Siren

A Spot Of Bother

2012-01-30T02:59:00.000+08:00

I'm writing this on the back of a win so I get a little distinction from those whiny, fickle fans.

Don't get me wrong, we just beat Aston Villa 3-2 after being two goals down after the first 45 minutes. That's worth some celebration. And I highly recommend that you celebrate away, because there isn't much to keep an Arsenal fan smiling these days.

Football is more than a game. It's the spirit and glue that holds a community together. You may not see it if you aren't part of the community, but it is. It shapes cultures and lives, and especially, in the past few decades, economies.

The fact is, the game has changed. It no longer is the weekend pleasure pit where everyone can turn to. Game are now expensive to watch. Footballers no longer hop on the bus to get home after games. They ride in style in fancy cars. Football clubs still boast about their histories, but it is undeniable that the present will soon be part of that.

We are the club that are financially stable and respectable. We are the club known for raising young talents (not the only one though) and giving them a chance. We are the club that makes stars, not buy them (also not the only one, to be honest). For these reasons and many many more, I am proud of the Arsenal. That doesn't mean though that I can't see the trouble brewing. We are on very thin ice.

Our fans have been divided into two camps in the last few seasons - the ones who stand by Arsene Wenger, and well, the ones who don't. For me, it goes a lot deeper than just the manager. And I am not going to discuss who people have in mind to replace Le Prof should he go - no one is good enough, in my opinion. How though, can we escape the fact that we need to rebuild this team? I love that we have a group of young blood so hungry to prove themselves. I love that former players are so true to the club, they come back here because there is no other English club for them. These players make me feel like they know how fans feel. We need more. We need more than that unfortunately.

When we are in a situation like now - inconsistent, no trophies (now, or in sight), no core strength in the team on the field - we show no intent. Why would any decent, respectable professional footballer stay with/sign with us? Plus, we aren't exactly the club that would pay a king's ransom in wages per week. What's the draw? The integrity of the club? Our class and history? Sure, but the present events will write and change that too, no? And who wants to be part of a history that is a barely a blip on the scale of greatness during the best years of their footballing career?

Juan Mata went to Chelsea. Eden Hazard came to see us play like school kids. How many more?

I am not here to preach, because I don't have a solution. Where do we start? I only have an inkling. Otherwise, I'd be paid a whole lot of money to do something a lot more useful. I want to buy players. Not big names like Ronaldo, or Kaka (hahaha), or Messi. I want technique over flair (yes, there is a difference); I want hunger over playing for a paycheck; I want team over individual. You know what I mean.

That's why I think it's so important to keep players like Robin van Persie, while adding more depth and quality to the squad. Despite what others say about Robin being our "one man", I truly don't believe that. Everyone in the team has to pull their own weight for anyone else in the team to shine. We need to keep Koscielny too. We should be so lucky to have an unsung hero like him to work his arse off every single game despite the scoreline. And Vermaelen, he embodies the phrase "leading by example". He plays where he is needed and he attacks when no one else will. Thomas is an absolute inspiration. Most of our current players actually. But we need to be rid of some dead weight. I have the utmost respect for players like Arshavin and Chamakh, but they are exactly the kind of players we have to clear out to make way for new and real quality. We need to spend some money getting not just fresh blood into the team, but stability. We need to get back belief and capability - one can't truly exist for long without the other.

We can't chastise others for spending money and doing well. That's the way the game is moving towards. Spending money does not mean abandoning your heritage. We do not have to do it the same way as others have, but we need to start loosening the purse strings for sure. I do think we should start paying the players more, but not on a whole and absolute level. We need to work out an even more attractive incentive system in the wage scheme to reward based on meritocracy. You can't ask for sky-high salaries when you fail to hit the target week after week - this is true of any profession. We are not a charity and we will not pay for players to sit on the bench, or run around like a headless chicken, or spout arrogant comments on camera.

All these barely scratch the surface of the iceberg of problems we have. But we have to start somewhere, no? We can't just sit by season after season, sulk, complain and drift to obscurity. We need to move with the times. We need to show the world that this club is never down and out. Fans need to stand together. Management need to shake off fear. Players need to play like they understand what this game is about.

