Golden Delicious Smile

all I want for Christmas is you

2011-12-25T11:12:00.000+11:00

I don't want a lot for Christmas but in short all I want for Christmas is you. I would dearly love that won't happen. Instead, I'll be spending Christmas with my family and relatives. I just welcomed home my sister who I admit to have missed since she has been away for six weeks. That is the longest time we've been apart since she joined me in this world. It should be a good Christmas day and dinner.

The lyrics are great and this is one of my favourite Christmas songs. I'm currently playing this on repeat since it is the most suitable time to play this song. Fun times ahead I hope. I'll be looking forward to when I get to see you the next time. Whenever that is, time will tell like it does with a lot of things. I'm getting hungry so I'll leave it here. May you all have a Merry Christmas and have a grand time spending it with your loved ones or carry on with your day as if it is normal if you're not festive.

kid, pour into my bite sized cup

2011-11-29T19:48:00.000+11:00

Twas a late Thursday morning tantalisingly close to noon when my friend, Lyn and I met to go on a little trip to an inner eastern suburb by the name of Malvern. Yes it is one of those leafy, high property priced suburb with probably every several cars owned is a Mercedes or BMW. Why were we venturing down to le magnifique Malvern? The reason was that Lyn and myself decided to visit a food place on my list that was out of the way that we wouldn't be able to venture to during the hectic university period.

So we made our way there on a day during the short mid semester break that we had. Poor Lynny had to catch a train down to Malvern, since she doesn't need to catch trains on a regular basis when she heads into university or the city. Fortunately, the weather was wonderful and helped alleviate any possible threats of annoyance surfacing. No complaints when we arrived there by foot from Malvern station. We witnessed a funny sight along the way with someone who had parked their black beamer poorly and left over half a metre from the curb. The destination we arrived at was an establishment recently opened at the time of visit by the name of 'The Pour Kids'. Lyn noted that the cafe is extremely close to her old piano school but now that school has turned into a solicitors office of some sort.

The decor was a nice way to get out of the cruel, cruel world

When we stepped foot inside the door, it was like stepping back into our childhood with everything being so colourful and kid like. The innocence and fragility of a child's mind in play where things were simple yet so creative. Vivid imaginations come into play when colours, shapes and patterns mix. The chairs were giant versions of the chairs at the kids table where you would probably find a hard time sitting on with your legs possibly angled skywards. Maybe they should have some colour in books for kids if they come here with adults. Fortuitously, we were seated with plenty of room around as the cafe wasn't probably discovered by your hipster or foodie just yet. We chatted away after we made our orders of 'Google This', which consisted of Deep fried, crumbed poached eggs, with chorizo, feta, frizee lettuce + extra virgin oil and 'Smash and grab', which comprised of Brushetta of smashed avocado, marinated feta, slow-roasted tomatoes + balsamic reductions. I believe Lyn added a poached egg to her 'Smash and grab' dish.

Google This

Smash and Grab

It wasn't long before our orders arrived and we consumed away happily. The dish didn't taste like sunshine, I wouldn't have a clue what that would taste like but it did leave a bright impression on my taste buds. It was just a lovely combination with the heavy protein foods like the eggs and chorizo and the lighter lettuce with the assistance from the feta and olive oil. I was able to taste some of Lyn's dish because she just dropped it into my plate with minimal warning. I forgot how it tasted but I remember Lyn was raving about the dish and said it was delicious. While we were eating I accidentally dropped my fork or knife and when I picked it up I somehow got a bit of egg on my pants. So I now refer to them as my 'Egg pants'. Lame but whatever.

We decided against ordering coffee because we were planning to visit more food places soon after our lunch at The Pour Kids. I have to agree with Lyn that the foods served were of great quality and were tasty. Hopefully, the quality doesn't diminished after a rise in popularity. Also, fingers crossed that a venue of this kind would open near my house so I could enjoy delicious lunches in a close proximity. We left the cafe with a smile and wondered how the food from our next destination was going to turn out. You may have wondered about my title but I tried to incorporate the places I went to into the title. See if you can guess the remaining two places we visited before you read ahead.

It was a nice day so we had our sights set on going to a frozen yoghurt place and I just had the place in mind to try. We made a short sprint for the train which we caught despite running on full stomachs. Actually this wasn't true, my stomach tends to find some way to find room for desserts and this was no exception. We caught the short train ride to South Yarra. We had a little stroll to Story in a Cup, down Yarra st which is next to the train station. It isn't on a main shopping strip like Chapel street or Toorak road, so unless you knew what you were looking for or got a bit lost down a side street, then it is rather unlikely you'll find this frozen gem. We walked into the tiny store where we saw two people working, actually one person was on a laptop and one was behind the counter. There were no customers! How bizarre that on that fine day for frozen yoghurt that there were no customers. Maybe it was because the location wasn't on a busy location with a lot of foot traffic or maybe people just favoured ice cream over froyo.

Nonetheless, it was a self serve froyo place and I was surprised to see later that another guy was working there who had been fixing something at the back. Rather than getting a tad of each flavour of froyo, I got carried away and got a huge dollop each. The great amount of froyo with some extra toppings on top amounted to over $10 and 400grams. I was definitely enjoying the largest quantity of froyo I've had in one sitting. The thing was I did end up finishing it all with joy even though I was so full by the time I was done. Story in a Cup sells quality froyo, but with its location all the way in South Yarra. I'm unlikely to venture there just to buy froyo and more so if I buy $10 worth of froyo each time I go. The service was very attentive at the time since we were the only customers. There are many other froyo options that are of equivalent or possibly better substitute in that of Elles and Cacao Green. I haven't tried the Tutti Frutti store that opened in QV yet but despite it being popular, I heard from my friend that it is not good quality froyo. I might try it some time over Summer to rate it myself.

Happy Lyn with her froyo

After consuming over 400 grams of frozen yoghurt, I was indeed full by now. I struggled to walk but had to walk it off so we trudged down Yarra st, to Toorak rd and then onto Chapel st and all the way down to Prahran Market. While we were walking down Chapel street, a dress store caught Lyn's eye. So she asked me if we could pop in and have a look so she could see if any of the dresses were of birthday dress material. No, none were but there were some interesting designs in the store. We explored Prahran Market which was so clean and ventured around the little streets of South Yarra and did a huge circle or rectangle back to Toorak road. I was still full by the time we arrived at our next destination but I was determined to get through it.

Luxbite, was the destination and I know from my first and single experience that it had delectable cakes. We each ordered our own dessert but maybe we shouldn't have as they were both very rich and sweet. Lyn didn't end up finishing her dessert because she said it was very sweet but liked the popcorn on top. Her dessert was called 'The E.T.' which comprises of dark chocolate mousse filled with salted caramel and topped with chocolate covered caramel popcorn. I ordered the 'Supersized love' and it was so rich that I struggled to get through it all but it was still scrumptious and brought back some fond memories of peeling the golden wrapper of an individual Ferrero Rocher back when I was a child and taking the sticker and sticking it elsewhere. Good times, but my stomach was chockablock with food and this wasn't a good sign. I rested for a little while before I could get up, walk and leave. Second visit to Luxbite was a somewhat of a success but I recommend ordering a single dessert if you don't possess a sweet tooth or sweet teeth. The macarons sold there possess an array of exotic flavours as well which were yummy. It could be a hit and miss with certain flavours but the four I tried from my previous visit were a hit which included watermelon yoghurt, mandarin and saffron, creme brulee and kaya toast. Creme brulee was probably my favourite.

Supersized love in the front. The E.T. in the left background.

Fortunately, I didn't look like the town drunk, stumbling my way to the train station but walked with inner pain and little signs of physical anguish. Heading back to the city, meant the end of our food adventures for the day. We hung out for a bit more before we both had to go home. It was a good day out and I'm looking for to so many more food visits over the next three months of Summer. Maybe I'll return and do a food critic's blog entry next time when I visit a restaurant. Kat and I are planning to go to Cumulus Inc. sometime over summer, hopefully before she goes overseas. I hope you're well and enjoying your holidays. Take care all!

Random photo taken at The Pour Kids. Quality sea salt as Lyn pointed out

Oh I bought a cookbook the other day so hopefully I get to hone my cooking abilities.

happy 21st birthday Trung!

2011-11-08T21:36:00.002+11:00

Happy 21st Birthday Trung!
Happy 21st Birthday Trung! I'm sure you have had an amazing day despite the weather and studying for exams. Such is life but I'm sure many moments throughout the day you celebrated your birthday. Your caring and kind girlfriend would have treated you like King Trung, maybe that little tad more today. Many things in life, we can't have our own way but I'm hoping today was to your liking and things went your way.

I'm aware you're not too much of a sentimental guy and like this mushy stuff but I'll just leave a message here. We've been friends for for over 12 years now. I believe it was grade 3 Vietnamese school not 5, but our friendship has progressively improved throughout our life despite not being in each others homeroom during high school. Sports is our main common interest at the moment but I can't recall what was interesting about each other that brewed our friendship initially. Four square or was it that we were about equal in terms of Vietnamese reading, writing and speaking abilities? Time has gone by so much that somehow your Vietnamese skills has gone rusty. Nonetheless you'll remain my friend and I'm looking forward to partying with you after exams for your birthday! All the best and have a successful future! Europe trip to come :D

Trung arrives in the Gold Coast :D

Take care Trunga!

From your buddy Bao aka. Banh Bao, Baothasar, Bao Ni lon etc.

I'm glad you came

2011-10-23T18:57:00.000+11:00

Hello there,
I hope all is well. This blog may be delayed but here it is. I just wanted to say that I had a fun time at my birthday party and thank you all who attended. Without each person, the party would've been seemingly different in some way. I'm glad that it didn't spiral out of control and the only mess I had to clean up were the rubbish. Good food, good people, good music + good fun =good party. Fun times. The following song is a good song to say thank you and dance a little in your room.

The same can't be said for my friend's 21st birthday last night. The party was normal and quickly became wild when people became tipsy and drunk. I was driving and wanted to preserve my brain cells for my exams hence the decision not to consume alcohol. The birthday boy got wasted and showed us he has another side to him. That was funny, we've seen it before but that was crazy. Good party since it was funny resuming my role of observing the wild, wicked drunks. I also attended another friend's 21st birthday at a lovely venue. Met some good people and talked to some interesting characters. No more parties for a month until my exams are over for another year.

Earlier today, I met up with my friend Tina for our quarterly catch up and it was a nice Sunday lunch. If we were well rested, we could've went for brunch and that is probably something I want to do more often. Good times and good conversation over good food. I had some eggplant chips, at first it was nice and tasted like calamari rings however I soon got sick of it. Tina saw a guy hit a power pole and ran onto a curb, while I just saw the aftermath. Big damage bill for his car. As usual, we delved into more deeper topics of conversation. It has been a while since we have talked about these things since we don't talk too often on the phone anymore. I thought and am adamant I should be confident with my decision. Wise words as always Tina.

It has been a lovely day today as well. I'm going to further enjoy it later with my good mates. For now, I'll leave it with this song which I heard recently and just rings true for my next move. This summer will be very interesting. I'm getting excited from this weather. I would too like to sit under a tree on a picnic rug or on a pier with a cool breeze blowing gently. At the moment, these scenes and pictures are just in my head but someday, one day I'll get to experience it as well. Then I'll think back and savour it even more. No risk, no gain. Yes risk may result in a lost but if you're willing to take the risk, you believe the gains will be greater than the loss. I sure hope that it will be the case and gain this time rather than lose. Alright I'm off, since I have to get ready for the last time we have a guys night in before SWOTVAC and exams. Cheers and good luck for your exams!

wondrous day and it isn't even over!

2011-10-12T18:46:00.000+11:00

You may quite possibly be able from the blog title that I'm in quite a happy mood.
There are many reasons for this. I'll keep it short. Yes the records do indicate it is my birthday. Yes just another day in the life really but having friends and family do those extra little things to make it special is wonderful. I'm enjoying today! Thank for you for those friends I got to enjoy it with and those friends I bumped into. Cheers for all the messages. I appreciate them. Also I would like to be thankful for the beautiful weather on display this whole entire day, it has definitely helped me be in an awesome mood and I'm looking forward to Saturday to celebrate with my other friends. Now I'm going to get ready for dinner with my family and relatives. Peking duck, I'm hoping its great. Unfortunately, the oven at Simon's Peking Duck restaurant was broken so I booked at another restaurant much closer. We'll see how it is. Take care and this was a five minute blog. Yay :)

golden fields forever

2011-09-20T17:41:00.003+10:00

It was a fine Friday afternoon where I embarked on a journey with my fellow foodie friend, Katrina, to Golden Fields. I first heard about this Golden Fields, about three months ago when I read the Epicure section of The Age Newspaper then Katrina texted me about it. I didn't know much about it since the restaurant is a new addition to Melbourne's fine culinary scene.

There was much deliberation on whether we'll have enough time to go between the time slot between her practical's end to when I have to leave for work. Not to be deterred, I was adamant with my leeway of 30 minutes for lateness and waiting time that it'll be all smooth sailing. However, as with life, things didn't pan out that fine. Kat's prac finished later than usual and we missed several trams while she was still on her way to the tram stop. Apologies aside, we finally got there to the beach side suburb of St Kilda. It was a nice day for a stroll which we did since Kat thought it was one way while I thought it was in the other direction. I wasn't too sure but I had my bearings correct.

We arrived and I was about to take a photo of the door and the print 'Golden Fields', but Kat due to her heightened excitement wanted to just burst through the door and exclaim 'Two lobster rolls please!'. We were greeted by a lovely maitre d' and fortunately for us we didn't have to wait. We sat bar side and had the great close up view of the chefs and cooks preparing the food. I was excited as well and took my camera out to take some shots. Kat and I knew there were some items on the menu that we must order but had trouble deciding on a few extra things. We made some great choices assisted by a waitress and happily waited chatting amongst ourselves. We were given some yummy sunflowers seeds to munch on while we waited and we just kept picking them one after the another.

A chef cutting some eggplants

The first dish to arrive was a raw tuna dish. I couldn't remember its original name but it was a delicious dish to start. The freshness seeps through the fish as if somehow Port Phillip Bay was an ocean and the tunas were caught from there that morning. It had a tender texture that made it easy to consume but you want to savour every bite as it seemed so delicate. The aromas from the components of the dish combined well and we our taste buds were salivating. Soon after the second dish arrived and it was the signature 'New England lobster roll, hot buttered bun, cold poached crayfish, watercress and kewpie'. I must admit I've never been a fan of seafood or specifically crustaceans. However, I thought there is a first time for everything and if I was allergic then I would pass out on a good meal. So Kat cut the bun in half and I had my first intentional bite of lobster. Wow, if every lobster tasted that delicious then I'm having more of it. Since I'm blogging over a month on, I confirm that I'm not allergic to lobster. Hooray, I can try new creatures from the deep blue and finally make the most of paying for all you can eat. The whole combination of the lobster roll was sublime. I could have probably eaten a few more since they were so tiny. However, there were more dishes to come and my head could've swollen up.

Delicious tuna!

New England lobster roll

Next dish on the table was the 'Shredded chicken, sesame paste, house-made cold rice noodles, chilli oil'. This dish was consumable and would be rated higher if Golden Fields wasn't an establishment without an one hat rating for the Good Food Guide 2012. I didn't mind it but personally the flavours and noodles with the chicken was strange but not the most pleasant strange. Not too strange but if I were to go back there sometime I wouldn't order that dish again since there are other dishes that were superior. For example the upcoming and final savoury dish for the day.

Shredded chicken, sesame paste, house-made cold rice noodles, chilli oil

The final dish was the 'Twice-cooked duck, steamed bread, vinegar and plum sauce' and befittingly Golden Fields was saving the best dish to last. Oh my, this dish has made me craving peking duck ever since my last bite of it. Although the dish wasn't called 'Golden scrumptious peking duck', it definitely sparked up resemblances between the two. The whole wraps and duck combo with sauce to top off the dish. Kat and I both enjoyed this dish very much. I was almost licking my lips for more but we were running on a schedule and it was time to wait for the dessert.

Twice-cooked duck, steamed bread, vinegar and plum sauce (already torn apart, we couldn't help ourselves)

Kat being the hospitable person she is and cutting up the duck for me and herself.

The finished product! YUM! Three cheers and photos for the duck!

Seeing as we are both kind people, we had the whole 'You choose' dispute and this time for dessert I came up triumphant. She chose the 'Peanut butter parfait, salted caramel & soft chocolate'. We were being time efficient and had ordered it once the duck dish arrived and the wait for dessert wasn't long at all. Ah what a sweet way to end our meal at Golden Fields. This dish was was divine. I surely enjoyed it since I regard myself as having sweet teeth. Must try even if the quantity is small. I guess that is the norm for fine dining. Paying for quality over little quantity.

Peanut butter parfait, salted caramel & soft chocolate

We both were satisfied and happy diners and left after paying the bill taking a business card as well. We walked out onto Fitzroy st into the sunshine and blue skies with smiles on our faces. Although I ended up being a little bit late for work since I missed my connecting train home, it was definitely well worth it.

Golden Fields is definitely on the must travel list of food destinations in Melbourne. This latest Andrew McConnell establishment provides a fresh a sight and taste to St Kilda's fine assortment of foods such as Cafe Di Stasio, Donovans, Sapore and Stokehouse. Be warned, after eating here, you might want to keep coming back for the duck or head to your nearest restaurant for peking duck.

Now I must try McConnell's other two established and highly rated restaurants including Cutler & Co. and Cumulus Inc. I definitely will continue to sample more of these quirky Melbourne cafes and other hidden gems. Until next time, go out and try and enjoy new foods that may just lie in your own suburb. It may surprise you. If not venture out and try those highly rated places and indulge yourself. Life has an infinite amount of time and we just got to make the most of it while we can.

The dining scene after the lunch time rush

The cute + cool cook pouring the liquid who gave us those sunflower seeds

Lovely

First official food blog completed. Yay, sorry if there are punctuation errors and all, I'm not feeling well and I don't want to look at a computer monitor any longer. I hope you all enjoyed it :)

being confident. love your enemies?

