?

Doubt

Unsure of what you are doing to yourself
Afraid to think of the outcome
Towards self-destruction?

Pop it up
Till you feel no pain
Vomit it out
Till nothing is left

Tore yourself
Till you don't feel distress

Afraid
Surely

Dead
It will happen
If this goes on

Questions

Dunno what I want anymore
Everything is blurred

Dunno what I care any more
When it is lost

I know I can't take it anymore
All the pain I've endured

Truthful
Is what I must be to myself
Keeping is no longer an option

Decision has been made
May not be what I want
But it's the best

No more pretense
Stronger
To keep at bay

All of it is gone

All the chances
All the rejections
A gift definitely

Safeguarded
But yet lost
Memories are left
Only for me

So many things happened

So stupid....
What you did was stupid?
What were thinking when you decide its ok to do it?
Throwing our life away?
Throwing what you have built?

All confidence lost
Week of hell
Meeting with the heads
Sickness falls
And now facing this?
Hmmm, what else can you take?
Would things get better?
Would the stares go away?

Many things you fear?
What if they see? What if they know?
What if this and what if that?

Stop! Stop!
You can't deal this anymore
Lest craziness follows

STOP! STOP!
But would you?
Doubt it
As it may be short,
It may be gone tomorrow
But you can always hope
Things get better
However slim it may be

Which of the two is better?

Is to have love but swinging around?
Or to have love and rejected?

Is to have but not to own?
Or to never have the one you own?

Is to care but not loved?
Or to love but not cared?

Is to cure but a pain?
Or to have pain but pleasure?

Is to have happiness but boredom?
Or to have misery in elation?


This is the philosophy of love one may face yet may not resolved. Can love ever be rational? An ejection of emotion that defies rationalism?

Love may be intense but yet painful. Can we ever be satisfied through our idealistic view? Does it also mean loyalty? Then why all the infidelities? Why the insecurities? Love is pure with no grudges but we bear so much pain and flaws? Can we ever have an answer to all the questions?

The Words

The words
So near yet so distant
So real yet so aerial

Yes, sure, yep
No, nope, dunno
These are words
More often than not,
They played in the thought

If more than a word came out from the knot,
A miracle is definitely hot to spot


But as it appears,
Soon after, it disappears
Like a spear
It will give you a tear
And like a whisper
In the ear,
Wish you may hold it dear
But the departure is what you fear

Caught in the MIddle

I am caught in the middle of right and wrong
For the wrong, everything else is right
For the right nothing else but one is wrong

So what should I do?
To let go of both?
One helps to show the light
Yet the other in total darkness

One you see your future
The other you are lost
But through the wrong,
One appears so right
Though its gravely wrong

Care

Do you think they care?
Do you think they give a damn?
Do you think it will be normal?
Do you think everything will be okay?

Will things change?
Will life be simpler?
Will you stop pondering?
Will time heal it all?

What the hell is wrong?
What is not right?
What could you do to make it right?
What is happening to you?

For goodness
Make it right now
Before you fall deep into it
Turn and look
Instead of pondering
Things will never be the same
Things will never be okay.

If only you take time to realise
That it will not change
Because you want it to change
It will always be same
You will be treated in similar pattern
No matter what you do
Things can never be right anymore
As you have set on a wrong path.
So why care?

Last Weekend

What a weekend it must have been
Everyone was busy except me
Called A, B and C...
Replies were "Gee, I am busy"

As depressing as it was to be
I checked my list from A to Z
And asked each out for a tea

Replies were sad you see
Again, "Not this weekend Zee"

So I spent my weekend with my familiy
These are the people are there for me

Thinking back and see,
Not a bad weekend
I have to agree
Around the loving arms of my family

A dream

If I could hold on to that dream
I would.
If I could keep that fantasy
I would.
If I could make you stay
I would.

Instead it is just a dream
Of which I do not want to be awake

Stay asleep is what I want
Facing the reality is what I must
Coz letting you go is what I can't
but it would be a gift I give myself

To move forward I refuse
To be awake I am induced
So I won't be swallowed
In my own dreams.

You have taught me many
One could never take your place
Even if one is able to come into it
This heart has a special place
Just for you.

Though letting you go is not a choice
Letting you off from my heart is what i deny
As there you will stay
Forever.

Revelation

You came when sadness surrounds me
A shoulder was all I needed
You glued me back from pieces

But now its you that I want
But its you that rejects me
And its you who sees me as a pest

After the revelation
Things change
Friends no more
Cast aside

Nothing more
nothing less
Fear
Is your reason to stay away

Soccer Night

What I did on a Saturday night? Hmmm, watching soccer on TV: Singapore vs Malaysia (should have been there actually but due to something, had to stay home). I thought team Singapore was pretty good, but a waste, many chances were missed and sadly, we defeated a goal through a very stupid mistake. I was told Lionel Lewis is one of the best goalkeeper in Singapore, but from what I observed during the match, that goal was never meant to be had he kept it in place properly. So what I did, being alone at home, I smsed my sis who was at the National stadium and told her, Gosh Singapore has to lose with such a petty goal.

But, thank goodness, at 74th minute, Singapore stayed focus and scored a goal. And keeping very close contact with my sis at the stadium, she informed me that there was a fight between Malaysia and Singapore supporters. Interestingly, that should be fun to watch (though I did tell her to keep away from that area). Now suddenly, my excitement (though watching it alone) roared high and believe it or not, I am cheering for Singapore alone at home (I must say, its kinda sad doing that alone).

Going to the extra time, there was still no score but one can see many occasion where Mr Lewis and his defenders were not working in tanderm. It slowed down a little and looking like the match would end with sudden death. Roaring again at 22nd minute of extra time, yet, another point at losing possesion. And moments later, at 23rd minute, poor concentration again by Singapore. But soon after, Precious (like what a name rite) kicked and nearly hit home a win but was well-blocked by Malaysia's goalkeeper. And even at home, you can hear the swears and screams of the fans (the familiar tunes back from the Malaysia cup days) and not forgetting the horns. They just seem to be enjoying every moment of it. Extra time over, and now the scary moment, PENALTY SHOOT OUT.

First: Indra (GOAL)
First: Mal (Goal)
Second: Alam Shah (GOAL)
Second: Mal (Goal)
Third: Mustafic (GOAL)
Third: Mal (Goal)
Fourth: Faizal (Goal)
Fourth: Mal (Goal)
Fifth: Jia Yi (GOAL)
Fifth: Mal (No Goal)


And with penalty kicks, Singaopore WON! YEAH! SO happy, singapore made my day! I am sooooo happy. Final: SINGAPORE vs Vietnam or Thailand (most likely Thailand).

My darlingz

These are my new darlingz...my kids for everyday from 7.15 till about 1 pm. They are my students. Heard a rumour that may change soon. May be switching classes with another colleague. Hmmm, I am miserable about that, but if that comes, can I say no? Off coz not, though I do feel like a ball, being bounced around. But till that comes, I shall savour the moment with my devilish yet angelic darlingz.

Plans that falter

Trying to leave,
But can't
Trying to forget,
But fails
Trying to let go,
But falter
Can one stop trying?

Planning to depart,
But stay
Planning to be apart,
But inseparable
Planning to divert
But unachievable.