Red and white, loud and proud - I'm Arsenal till I die.

King Henry

2012-01-10T17:28:00.002+08:00

There are no words that will adequately describe how amazing this is.

The return of the the King, Thierry Henry. Our top scorer. A good man. An Arsenal fan and legend.

Love for football in itself is very often hard to put into words. To many, including me, it is not just a game. Football shapes communities and perspectives, people and news. Football is life. And the devotion that ties one to his club after the ultimate moment of picking an allegiance, that is a pivotal point in life.

I have so many words I would like to use to describe our Thierry, but nothing will every suffice what this man embodies. His style, skills, humility, humour, good looks and just his essence. Just look at the reception he got, and his immense celebration after scoring. Our reflex reactions - those that we automatically engage without thought - I believe are the truest. Henry's elation at scoring for the club he loves speaks more words than the eloquence he oozes during interviews. How I wish all our players loved this dear club like he does. How I wish this loan stint would last more than two months.

They say one should always leave while at the peak of his career. I dare say there is little that will mar the memory and talent that is Thierry Henry. He is living proof that class, indeed, is permanent.

2012

2012-01-01T11:14:00.001+08:00

I spent the last few hours of 2011 being grateful.

For the three points we got against QPR (Arsenal 1 - 0 QPR).
For Robin van Persie.
For James, who is a Gooner too. Thank you God.
For London, whose eccentric charms will always work on me.
For James' parents - the most generous and amazing couple. I can't thank you both enough for everything you have given to/done for me.
For James' friends, who accepted me immediately.
For an incredible time with the man I love.
For my mother, who is ever so selfless. I would be nothing without you, and you will always be the most important person in my life.

I think my only regret was not being around my other close friends in Singapore. You know who you are xxxxx

I could cruise on without resolutions this year, but the truth is, I rather like making them. I like having a goal to work towards. And I think over the years, I have become better at this. I would like to think that with age, comes a sense of practicality. Ha. Here's my very feasible list of things I want to do in 2012.

1. Take Spanish classes
2. Go back to yoga and pole
3. Seriously consider my job options and put some proper effort into it.
4. Lose weight.
5. Do something new.
6. Get Invisaligns.
7. Read/watch the news more.
8. Write more.
9. Make my mother happy
10. Love

In truth, the past year has been challenging. I am not quite where I want to be at 30. I do however, understand myself more, as poofy as that sounds. I look back at 2011 and I know what I want for myself in 2012. I want to make things better, to make a difference - for me, and the people around me. I want to be free, happy, sensible, and brave.

I want to be remembered.

So I hardly think this is the year the world will come to an end. I know some of you have had a rather dreadful year, but believe me, there are lots more Life has planned for all of us. Chin up. Keep the faith. Keep calm and carry on.

Fate And Such

2011-12-05T06:09:00.001+08:00

When Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy meet.

The chemistry is undeniable; the attraction, irresistible. A combustible brew that slowly bubbles.

When two strangers let their words and lives entwine.

Perceptions and horizons expand. Stories come alive in a most organic and natural way - effortless; destined.

When friends realise distance bears no barrier to the intimacies tasted by sincere hearts.

Time apart ceases to matter. Here-and-now becomes as real as then-and-there. There only exists a sublime understanding of the subtlest expressions.

Now and then, I deliver the most incoherent blurps. I would apologise for confusing you, but my intention was never to clarify from the start.

Today I'm reminded that I can feel at home anywhere in this world as long as I am with the right people. A heart can be lonely, yet mystically full. There are still so many para-emotional phenomena that I strain to describe and convey. I would be so lucky, if one day I found the right words.

Braving It Alone

2011-12-02T13:47:00.001+08:00

It's been a crazy few weeks.

I've been out of Singapore since mid-November. I returned on my birthday then flitted off again a day and a half later. Germany has somewhat been my home the last few weeks. It's a beautiful country, Germany. Berlin and Munich are especially close to my heart. Dresden, Rothenburg and Nuremberg are so gorgeous, fairytales fade in comparison. It's been a long trip.