2011-09-04T18:22:00.001+10:00

Hello. Surprised to see a new entry already? Hopefully this will be a quick blog entry since the Youtube videos will just display the gist of it.

Well I'm currently trying to overcome this lingering feeling about whether an annoying feeling would be overcome soon. I tend to observe a lot of things and sometimes I see the change in behaviour or attitude towards me. I'm not sure whether I did something or act wrongly towards them or not. Quite possibly it could be due to other people talking about me behind my back. I know because I admit that I have done that in the past. Its not a good thing I must confess because if you have something to say to the person, you should tell it to their face to help them address that. If you're not willing to do that, then maybe you shouldn't talk about people in this manner at all. Speak up or shut up, don't whisper and gossip about crap.

Sometimes they may not realise what they're doing is wrong and annoying. Informing them may burst their bubble and may hurt but you know what, the truth tends to hurt. It is fact that everyone has lovers and haters, ok maybe not to that extreme but you get the point. There is always someone that will like you and someone who isn't too fond of you. Like in the 'Love your enemies' video, the topic of people talking other people down is just to make them feel better. Bring them down to their level. I realise that in a world with close to 7 billion people, not everyone is going to get along with everyone. There are many significant historical events to denote this including the countless wars that has been waged throughout history. Wars doesn't just affect the people who are involved in the dispute but also the people around them.
So if two people whether it be in the same group or some stranger in public had a dispute or argument, it doesn't just affect the participants but also can impact those around them. Hence, that is why I try to make an effort to be friendly with those around me and give them a chance and for me to get to know them, before I judge them. It is true, that there is the possibility that I may not be interested in further developing any association with them because their character is not someone who I would be acquainted with. Some people are just plain bitches or arseholes and no one really should encourage that behaviour, yet there are, hence why these people continue to act in that manner.

Bubzbeauty

My friends group is big and I tend to spend more time with those who share common interests, character and personalities that I admire because associating with those people make me happy. You shouldn't be hanging out with those who makes your life miserable and brings you down. Watch the movie 'Mean Girls' and you'll get my drift. One of my friends, linked me to a video by Bubzbeauty when it was just uploaded and the words from the video were inspiring. I never watched a Bubzbeauty video prior to that time since I thought she was all about makeup tutorials and fashion. Confidence is really important and you shouldn't be afraid to voice an opinion directly to the source. There should be people around you such as family and friends who can support you. Bubzbeauty or whatever her name is in reality, is definitely someone who has more knowledge and wisdom than that of makeup, fashion styles and hair. Once you give people a chance, you seem to discover so much about them and they may surprise you. Like they say, 'Don't judge a book by its cover'. Alright there are other possible quotes that can counter that because in some situations, you wouldn't really give a chance to someone who is threatening you at knife point that they're a nice person. Although, they could have an interior motive behind their actions.

Khoa

Alright that was a combination of venting and thoughts which ended up being a spiel. I'm about to finalise things for my 21st birthday party before inviting people. Nothing big, some friends and those that come as plus ones. I thought about having just a really small thing with close friends and good friends but then its a 21st which I believe is totally overrated in Australia. It may be more significant in countries like United States of America where people can start drinking and gambling legally when they're 21 but here there are no extra privileges. Like in my last blog entry, people can change and not everyone you're close/good friends with now will remain so for the rest of your lives. However, at this point in time, the more probable reason is that you and the other person is growing away from each other in terms of ideals and interests. For the time being, just enjoy those that keep you company and don't think about the future too far ahead. It is inevitable that things change, we just have to accept that, sometimes things just doesn't last and is unfair but that is life. You might think you'll be life long friends with someone forever or be together forever but something unpredictable may occur and just destroys that belief.

Caroline

Miki

Trung & Tina

To end this soon, I'll just leave it with the two Youtube videos by Bubzbeauty that I mentioned in my title and blog. Kudos to Bubzbeauty for sharing her wisdom with me and the rest of the Youtube community. Until next time, be confident and like my friends kept saying to me in poker last night 'Stay Strong!'

somebody that I used to know

2011-09-03T15:26:00.000+10:00

Hello,
I hope the winter blues are over now and everyone is enjoying this beautiful spring weather. I don't know about everywhere else in the world, but Melbourne's weather has surprisingly been consistently great over the past week. Hopefully it'll continue to be like this throughout spring.

Spring time, for some people might mean that it is time to do some spring cleaning or go on a spring break. For me, I don't know what it was but it triggered my shopping desire. So it meant spring shopping and that was the first time in a while I've done some solid shopping. It felt good, I guess some people say retail therapy can help. It was refreshing to see some new clothes in my wardrobe. Eventually though, I'll have to get rid some of the clothes that I no longer wear or have just outgrown whether I donate it to a charity bin or dispose of it. Sometimes it can be difficult letting certain clothes go, since you've worn it to significant events or shared some of your life adventures with it. Even though the piece of clothing has been with you for a long time and people think its outdated fashion, you don't care since it serves you well.

In life, relationships and friendships are rather similar to clothes, in the way that with some people it is difficult to let them go out of your life, even if other aspects of life has changed just as fashion changes. It is hard to let these people go because they have been through a certain part of your life that you are compelled to keep. Those memories can be easily forgotten once these people are gone. Sometimes you don't have an option for these people to leave your life. It might be due to their family moving away, the person moving schools or just life leading each other into different directions. This is not saying that they'll be gone from your life forever. They may still come in and out of it and you might hear from them once in a while but its just not the same as before. I had some examples of this through my life, where I've lost close friends as a result of changing schools and family relocation. Some I continue to keep in touch with but its just not the same. It really just sucks and the empty void just seems like it can't be filled.

The drifting of relationships and friendships could be due to the fact that the person has changed and you've changed and interests you once shared are now gone. It is like you've outgrown them or outgrown your piece of clothing and you two just don't fit with each other. However, once you are able to accept the lost that these things happen and understand that its a part of life then you'll be fine. New clothes can make you feel good and making new friends can make you happy. For me though, I cherish my close friends and appreciate them more, like you would take extra care of your more expensive or branded clothing you might wear. Its is like you have many clothes in your wardrobe but some of them you don't wear too often while some you wear more often. I guess that can be seen as how you tend to spend more time with your closer friends with your other friends. While the new pieces of clothing are those friendships or relationships that are just forming and you're waiting for the right time to wear them out and then wear them out more thereafter.

Anyway I'm wrapping this up on this another fine day like a father's day present I need to get and wrap. Not very well. I wonder what the rest of the weekend has to offer me. Then also curious about the food places I'm going to next week. Exciting and also the exciting possibility of going on road trips during summer holidays as I discussed this with a friend last night. Good times to be had. Even further away is Taylor Swift's concert which I shall be attending! I'm feeling good and I hope you are too!

big bad beast

2011-08-23T18:12:00.000+10:00

Hello there.
Are you wondering what the reason for me to entitle my blog entry 'Big bad beast'? Well its quite simple, for the first time in my life I had too much to drink on Saturday night at a friend's 21st birthday party. Party hard was an understatement.

Past parties I would be the one observant of those wild antics caused by the drunks and tipsy people. This time I was the one who committed these shambolic acts. Why? Hmm for one I can tell you was curiosity. The feeling has never struck me before, somehow I have a pretty high tolerant of alcohol so it generally takes me a long more to get tipsy or loose. This time I pushed myself where I've never been before. I just wanted to see what is the fuss about people getting drunk whether it be occasionally or on a regular basis.

After experiencing the drunken state, I continue to wonder why people are still continuing to get wasted even after going through this ordeal. Ok, you might forget for a while about reality. Then you would have to face it once you have recovered plus the consequences you may have caused. It is a horrible feeling and possibly a traumatic one for those around you such as friends and family. My personal thought is that alcohol is like a form of drug, although legal in Australia, it can prove to be just as dangerous while under the influence. There is a high sensation then quickly out of the blue, beyond the yonder you plummet to the ground. When it hits, it hits hard. It doesn't just affect you in the short term or experiencing a hangover the next day. It can prove to affect your health in the long term whether it be brain function or kidney failure.

I may have been an idiot to go that far, but for one thing I know I won't do it again. I shall continue to drink in moderation prior to this, if I choose to drink. I know that you can have a lot of fun without alcoholic consumption. Where has those days of fun from party games gone? Yes, me and my friends may be a several years older and might think it is stupid if we play pin the tail on the donkey or pass the parcel. Looking back on the two potential scenarios, what would you prefer to happen, laughing with your friends about some stupid party game you played for someone's 21st or not being able to share your these memories with your friend because he/she is in a coma or possibly dead due too much alcohol consumption.

Leaving the past behind me, I move on and I am living and learning. There are many things I still want to do and see and would be stupid if I became unable to do so because of one night. I'm approaching 21 and would definitely keep any form of drinking to minimum. I'm one to want to remember because I was given a good brain to remember things even though it may be so random and out of the blue. I want to remember my 21st birthday to be a wonderful not something catastrophic. However I celebrate it with family and friends, it would hopefully be an enjoyable night for those who celebrate it with me. Being able to cherish my past 21 years of living here on this world, would be a great achievement considering many millions each year don't past their infant years.

If you are able to read this, you're so much better off than many. That means you're literate and can read, also means that you have access to the internet which means electricity access. Many throughout the world, wouldn't even think of reading and having access to electricity, their first and foremost instinct and as humans our number one instinct is for survival. This could mean walking for many kilometres in search of water or food to bring home to their family. At times the water is so polluted that their family members suffer from the water borne diseases and die. Yes, many of us don't see this type of things daily and forget. For myself, it might weigh on my mind more so than others. I do care and have human compassion and hopefully one day I would be able to do something more than helping out with donating to charity or volunteering.

As I briefly mentioned my upcoming 21st birthday in the previous paragraph, I'm still yet to confirm anything yet. I'm leaning towards a house party and would try to prevent anyone from experiencing such a horrendous time like I did on Saturday. I'll ask some friends to help out since its a tough task just putting everything together. Like a team, each individual brings their own specialty to the team. One of my friends have already volunteered in helping. I'm happy to have such good friends, seeing as some took good care of me. So I think I'll keep it to a low key affair. I'm going to head off and study. Hopefully my brain will remember what I've learnt. Take care and don't over do it!

I sure did give it a lot on Saturday night. Too many drinks for sure :S

nothing last forever.. especially food

2011-08-08T01:41:00.002+10:00

Bonjour! I feel like speaking my limited french. Parlez vous francais?
Ah I've been indulging into so many scrumptious macarons from various stores in Melbourne. I just want to buy a ticket to Paris and hit up Pierre Herme and Laduree tomorrow. Someone buy me a flight ticket please :) Merci beaucoup! Below: Macarons from LuxBite. Delicious macarons and nice owners. Get Creme Brulee & Watermelon!

I was fortunate enough to tick a few more places off my list such as Hardware Societe which had delicious food for breakfast, brunch and lunch. I had the seared scallops which was nice and my friend had some salmon dish and her two friends ordered some attractive dishes. Then bought a few macarons from La Belle Miette which means the beautiful small thing or beautiful crumb to be specific. Funny how some of the others ended up buying 2 boxes of 6 each to try. Good times. Below: My seared scallops. Yum!

Last Wednesday, I got to eat at Chin Chin for a catch up with my friend, Tina, since we haven't had one of our usual catch up in too long. Chin Chin isn't one of those restaurants where my normal group of friends would attend to. They'll think its a bit outrageous for the money you pay for such low quantity where you can probably get some meal at some food court place for $10 or less. Although, Tina is a part of my normal group of friends, shes pretty cool and was up for anything and I got to select something from my list. We ordered a few entrees and mains each to share between us. I thought all of them were very good at least but although I was recommended to get the eggnet roll, it didn't cater to my taste buds as the other dishes did. Its tough to decide my favourite but lets just say these dishes aren't dishes you would normally see at any restaurant. Tina wanted to eat roti bread with one of the curries but since we arrived after the peak lunch time period, unfortunately they ran out. Our waiter was quite strange but accommodating and understanding, maybe this was because of the curry not being available. Oh I saw Jess Ho, an author of a food blog I read from time to time. I had a good time and enjoyed the food. I'll be back but I want to tick a few more of the places on my list first.
Afterwards, we set on hitting up a place for dessert called 'Le Petit Gateau' which means 'the small cake' I believe or some type of French cake. We were both excited while ambling along through the inner streets and lanes of Melbourne CBD trying to lessen the bloated sensation. I ordered the Brownie and Passionfruit Chocolate Gateau and it was simply divine.

I'm getting hungry just talking about food. Masterchef came to an end and Kate was officially announced the winner of Masterchef Australia season 3. She seemed to cook some brilliant dishes and that 'The Snowman' dish. Wow! That just reminded me of an epic snow egg but I think I'll prefer to try the Snow Egg from Quay than go all the way to Scandinavia to eat 'The Snowman'. While watching the finale of Masterchef, I was able to enjoy some macarons and cakes from Adriano Zumbo's Balmain Patisserie. The macarons are worth the hype. The cakes were probably too exotic for me and didn't cater to my palate. I'll have to try the other two cakes before I made a conclusion. Delicious way to end the weekend :)

I'm looking forward to the next few weeks even though it means the end of my break. I'm planning to go eat at Mamasita which I've been thinking about going to for a while. It has been in fluctuating among my top five places but plans are set for a date. Anyway I'm going to wrap it up. I think this probably is my first food blog entry since I didn't write anything in life besides food. Ah I just like food that much, no wonder I spend so much money on food. Oh sorry for the uploading so many photos. Maybe in the future. Just for those who want some music, check out this old song by Maroon 5, its good :) Take care!

we (I) used to wait

2011-07-24T00:52:00.001+10:00

Hello there,
I'm aware that I haven't blogged for a while, even though I have been on holidays since my last entry. These holidays with the exception of one week has been busy. Unfortunately, they're almost over and I haven't had the time to do everything I wanted to get done over the holidays. Yes I've managed to cook and bake a few more foods over the holidays but haven't managed to eat at places that are on my list bar two (make that four now after Friday). Disappointed, but not to be deterred. Like I've said to a friend, the restaurants or eateries will remain, its not like it will get up and move. Furthermore, these holidays I've been behind the A-ball in terms of funds to just go out and splash some cash. I've had a number of big expenses which really took a hit on my savings including my holiday to the Gold Coast.

Gold Coast was great fun and I enjoyed it a lot. Expensive, yes but was well worth the experience. The sand was soft and the beaches clean, the waves were massive which wiped some my friends and I out a few times. I drank seawater a few times and that was horrible. The feeling of being together with friends and enjoying things together was great. The food was definitely a bummer. Generally it was expensive but we found some good cheap food. I had my first teppanyaki experience there for just over $20 :) I also had my first white clubbing experience. The second time was much better since the whole group came and we had our own little section. Drinks were cheap for guys and free drinks for girls all night. I even got time to hit the town by myself and explore a number of places. I got to try a coffee place that was recommended by a friend and their home slice was great. The dirty chai was good as well and I got acquainted with two of the baristas while I drank my coffee and ate the home slice. The theme parks were good fun as well and a great thrill.

Too bad it is all over now. However, on Wednesday, I was able to go on another mini trip to Mount Buller and hit the slopes with the snowboard gear I hired. I wanted to try it and although I hit the snow covered ground many times, I got back up again like nothing happened and went down again. It was a lot of fun and although my bum is sore, I'm looking to honing my skills next snow season for longer. Hopefully it'll be good enough to be on display on the ski fields of the Swiss Alps or Canadian rockies. Time will tell but for now I'm happy that I got to try snowboarding.

Friday had a tinge of sadness but overall it was a good day. Like I briefly stated above, after Friday I was able to go to two more places I want to go to on my list of places to eat at in Melbourne. Such an experience and I got to meet the owners and chefs for both places. I'm a happy camper. Anyways, I'm going to leave it at that for now. Sorry no photos, but enjoy this song that I'm linking. I'm tired. I did just upload two albums worth of photos from my Thailand Trip. About time but its done now. I just got to tag them now.
Cheers, big ears :P

we danced together

2011-06-17T16:40:00.000+10:00

Hey guys!

Its a rather pleasant afternoon but I'm inside. White puffy cumulus clouds scattered across the vast blue skies with the lovely sunshine. It is winter now but you wouldn't think so. I wouldn't mind just going to a park and lying down as the winds blow the clouds on and time goes by.

Occasionally in life I'll get a chance to do this and just reflect out when I'm in nature and there are no cars, people or loud noises interrupting your thoughts and reminiscing. Maybe that is why I like to go on solo adventures by myself since there is no one holding me back. However, on some occasions I would like to go with someone and share my journey with them and we can enjoy the memories together. I guess that is a benefit of having a friend who is up for these kind of things or that special someone to enjoy your journey.

I feel like this right now, only doing it inside. Maybe I'll hop into my comfy bed soon and look at my bedroom ceiling instead.

Anyway, the other day I was talking to a friend, although she was still in war with her exams and sharpening her weapons to mount her next attack on her exam, I had a good and rather long conversation with her. I thought she would have left earlier for sleep but she stayed and talked. We talked about a number of things that ranged from being fun and exciting to old and more sombre topics. The conversation waded away from the shallow end and into the deep pool. We're both experienced swimmers so to speak, its just we haven't been swimming at the deep end for a while. Maybe because we were taking some time off from swimming in the deep end but treading around in the swimming pool like those old ladies with their floaties doing aerobic exercise classes or teenagers throwing around balls and annoying other swimmers. No we're not the young kids who are scared of water or learning how to swimming, we're experienced and we're ready when we want or need to get into the deep end.

So as we reached the deep end and started doing laps, we talked and I reflected. Life may probably not be the way it is, if we didn't make some mistakes or choices that we regret. I know some people say that they don't live with regret or you shouldn't live with it but for me there some things that I find hard to not see the other options. Then again it is life, there are so many possibilities, one decision impacting upon another whether you may think its a small one at the time. I may have discussed this before, but I guess it doesn't hurt to repeat some things like reruns of a television show. Looking back on one part of my life that was bothering me in the second half of last year, makes me think and smile knowing that although it hurt me back then. Now I'm feeling good and feel that it has helped me learn a lot and grow as a person. Some things in life are inevitable but you think you can stop the process but you're only slowing it down. At times I feel like I should stop trying, why should I put in the effort. A good friendship is a two people job. I found these two good quotes that reflect the things I thought from this conversation.

I'm going to end this blog with a song that helped me titled the blog entry. Its a good song but unfortunately the band broke up. Although I'm on holidays, I'm getting stressed as I haven't bought a PS3 and my two friends are almost finished with their exams.

Also this is good quote "If you are trapped between your feelings and what other people think is right, always go for whatever makes you happy.

Unless, you want everybody to be happy except yourself."

Anyway, I think I might head off and go somewhere. Haven't been out much this week. So I've had a lot of free time at home and I made some french toast this morning. So far so good, I haven't contracted any stomach aches or anything. I'm looking forward to cooking and baking more random stuff during my holidays. Hopefully I'll be able to get a few more clothing items including a pair of shoes or two and a coat then I'm set for winter. Take care and if theres a mention you thought I have forgotten is to say Happy Belated Birthday to Judy. Well I've said it a number of times but not on my blog. Great party last Saturday night! Fittingly enough, Judy and I have danced together when others have not been so eager.
So Happy 21st Birthday Judy!!!
Alright take care. More 21st Birthdays are approaching and without income for the past several weeks due to exams, my savings have been hurting. Cheers

-Bao

I am a champion

2011-06-12T17:45:00.001+10:00

haha maybe not yet. Ah well I'm feeling like one as I've conquered my exams for another semester. Maybe so not much the last one but I'm rather confident about my performance in the other three. Below is a video that would inspire and hopefully motivate you for any future competition and possibly exams you shall encounter. After watching this I felt motivated and confident for my exams.

So its officially day one of my holidays. Its going to be a rather long holiday where I hope to accomplish or achieve numerous things. Last night I attended my friend, Judy's 21st Birthday and it was fun. However, not many of my friend drank since they still had exams. I guess there shall be no excuses for Gold Coast whether it be exams or the driving excuse.
Some friends have asked what my plans are for my holidays. I have nothing set other than going to the Gold Coast with some of my friends in early July for 6 days. I guess I'll go with the flow and shall have a variety of objectives I want to complete.

Another thing I have to do soon is to acquire a Playstation 3 console since my two close friends have been pressuring me to buy one since I haven't had a console ever in my life and they've been carrying the burden since year nine. Priority number one is to obtain a game called Professional Evolution Soccer or as we tend to call it 'Pro Evo'. The three of us could literally play it on hours on end and wouldn't notice the time going by until one my friends parents would either ask us what we want to eat for dinner or tell us to eat. I'm getting excited for getting a console for the first time, but its difficult to find a good bargain for it at the moment. The prices end up being too steep once the auction ends on Ebay.

Some of the things I would want to do over the mid year break is to donate blood, start jogging once again in preparation for possibly participating in Run Melbourne, start to hone my cooking and baking skills other than baking and making stuff instructed by packets e.g. pasta, mac and cheese, random cakes and instant noodles ala mi goreng. I guess you could say that I have got to step up to the plate.
I would ideally want to get away for a few days possibly Sydney to buy some of Adriano Zumbo's cakes and famous macarons and go to a restaurant named Quay in Sydney where it sells some delectable food such as the Snow Egg. I know that I can be an ambitious person and sometimes not all the plans or things I have in mind come to fruition but that is fine since I still get to do some of things I want to do. I would also like to tick some more places on my list of places to eat in Melbourne and also go on some adventures depending on where I feel like going.
Warning: The following videos may make you salivate and drool!

Anyway, I'm going to leave it there. I bid farewell for now but might blog again soon since I've some time on my hands before more friends finish their exams. For the my friends, good luck and you shall be rewarded with a great holiday. Cheers

Sorry I just had to :P

louder

2011-05-31T16:16:00.001+10:00

Hey there,
Just a quick little blog/update. Exams approaching quickly. In a few weeks and my exams shall be completed. Definitely looking forward to the holidays, however I've got a lot of study to go.

My friend William's 21st birthday party was on Saturday night and carried onto Sunday morning. It was a house party and it was crazy fun. There are things you simply can't do in public and a party house environment triumphed. A number of friends and others got tipsy and drunk. Either they were happy and high doing random stuff like my friend Trung or they were a depressed drunk or a tired drunk and just pass out. I got a little bit tipsy as I had work the next day and wanted to watch the Champions League final. Its hard to distinguish between when I'm just energetic or when I'm tipsy since its almost the same. Although I can tell when I am or not.

I remember the hilarious moments and watched as people started hitting lows. The music was blaring after the lengthy speeches that was conducted by the birthday 'man' himself. People started hitting the dance floor and not many were shy to it. Some of the songs were bad but thats because some people just have bad music taste.. ahem those who like Kesha's songs. There were plenty of snaps taken. I shall post one photo and maybe blog about this party after exams. If not, then this shall do then. On second thought, probably not. It was a good night but you just had to be there. There are plenty of 21st coming up so updating you on that then will be more justified.

Trung the crunky photo bomber.

Below is a song that I've heard for the first time the other day. I think its a nice song. Makes me feel better and good. Anyways I'm going to leave it at that. I got to get back to studying. Enjoy! Cheers

happy 21st birthday Miki!

2011-05-22T02:45:00.001+10:00

Happy Birthday M!!
Its finally here! You're 21 now, time sure has flew. I have a lot to say but it'll get said through other means. I hope you have an amazing day. A little clichéd but nonetheless I do mean these wishes and not just saying it. It'll be a quick little blog just to show my gratitude and appreciation towards our friendship. Even though its only approaching two years, our friendship seemed to have lasted longer than that. Our friendship definitely has endured a lot in that period. Most of the times its smooth sailing but theres the occasional times where I'll find it difficult to communicate with you. All in all, I'm glad that its all in the past and things are set aside where our friendship can continue to grow. Thanks for the memories and hopefully there shall be more to come in the future. Definitely going to have an awesome time tonight! Let's party and you better sing! :D Cheers.

I think this was the first photo we had taken together. Not such a bad photo since it was rather candid

We seem to be going through a period of nostalgia, and everyone seems to think yesterday was better than today. I don’t think it was, and I would advise you not to wait ten years before admitting today was great. If you’re hung up on nostalgia, pretend today is yesterday and just go out and have one heck of a time.

Art Buchwald

happy 21st birthday Khoa!

2011-05-05T17:36:00.001+10:00

Happy Birthday Khoa!!

I hope you're having an amazing day! (The Hos & I. left to right: John, Khoa & me)
Even though it may seem like any other day, now you just obtained more legal rights in America and other countries. Looking forward to another great year. Thank for being my friend, your friendship is very much cherished. May your hopes and dreams come true soon or eventually. Just a quick blog even though you may not read it anytime soon. Here is something to ponder about after all our random chats and those long, long conversations on the phone. We shall move forward together stronger. Cheers :)
-Bao.

someone like you

2011-04-28T03:39:00.000+10:00

"Sometimes it lasts in love, but sometimes it hurts instead"

Simply brilliant. The song touches the heart and triggers memories both positive and negative. Currently playing on repeat and is a song for the ages. (I think that would be my review for the song)

Well what more can I say, I'm just in a pensive mood. I'm trying to record recounts of noteworthy events and things occurring since my last significant entry in my book. Its been a long time coming, but finally I'm writing again. Hopefully, things will inspire me to write songs/poems once again. I'm enjoying the Easter break even though its only one week long and I have quite a fair amount of work & study still to complete. However, I'm putting that aside for now and just want to express how wonderful this song is. The lyrics I placed at the start of this blog entry is so accurate. Although I'm yet to find love, when I do I know this will be the case. It'll either work and last or it'll end and hurt you. When it hurts, it shall affect your life. Sometimes you might not be the one who wanted it to end but instead still has a lingering feeling and want to reignite that. However, the other person in the relationship have already moved on as the song suggests. Adele does this song wonders.

I thought that I'll start off with a song that is my top song at this point in time. I think I shouldn't type too much else. For the rest of the break, I've also got to get my creative juices flowing as I want to conjure up something and create something lovely for my best friend's 21st birthday. I'll just leave it at this. I'm going to head off to sleep and hopefully tomorrow can be a productive day. I just enjoy moments like these highlighted in the quote below :)

WHEN YOU CATCH YOURSELF IN A MOMENT AND YOU’RE LIKE

…Wait wait… I’m happy.

right next to you

2011-03-29T02:21:00.001+11:00

Hello.
Quick blog. I just heard this song yesterday and I'm really enjoying it. Its on repeat at this point in time. I guess a lot of people don't like Justin Bieber and Chris Brown for their own respective reasons. However, I think certain artists produce great music despite their backlash received from certain members of the public. It shouldn't be a deterrence for people to listen to not listen to someone's music because a lot of people hate or just envious of these artists. I guess it is over the top that Justin Bieber has over 500 million views on a single like his song 'Baby' on YouTube. Many find this song annoying while others love it. Everyone has their own lovers and haters. When I mean everyone, I do mean everyone. The popular kids at school may be popular with the 'cool' crowd but there are just as many or more unpopular students, geeks or nerds that apparently don't fit in with the general cohort.

One artist I don't like and her songs is Kesha. I get her songs are catchy in a sense but certain songs with repetition are so annoying, especially with her sounding like her vocals are on auto tune. Speaking of auto tune, a recent song that went viral called 'Friday' by a girl name Rebecca Black tops any of Kesha's songs. Its really bad. Its funny the things people these day watch and create news with when there are more important news topics at hand. Although, I must say her lyrics are simple to comprehend. Repetitive and stating the obvious as if we're all Kindergarten children learning the order of the days of the week. Fortunately, kindergarten students aren't going to worry about going to her parties with Rebecca's underage friends driving there.

Anyways, listen to the song and let me know about what you think. You can comment below. For those interested both Chris Brown and Justin Bieber are heading to Melbourne for tours.
Chris Brown: April 23rd at Rod Laver Arena
Justin Bieber: May 2nd & 3rd at Rod Laver Arena
Enjoy!

One day when the sky is falling,
I’ll be standing right next to you,
Right next to you.
Nothing will ever come between us,
I’ll be standing right next to you,
Right next to you.

Cheers
-Bao.

I can't help but wait

2011-03-27T03:03:00.001+11:00

Hello!
I hope all is well for your own lives. The world in general on the other hand may not be experiencing such a great time. The tragic and catastrophic events of the Japanese earthquakes and Tsunamis taking place just over two weeks ago. The political issues that has been boiling in countries such as Bahrain & Libya, where military action has been required. The turmoil and aftermath from these events impact on those citizens lives deeply. Furthermore, foreigners who have had plans to travel to those countries suffer as a consequence. Two of my friends, William and Nancy, were supposed to be in Japan right now. However, their lives and plans have been altered since they have been prohibited from travelling to Japan for their exchange. Anthy, my friend who was in Japan for a longer exchange returned home the other day, as it has been cut short due to the disaster. So many lives affected by such tragedies and misery.

You may think your life may possibly be bad at the moment but we all have our down or depressing time at some point in our lives. Some more so than others. However, in comparison to those who have had their lives affected by these monstrous events then you should try to get on with your lives. Those Japanese people who had suffered so much from the earthquakes and tsunamis, where their homes got ripped out of the ground, belongings churned up and spewed out into an indistinguishable shamble, loved ones and friends lost or missing. Then levels of anxiety skyrocketed as concerns for several nuclear reactors potentially becoming threatening were presented. This fueled citizens and foreigners residing in Japan to evacuate to a 'safe' distance from threats of high level of radiation exposure. Fortunately, there were no serious nuclear plants explosion.
It seems like most Japanese people are so resilient and picking themselves up without so much as a complaint. There seems to no looting and their society just seems to be cooperative where caring and sharing go hand in hand.

I heard a story from my mum or aunt about how a girl was offered food as she was last in a queue by a man. She declined and wanted to share it to others evenly and said that there are other people who are much more hungry than myself. Such an inspiring story of selflessness. I wish all those who suffered from the Japanese disaster all the best and a speedy recovery. You can help contribute to this recovery by donating through various charities such as the Red Cross. You can click here to donate:
https://www.redcross.org.au/Donations/onlineDonations.asp

Speaking of life, my life has been good ever since my return from Singapore and Thailand. Excluding university it'll be very good. Obviously things could be better but since I tend to be a happy chap and looks beyond any current or upcoming depressing events that take place. So far nothing much has dramatically changed my life as yet. I enjoy moments like these, described in the following image. Just a great feeling and can make me feel like theres no troubles or problems in the world even for a second.

I've also commenced compiling a list of places to eat in Melbourne where I would hopefully someday be able to dine at. The list continues to grow and hopefully I'll be able to tick another place off the list during the week. Two of my friends dined at a high end restaurant called Ezard the other night. I'm waiting for their verdict and recommendations. It feels good to tick things off from a to do list as you accomplish them. I feel grateful I have found a friend that is as enthusiastic about trying new places as I am.

Outside of my life, in general Melbourne, several events have been taking place or soon to eventuate. One artist named Usher has been providing a spectacle with singing his songs and strutting his amazing dance moves. A number of my friends have been to his concert last week and said it was awesome. I was even offered a 'free' ticket by a few friends, after one of their friends couldn't attend. I didn't go since they called me immediately but I missed the call so they offered it to another friend. I had something to do that night anyway even though it probably wasn't as exciting as his concert.

His concert featured an artist named Trey Songz. He has been around longer than most people probably have heard of him. He sure was a popular supporting act and many people raved on about him. My favourite song by him is called 'Can't Help But Wait'. As with a lot of songs I like, they're catchy and the lyrics are creative and well written. Listen to it and see what you think. I guess I feel this sometimes in the past and possibly the future. I can't help but wait...

Aside from Usher & Trey Songz, Melbourne is hosting the Formula 1 Grand Prix today and also a Tutankhamun exhibit commencing early April at the Melbourne Museum. I might not be attending the Formula 1 and uncertain about visiting the exhibit but I'm planning to attend the Melbourne Comedy Festival which commences next week for several weeks.

Hopefully, some brilliant bands or artists announces tours to Melbourne and I would be further delighted.

Well I'm becoming very weary and should head to sleep. Its very late and even though I can finally sleep in. I should sleep earlier even more so since daylight savings is taking place in one week. I probably shall resume publishing shorter entries since these lengthy entries consume a lot of time in comparison. Furthermore, a lot of assignments and tests are drawing closer. Take care and in under a month its Easter! Enjoy life :)

Yes, this is true and that is me. I tend to over think too much. Over think things which makes the situation seem worse than it really is :S

-Bao.

Thai-riffic & Thai-tanic (Sink or Swim)

2011-03-15T01:42:00.011+11:00

Hey guys,

Yes the title is a lame pun but Thailand was terrific. No wonder its a recommended holiday destination and now I've been there 3 times. I thought I'll use it anyway since I tend to come up with puns that are occasionally lame. Many things took place on the second part of my 2 week holiday to Singapore & Thailand.

Well since the last blog entry posted, many things have occurred. I was meant to publish another entry several days after the previous one while I was in Thailand. However, I decided against it as I was feeling a lot of vehement anger and annoyance towards some friends who accompanied with me on the trip. It's fortunate that I didn't because the entry to never be published would've been filled bombardment of attacks aimed towards them. Thats another good thing about the trip, I got to see and spend time with friends long enough to distinguish who are my good friends and friends. There were some who stood up for me when people were talking shit and everyone was laughing. There were times for jokes and laughter. I was fine with it, but then a few friends would continue to use the same joke which got tiring and annoying. Just like a baby or child nagging at their parent for candy. Basically asking for trouble or a smack. Fortunately for them, we were on holidays and I didn't want to start a scuffle or fight. Other than this odd low point, the trip was amazing & cheap as well! Especially the food. We dined in luxury :)

William, myself & Joey at Fuji (Japanese Restaurant)

So where do I begin? Day 1 it is.

We departed Singapore after catching the train to the final stop of Changi Airport. It was sad to leave Singapore but it was also thrilling to return to Thailand. It has almost been 7 years since I went for a holiday there. Excitement was high. We took the monorail that operates between Changi Airport's three massive terminals and then checked in. We had some time to eat lunch before departing. I shared Joey's third time eating at Subway. The subway in Singapore isn't as good as in Australia. Maybe Quiznos is more of a popular option there as they are really similar. The others ate at some fast food chain store called 'Texas Chicken'. Those guys simply had too much fast food over in Singapore. Maybe because the food in Singapore isn't cheap except for the odd thing such as carrot cake and ice kachang and also fast food. Ah carrot cake and ice kachang are probably two of my favourite dishes after experiencing Singapore even though ice kachang is Malaysian. The Singaporean carrot cake isn't the sweet carrot cake you would think of comprising of carrots. Just try it if you ever go to Singapore.

MOO-ving on (since one of my nicknames is Bao the Cow & funnily enough I like dairy products), we left Singapore and arrived in Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is the main airport in Bangkok now. The last time I came to Bangkok, the old Bangkok Airport called Don Mueang was still in operation. Leaving immigration took a very long time. Joey and Annie, who filled out their forms on the plane, got through it quickly as the mad rush of European tourists arriving made the queue terribly long. I was starting to grow impatient with Thailand. After the hour plus wait, we finally were able to leave the airport and took a taxi directly to our hostel. The taxi fares are so much cheaper in Thailand than in Australia.

We finally got to hostel and got acquainted with the employees. Got our room and left our suitcases there before going to exchange money. This was our first mini adventure in Bangkok, we walked to the exchange place. We exchanged our money and felt rich. That feeling was only to last most of the trip until the last two days were people had to exchange a little more since they have spent a lot on shopping or over indulging themselves in food. We went back to the hostel to pay for our accommodation before checking out MBK briefly. There was little time to do shopping but we did enjoy our first dinner in Bangkok which allowed me to tick off something from a place to eat at list. Fuji was the place and it was a nice. We ordered so much and the cheque (bill) didn't total to much at all. Back in Australia, the cost of the dinner would've easily exceeded $200 AUD.