Being on these educational journeys with school children is an experience I'd describe as varied and humbling. There are some kids (like my Crescent darlings) where they amaze and blow me away with their intellect, wit and good behaviour; and others who make me remember why I don't want kids. Every time they see something impressive and their eyes light up though, I feel a surge of satisfaction. Every time they learn something new, I feel proud of them. It's been a tiring and rewarding ride.

I don't think others realise how much work I am doing though. People around me just think I am travelling and having the time of my life, and that I have all the time in the world to go a-wandering. Of course I have fun, but I am also stressed everyday. And during my peak period (like now), I don't get days off at all. Not even weekends. I see the sights in the countries I visit, but I don't actually get to enjoy them because I'm busy making phone calls and ushering people one way or another. Plus, I'm the kind of traveller who enjoys basking in the locale and walking amongst the locals. Not something I can do on the job at all. Add all these to the fact that I have other expectations to manage back at home while I'm juggling stuff on the job (whether it's when travelling or in Singapore) - my work is just as hard as yours, mate. I'm not saying I don't enjoy it. I'm saying I don't have it as good as you think. And the money is a bit rubbish.

Still, I'm thankful for the opportunity to see the world. I really am. I want to say that this job has made me more open to talking to people from all over the world as well, but I was that person before this job. Ha. My only worry is that when I get back to Singapore now, I'd speak in simple English without connectors and prepositions, because that's what I've been doing most of the time. That's why I miss London. Well, the UK isn't far away - I'm going back early December. Yes, for work. London is my second home really. I miss the sooty air, the wet cobblestones, and the nice people everywhere. Well, and the fact that people will actually understand me when I speak.

By the time I get back home to Singapore, new train stations and shopping centres would have been built and opened. Friends would have had children. Things will be different, but the same - the feeling of home, where things are always comforting even if they looked different. I'll be back Singapore, be patient.

Stampede Bridge

2011-10-30T04:25:00.000+08:00

Haha. Yes, we just beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Final score: Chelsea 3 - 5 Arsenal. It's been forever since a win, or anything for that matter, made me feel like this.

Apparently, Robin van Persie is only the fourth player to have scored a hat trick against Chelsea. This was also the first time since December 1989 (v. Liverpool) that Chelsea have conceded five goals in a League game. It is also the first time Arsenal have scored five goals against Chelsea since 1934.

Exhilarating, is it? I still feel the tingling in my throat and the butterflies in my tummy.

This is why I will never love someone, or something, the way I love the Arsenal. Despite all the shit in my life, Arsenal will never leave me. Arsenal will never stop trying. Arsenal will occasionally surprise me with something superb, but will always let me know that they are there whenever I need them. Sort of.

I need to go watch the highlights again.

It's Not Always Bad...

2011-10-04T22:28:00.001+08:00

I'm not talking about football obviously. That, in recent times, is always bad.

I'm talking about my life. I know I always write about the negatives. It's hard not to, because I purge bad feelings and thoughts through the tippity-tap of my keyboard. But really, there are plenty of good times in my life as well.

The nights when I get phone calls from Ting and we both rattle on about our lives. I love having her tell me things about her life. It's nice remembering that the girl I met when I was 13 is still in my life in a big, big way.

I look forward to getting Facebook messages from Situ. She's away so much and our lives are so busy that we don't get to catch up anymore. It makes me really sad because I genuinely miss her a lot. Her smiles and the silly stuff she says. I love being able to tell her anything, and now I do it on Facebook. God bless social media.

Work is picking up a bit. I'm not doing terribly well, but I am doing okay. I have some results from the proposals I have sent out and all. I think if I put in more effort, I'd probably be better. I just haven't gotten into talking on the phone for hours with my clients and all. I'm too lazy for that and that's probably why I don't get as many sales as I should. I admire Ting for having that patience. And good on her! I'm proud of her for doing well. Maybe I will draw inspiration from her and make more effort for the next round of trips.