Anyways, I shall resume recounting daily events into dot points.

So Day 2/Night 2:

Caught skytrain, then boarded a floating vessel that transported us along a river to the Old part of Bangkok where the Grand Palace and many Wats are located
We first visited Wat Pho after we disembarked the vessel
This was where we saw the Reclining Buddha, for me my second or third time
The weather was warm but bearable, I was carrying drinks around in my backpack as usual
After this we visited the Grand Palace which consumed a lot of our time
It was a remarkable architectural feat & wonderful to witness
Cooled down in buildings or shops with air con
I bought John & myself iced coffee
We haven't ate so we caught taxis to MBK to eat dinner
We ate at an all you can eat Japanese place, this was where Annie, William & Joey went on an eating binge (then Annie, Joey, Quang & Johnny got kicked out 30 minutes after John, William & myself left)
John, William & myself checked out MBK at our own pace & then other shopping centres located nearby such as Siam Paragon, Siam Discovery & Siam Centre
We then caught Tuk tuk home where John & I really enjoyed it

Day 3/Night 3

woke up early in preparation to go on a tour that I have been anticipating
we were picked up by a nice driver on his awesome mini bus
the others slept/napped while Annie & I listened to music, initially from the driver's random CD then my Ipod
driver stopped for a refill and we went to buy some maccas breakfast (so cheap in comparison to Australia as with most or all other foods)
first stop after that was floating market where we traveled around on a little motorised dingy or something
I've seen it all before and wasn't that amazed and moods lifted when we stopped to hold pythons and have photos taken
following the floating market, we arrived at Kanchanaburi where we picked up our tour guide
at first I had mixed opinions of him but as the day went on, my opinions of him improved
we visited the war memorial and ate lunch at Kanchanaburi
following this travelled to the tiger temple and my number one thing to do for Thailand was to go touch tigers
the experience was great & I was one happy man
one tiger whacked its tail at me but I was not to be deterred
next on the agenda was riding elephants and making contact with them in more ways that one
I really enjoyed riding the elephants & I got to ride solo for a long time
John almost fell off his elephant when the elephants entered a river
Our ride home was enjoyable and more so after the driver adjusted Annie & my seat to face Johnny & Quang
this was so we can play Chinese style 13 and compete for people to shout food or drinks
I thought I was screwed and going to lose so much money after losing the first two rounds
however, someone turned a light which enabled me to see and didn't lose again until later on
the tables turned and in the end Johnny had to shout 6 items, Quang 4, Annie 3 & myself 3
got back and ate seafood at some restaurant where I ended being rather hungry afterwards as my scallops never came
visited Patpong night market for first of a number of times which wasn't too far from where we stayed
this market is renowned for its shady side & ping pong shows (don't know what that is, better off not knowing)

Day 4/Night 4

woke up voluntarily for once
went with Annie, John, Johnny & William to Chatuchak, Jatujak or JJ Market
the market was massive and the weather and conditions weren't suitable for such an activity
I thought I was going to faint or suffer from heatstroke
after about 5 or so hours of 'shopping' or just fighting for survival by ambling from one store to another in search of a store with air conditioner
while waiting for skytrain heading back, we witnessed people pushing other cars in order for them to move their own car in a massive parking complex
met up with Quang & Joey for dinner at a gourmet Thai restaurant near where my cousins used to reside called Kinnaree
Johnny forked out 2,000 baht for dinner since he lost a lame game we played where loser had to shout something
this meant he didn't have to shout us the snacks he owed Annie, Quang & myself any longer
the food there was delicious and was the best Thai food we had on the trip

Day 5/Night 5

went to eat Korean BBQ at a restaurant Sukishi to obtain energy for the day
back to Jatujak market we went
this time I bought a lot more and the day was more bearable than the day before
John, William and myself was amazed by how green fanta was so yummy
after that we went to Central World shopping centre where we spent a lot of time there
before John, Johnny, Annie, William & myself caught two tuk tuks home as Quang & Joey went to buy something

Day 6/Night 6

early start to head to our tour for Flight of the Gibbon
went to some random zoo & saw some random animals up close
glided through the jungle, it was funtastic :)
ate some crepes when we got back before some of us went to exchange money since we ran low
then checked out Platinum Mall, thinking this is bad before realising it there were two other sections which included one for mens
I did some further sightseeing and as usual took random shots when I thought it was necessary
met up with others and ate hot pot at MK
Joey was sick :(
Annie, Joey, Johnny & William went to a lady boy show
John, Quang & myself hung out
I took this opportunity to go eat Haagen Dazs with them
eating fondue at Swensens or Haagen Dazs was a food goal
it was heavenly & cheap as well
was such a tourist in the Haagen Dazs store as I took plenty of photos (sorry I'm not going to upload all of it)
after this caught up with the others and did some last minute shopping for gifts & novelty items
called it a night after everyone drank shots of Thai rum, whiskey and bucket of bacardi rum mixed with coke & another one mixed with sprite
a few of us were able to pack while some of the others just KOed

Day 7. Day of Departure

all of us were able to wake up in time
taxis arrived and we said our farewells to the hostel staff
exhausting day as we had to fly to Singapore then take another flight home to Melbourne
ate lunch at Bangkok airport, probably the most expensive meals for what its worth in Thailand
bought random things and foods while at Singapore in transit
hung out with Joey for a little while during transit
Joey & myself ran across a terminal like in an epic movie scene as we thought we were going to miss our flight
fortunately we didn't :)
had a decent flight back where we shared snacks and my tightly packaged water bottles I bought after passed passport control

Day 8. Day of arrival

Got back. Customs was a pain for me as the queue was super long after a mass delay. Finally reached Australian soil once again. Oh I started liking the song 'Coming Home' by P.Diddy & Skylar Grey during the trip. First time I heard it was while I was in Singapore.

I hope you enjoyed the entry. Quick cheerio to my friend, Tina for her birthday went by since the last blog. Tina, my dear friend, I hope the wait was worth it.I'm happy to be home, but would love to travel overseas again soon :D Where to next? Hmm...

SG (Singapore) the place to be!

2011-02-17T05:19:00.007+11:00

Hello-lah,
Its been a while. Hopefully this blog is worth the wait. Well I'm no longer in Singapore. I just left yesterday for Thailand. I didn't get much of a chance to blog in SG. There wasn't much free time to just sit and blog. The time I spent on the internet was primarily for checking emails, facebook and checking up sport results.
How was Singapore?
In several words, I would say great, enjoyable & exciting. I had a nice time there and had an abundance of fun filled moments. If only the time spent there was longer. As with most good things, it has to come to an end. So six other friends and myself left Singapore for Bangkok yesterday.
Here are some key points on what we did for the duration of our stay in Singapore.

Day 1/Night 1:

Arrived in Singapore, in the late afternoon & unloaded our belongings at our hostel
John's sister, Mai who currently lives and works in SG, showed us around some parts of SG such as the Esplanade, Boat Quay, Fullerton Hotel, Marina Bay Sands etc
We ate dinner together where she kindly paid for all the expenses.
I was left at the lobby Fullerton Hotel (apparently 7 star hotels) because I was taking photos. Fortunately, the first night didn't end up in drama.
It was a good night and preview of what Singapore night life has to offer
Day 2/Night 2:

Basically spent the whole day shopping at Orchard Road
It was amazing to see so many malls aligned onto one street.
The shops that we wanted to check out included Forever21, Topshop/Topman, Zara, Uniqlo
Singapore continued to excite me with all these food chains on offer
I ate Haagen Daz ice cream (expensive ice cream but scrumptious)
Following the strenous day of shopping, Mai, met up with us again for a little while before we left for Clarke Quay.
Clarke Quay was basically where a lot of the nightlife occurred with a lot of cool bars and clubs
The drinks weren't cheap but we all tried the Singapore Sling which in my opinion was pretty average
Following this we went to karaoke into the wee hours of the morning where we struggled to get back home

Day 3/Night 3:

Universal studios in Singapore which was located on Sentosa Island
Surprisingly this was much better than I thought
All of us enjoyed it and went on the rollercoasters several times
We covered most if not all of the theme park
The fireworks at night was the cherry on the cake

Day 4/Night 4:

We travelled to Mai's apartment suite which was where we could've stayed
It was a lovely apartment
We stayed there for a while where we did some laundry and ate breakfast
Then we all travelled to Pulau Ubin, which is an island, to go bike riding
I was very excited for this and it did not disappoint at all
I think everyone especially myself and Quang enjoyed bike riding
My bike riding ability was proven to be useful for most of the ride but unfortunately the rockly descend with plenty of speed proved to cause a fall when some friends braked too abruptly
I still had a fantastic time
We returned and got back to freshen up and got ready to meet William's friend, Shimpei
We ate at Chinatown Night Market which was nearby
First time I ate Carrot Cake (not the normal sweet Carrot Cake) and Ice Kachang and it was delicious
Probably one of my favourite discovered food
Then we headed to Clarke Quay and found a place to sit and drink
Once again we ordered drinks and later walked back and called an early night

Day 5/Night 5:

Singapore Zoo
It was a nice experience and viewing with a variety of exotic animals
We shared Ben & Jerrys ice cream
Saw good elephant show
Then waited for night zoo to open and went on the night safari
flying squirrel was rather wacky when we went into its enclosure
caught the the express bus home which stopped at other locations first
Day 6/Night 6:

Went Bugis St & then caught monorail to Sentosa Island again
The day was alright
I bought Garrett Popcorn which very delicious
Also found poptarts where I bought a box
Watched 'Song of the Seas' (lovely light, water & fire show)

Day 7/Night 7:

Free day where most of spent the day on a walking tour where we walked the whole way
Joey had to go meet up with her dad who was on transit at the Changi Airport
Visited Raffles Hotel but couldn't go inside
Spent a ridiculous amount of time in some electronics mall
Visited more malls such as Suntec City Mall which was massive
Was permitted a hour to leave the others and go send postcards and explore myself
Went into Carrefour to look for Pineapple Tarts which I couldn't find for my cousin
Ate dinner with the others except Joey who met up with us later (Quang caught up with us at almost dinner time)
Went on the top of Marina Bay Sands Hotel where the view was spectacular after finally meeting up with Joey
Walked all the way back to Clarke Quay where I was much more energetic than the others
Bar hopped but Joey was hungry since she only got to eat cake with her dad so we found a place to eat
It was a kebab place and it was such a surprise to find out that it was Joey's first time eating a kebab
Called it a night to get ready for our departure for Bangkok

Thailand/Bangkok so far.
Now we're staying in a swanky hostel with lovely and helpful staff. A holiday here would be ideal as most things in comparison with the costs of items in Australia is so much cheaper. We're living in such luxury in this point in time. Its not my first time visiting Thailand, but the last time was years ago. Unfortunately, the queue at customs was long and we had to wait for a while. Other than that things have gone rather smoothly thus far. Fuji was delicious and cheap where we ate at in MBK.

I've got to go to sleep. We're all cautious of mosquitos since John just got bitten 3 times on his upper arm/shoulder. Visiting temples and such tomorrow. Goodnight & take care. Sleep time!

new year. new you, new me. New York is the place to be

2011-01-13T22:48:00.005+11:00

HI!
Happy New Year even though it has been approaching two weeks since 2011 has commenced. The blog entry title may suggest certain things but it may not necessarily be true. You may think I'm travelling to New York soon. However, that is not the case. I wish though. I just noted down that London, New York and Paris are the top 3 cities I want to travel to.
However, I am travelling overseas in just under a month. I am excited about this as I haven't been overseas in a tad over 5 years. I really do enjoy travelling overseas as living in one city for so long can get boring. Seeing the same scenery regularly and facing the same horrid public transport system.

The Singapore trip was a random and spontaneous plan which was created when a few friends and I were talking in a group conversation on MSN. The plan had to overcome certain issues such as date changes. My mum was adamant for me to be home for Chinese New Year, so fortunately the dates of the trip follows Chinese New Year. Now as time passes, more issues are resolved and the Singapore trip better be worth the labour I put in to earn a trip overseas. Honestly I wanted to really get out of the country and thought this was a little teaser in preparation for bigger and longer holidays to Europe or America in years to come.

So my 2011 thus far has been a happy one, but the excitement, thrills and joy from the start of a new year has started to dissipate. I was so happy for the first several days of the new year then life bursts your bubble and brings you back down to Earth with reality. I have been on holidays for over a month now and although it has been at times enjoyable, holidays are creeping closer to the end without much achievement. I will aim to finish my book I borrowed from Tina soon. It has definitely been too long and maybe after finishing this book I would learn a few things.

There are things to look forward to and occasionally the odd negative thought would seep in which would cause me to become sad and quiet thinking about it. Its unfortunate but it happens.

New Year Eve/John's 20th Birthday Party was great. It was a different environment this time around for the NYE party held at John's house. I enjoyed it and was so happy and upbeat for a lot of the night. I was happy spending time with some of my favourite people even if it was for short time or the fact that they made the effort to attend before going home to shower but not to return again. A lot happened, some no longer surprising. Some of key points follows:

Quang acting wild and displaying homosexual tendencies. Jumping on guys and pashing others. People found it funny and possibly repulsive as usual.
A few others were gone as well like Annie who screams when she is drunk, Alan and Richard
John and Phillip also falling drunk and saying things like 'What is happening to me' 'I can't think straight' 'My head hurts' etc. Funny drunks in their own way
Trung was gone as well and his special of the night which was his meerkat impersonations which involved Meerkat captain and Meerkat sprinkler. Laughters all around since it was new
Most of this drunkenness was due to the drinking game they played
I sculled a cup of sake when I was thirsty due to peer pressure and I was thirsty :S
John being so gone that he couldn't remember us presenting his birthday cake to him
Walking to near a temple to view the city fireworks but most of us were busy enjoying ourselves and also where Trung's meerkat impersonations and his wild antics were on show
Clubbing inside John's room where things certainly heated up

Other things happened which was good as well but not as notable.

Below: Miki, myself and Tina. Two of my closest girlfriends (oh you know what I mean) :)

Today has been very boring for me. I'm blogging in such humid conditions. I feel like I'm trapped inside with rain regularly pouring outside. The rain is heavier than usual and hopefully it never gets to the point of flooding which is currently occurring in a large area of Queensland at this current time. It is horrible news. I'm contemplating attending a charity tennis event in support for the QLD floods on Sunday. I got to gather some friends or a friend to come. If not, I wouldn't be too disappointed since I'm attending the Australian Open next week with some friends. Next week can be really very exciting. I'm definitely excited and also the following weeks to come.

I did say I had a boring day today, but I'm in somewhat a better mood knowing that my friendship with a good friend is on the mends. It has taken a while but we're basically back to the previous good early times when things were lovely and I wasn't so awkward around her since I liked her. It feels so good and now I know that she still remains up there with my best and close friends. I feel a lot better about this even though the knowledge remains that I did like her at one point.

Furthermore, I just had probably one of the best msn conversations with one of my friends. Well her and I didn't kick off our friendships for a while after we knew each other. This is like most friendships. It takes time and sometimes never reaches the stage of a friendship. However, things and events occur which lead us to the way things are today. So although you may regret certain things in life, you should appreciate those that lead you here today. We talked a lot and for a long time. It was nice and touching way to end my night before I start heading off to sleep. I'm happy I have such a friend who provides her own unique character into my life along with my other friends and people whom surround me whether I may it enjoy it or not so much.

Life can be like a mineral mine. Among the dirt and rubble, you continue to seek and hope. For that special mineral such as a diamond can be awaiting deep down hidden somewhere. It takes effort and time to get there. It maybe be hard to find but when you acquire it, you know it is so valuable and special to you.

Below is a song that I recently heard and its very lovely. Its a good listen and the beautiful Kina Grannis, who sings in this cover, sings a nice song called 'Valentine'. The song below is called Fast Car by Tracy Chapman, covered by Boyce Avenue and Kina Grannis.

Well I'm exhausted and sleepy. I think I should go to bed soon. So I might wrap this long blog entry up like a present and give the gift of reading. Reading can give you great knowledge. I hope it has been an enjoyable blog. Hopefully, there are more exciting events to record and remember. Enjoy the times that are coming up. I wouldn't mind having more photos taking during events to help me remember them. Feel free to comment since they are much appreciated. Holidays are about half way gone for me :|

final day of 2010, welcome in 2011

2010-12-31T17:13:00.004+11:00

Just a quick blog entry here. No its not 2011 yet for those who can't wait until 2010 to be over. One year ago, many fresh memories still remain in my mind as if it occurred yesterday. This is the case for many memories in 2010, I can't believe almost 365 days have elapsed and 2011 is under 7 hours away.

Although many memories remains, only some are the special & precious ones. Some are nice and you wouldn't mind keeping them forever. However, everyone would have days or moments where they would like to immediately send it to the incinerator for it to be burn. Upon reflection, 2010 was a good year with the exception of those bad days, periods and moments. I may want to forget that those things ever happened and think how stupid was I to do certain things or feel a certain way. I guess, the thing is you can learn from your mistakes like they say. The key point is to make learn from it and not just keep making the same mistakes over and over again. Then every time you do make the mistake you would be just be upset with yourself.

Well I've got to wrap up my entry. It may not be as short as I intended, but I've got to go to my aunt's house before going to party at John's house for NYE party and John's 20th birthday which is on new years day. Take care and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

the silence, the summer, that someone

2010-12-23T15:35:00.002+11:00

Welcome & welcome back for those who have returned to this blog even though there was the distinct possibility that there may be no further entries.

So I've broken the consecutive run that stretched back to the beginnings of this blog. November 2010 saw at least one blog entry published each month since the start end. As some people do say, 'All good things must come to an end'. Like when a stellar career of a sports star ends when he/she retires or falls to injury. A beautiful life may come crashing to an abrupt end. Those around them such as family and friends may endure shock and absolute sadness for a period of time.

This blog seems to be one of those blog that can lead to any topic, but at the moment I want to share a different sort of song. The song was suggested to me by my cousin the other day. Initially, I thought the song possessed some sad lyrics with death being discussed but my cousin pointed out that it takes on a more positive note. Its a nice song with a theme that is uncommonly explored and which I don't relate to, but I do hope to be satisfied and feel I have achieved a lot when that time comes. I guess you'll have to listen to the song and determine your own opinion for the song.

So why did I return after being absent from blogging in for a month? Well there are many things left unsaid, some may never be said but there are those things that are worthy of being expressed. One reason why I didn't blog was because I was focussed on studying and revising for my end of year exams. A lot of things possessed greater priority than blogging. When I had or wanted to express my emotions then I would write it in my book or find other means. A poem & song was produced amidst the studying. The poem & song was written while I was trying to study amongst a friend and her friend. I was just staring out the window at times just looking onto the outside world thinking.

However, after that couple days of witnessing certain things, the pain slowly evaporated only for it to rain somewhat after exams when the truth I knew came out. The bad thing that it came out and I wasn't informed but placed the puzzle pieces together from the pieces I have gathered. Well the good thing is that I can say I'm almost fully healed. Some friends helped out which was great. Its nice knowing I have other great friends when my friendship with one of my good friends is affected. (Sorry if you don't know what I'm talking about but I'm just using this to express myself and some dedicated readers would know what I'm talking about) I know one day soon, everything will be good again, but as for now this time off period has being beneficial. Just put yourself in my shoes. Wouldn't you dislike it or find it annoying when someone you like, go and like someone else? It doesn't help when hes with her for a lot of the events while I'm there. I'll end that here and from a lyric from a song that I like:

'I wish you the best, I guess.'

So what has been happening in my life since exams ceased and holidays commenced? Well there has been some things that has happened apart from the usual activities. 2 days or 2 nights after my final exam, the first of something took place for me. It was a decision I was not to regret. What did I do? That shall be discussed below.

I woke up on that Friday morning with a thought that I should go out that night and join my fellow chums for clubbing. There were several events for after exams party across various clubs.

Initially, I didn't want to go since I didn't have a lift home. I informed some friends like William and Joey about this on Thursday night. This was due to the fact I was informed comparatively late to my other friends, who already shotgunned a seat in my friend's car. They weren't to blame as I temporarily severed communication with them to concentrate on my exams.

So I woke up happy and finally made my decision. When the time came to get ready, I dressed up and left to go to the city. I left in the afternoon as I had plans to watch Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 with Hung & Bec and their friends. I was in an upbeat mood and finally got to MC. As I was walking up the escalator to meet up with Hung, my friend, Kat called me. I was rather surprised at this. She asked where I was and said she was walking under the clock. Funnily enough we bumped into each as I walked up the escalator. We had a prior discussion on whether she should come join me for my first clubbing experience. She was tired and exhausted as she had been out late the night before and just finished work. She went with me to meet up with the others before she left to go home. She said she'll think about it.

For the next quarter of a day I spent it with Hung, Bec & others. I thought the movie was good, very much a visual display with action coming in from left, right and centre. After the movie, the guys that watched the movie and I left the girls who went and did some shopping. We went to play some pool for about a hour before returning to meet up with the girls and some more people to go eat dinner. They were having dinner to discuss their trip which they went on several days later to Warrnambool. I was the odd one out as I wasn't going on the trip but I didn't feel too awkward as I already knew some people and quickly became acquainted to a few more. The place we ate was Malaysian or Indonesian and was somewhat different to where I normally eat. The meal was decent.

After about 8pm I started thinking about making my way to meet up with some friends whom I was meeting up with who were having pre-drinks. I suggested leaving with Hung, then for some reason several others decided to follow suit and depart when we went as well. I asked Lydia if she was going clubbing and she said yes. So we made our way to meet up with the others together. I said goodbye to Annie and some acquaintances. It was raining when Hung, Bec, Lydia, a few others and I left so we hurriedly walked under the shelter of an umbrella. I didn't need one since I was wearing a nice jacket that was seemingly water proof. The tram ride didn't take too long but when we got there the others were leaving so we caught the tram back with the others. They had some more pre-drinks at Chaplins. Some of the guys decided to have 151 shots, I declined the offer since I heard it kills as the alcohol content is so high. Nghia & I were joked around about this sexy waiter. When she came I would inform him with our code name for her. A few drinks later and as time passed by, Quang was the first one to get tipsy when he complained he was getting a headache. Soon later Kat arrived, followed by Trung & Johnny.

We soon made our way to the club which is called 'Sorry Grandmas'. A peculiar name. The journey from Chaplins to Sorry Grandmas wasn't too far but it seemed like a long one for some. I was taking out the phone and taking some snaps of some friends who were acting funny. Some candid shots and some posed shots. We waited in line for about 5 minutes. I was greeted at the door by an old friend of mine, Jen, who was a promoter at the club. She was looking rather fabulous and I was feeling rather smug that she remembered me both when she was sober and when she was feeling the effects of alcohol when I left.

Initially, the clubbing experience was just average since things haven't really clicked into place yet. I was getting familiar with the surroundings and as time went on more and more people came in. We were dancing and some of making a fool of ourselves downstairs first before venturing upstairs and having a better time upstairs. The party got more wild up there. Ferocious dancing and activities. Few people acted so out of their nature, obviously with the aid of alcohol. The names of these people are left out for the purpose of anonymity.

I strut some moves of my own but it wasn't as wild and carefree if it was under the influence. I wasn't loose enough but enjoyed myself. Trung & I laughed at certain activities throughout the night such as the human pinball and Juan Carlos at work. Just another day the office. Stayed back at work and got paid overtime. Kat kept me company at times since I was lost at times and showed me the ropes. I got thirsty so came to the bar for a some water which was so quenching. Overall the night was great. My friends told me it was a good first time clubbing experience compared to the ones they previously had.

At about 2am we left the club, I finally had a lift home as Quang found another way home. I said bye to some friends and left. Trung, Johnny, John & I walked to Crown to meet up with Tina where we spent another hour or so there. My night there wasn't successful but still my spirits was not to be deterred. Overall, a fun and enjoyable night.

So I'm sure this blog is long enough to please satisfy your appetite for a read. Not necessarily a good one, no guarantees there. Two more days and it is Christmas. I hope everyone has a Merry and safe Christmas, whether you're spending it with your family or friends. Take care and maybe another blog can be posted before the year ends. If not, then have an awesome New Years Eve and Happy New Year. Hopefully 2011 can be a more productive, successful and awesome year!

Avid reader/dear friend: This blog is dedicated for you.

whenever the end comes, we'll know with time

2010-10-30T23:36:00.003+11:00

This following post was originally posted on October 30th 2010, but I accidentally deleted it when editing my latest blog entry. I lost the images I had posted up with the blog. Sorry about the missing images, but I added a few different images to make it less plain. Fortunately, I was able to copy the text or else that would've been forever lost.

Oh hello! Did not expect such an early return?! Well I'll start with some good news. I believe this shall not be the end of this blog. Like the title suggests, we'll know with time but at this point in time it shall not be. However, it may cease to be the end of the blog as we know. Things have changed and the blog entries here may become more infrequent. After exams are completed in under a month's time, I plan to start a new blog. Furthermore, I didn't feel it was right to end the streak of posting at least once per month since the inception of this blog. Ah I'm in a decent mood tonight. I came home from my friend's birthday dinner and just feeling pretty good even if I'm tired. I thought about the upsides in life rather than the downsides. I've been thinking about the future rather than dwell about the past. Its hard most of the times and life is generally tough. However, I'm just more happier thinking about the positives. I think I'm becoming more of an optimistic now since I'm already generally a happy guy.

Well over a month has passed and quite a lot of things have occurred. Exams are approaching for me and my other friends. Some of my friends already have commenced theirs. My birthday also passed rather quietly but it was celebrated with some of my closest and good friends over dinner. Dinner was my treat which was a big expense to the pocket but turning 20 made me seem that much more wiser for some reason. Well money comes and goes, friends tend to stick around for at least a while. I'm hoping some if not most will be friends with for years to come. I'm thankful for having such wonderful friends and the gifts that are continued to be given are an added bonus. It was nice how my family waited for my return from dinner to eat a birthday cake they bought for me.

University work has been a pain as well. The past few weeks, I've commenced my study & revision for exams. They're coming up very quickly. I know that holidays follow them and it could be a great summer holidays but I don't want to get distracted by that thought. Ah the endless possibilities life could bring. I hope my friends and I go on at least one trip together and hopefully some road trips around the state or interstate. Well we'll see with time.
Life in general has had its up and downs like always. Some of the bottom and peaks were just more extreme than usual. I could be feeling happy for most of the day but when I sudden thought or reminder hit me I would just be in a solemn mood. Sometimes I express it more, but most of the time its rather well hidden with silence. This silence would indicate that I'm thinking a lot. If I'm studying then it would mean I'm actually studying or nodding off because I'm so tired. If it is just with some friends then it could mean otherwise and I just boarded the emotional roller coaster ride. Sometimes I have thoughts about the future and what it could hold. I enjoy nice surprises so I wouldn't want every just to be revealed before me. I do like to dream. A few friends and I have recently laid the pipeline dream of going to Europe in several years. I hope I possess the funds to enjoy Europe with freedom and not having to worry about a tight budget.
'The longer you wait for the future, the shorter it will be' For now, I want to enjoy life as much as I can even if it means enduring tedious tasks and studying from morning to evening. Thats the way life is at times. Well theres a lot to do, so I'll end this entry soon. I hope you're not too underwhelmed by this entry. I bid au revoir for now or forever. This may or may not be the end. Just leaving my options open.
I'll leave you with a great quote. If you have heard this one before, then I'm sure you don't mind hearing it again.
'Everyone says that love hurts, but that's not true. Loneliness hurts, rejection hurts, losing someone hurts. Everyone confuses these things with love, but in reality, love is the only thing that heals all these things and makes us feel wonderful again.'
Take care and as usual try to enjoy life to the fullest even at times it can seem so dull and difficult to live. Thank you for reading and your time :)
P.s. to my most keen and no.1 follower, here is the little surprise I was talking about and the other surprise shall remain a surprise until it is revealed. Thank you for your support and help, I really appreciate it and I hope we become friends for years to come if not lifelong friends if life leads us down that path

the penultimate post

2010-09-20T15:55:00.016+10:00

Hello there. I hope everyone has been feeling good. Spring has arrived and it could possess some exciting times ahead. The weather has been rather erratic which can affect your feelings and emotions. If you have been following me lately, you would have noticed that I blogged a lot during July & August. However, September has been quieter month, maybe the presence of sunshine is encouraging me to go outside or do something else rather than sitting at my computer typing to a screen. I have come to the conclusion that this shall be the penultimate post for an extensive period of time, if not forever on this blog. Golden Delicious Smile might either become dormant or extinct. The jury is out to decide where it leads. Right now, if things become positive and brighter then the entries should return in time for the summer. If not, then it may take longer or never return. It all depends on how things go and how I'm feeling. The subsequent blog that follows this, when it does come, can indicate whether its the last goodbye or not.

On Friday night, I had two mid semesters to complete before I could say I was on my week long mid semester break. I was looking forward to the planned farewell get together at my friend's house. I think I hyped it up too much since I was looking forward to the break and hanging out with some of my friends. One of my friends, Anthy, is leaving for Japan for almost 1 year. I know one year doesn't seem like a long time in the real scheme of things. However, the knowledge that you won't be able to see them any time you want to would make you miss them more. Every moment that goes by makes it seem time has suddenly slowed down dramatically or not moving on as fast you would like. It is proven that when you're having a good time, your mind perceives that time has traveled faster than it really has. On the other hand, when you're bored or doing something you don't enjoy, time may seem like its crawling.

So I'm on my break now, I've got a desk load of things to do such as to study, complete some homework and commence assignments. Its unfortunate, my friends from other universities don't have their week off this week but next week. I feel like playing some sports with them. I can't believe a year has passed since we played some really good basketball. Its been so long that I miss shooting some hoops and assisting. I've said 'A lot can happen in a year' so many times to one of my friends so much that it is probably imprinted into her memory now. That is obviously true, a lot can happen in a season, a month, a week, a day and a moment. Something you do or say in a moment can change the course of your life or your relationship with a person.

You don’t know what goes on in anyone’s life but your own. And when you mess with one part of a person’s life, you’re not messing with just that part. Unfortunately, you can’t be that precise and selective. When you mess with one part of a person’s life, you’re messing with their entire life. Everything…affects everything.

I was so happy for some reason beaming with a smile before watching Despicable Me yesterday. That was a very good movie and I laughed a lot during the duration of the movie. It was a sudden invitation but I really wanted to watch the movie and wasn't planning to do anything for the rest of my Sunday so I accepted. I once again conversed to my friend about random things that lead to talking how I'm feeling. My smile was swiped off my face when I had to think about it again and just became very thoughtful once again. All in all, my Sunday was a strange and scary one.

This week, the only thing that I have planned for a long time ago is taking on Friday and I get to hang out with some cool people. I want to make the most of my break so I would want to hear more events popping up. However, it seems most of the friends in my group would be willing if someone makes the effort to organise an event. So I shall probably get of my laurels and organise something.

It brings us to the end of the post. I hope the sunshine comes out this week and so does my usual happiness. As they say 'You learn something new everyday', that is true however small or significant it may be. I hope what I learn this week will benefit me other than economic related terms and concepts. I've decided to post a few songs to end the blog that I have surely appreciated ever since I discovered them. The songs makes me more passionate and lively when I belt out the tunes. Too bad I missed out on karaoke on Friday due to my mid semesters. Enjoy and whenever the final post comes try to enjoy life and make the most of it. I shall try to become a better person while I have my time off blogging. Take care and enjoy your Spring!

"The Reason Why"

Yesterday
I waited for your friends to walk away
So I could say just what I mean

I know we're moving fast
We're running from the past
I'm holding on before it fades away

Could it be that maybe it's our first mistake
And Baby that's alright
It's crazy how we lost ourselves tonight
There's a reason why they say that we should give it time
But time is not enough
And that's the reason why
When you're young you fall in love

Standing still
I'm waiting round to see if this is real
Cause I feel like I'm asleep
I'll open up my eyes
Cause you might be the type
Of girl that makes me dream when I'm awake

Could it be that maybe it's our first mistake
And baby that's alright
It's crazy how we lost ourselves tonight
There's a reason why they say that we should give it time
But time is not enough
And that's the reason why
When you're young you fall in love

So tell me can this really work
Or will we end up getting hurt
Is this love or myth
So tell me are you in for this
There's so much than we can see
More than you
More than me
It takes two to believe

Maybe it's our first mistake
And baby that's alright
It's crazy how we lost ourselves tonight

Maybe it's our first mistake
And baby that's alright
It's crazy how we lost ourselves tonight
There's a reason why they say that we should give it time
But time is not enough
And that's the reason why
When you're young you fall in love

That's the reason why when you're young you fall in love
That's the reason why when you're young you fall in love

Lyrics to Complicated :
[VERSE 1:]
So look at me now
It's a quarter pass 3, I won't sleep
Cause you walk through my dreams every night
So why did I change
I never thought cupid could win
Change the way that I been all my life

[PRE-HOOK:]
I just wanted to be
Never wanted to fall... ya know
But you just got me
It's not intentional
Can I be over you
Or will I just lose control
(You got it, got it, You got it bad)
Am I ready for this
Or has my heart taken over my mind
Can I commit
Or should I just press rewind
Is this my cue
Or maybe this a warning sign
(You got it, got it, you got it bad)

[CHORUS:]
This love is so complicated
It's so complicated
It's so complicated
And sometimes I hate it
It's so complicated
It's so complicated
It's intoxicated
I think I might be falling in love
[x2]

[VERSE:]
So picture me now
I'm stuck in a room
Painting images of you
Trading colors for your smile

Oohhh

But I can't let it show
So I'm holding it in
Trying harder to pretend
But am fronting all the while

[PRE-HOOK:]

[CHORUS x2]

[BRIDGE:]
If I don't react, would she give me up
Would she change or lose attention
O... the faith I lack... has me missin' so much
Am I wrong for my ommission
Why did I neglect what I knew from the start
Did I lose my intuition
When I just wanna say... I love her everyday

[CHORUS]

[VAMP OUT:]
I'm thinkin'... I'm fallin

count on me

2010-09-03T18:33:00.004+10:00

One day last week, my close friend and I spoke for the first time in over a week. It was a great sign that any bickering can easily be overcome from the strength of the friendship. I quickly grew out of my dismay but gave it time to see where things were going. Time will either help wounds heal or just result in the wounds enlarging. This results in the relationship becoming more difficult to mend and things becoming more painful to bear. It brings me to my first quote.

'How we feel when in the presence of another person is an excellent indicator of the value of the relationship'

We all know that we can help each other and I was reassured by my friend, Miki, the other day that I can count on her. Well I had to let her know that the feeling is mutual and I should just express that to my other close friends. However, I think when you're close friends with someone, you don't need that reassurance, you just know. You live with the belief and hope that they'll be there for you when you experience sadness, happiness and everything over, under or in between. Like I've said to some of my friends repeatedly, "I'd rather have 1 good friend than 10 friends". Its not as easy as it seems, as the term 'friend' is just thrown around too loosely.

I, on the other hand, am different and believe that friendship should be earned. Initially when you strike a relationship with someone it has to overcome the acquaintance stage. It takes time, some times you don't become friends with some one until a long time later after you met or know them. I know that is true because that has happened to me and one of my closest friends today. We didn't become friends until about maybe 6 years after we knew each other. Throughout high school, I wouldn't have a clue what she likes or anything. I can't even remember if we struck up a conversation that lasted 10 minutes. It was merely a 'Hi, how are you?'. She was different back then and so was I. People change, and some times that change is good and fortunately it was hence an eventual friendship was formed.