James and I are starting to talk more. I think that's really important. We recently had a really really long talk about our relationship and I think being that open brought us closer, and I am glad for that. There are areas in our relationship and our individual personalities I think need to change. I don't know if anything would actually change, but I know that because we can talk about it, things are already better. This is something people say, but I think no one really understands and appreciates until they are older - it's feels really blissful to have someone you can share your life with.

The next couple of months will be tough cos I will be away a lot, won't have time to exercise and will probably be in an awful mood all the time. That's what peak period at work does to everyone I guess, but I'm also grateful for the travelling opportunities. I need to remember to be thankful for everything I have in my life. I don't want to be the miserable sod who only sees the dirt and obstacles. Everything can be beautiful if we let it.

I want to let my life be beautiful.

Unpleasantry

2011-09-22T21:05:00.006+08:00

It seems all I have these days are feelings of annoyance, depression and general frustration. And I can't really shout them all out because I have to think about the consequences that I am/am not willing to deal with.

I hate that people dismiss my claims of putting on weight. It's not false modesty. I'm not fishing for compliments. I'm not some 20 year-old flit-fluttering around trying to get attention. I don't judge my popularity or quslity of life by the number of responses I get from others. I'm just speaking my mind, and what I perceive to be true. I'm not asking for people to reassure me. I hate that when I comment about wearing certain clothes, or having put on weight, people reply with, "You so skinny!", "You can afford it", and all that blah. But, I can't very well tell them off, can I? I know I am not a monster, but I certainly have gained enough weight to not be able to wear some (most of what I own actually) clothes anymore. For me, that's enough. I'm not living by anyone else's yardstick. I know it may seem petty, but having my problems trivialised like that is fucking annoying.

Work hasn't really moved forward. I am trying to be focused and I think I am responsible enough to do my part as best as I can, but there's a part of me that just looks forward to the travel and nothing else. Yes, I feel bad for that. I am thankful for the opportunities, of course. I just don't know if I am quite cut out for this. I do know though, that I am really glad for the chance to travel.

A lack of income means I can't do as much as I want. I have recently gotten into Bikram yoga, and I really enjoy it. I can't do it as regularly as I want to though, cos it's so expensive. Next term of pole and aerial is gonna happen soon as well, but I don't know if I can afford to sign up for more. To be completely honest, I can afford these, but it would mean living like a skint rat. I believe in living within my means and I am trying to. I save and take the bus and drink tap water and eat cheap lunches. Unfortunately, I tend to squander it all away on weekends. Since I have stopped working, I have rationed out a certain amount of money each week for myself so that I won't overspend. Guess how well that's working out for me? Sometimes the circumstances presented negate all your efforts. It's frustrating because I don't think what I have rationed out is unreasonable. I have to keep reminding myself that I have no income. Really. Like I said, I will start saying "no", and start living within my means.

Sometimes there is so much emotions within that I just want to go crazy and shout out, or throw a hissy fit. It's not easy to speak my mind anymore. I have realised that as situations unfold that some things cannot be undone. I can't trust myself to divulge as much as I used to. I hold back. I withdraw into myself. I am not blaming anyone for the way I feel. How can I? It's my own fault that I let past events dictate how I feel and act this much. I can't earn back lost trust on my own. Still, I am glad I have friends and loved ones to listen to my rants, because honestly, I may well go mental otherwise. May I never take my friends for granted.

Isn't technology a funny thing? I simply can't live without Internet on-the-go. I have my Tiny Tower on all day. I check Twitter every few minutes, except when I am at work. How did we get lost in all these texts and emotionless drivel? So often I have seen misunderstandings occur because a harmless text message was miscontrued. Why are we still reliant on them then? Why, even after a misunderstanding, do we choose to explain ourselves over even more text messages? What's happening to humanity? Nowadays a text makes one blush where a touch used to. Communication has become so much more efficient in some aspects, yet has regressed on so many other levels.