I am grateful for the friends that I have currently and the new friendships that have been formed and further developed recently. Theres always something you can work on to further develop your friendships. I've just become struck with a rush of feelings. Its nice knowing that tonight I'll be chilling out with some of the guys. It'll help me get my mind of things. Below is the song Count on Me-Bruno Mars, which Miki linked me to. Its a nice song but I've discovered so many more songs so I've been listening to them instead. I've got to get ready to head out for tonight. Lets go have some fun John, Trung, Quang and Johnny! Enjoy :)

something good can work

2010-08-29T22:48:00.017+10:00

'Today, you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is you-er than you.'- Dr. Seuss

Here is a dose of a blog entry to satisfy my few avid readers. So I'll shall try to keep this brief and just record some enlightening quotes for the readers out there to ponder about. However, I'm sure those who do follow me with much conviction I haven't been thinking of her as much lately but maybe its because I've been trying to get work and assignments done. Every day, there is some point in time, that I think about her but its a good thing that its not distracting at the moment or it would prove catastrophic. I'm taking some time out from my endeavours to complete my tutorial homework which is taking long than expected to blog an entry. I've recently started recording things to do on my phone since I used my phone every day and its more handy than noting things down on a piece of paper that can be lost or a notebook that can be forgotten about. That has help me get more things done. I just experienced a touch of disappointment but such is life and you've just got to learn how to deal with the ups & downs that life brings. I've got to look to the brighter side of things.

"When you start to really know someone, all his physical characteristics start to disappear. You begin to dwell in his energy, recognize the scent of his skin. You see only the essence of the person, not the shell. That’s why you can’t fall in love with beauty. You can lust after it, be infatuated by it, want to own it. You can love it with your eyes & your body but not your heart. And that’s why, when you really connect with a person’s inner self, any physical imperfections disappear, become irrelevant."

Beautiful Lies

You can try and hold me back. Build your damn walls, pack sandbags along the edges and yell at the clouds and the rain and the sky to stop. But I will not relent. I will reach you. Because I am the sea. And I will continue to love you no matter what.

If we fall in love because someone makes us laugh, what happens when we no longer find them funny? If we fall in love because someone is beautiful, what happens when that beauty fades? If we fall in love because someone can provide for us, what happens when they lose their wealth? Because love defies all reasons. When you truly love someone, you can’t just find a reason. You just do.

I think I will be the kind of guy who doesn’t have many girlfriends. I think because I take things slow and I’m scared of getting hurt that I’ll be the kind of person who only dates if I think I could see myself marrying him/having a future with her. I know that pretty much guarantees that I will be lonely for a long time, maybe even always, and I know that my expectations are probably too high but it’s better not to expect anything if it won’t last, or even start at all.

I hope you enjoyed the quotes provided. I'm feeling rather sleepy so hopefully I'll get a good shut eye and become more productive tomorrow. I was thinking of blogging 2 songs but I'll save it for another time. This song below is another song that just speaks the words that haven't been uttered to her yet. Even if she may or may not already know. The blog entry title came from a song of the same name by a band called 'Two Door Cinema Club'. I wanted to go to their gig but I didn't know who to go with since most of the friends I keep regular contact with don't enjoy the same music as me or not willing to pay that much to go to see a band/musician. Maybe in the future, I'll try more to get someone to come along with me. Now I don't care if I see a bad movie with her, at least I get to spend time with each other even if its in near darkness and aren't talking. The knowledge that shes there with me and no where else in the world makes me happy.

I've got an entry almost ready to unload. It was originally meant to be in this entry but my thoughts just took me elsewhere and I thought I'll separate it. Have a good night/day. Its Bao signing off for another entry. The Emmys are on tomorrow morning. 30 Rock... umm rocks!

Picture of You- North

Verse 1) - Alf
Hmm, hmmm
Girl, I'm thinking of you
And I don't know what to do
Let me see into your mind
Only you can decide
Do u see in me a change?
Got me whispering your name
What is there in your heart?
Tell me right from the start, I love you
And I'm thinking about you
Got me singing my, my, my, my
Please be mine

(Chorus) - Thanh
Coz I've got a picture of you in my heart
And a vision of you in my arms
And I just can't deny what's going
On in my soul and I
I can't let u walk away
Till you hear what I got to say
I love u more, more
More than the air I breathe

(Verse 2) - Joel
Take me back to the start
When you captured my heart
You became my closest friend
Said you'll be there till the end
And I know that I was wrong
When I told you everything
But there is one thing I kept
In the deepest part of me
I don't know what you're feeling
Cuz I know my ship is sinking
Got me singing my, my, my, my
Please be mine (please be mine, yeah)

(Chorus)

(Bridge) - Thanh
Oh.... yeah.....
How would I know if you're feeling what I'm feeling
I can only hope that you're thinking what I'm thinking
Of you
How would I know if you're feeling the same way I do?
Cos I.....

(Chorus) *2

(outro) - Thanh
Mmm, Oh yeah, ohh
Picture of You

maybe she'll feel the same

2010-08-24T20:52:00.006+10:00

Hello. This blog is just a small gesture on how I've been feeling pensive lately. The quotes displayed can state what I think and/or believe in. Lately, the songs topping my Itunes and Ipod playlist have been love, feel good and/or easy listening songs. I feel better and the weather has been helping. However, I still become tired after a day at university, where a coffee can assist in the early part of the day before fatigue kicks in. Its nice knowing that you have something good to look forward to at the end of the day. A loving family, caring friends and your own private getaway, which is sleep.

It doesn't matter how long I see or talk to her, every time I communicate or am with her lightens my mood. I have been lost for words for a while. I'm no longer confused about her. She makes me happy even when the skies can become grey and cloudy at times. I now see beyond those grey and cloudy days and see that I wouldn't mind enduring those times for the joys and pleasure (sunshine & blue skies) she brings to my life. Hopefully, she'll feel the same towards me like I feel for her.

'The quicker we learn to let things go. The quicker we heal, the quicker we grow.'

'We must be the change we wish to see in the world'- Gandhi

'Walk with the dreamers, the believers, the courageous, the cheerful, the planners, the doers- the successful people with their heads in a cloud and their feet on the ground. Let their spirit ignite a fire within you to leave this world a better place than you found it'- Wilfred Peterson

Who wants that? I’d rather choose to fall in love and be hurt. Sometimes I can’t ever sleep because I love someone so much. There’s always sadness in our lives. It’s the sad feelings that keep us going. Because if we can overcome that sadness, we can hope for happiness in the future.
— House

Logic and reason go out the window when love gets involved.

'I like myself better when I'm with you'- Tuesdays with Morrie

wow! after I found this quote from Tuesdays with Morrie, I did a search and found some more great quotes from Tuesdays with Morrie, that I feel is accurate. It seems to be a good book containing a lot of quotes. Maybe I should get my hands on the book someday. I should try and follow some of these quotes. They're rather inspiring and uplifting.

"Love wins. Love always wins."

"So many people walk around with a meaningless life. They seem half-asleep, even when they're busy doing things they think are important. This is because they're chasing the wrong things. The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning."

"The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in."

"...if you are ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them, too--even when you're in the dark."

"Don't cling to things, because everything is impermanent."

"If you hold back on the emotions--if you don't allow yourself to go all the way through them--you can never get to being detached, you're too busy being afraid."

"You can't substitute material things for love or for gentleness or for tenderness or for a sense of comradeship."

"...if you're trying to show off for people at the top, forget it. They will look down on you anyhow. And if you're trying to show off for people at the bottom, forget it. They will only envy you. Status will get you nowhere. Only an open heart will allow you to float equally between everyone."

"We...need to forgive ourselves...For all the things we didn't do. All the things we should have done. You can't get stuck on the regrets of what should have happened."

Below is one song that I've heard ages ago but I have recently discovered this video clip that just reminds me of the movie, 'The Notebook'. Its a nice song that has been edited with footage from the movie. Its rather emotional. The other song contains lyrics that I feel and hopefully be able to say some day. I don't know when the right time is but after listening to so many songs about telling the person you like/love how you feel, that my confidence is suffice to follow suit. Hopefully, it doesn't falter but my heart races just thinking about the possibilities. I just hope it doesn't damage our existing friendship. I hope everyone is enjoying the last days of winter or summer if you're currently in the northern hemisphere. Spring is just around the corner, where flowers tend to bloom and blossom. Potentially, some new or existing relationships blossom as well. I hoped you enjoyed this entry. All the best and take care of yourself and others around you :)

3 happy

2010-08-18T23:45:00.009+10:00

I think I shall just record a greater extent of my thoughts & opinions into my book. However, I'll provide you with a gist of what I'm thinking at this point in time. I may sound like a broken record skipping but some of this is what I think or believe in. If it doesn't matter to you what I think or believe then I suggest that you shouldn't be reading this.

Good news and finally some confirmation that I knew a while back. I do say, 'Its better to hear it from the horse's mouth'. Although, that was nice and all, but resulted in many questions to surface which brought a lot of uncertainty and mystery. Like I have blogged previously, trust is fundamental and crucial to any long lasting form of relationship. It may seem like its not a serious matter to disclose, but hearing it later rather than sooner brings up unnecessary questions. I'd prefer things to be told to me early, so I can have time to get over it if its negative or savour it if its positive.

Many things crossed my mind after work and before the night's events took place. It was a night that I have thought about the possibilities of what could have occurred. My thoughts just spun too fast like it was in the Large Hadron Collider, and at a point in time that I wasn't stationary and I had to be concerned about other things going on. Fortunately, nothing serious happened but it was a real wake up call. Most of the time I'm not like that and very observant, however I just went out of it. After that happened, it took me a few seconds after being woken up to react, like a bucket of cold water was splashed on my face.

I hope this cold bucket of water will help me address some questions and advance my understanding on certain things. This is like what the physicists hope to achieve from the Hadron Collider where they want to further understand the laws of nature and address the fundamental questions of physics.

Personally, I'm sad but I'm delighted for a few of my friends. Some of them asked me what I was unhappy about but there are so many things going on in my life that they don't know. It'll take a very long time to understand. I couldn't just spill the beans with a concise combination of words. It takes much more to understand the intricate details in someone's life. Like some people have said before, you should walk a mile in someone else's shoes.

I just got back from my shower and as usual I have some time to think to myself while carrying on with the usual routine of washing myself. I had a thought that I was chasing a ball that was going to continue to roll ahead of me. I still want to get the ball but it seems like I'm running circles that shall never stop anytime soon. I feel like this ball doesn't want to slow down anytime soon and doesn't want to be caught by me. Instead, it prefers someone else to catch it. My heart is in a cage right now. I thought of the song 'Heart in a Cage' by The Strokes while I was driving home. I know the song doesn't have much to do with what I'm feeling but the title is about accurate. What am I waiting for if that person is not going to come? Should I continue to wait? I don't know what to do... She may already be chasing her own ball :S

'You don't love a woman because she is beautiful, but she is beautiful because you love her'

I don't care

2010-08-12T23:56:00.010+10:00

A short song blog entry that is about something I hope to achieve some day. I first heard this song a few days ago but the song is just great celebration. I hope you all enjoy it. I sure do. Listen and sing along with the lyrics. If you're out there in this situation but not able to sing about it yet, I'm sure I know how you feel. Goodnight

I Don't Care by Jesse Barrera & Melissa Polinar lyrics
we've been at this for a long time

keeping me alive - a lifeline
when I'm too high you keep me grounded
when I'm stuck on the ground, you take my mind somewhere
far from here

we can't quit
It doesn't matter
I promise everything's gonna get better
they're not part of this

Chorus:
I don't care what they're talking about
we've got a flame
i'm not afraid
of what they say
I don't care what they say because...
I'm absolutely sure
i won't need anything more
I left loneliness outside of your door

One step closer to the boundary
between what's certain and the maybe's
we need to cross that line where no one's
got nothing on us
they don't understand - where we've been

we can't quit
It doesn't matter
I promise everything's gonna get better
they're not part of this

Bridge:
I'm not afraid, i'm not afraid of what they say
I know that we'll be ok

just the way you are

2010-08-12T16:17:00.006+10:00

Hello there, I haven't had an actual greeting to you all for the past several blogs. I was eager to jump right into the sea of thoughts that engulfed my in recent weeks. Thanks to a few friends as they taught me how to swim through that sea when it turned into sadness.

The featured song for this blog is titled 'Just the way you are' by Bruno Mars and was recommended by Tina. She has been in a similar boat before, which has successfully floated through sorts of conditions that the sea or ocean has thrown at her.

There has been many turbulent times and I for one shall experience riding out through these emotions. Sometimes, I'm cruising and watching the blue skies with white fluffy clouds go by. While at other times, I could be experience sudden storms and rainy days where you just want to stay inside and just don't want to talk to anyone. You huddle inside in your room where you seem to be able to hide from certain things in life.

Unfortunately, you can't hide forever as you have to return to reality after a while in your little world. You may tear up and cry and not want to be seen, however eventually you'll face the music and your friends can help you through these tough times. The friends you believe you can confine to are the most important as the others one who know nothing or bits and pieces are the ones who are the least helpful. They may speculate and assume and create pieces of the puzzles that are non-existent and glue them together instead of the actual pieces.

I'm hoping to be able to float and survive the journey that I have commenced and not sink into the deep dark ocean. I know if I do, I can swim back up to the surface eventually, but that takes time.

All I can do now is wait out and try to enjoy the journey with her even if she doesn't know that she is joining in the voyage with me yet. So below is a something that I believe represents my true friends. Thank you and I hope we continue to be continue being friends for a long time to come if not life long friends. You know who you are and enjoy. (yes my thoughts just flowed like a cascading waterfall and that was what was created)

If you have friends that take you down, I suggest you seriously reconsider the people you trust and have let into your life. Friends don’t take you down. They may let you down, unintentionally, but no true friend would ever purposely take you down. They bring out the best in you, and only take you higher. The one thing that is stable in my life, the one thing I know I can count on, is my friends. I know how to pick them, I guess, because they’re the best part about me, and they’ve been here with me through everything. I know they feel the pain I feel because I can see it in their eyes…And we can sit in total and complete silence on any given day, those days where all I can do is stare off into empty space, they’ll sit right there beside me and stare right on with me. I hope that every single one of you is lucky enough to at least have one friend that would do this for them. Everyone deserves that.

Just The Way You Are

Oh, her eyes, her eyes, make the stars look like they're not shining
Her hair, her hair, falls perfectly without her trying
She's so beautiful, and I tell her every day
Yeah, I know, I know, when I compliment her she won't believe me
And it's so, it's so, sad to think that she don't see what I see
But every time she asks me do I look ok, I say
When I see your face, there's not a thing that I would change
Because you're amazing, just the way you are
And when you smile, the whole world stops and stares for a while
Because girl you're amazing, just the way you are
Her lips, her lips, I could kiss them all day if she let me
Her laugh, her laugh, she hates but I think it's so sexy
She's so beautiful, and I tell her every day
Oh, you know, you know, you know, I'd never ask you to change
If perfect's what you're searching for then just stay the same
So, don't even bother asking if you look ok
You know I'll say
When I see your face, there's not a thing that I would change
Because you're amazing, just the way you are
And when you smile, the whole world stops and stares for a while
Because girl you're amazing, just the way you are
The way you are, the way you are
Girl you're amazing, just the way you are
When I see your face, there's not a thing that I would change
Because you're amazing, just the way you are
And when you smile, the whole world stops and stares for a while
Because girl you're amazing, just the way you are. Yeah

speak now

2010-08-11T22:34:00.005+10:00

TAYLOR SWIFT IS AMAZING!!!!!

'Speak Now' will be the title of Taylor Swift's new album to be released in October. I've watched a video of her speaking about how she write songs and what that means to her. A part of Taylor Swift's speech in the video rings true to my ears. All credit to Taylor Swift for her talent and her creativity. Maybe one day, I'll have a collaboration with her :) I'm dreaming but sometimes all you can do is dream and hope.

'For me, songwriting is really sort of like an escape. It's an escape from the reality where you have to say the exact right thing at the exact right time. (umm)Because for me a lot of my songs are confessions of love or confessions of sadness or confessions of loneliness or frustration. And (umm) I'm not excellent at saying those things in the right moment when they happen in real life, but I can say it in a song.
I'm really excited for Taylor Swift's new album. I think she possesses outstanding talent and is awesome as she is still grounded even after she became famous. Most of the celebrities or famous people out there, lose their touch with reality and just become self centred and can't really give a damn about their fans. Taylor Swift is truly a special person since she displays her appreciation of her fans often and keeps in touch with her roots. I wouldn't mind seeing her in concert the next time around she performs in Melbourne.

I thought of this line as my original title, '101 (created blog entry at 1.01am stopped soon after of course) reasons but all I need is one for you to be mine'.

Taylor Swift's new single 'Mine' doesn't express my emotions as I've never had that 'mine' yet but its still a nice song. I shall wait for that day or night when she realises her feelings towards me, if it ever comes. I'll will wait for her. Hopefully, one day I can muster up the confidence to speak now instead of later when its too late and express it through song that won't even matter since they're not with you.

The thing below isn't written by me but I thought I'd share it since I think it can be true.

Like magnets, opposites attract

Just because you've got a lot in common with someone. It doesn't mean you're meant to be together. You're more likely to be soul mates with someone who has hardly anything in common with you.

It works better when you're with someone who's everything you're not, because that way you become two halves of a whole; you complete each other.

(Taylor Swift speaks about songwriting from 51secs to 1min25secs)

can't keep on loving you (from a distance)

2010-08-10T00:33:00.003+10:00

From Saturday night, some good things occurred like listening to 'Can't Keep On Loving You (From A Distance)' for the first time. One day, maybe, I'll follow this song and muster up enough confidence to speak out about how I feel to the person directly. Thanks Tina for this song while I was feeling emotional listening to love songs during the low time in the hotel room. Oh, I've recently recommenced listening to the song 'Two is better than one', after I fully understood it even though I liked it from the beginning. Enjoy these songs and take care.

"Can't Keep On Loving You (From A Distance)"

How do I get close
When she looks like an angel
A moment of her time just seems impossible to me
It's hard to find the words, to get to know this stranger
I'm scared of what she'll say if what I say sounds incomplete
And it feels like we belong together
Can someone tell me where do I start

Cuz, I can't keep on feelin' the way I do
I can't keep on, hiding my heart from you
I got to say something before
Someone else comes through,
I can't keep on loving you,
From a distance

She's always on my mind, there's no room left for thinking
I'm tired of waiting slowly fading it needs to happen now.
Cuz I'm running out of time, and I feel this ship is sinking
The doors are closing I am frozen I need her around
And it feels like we belong together
Can someone tell me where do I start

Cuz, I can't keep on feelin' the way I do
And I can't keep on, hiding my heart from you
I got to say something before
Someone else comes through,
I can't keep on loving you,
From a distance
From a distance
From a distance
From a distance

I can't hide
I can't keep on feelin' the way I do
And I can't keep on, hiding my heart from you
I got to say something before
Someone else comes through,
Cuz I can't keep on loving you,
I can't keep on loving you from a distance.

the key to trust

2010-08-09T19:43:00.007+10:00

Before I start on the blog I was intending to type, I just wanted to say that the Korean Barbecue, I enjoyed on Saturday night, was delectable. The night was alright but I enjoyed myself in the wee hours of the morning talking to some friends, while many either went home or stayed the night passed out in the hotel room at the Crown Metropol. The hotel room was rather crowded and when I arrived there with several friends after dinner it was rather boring. There was some down time spent at the room, however I just helped myself to a seemingly endless supply of macarons. Although it was relatively sweet and not entirely healthy for my teeth, I overindulged in it. Wild antics were observed through the night's proceedings and abnormal behaviour from certain people to others. I observed silently while intaking plenty. I was excited for the night but things could've been better if some of my other friends stayed longer. However, it was a chance for me to develop and strengthen friendships with existing friends. That should be enough for a snippet of the night/day events.

Anyway, I'm not sure but one of my closest friends have been behaving rather strangely ever since the trip about a month ago. I think its isn't bad as he is just acting a lot more hyper than usual. Maybe he is fueled by something or someone. Its rather cool because now he can join me in being random at times. Like I've been saying lately 'People change, feelings change'.

I'm a happy chap but at this point in time I'm feeling rather confused with conflicting knowledge. Many people just give out trust out too easily, but I believe you have to build it over a long time. In my life, I trust a selected number of people. There are varying degrees of trust, like life long trusts that can withstand even minor hiccups like my trust for my mum. e.g. I can tell her things and probably assume shes going to tell someone else like my aunty but I still continue to trust her. I don't tell her everything like I don't tell anyone everything, for its improbable to extract all of your knowledge you possess, unless you were some sort of computer or robot. Trust is key in to any relationship, let me just drill that into your brain. No matter what seemingly little or meaningful relationship you share with another human being.

Some keys open certain doors but with power many doors can be opened. Many people possess great power through their status, wealth, position or knowledge. These people can utilise their power to gain unsurmountable access to things or places. Some may acknowledge that they possess power but they do nothing about it and continue life as what they would perceive as normal. Power can drive many decisions to be made and can make someone become dominant. Personally, I only really possess the power of knowledge and I choose to not utilise my powers when I could turn lives upside down. I keep it to myself and just continue carrying on with an accumulation of knowledge. Furthermore, I believe I am someone who can be trusted and people can eventually see what kind of person I really am, if a relationship between them and I reach that level. Anyone who interacts with someone can have an effect on the other person's life, especially family and friends.

Although, my exterior displays a happy and smiling teenage male enjoying life as it comes, this does not necessarily reflect my interior. Outside I might just be putting on a brave face to cover up what I am really feeling. Sometimes it fails and I become quiet and express deep and utter sadness. At times, I would confide my emotions to some person that I believe I can trust. I enjoy having a deep and meaningful conversations that can enable me to express my feelings or thoughts through one medium. I feel like actually composing a song if I should learn some chords on the guitar, but right now I'll continue to be a lyricist.

To end, I shall leave you with this song I discovered which I enjoy listening to. The lyrics are pleasant and I very much enjoy songs that express how I feel at certain times. Hopefully this week will be another week, where I can remain quiet and carry on with life without thinking about that too much and concentrate on university. In the past several days, it has been brought up and I am not in the mood to talk about it. As I have said several times before, time will tell and give me an indicator. I want to become a touch like my former self where I was a quiet guy. Family and friends nowadays forget that and it becomes unbelievable for them but it is true.

I think these blog entries shall resume being less frequent for the next 4 months. I might post a song once in a while, that can express how I'm feeling with a short note, like I'm planning to do in the immediate future. Until whenever, live life like how I'm trying to live (displayed below through free spirit image & through the quote)

'We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?", unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way.'

We Can Try- Between the Trees

What would you say if I
told you that all I've thought about
is you
since you been gone
I wish some way, some how
I could turn this world right back around
and mend mistakes I made.

So I could say to you that
I know thing aren't quite like what they used to be
different faces, different places yeah.
We could try, oh yeah we could try.

What would you say if I
told you that I'm not givin' up
however long it takes
It's clear that things have changed
since when we started
but we can't just walk away, babe.

So I am telling you
that I know,
things aren't quite like what they used to be
different places, different faces yeah
We could try, oh yeah we could try.

I know, things aren't quite like used to be
different faces, different places, yeah.
We could try, oh yeah we could try.

I know, things aren't quite like what they used to be.
Different faces, different places, yeah
We can try, oh we can try.

I know, things aren't quite like what they used to be.
different places, different faces, yeah.
We could try, oh yeah, we could try
I know, things aren't quite like what they used to be.
different places, different faces, yeah.
We could try, oh yeah, we could try

what should've, could've, would've been

2010-08-07T01:24:00.007+10:00

First and foremost, I hope everyone is having a lovely week so far. I'm having a decent week even when I'm doing so much work. Today or should I say yesterday now was a rather relaxing day. However, I've got work tomorrow and then my two friends' birthday celebrations. Secondly, happy birthday again to Ly & Nancy who celebrated their birthdays the other day. The real celebrations shall start tonight!

I blogged about their birthday party last year but this year it will be taking a different approach. I'm excited for dinner at Korean BBQ (I'm giving it another chance), then kicking back at the new luxurious hotel room they rented out and other potential awesome activities shall be taken place for the rest of the night. I've yet to make my mind whether to stay the night or go home.

This raises some thing I've thought or pondered about countless times throughout my life. What if... or should've could've would've. I may have mentioned or skimmed this before in my blog but its going to continue for the rest of my life no matter what. You just don't know the other possibilities or outcomes that could've come about if you took a different path. I tend to wonder about these things even though it won't make a difference thinking about it. I can't change events that have happened in the past. I can try to make amends and learn any mistakes or any misfortune suffered. Its not that simple even when you are completely aware of the best option. At this point in time, I just recommenced being pensive about her all. Its funny because I'm pretty damn sure shes completely unaware. That will give me time and this whole week she hasn't crossed my mind much at all. It feels great as I can carry on with my life without that lingering thoughts such as, 'How is she? I hope she is ok. I wish she was here with me etc.'

So this song I've started listening to recently, 'What if' by Jason Derulo, is appropriate to how my occasional thoughts. The what ifs can stretch a long way back. What if I didn't go to this high school, would I have met such good friends? Well I've got to look at what I said in a few blogs back, that most of our problems & issues are minute (its not pronounced the same as second, minute, hour) compared to what other people living with life threatening disease/illness and living in poverty are suffering. These people struggle and have to fight to live each day, while for me and probably most of you reading this can manage these occasional headaches and dilemmas.

Oh no Tina, I forgot a dream I was supposed to tell you :S I deemed it to be rather vital. I'll go to sleep very soon and hopefully I'll dream about something great. Super Saturday it is! Carlton thrashed Essendon so that was a good way to kick off the weekend. Hopefully it'll be a great shift at work and then an awesome night. Until next time, words can hurt as much as physical pain since it can continue to linger on and on...

You’re going to come across people in your life who will say all the right words at all the right times. But in the end, it’s always their actions you should judge them by. It’s actions, not words, that matter. Nicholas Sparks

realise

2010-08-04T14:17:00.007+10:00

Here is something I just stumbled upon recently from another blog. I thought I'll share it as I think its rather accurate and we know love shouldn't be rushed. Time is one of the best indicators of how strong the feelings are truly. The rest of this blog relays from the start and ends with a lovely song by Colbie Caillat called 'Realize', (Realise since I'm Australian) that I uncovered from my extensive song collection. Time will help me make up my mind. Until next time, just keep swimming.

Looking for love doesn’t get anyone anywhere, because then they become desperate, in a way, and then anyone they meet, they hope they will fall in love with, and they will love them. If you force love, rush love, or go looking for it, it may come, but not in the right way, or it may seem like love and then it’s not. Or you will just settle because you want it so badly. So this is good. Just relax. Flirt with girls, but don’t just settle on any one girl, until you know she’s the right one. I know it’s been awhile for you, but still, it takes time. Maybe you should start going out, making friends with people, and just living your life, she will come around. I know everyone says this, but love comes around, when you least expect it. When you don’t want it, it comes, when you want it, it doesn't come. So don’t give up, but don’t totally be obsessed over it. Hang in there mate.

I wish I had learned this sooner, while I still had the chance to. You have to be so thankful for the people in your life, because you have no idea how quickly they can be taken away from you. You have no idea how lucky you are to still have these people in your life. We take people for granted, and really don’t understand how one day all those text messages, those phone calls, seeing their smile, feeling their warmth, could go away. You could be waking up to texts one morning, and have your world ripped out from underneath you the next. If there’s anything I’ve learned from this experience, it’s to love with everything you have. Love as if it was your last day. Take my advice, and don’t hold anything back from those that you love. Let them know now, while they’re still here.

Realize by Colbie Caillat
V1: Take time to realize,
That your warmth is. Crashing down on in.
Take time to realize,
That I am on your side
Didn't I, Didn't I tell you.

But I can't spell it out for you,
No it's never gonna be that simple
No I cant spell it out for you

Chorus: If you just realize what I just realized,
Then we'd be perfect for each other
and will never find another
Just realized what I just realized
we'd never have to wonder if
we missed out on each other now.

V2: Take time to realize
Oh-oh I'm on your side
didn't I, didn't I tell you.
Take time to realize
This all can pass you by.. Didn't I tell you

But I can't spell it out for you,
no its never gonna be that simple
no I can't spell it out for you.

Chorus: If you just realized what I just realized
then we'd be perfect for each other
then we'd never find another
Just realized what I just realized
we'd never have to wonder if
we missed out on each other now.

V3: It's not always the same
no it's never the same
if you don't feel it to.
If you meet me half way
If you would meet me half way.
It could be the same for you.

Chorus: If you just realized what I just realized
then we'd be perfect for each other
then we'd never find another
Just realized what I just realized
we'd never have to wonder
Just realized what I just realized

OoOoOOo

missed out on each other now
missed out on each other now

dancing in a minefield

2010-07-31T23:54:00.010+10:00

Why? Such a simple word that can be transformed into such a powerful question.

Some things in life, we will never know the reason why. The minor actions that you may think that is insignificant can potentially turn the tides of an outcome. I often wonder, think and randomly have moments of glorious philosophical thoughts that just comes cascading out of my mind. As most of you are aware, life is unfair at times and we can't always get what we want. Although there are certain balances, there is great inequality amongst many of the world's population. Most of the people lying on top of the Forbes rich list you may be aware of people like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett. However, there will probably 100 million people that will live another day in the darkness with no assistance struggling to survive. Amongst the disparity, many face daily hardship to survive such as drinking unsanitary water, life threatening diseases and illnesses, walking kilometres to just obtain water and consuming foods that we (those who can afford such luxuries as a computer/laptop and the internet) would consider unworthy. Although, we endure challenges and problems in our life, occasionally take a moment to think about the real challenges faced by many of the people residing in poverty. Then compare the two and potentially how meagre your problem is to what many people in the world are dealing with regularly.

Have some Compassion.

Its nice to take a break from the usual stuff. However, I think the train already left the platform before I came to realise that I'm supposed to catch the train. Or maybe I'm not meant to board that train but another train on another platform that's due to arrive at another time. I don't know what train, what time, what platform. Time will tell and the train when it arrives will definitely take on a journey, however long or short the trip will be. I'm hoping whenever that train arrives that it will be a lovely journey that will endure any terrain whether it be mountains, green fields etc. So until that time comes, I shall be waiting at the station..

'You need hope to cope'

'And in a parallel universe it's me you can't resist'

'and we will dance and dance and dance the night away'- from Dancing in a Minefield by Plushgun (its an old song but I'm just listening to it on itunes as I'm typing & thought it was a fitting title). Oh excuse any grammatical errors.

time after time

2010-07-29T02:39:00.006+10:00

Hi there. I just felt a sudden urge to blog even if it going to be a short blog. Its rather late or early however you look at it so advanced apologies for any grammatical errors. That should apply for of mu blogs. Following up from the previous blog, I extracted certain segments of songs that contained lovely lyrics. This section of a song I found are nice even if the some of the words aren't great when translated.

'My heart is cursing because I can't say I love you.

My tears burst because my longing is flowing & spreading.

I carry those sad words around my neck like a splinter, it wanders all day in my ears.'

Currently, I feel like I'm suppressing my feelings to avoid further complications and any disruptions to the building of our friendship which has a solid foundation laid. However, I don't enjoy having my feelings so confined so sometimes I express myself and believe by my next blog I'll have a song or poem written up in my book or somewhere to express my overflowing emotions. Its just a roller coaster ride at the moment, at times there are ups and then there are downs. However, like a roller coaster ride the up or good moments outweigh the down or bad moments. I don't know what to do. I'm trying to let it go by but my mind is occasionally stumbling back onto the same thing. I think to myself its time to move on but time allows me to set my feelings straight and make clearer decisions that I'll be happier with in the long run. People change, feelings change. Change is the only constant.

'Even if the object of somebody's love doesn't know, there's no such thing as a love that's nothing'

This song played while I was working and I started singing to it and made me think while I was working about my feelings other than the task at hand. You probably heard of it, its rather old but it is great. The song is 'The Reason' by Hoobastank. I shall go to bed soon. Enjoy the video clip and try to live life with great strength even though sometimes life throws you an unexpected curve ball.

my heart will wait

2010-07-25T16:21:00.006+10:00

when you get shocked by electricity, does it hurt this much?

I wonder that sometimes after just watching an episode of a Korean drama called 'You're Beautiful'. At this point in time, I feel that I can closely relate to one of the characters in the drama. Basically, he likes a girl that doesn't know it and thinks they're just close friends and nothing more. Instead, she likes another guy who hasn't realised his feelings for her yet. I may say basically, but its more complicated than it is. I just don't know how to determine the fine line between friends and potentially something more. Right now, theres a strange feeling inside. So much confusion, I guess everyone has their own definition of love. I have been switching between this and Modern Family. Well from this drama, I have acquired a song that I really like even though I couldn't initially understand it. The lyrics are lovely even after its translated. I shall write them out below.

I didn't think it was love. I told myself it wasn't love. I deceived myself. But my heart kept calling your name.

I take one step towards you, push you one step away. Each time, you grow in my heart.

Chorus:

I must be loving you this much

I must be waiting for you this much

Even though I can fool my head, I can't seem to fool my heart.

Even though it hurts so much, my heart can't seem to let you go.

I think there must be just one love

I don't think my heart will change

The love that I've kept only for you, I can finally tell you...

I love you

Sometimes love, at times tears, even though its hard, I love you, I love you.

I only need you by my side

Here are some lines I like from various songs I'm listening to at the moment.

"But darling, you are the only exception" from The Only Exception by Paramore.

"No one ever comes close to you" from Close To You by JLS

"Truth of the matter is I'm complicated" from The Other Side by Bruno Mars Ft. Cee-Lo & B.O.B

...Oh damn, I just listened to a song I like and trying to extract some of the lyrics but I just want to blog the whole lyrics as I think it touching. My friend, Miki, also just mentioned that its stuck on repeat on her playlist thanks to my recommendation :D

What You Mean To Me- Sterling Knight from the Disney movie Starstruck (I haven't seen the movie though)

Can't blame you for thinking
That you never really knew me at all
I tried to deny you
But nothing ever made me feel so wrong

I thought I was protecting you
From everything that I go through
But I know that we got lost along the way

Here I am with all my heart
I hope you understand
I know I let you down
But I'm never gonna make
That mistake again
You brought me closer
To who I really am
Come take my hand
I want the world to see
What you mean to me
What you mean to me

Just know that I'm sorry
I never wanted to make you feel so small
Our story is just beginning
But let the truth break down these walls (oh yeah yeah)

And every time I think of you
I think of how you pushed me through
And show me how much better I could be

Here I am with all my heart
I hope you understand
I know I let you down
But I'm never gonna make
That mistake again
You brought me closer
To who I really am
Come take my hand
I want the world to see
What you mean to me (yeah)

You make me feel like I'm myself
Instead of being someone else
I wanna live that every day
You say what no one else was saying
You know exactly how to get to me
You know it's what I need
It's what I need yeah

Here I am with all my heart
I hope you understand (I hope you understand)
I know I let you down
But I'm never gonna make that mistake again (that mistake again)
You brought me closer
To who I really am
So come take my hand
I want the world to see
What you mean to me
What you mean to me

Below is the song which I obtained from youtube so you can listen to how good it is. Well I think I should end this blog. I hope time will help guide me where ever my heart leads me. Am I falling slowly? Another lovely song 'Falling Slowly by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová from the movie Once. Until next time take care and savour the memories you share with your friends & family.

awesome friday with two amazing people

2010-07-21T01:46:00.000+10:00

The title of this blog justifies the whole purpose of this blog. I was about to just unleash what I was about to say all into my book. However, my most recent Friday (16/7/10) was that great that I had to share it. I thought the trip was group was great fun but at least a third of my Friday may have trumped it. Its subjective but I don't know how I could depict how great it was. I guess it was a thing that you had to be there to know how it felt. I personally enjoy adventures and we sure had a lively one on Friday.