This is one thing I realise when I am in a completely new place. I feel like I regain some of my humanity. Yes, I still need my mobile broadband on standby, but when I am in a new city or place, my senses are piqued. Everything seems more tactile and captivating. Air smells different, and my eyes discover new colours. I may often be alone, but I feel alive and in touch with the world at large. It's an incredible feeling. I miss it so much.

Alas. The cycle of day and night grounds me in this spot. This sometimes dark, but unavoidable abyss of heavy thoughts. I know I am not infallible. I am not always right. I am not the only vulnerable soul out there. I don't expect the world to revolve around me. The older I get, the more I know what I want, what I don't want, what I have given up, and what I should expect. I may seem unreasonable to some, but I have given in way too often on things I don't necessarily shout about. Sometimes it's worth it. Sometimes it seems like the more you give, the more you have to be willing to give up.

Now, I'll take a deep breath and reboot. May every restart take away a bit of angst, neurotism and regret. Maybe one day I will find a new me. Or lose all of myself. We all keep hoping for the best.

Of Kuching Fame

2011-09-05T22:19:00.001+08:00

Remember I mentioned the kids and I had fun at Siniawan? There was press there that day too. They took a picture of the students there to study the old town, but little did we know they'd appear in the papers in the next day! I'm so proud! Haha...

Much of this trip for the Singapore Polytechnic students is for a community project called Habitat for Humanity. For this, the architecture students have to help build a house for a family in a Kuching kampong. This is a picture of the site.

So, there was a lot of pounding, piling, cement mixing, shoveling and such. And there were lots of this reddish looking wood by the road as well. They called this 'iron wood'. It's supposed to be really durable. Even if there was a fire, this wood would still hold. It's also supposed to be expensive so no one builds the whole house with these, only the foundations.

The weather was maddeningly hot. I managed to stay out of the sun for most of the day, but I was still baking. Kampong spirit is well and alive here. A family just offered us their 'porch' area for rest and that was where I spent the whole day.

Here's a random picture to end the post. This is the view from my room window at 6.30am. It's not much, but it's strangely calming when you're here watching the sky change.

Kuching Adventures

2011-09-03T20:44:00.001+08:00

Not quite an adventure trip, if I were completely honest. But it's the first time I am here so it counts!

It's great that this is a trip for architecture students, because we got to see some really old buildings and learn about their history and function (and many more technical jargon that only the Singapore Polytechnic students would understand). I know it doesn't sound like much, but it really is great! Plus, 17-19 year-olds are so much easier to manage than 14-15 year-olds.

We've been to see a very interesting museum, been on a sampan, had steamboat dinner and more! The most memorable part of the trip so far for me, is Siniawan - an old town preserved and conserved by a group of volunteers and led by one of Sarawak's most famous architects. No, I don't know him or remember his name. LOL. It is a fantastic project though! I loved the old town charm and the kinds of items you can find in the provision shops there.

Here are a few pictures from the last couple of days...

One of the seven traditional type houses in Sarawak Cultural Village.

Nothing here really... I just really liked how the trees flanked the road. There were more on the left side, but I couldn't get them in frame.

I'm in a sampan! This thing rocked really hard when we were getting in. There were screams and laughter, and we all managed to keep dry throughout.

That's our other group behind us! Only 10 of us could get into one boat at a time.

Tracy and I at our BBQ steamboat dinner. We were smiling so widely cos we saw the amount of food available!

The five-foot walkways in Siniawan. The shophouses here are still mainly made of timber which makes them a fire hazard. Ironically, they are more worried about the frequent flooding from the river just behind these shops.

Fabulous time so far, minus the mosquitoes at the Sarawak Cultural Village. Tomorrow is a day of leisure and shopping!

Deadline Swoop

2011-09-01T07:32:00.000+08:00

This makes me happy. Elated, even.

Problems are far from solved, mind you. But really, what I was looking for this early in the season was plainly, intent. And we definitely have shown that.

Park Chu Young

26 year-old

Korean

Striker

Andre Santos

28 year-old

Brazilian

Defender (left-back)

Per Mertesacker

27 year-old (on 29 Sep)

German

Defender (centre back)

I'm waiting for pics of Arteta and Benayoun! More to come!

Lust For A Cause

2011-08-26T02:27:00.002+08:00

I have decided that I want the Bvlgari Save The Children ceramic ring. I've wanted it since I first saw it. Then everyone around me started wearing it and that put me off for a long while. I have since decided that it's for a good cause and I shall reward myself for feeling so charitable.

I'm totally loving the Anish Kapoor B.ZERO1 too!!! It looks awesome on my finger and I know this because I tried on my colleague's. The ring comes in a really pretty box too.

One day, I'll get to the Cartier Trinity (the one with one diamond band) and LOVE. Anything is possible. All this browsing makes me want to put on my Tiffany Atlas and Lucida again!

UEFA Champions League Group Draw 2011/2012

2011-08-26T00:53:00.000+08:00

Group A
Bayern Munich
Villareal
Man City
Napoli

Group B
Inter Milan
CSKA Moscow
Lille
Trabzonspor

Group C
Man United
Benfica
Basel
Otelul

Group D
Real Madrid
Lyon
Ajax
Dinamo Zagreb

Group E
Chelsea
Valencia
Leverkusen
Genk

Group F
Arsenal
Marseille
Olympiacos
Borussia Dortmund

Group G
Porto
Shakhtar Donetsk
Zenit St. Petersburg
APOEL

Group H
Barcelona
AC Milan
BATE
Plzen

Good-looking Friends

2011-08-24T23:39:00.000+08:00

I'm not saying that I am friends with people because they are good-looking. I am merely pointing out how gorgeous my friends are.

Today at lunch, I bumped into WS. Moments later, the girls crowded me gushing, "OMG, your friend looks like Edison Chen!" Suddenly, I was the popular girl. Haha.

There is my Ting also - yummy mummy. Looking at her makes me wish I had had a child earlier so my body could have 'recovered' from the trauma of child-bearing better. And her perfect perfect lips makes me contemplate lip implants. Yup, I said it. LOL.

Oh, and the two beautiful female teachers I know. Their students are very very very lucky, but too young to know it. AL and SL, I remember, quite literally captured the attention of every male around us for a good long time.

A couple of my mates even dated each other - ST and LT. Both with nice tans. Both tall. Both with ideal bodies. It didn't work out in the end, but while it lasted, they sure were a deliciously good-looking couple to go totally green-eyed over.

And of course, all my other friends who are models, or pageant contestants, etc.

You'd think being in this pool makes one feel extremely inferior and insecure. I won't deny it sometimes does, but I'm so used to it now. I feel extremely happy for my friends that they are good-looking and are admired. Sometimes I look through my photos on Facebook and I'm a little in awe. Not only are they stunners, most of them are extremely nice people. And smart. Now beat that.

I'm a lucky ducky.

***Yes, I realised this is a totally pointless post. It is a good break from football though, no?

Problems To Gun Down

2011-08-21T22:07:00.001+08:00

I won't pretend to know all the problems, nor have all the answers. But I do have an opinion. You don't have to agree with me. In fact, bearing in mind the recent crazy reactions online, I'm rather pleased no one really reads this blog anymore.

We don't have depth in any position. Like really, we have NO left-back right now cos everyone's croaked. Yay.
Young players are good, but they can't take over the Premier League. I don't think there are manay players who have displayed the desire and hunger of Frimpong or Wilshere. But rash tackles and reactive tempers do us in way too often.
We have no leadership where it matters. Sorry it's true. I love Robin. LOVE. HIM. But I think the likes of Thomas Vermaelen would make a better captain. He has a better view of play and a more commanding presence.
What we really lack though, is direction and purpose in midfield. No point passing the damn ball well if no one knew where it was supposed to go, huh?

I don't know what is going on. Yes, of course I'm worried. Football and this club are my religion and beacon. No, I do not want Wenger to go. Because firstly, no one can replace him right now. Secondly, just because I want changes to come does not mean I want Wenger to go. I do wish he were less stubborn though.