Maybe I should start trying to retell briefly what happened. The words that follow will definitely be inadequate and the experience was limited to three people. The amount of people that could've shared the experiences could've been more but maybe fate led it to be this way. Who knows, but although everyone generally have control over what course of action they're going to take, fate is where things just align and paths meet. I can't explain it but everything seems to fall into place for a reason that could be positive or negative.

So on Thursday night after work while a number of my friends went to watch a movie, I thought about going for a jog the day after. I then texted Judy to ask her if she was interested then Tina following this. Both agreed and the other two people who were about to go missed out on such a great day. I can't emphasize that enough.

So Friday morning, I woke up around 8am and got ready to go pick up Judy and drive to Tina's house. We got there on time as the last time we went jogging I got there late and regularly get reminded by the both of them. We made our way down to the footpath along the river in which we were to jog. Our starting point was where we stretched next to several wooden chairs. It was a good thing we stretched for a while since my legs didn't feel the usual pain the following day if they weren't stretched properly.

Anyway, so we commenced our jog where Tina started us off while I stretched further and caught up with Judy and jogging besides Tina since we weren't sure of where to go. This was until Tina stopped jogging and told us to continue. This was what we did until Judy stopped so close to a bridge that I wanted to reach. I just stopped as well since I was jogging with Judy and we walked the rest of the way to a place where we started resting for a little while before Tina's presence was within the proximity. We conversed then started jogging again with Tina jogging out of sight before Judy & I commenced jogging at a steady pace. Judy told me I should just jog ahead if she stops. So for most of the return jogging leg, I jogged with Judy but a gap started to creep in and kept widening. Normally, I would slow down and wait but as Judy encouraged me to keep running and just occasionally looked back to make sure if she is alright.

Finally, the sight of the wooden chairs made my body feel relieved. Judy and I hi fived each other as we performed admirably. We cooled down and waited for Tina. Following Tina's arrival, we all started walking. At that point in time, we had no plans, we walked and walked. Time was no barrier, there was no exhaustion when it came to the sniff of adventure. Maybe that was just the stench of some dog poop someone didn't scoop up. We did see some doggy bags hanging on poles though as we strolled along the riverside and venturing into further territory we never embarked into before.

It was a lovely leisurely walk where we conversed about so many random things and some future plans on the works. During our walk, we admired some peaceful ducks paddling in a pond before encountering a wild and aggressively black swan who we believe was going to attack us before we quick stepped away. We collectively thought it was male and protecting the female swan. Maybe it saw us as some form of threat to its mate. We carried on and made our way further down the river before seeing some familiar sights. The Lonely Planet headquarters loomed before us and we exited the footpath to serve our curiosity with some answers.

We inspected the distribution section of the building with countless books stacked up ready for shipping or delivery. Judy or Tina asked an employee where the reception was and we made our way there. Up one of flight stairs was where we could've went but since we were all rather tired we utilised the lift that was available. We met the receptionist there and started asking him an array of questions, while he informed us with some interesting facts. In the reception, the whole lonely planet collection of books were on display. It was surely remarkable, just a library of Lonely Planet books and guides.

We spent some time there before leaving and setting off for some delicious brunch. It is fortunate as my stomach was starting to grumble. I really appreciated what I ate which was a delicious bread with skinless chicken with a variety of vegetables. Other things started falling into place but I think I've written enough in this blog so I'll just hastily end this. Judy saw a friend while we were eating and it was just such a coincidence that he was working at that place that day. Lets just say one of us got extremely excited by this. We met up and talked before beginning our trek back to Tina's house.

All in all it was a great day where we departed with Judy looking for some new runners and us going for some lip smacking frozen yoghurt. Thank you Judy & Tina for sharing such an amazing day with me and making it so. I hope there shall be more to come in the future even if university will make it difficult to do so. Until next time, remember to keep active!

P.s. I was sleepy while writing this blog so sorry for any mistakes made. Thank you

a trip to remember

2010-07-14T23:55:00.005+10:00

A month has passed since my last entry. many things have occurred in this month. there were the usual ups and downs and smiles and frowns. the world cup has ended for another time. I am delighted with Spain's triumph. They are my favourite team other than Australia. Its going to be another 4 years until the next one in Brazil. That seems like a long time but next thing you know it, the next two finalist could be battling it out once again. A lot of excitement and hype were created for the World Cup but the refereeing was a letdown with some horrible decisions and also the unpredictability that came from the Jabulani ball.

The other day was also marked one year since I created this blog. Time sure has flew by with less than 6 months away before 2011 commences. Coinciding with the one year anniversary since I created this blog, was the beginning of my 3 day trip away from Melbourne with quite a number of my friends and some of my friend's friend which were rather cool as well. The trip was enjoyable and gave my friends and I a chance to escape from reality for a few days with such scenic views. some of the highlights of the trip included beach soccer, seeing my some of my friends in a new light that were hilarious, jog/walk on the beach with some friends, exploring and rolling down hills with Judy. It was painful but it we did it twice because it was fun and had thoughts about how we're not young forever and enjoy ourselves before its too late. In addition, the fun and games played with the whole group and time spent preparing food and cleaning up afterwards was good fun. I enjoyed the trip as it allowed some of my friendships with certain friends to blossom and grow while the new ones to initiate. Random activities took place throughout the trip. Although there were no clear cut itinerary, the trip was a relaxing one even with several hours of sleep each night. I would've liked if more photos were taken on the trip but I guess the limited photos and videos that were taken shall provide me with some memories for the trip.

I think I will leave the rest of my thoughts for my book as I haven't written in it for a while. I just have so many things dancing across my mind that I don't know which step to take first. Enjoy the rest of your holidays and if you're French, Happy Bastille Day. Until next time remember to stop and think once in a while about the friends you have and how they can assist you through tough times and make life that much better. Special thank you to my close friends. I would rather have 10 close friends than 100 friends. Someone who would support you through life's journey and be there for you.

world cup 2010

2010-06-12T14:55:00.008+10:00

welcome one and all. I'm taking some time out from potential study time to post a blog about how I'm extremely excited for the World Cup. It has begun overnight in fine fashion where the host nation, South Africa hosted Mexico in the opening match. surprisingly, both nations' teams displayed an enjoyable spectacle. although Mexico dominated the first half with the majority of the possession, South Africa were still in the match and came out the stronger in the second half that could have led to a victory. South Africa took the lead with a great goal by Tshabalala, however Mexico scored an equaliser through Rafael Marquez. Either team had numerous opportunities to forge ahead, especially when Mphela missed a great opportunity to score from close range.

France vs Uruguay was a letdown, I watched most of the first half and lost interest. I'm hoping South Korea vs Greece will be a great match that will end in a South Korean victory.

Most importantly though, I would want Australia to progress to beyond the group stages and hopefully crush all doubters and win the World Cup. If not Australia, then hopefully Spain can triumph to win their first World Cup. All in all, my excitement level for this world cup is extremely high as the World Cup does come once every four years and I can distinctly remember the horrible moments when Totti slotted the penalty past Schwarzer for Italy to advance pass Australia and eventually win the World Cup. until next time, enjoy life and enjoy the World Cup while it lasts. one month can go by so quickly.
Save Now

The World Cup trophy held aloft by the inspirational Nelson Mandela.

You make me smile :)

2010-05-30T02:21:00.010+10:00

I was about to go to sleep, however I turned on the radio to have a listen and first the song on the radio was 'Nothin' on you' by B.O.B Ft. Bruno Mars. A good song which I enjoyed until it ended. I was about to change the station before a song I've never heard before started playing that stopped me from doing anything else. My body just laid there on the bed, while my ears listened to the beautiful lyrics that were sung. My mind just reflected for the duration of the song of a certain someone for the majority of the song and how she makes me smile. I don't know why I thought about her but maybe because of how she simply makes me smile when I think about her or when her name is mentioned. I also thought about one of my good friends after this song, about her situation and how she would hopefully smile when she listens to this song. Please don't cry. I was thinking of sending it to you but thought you'll discover it as soon as you check your other email. I think you will like it and send me a text when you do read my blog & listen to the song.

I would like to share you the song which postponed my sleep but fortunately led me to discovering the song. The song is called 'Smile' by Uncle Kracker, whom had that great hit from ages ago with 'Follow Me'. I'll post the lyrics along with the youtube video. Sing along with the lyrics provided. The lyrics are truly amazing. Ah, my heart skips a beat. The memory floods back. The moments shared.. I hope you have a good night, I think I will with this song ending the night for me. Smile :)

"Smile"

You're better than the best
I'm lucky just to linger in your light
Cooler than the flip-side of my pillow (that's right)
Completely unaware
Nothing can compare to where you send me
Let's me know that it's okay (yea, it's okay)
And the moments when my good times start to fade

[Chorus:]
You make me smile like a sun, Fall outta bed

Sing like a bird, Dizzy in my head
Spin like a record, Crazy on a Sunday night
You make me dance like fool, Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, Buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Oh, you make me smile

Even when you're gone
Somehow you come along just like a flower pokin through the sidewalk crack
And just like that
You steal away the rain
And just like that

[Chorus]

Don't know how I lived without you
'Cuz everytime that I get around you
I see the best of me inside your eyes
You make me smile

You make me dance like fool, Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, Buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Oh, you make me smile

[Chorus]

(Oh, you make me smile)
Oh you make me smile
(Oh, you make me smile)
Oh you make me smile

I never told you

2010-05-26T11:15:00.005+10:00

Hello and welcome. if you have stumbled upon my blog for the first time, I should just notify you that if you're looking for something consistent and awesome, I don't think this is the blog for you. It is more like a random extraction of tiny fragments of certain events and some other random thoughts. Feel free to read on and sift through the older blog posts.

today marks one of my friend's birthday. Happy Birthday 20th William! Saturday also signified the 20th anniversary of when another friend was born into this world. they're not just any old friends though. for me, they link because last year at William's birthday party, I met my other friend. although we haven't known each other for a year but we have developed a nice friendship. my group of friends and I organised a surprise birthday dinner for my friend which ended up being a great night. I'm not sure if I have expressed this already, but for me the basic in friendship is that there are your friends and your acquaintances. I'm sure we all have acquaintances, those people we don't mind but don't talk to all that much. A friend is a person who you can depend on consistently. I can go further to break it down even further but I'm not going to bother.

anyways, I shall end this blog entry with something dedicated to my friend. I'm sure she knows who she is and probably one of several readers of my blog I'm wary of. Don't think I have forgotten you. As my friend has informed me recently that she read my last entry, so I thought I should blog something that I think she shall appreciate. (note: just read he instead of she or him instead of her) I wish my mind would conjure this up myself but its a quote by the late Bob Marley. Its accurate and lovely like the previous piece I shared in my last entry. I shall leave you with it. Have a lovely week and enjoy life and appreciate the little things.

"You may not be her first, her last or her only. She loved before, and she may love again, but if she loves you now, what else matters? She's not perfect, you aren't either, and the two of you may never be perfect together, but if she can make you laugh, cause you think twice, and admit to being human and making mistakes; hold onto her and give her the most you can. She may not be thinking about you every second of the day, but she will give you a part of her that she knows you can break her heart. So don't hurt her, don't change her, don't analyse and don't expect more than she can give. Smile when she makes you happy, let her know when she makes you mad, and miss her when she's not there." -Bob Marley

amazingly true

2010-05-16T21:55:00.008+10:00

this will be a short blog about something I found from a blog I follow, which I had to share with people who read this blog. instead of completing my assignment, I find myself wanting to express some feelings and thoughts. I find it to be accurate for myself at times. I wonder if it you will find so too. let me know. I'll leave you to it and enjoy the rest of your month of May. exams are creeping ever so closely..

If I ever push you away, I don't really mean to.

When I tell you I don't want to talk about it I do, I am just looking for the right words.

Give me a minute, and if I can tell you; I will.

I try to be a struggling mix of real and perfect at the same time.

At the moment, I am working on the ratio.

When I get really quiet sometimes, it is because I have too much to say. I have thought of too many things to tell you all at once and I don't know what to say first.

I get immaturely jealous of anyone who gets to see you on a daily basis. I miss you that easily. But I also like that we can be a p a r t and we are okay. Space is good, too.

I love the way we love some of the same things, and I love how we love entirely different things.

My head is a complicated pile of thoughts, and fears, and cravings, and dreams, and this tangled up nostalgia for the past and, somehow, the future.

I am flawed and I am human and I am broken and I am trying, and I am one person and I am two and I am one and I love you and I am so glad you are here.

what you appear to be

2010-04-28T22:23:00.004+10:00

Is it just human nature or an innate behaviour to look at something attractive than something undesirable? The first thing we notice on someone or something is the appearance. Judgments would then be casted. This isn't only on other humans but also other things such as animals, plants and objects. Any prospects of a relationship being struck between two people, may fail to commence as a result of exterior appearance. e.g. an upper class, wealthy businessman walking along a city/downtown street and passing a homeless man who is begging for money. I can confidently say that most will continue on their way minding their own business or racing to their high end restaurant for lunch. Even with the homeless man clearly in dire straits.

The general misconception is that this man will take his money, blow it on the pokies, purchase cigarettes/drugs or go buy some alcohol/liquor. Rather than going to use this money for whatever they suggested it for and having higher priorities such as food & water. I know that there are some who do that, whom continue asking even after they received a sufficient amount for e.g. bus/train ticket. You then see them walking into a pokies venue or convenience store and walking out soon after with a pack of cigarettes. These people make the rest of the others look bad and give them a bad name. e.g. an Asian woman driver involved in a car accident adding more fuel to the stereotype that all Asian women drivers are terrible drivers.

Back to the original point, appearance is what set you apart. Well, you got to admit that everyone is fond of beauty. Each person has their own opinion of beauty, so this is true. Guys/girls, after all when you're in a bar, club or wherever and see strangers. Who do you look at or check out? The difference is the degree that beauty is a factor.

The most renowned artworks in the world like the Mona Lisa, Sistine Chapel or Venus' birth by Botticelli have great beauty. Outer beauty, that is visible to the eye, attracts the eye and makes you keep looking. Something hideous may attract the eye but in a different light, as when seen, may probably make you want to immediately look away. However, there is the possibility that intriguing beauty like such artworks as The Scream and those by Pablo Picasso, will allure your eyes for longer.

Inner beauty is what I continue to value more and more. This kind of beauty along with personality is so much more important in my mind. The kind of people I want to call friends or my love would be kind and nice people whom like or love me for who I am. That may or may not necessarily be blessed with dashing good looks. That is preferred over those who are self-centred, mean but physically attractive people.

Its just a matter that in the long run, if your relationship is based on physical attraction rather than personality and inner beauty, then it seem destined to fail. Time will age people, their appearance will change, not necessarily their inner beauty. If outer beauty wasn't a factor, many barriers would be pulled down. Life would be different but thats not the case. So the cycle will repeat as new adolescent girls will probably love guys such Justin Bieber and guys would be crushing on girls Miranda Kerr. That is all alright as long as everyone is happy. I'll leave you with something before I end this blog. 'Surrounding yourself with upbeat, supportive people can make a big difference to your own frame of mind and overall wellbeing.

Anyway, I have just finished watching the series of IRIS, all 20 episodes of it. It was great but the ending was tragic. I felt rather sad afterwards. So for those who haven't yet started or watched it, I won't spoil it. Go watch it! Sorry about the non-existent use of photos or pictures. I'll try to make it up some other time. Until next time, have a nice relaxing week and hopefully I can blog sooner rather than later.

I rate, Iris

2010-04-09T16:53:00.003+10:00

no, its not meant to be a play on words as I'm not angry at Iris. pretty much the exact opposite. maybe just slightly for being so good and encouraging me to spend time watching it rather than do something productive like study or work. you say 'what is Iris?' well let me tell you the general gist of the story of this great Korean drama. its not your typical love or romance based drama, rather a drama with some more action and some love.

the drama takes many twists and turns throughout the series. although I have only watched half of the 20 episodes, I can see that it is a thrilling and great drama that some of my friends have already seen and raved about. each episode is literally 1 hour long, not 42 minutes, so a lot of time is required to watch the series. I would recommend it highly when you possess a lot of free time or when you're on a hour long study break.

this is probably the second ever Korean drama I've ever watched, the first one being Stairway to Heaven which coincidentally also was a drama in which Kim Tae Hee was in. that is saying something right and Stairway to Heaven was released back in 2003. so check it out for yourself and ensure that you get it with English subtitles if you don't understand Korean.

the outline of the plot revolves around several main characters including Kim Hyun-Jun (my favourite), Jin Sa-woo and Choi Seung-Hee. Hyun-Jun and Sa-woo are close friends, brothers basically, who are both in South Korea's special forces. they separately meet Seung Hee who they don't know that she is not the person she seems to be until later. they both instantly develop crushes on her like a poloroid photo being developed. I like how they both said that I've met a girl and she will be your future sister in-law not knowing that its the same girl. Hyun Jun and Sa-woo both are then selected and recruited into the NSS (National Security Service) after facing some painful tests. they later find out that Seung Hee works for the NSS. committed to getting Seung Hee to fall in love with him, Hyun Jun embarks on some winning her love. however, Seung Hee being stringent on the rules that colleagues can't date each other, attempts to ignore this even though she admitted to liking him from the start. however love prevailed and Hyun Jun and Seung Hee secretly see each other and their love grows. Sa-woo finds out later about this and although seemingly jealous, allows it continue without much fight. while this is occuring, missions are being carried out and completed. however, after the missions that occurred in Hungary, life for Hyun-Jun, Seung Hee and Sa-woo would never be the same again, at least for up to episode 11 anyways.

the rest is up to you to find out. until next time, take some time out and watch Iris

Hyun Jun (played by Lee Byung-hun)

Seung Hee (played by Kim Tae-Hee)

Sa woo (played by Jung Joon-ho)