I've said this before - it's not going to be a pretty season. In fact, I fear for next season. What if we don't get Champions League football? Sigh. That said, I will always bleed red and white. And I know, that when the sweet glorious climax comes, it will be mindblowingly awesome. I just hope my heart will hold out till then.

Spend Some Fucking Money

2011-08-14T03:44:00.002+08:00

It is not going to be a pretty season.

I swear, I 'm not usually this pessimistic when it comes to football. Read my other stuff here or on miostadium, and you'll see. But this is seriously fucking depressing.

The only upside to our season opener against Newcastle is that defense looked okay and we kept a clean sheet. Other than that, we looked the same as the end of last season - clueless. Yes, we passed the ball around well. But there was no direction and leadership and no one knew what to do or where to go. Shambolic.

Didn't Koscielny get sent off on his debut? Well, Gervinho too, so it's okay. Song almost got booted off the game too, for a silly deed. And it's Joey-fucking-Barton all over again, innit? First of all, it is our fault for falling for his stupid tricks again. But FFS, the way he hauled Gervinho off the deck??? I would have properly clocked him if I were Gervinho. The Ivorian was probably rightly sent off for reacting, but Barton should be sent off as well. No, I do not want to get into the Song incident, but I wished Song had done more damage.

Anyway, it was 90 minutes of the same shit from last season. Seriously.

I understand why we want to buy young players and all. Tell me though, why do we build up all these players only to do so poorly that they leave us when they are 'world-class'? Everyone wants to do well for themselves. You really can't blame big players for not wanting to come here, and for players wanting to leave. Why would they want to be at a club that didn't show any intent or desire to win anything?

First of 38 games done. I love the Arsenal, but I'm almost dreading the rest of the season. I don't just want the three points. I want to win while playing like we mean it. And I want to see some intent to change and learn and grow from previous seasons. There has been stagnation for way too long. When will I get to celebrate three satisfactory points?

Glazed

2011-08-09T01:24:00.004+08:00

I get these bouts of doubts sometimes. Recently though, these mini existential crises have been happening in too frequent intervals. It's fucking tiring.

I'm not going to bore you (or myself) with the whole 'meaning of life' bullcrap. It doesn't change the fact though, that I am almost 30 and I don't know what the fuck I am doing. It's frightening.

When I was 16, I imagined marriage and kids at 28. When I turned 26, I realised how unrealistic that was and saw that no one would ever hang around long enough for that (no disrespect to my bf - this isn't about you, baby). The importance of driving my career forward faded into a distant dream, and all I wanted to do from that year onwards was simply... be happy. Now that 30 is looming, I'm convinced that one's search for happiness is a perennial pursuit. Once you stop searching, you stop wanting, you stop living.

See? Age. Wisdom. Not just a myth.

Just like how we want different things at different points in our lives, we are afraid of different things at different stages. For me, the older I get, the smaller the goals I set. From the idealistic teenage dreams to a semi-realistic young adulthood pursuits, I've now shifted my focus on things in the horizon. Every new year's eve, I hope for a good year. Every February, I pray my Gunners suffer no internal collapse. Every August, I hope for a good Arsenal season. Every week, I look forward to pole and boxing. When will the targets become so small that you disappear into nothingness along with them? Right now, I'm afraid of becoming fugly. Don't rain your reassuring words here. It's not that I don't care for them, I'm just being honest in saying that I'd still feel this way no matter what anyone said.

I'm so sick and tired of being dissatisfied with the way I look. I'm disappointed at how I have neglected to pursue knowledge, and simply sat in my box with an unexplored world blooming over my head and under my fingertips. I need to shake things up, but I'm reminded daily of the restrictions that bind me to this impervious realm.

Too real. Too harsh. Too cookie-cutter.

Today, I just fell out of myself and watched the world scurry by.

Short Blurps

2011-08-01T03:13:00.001+08:00

The Arsenal are still frustrating to watch. Seems like the same old problems. Sorry to say this, but if we don't learn from our mistakes, then we are the suckers. I hate being so helpless. Boo. Yes, yes, I know it's pre-season and I shouldn't make a big deal out of it. Well, we'll just see then.

I am starting 'work' at STA today. I really don't know if I can do this. Or want to. I know that sounds really bad. Thing is, I have a great working relationship with STA (freelance), but working for them twice a year is very different from a full-time commitment. What if I can't live up to expectations? What if I don't see the twice yearly trips as a getaway anymore? Boo.

My sleep cycle is still fucked. Yea, it's three in the morning and I am wide awake typing this. And I have to be in the office by 10am. Which means I have to leave the house at about 9am. Which means I have to be awake latest at 8.30am. Fuck.

Being broke sucks. Not working rocks though. I get to exercise, dance, do whatever the fuck I want anytime. I hate the real world. I want to give the real world a proper roundhouse kick. Bish.

Getting old and putting on weight are not fun. Period.

Overload

2011-07-22T02:17:00.002+08:00

My addictive personality is irrefutably responsible for my inability to rest my body.

I have never had the need to workout to keep in shape when I was younger (bless my folks for those genes), but I have, in the last year or two, discovered how much I loved exercising. Perhaps it's the daunting stare-down of my 30th birthday that is approaching way too fast. Or maybe it's just for the sheer fact that I have been putting on weight... But I have gotten off my lazy arse, worked it hard and I love it. In fact, I can't stop.

You know I took up poledancing a little more than a year ago. I still try to go at least once a week (usually two) and if anything, I have grown to love the sport even more now. Come costochondritis, or a sprain ankle, nothing is keeping me off my pole. Now I have a new obsession.

Just this week, Steve, Cheryl, James and I started boxing. Not actually sparring, contact boxing - I'd be in a hospital by now - but kind of a boxercise programme that's put together by Steve (bless you). We all bought gloves and pads and hand wraps. I tell you, we look pretty damn cool with our gear on.

Now, we all know how people can procrastinate when it comes to working hard. However, recently there is this health-wave going on and the people around me all started going on exercise regimes and diets. Yes, the sort of thingus slightly older people tend to do, because we don't spend every waking moment planning a party or clubbing. The four of us should be given huge pats on our backs because we said we wanted to box and we got started almost right away.

James offered up the exercise studio at his condo and we all got together last Tuesday for our first session. Steve printed out drills at each station and pasted them on the mirrors. Special mention here for Pete - thank you for being our official timer!!! I suspect Pete really is just there for the post-boxing drinks, but you are really important to us! Hopefully you'll join us one day. Anyway, we were unbelievably motivated. After that first two-hour class, we were hooked. Today, we had our second session.

The great thing about this whole very impromptu get-together is discovering how motivational it is to have your mates urge you on and high-fiving you after. I wouldn't trade this group for another. The best part about working your arse off with people you like? You slave away, have fun, fool around and go for drinks after.

Just tonight, we had enough laughs to make me smile for a week. You guys are amazing. You have given me something to look forward to every Tuesdays and Thursdays, and I can't wait to don my boxing gloves again.

*endorphins overload*

And now that I am living healthier, I'm trying to improve my diet as well. After all, can't let all that hard work go to waste. I've already stopped smoking for a while (woohoo!). I am trying to eat only whole foods, no processed foods. It's really hard, but I am trying. And I am incorporating a lot more vegetables into my diet. I only hope all this effort will pay off. Gimme a hot body, please!!!!

Arsenal In KL - Day 1

2011-07-13T09:46:00.000+08:00

Love and passion are splendid things. They enrich the soul, fuels the mind and gives your heart a workout no gym can. Such is the the way I feel when I watch the Arsenal.

Yesterday, we were at Bukit Jalil Stadium in KL watching the Arsenal training session during their Malaysian leg of their pre-season Asia tour. There aren't many reasons why I'd come into Malaysia, but for Arsenal, I definitely will. Being able to be here with my mates from Arsenal Singapore was incredible. When Arsene Wenger walked onto the pitch, my breathing quicken and my hands felt clammy. I smiled - a smile that one can't quite suppress - because I felt so much admiration and pride. I have so much respect for Arsene that, for me, he is quite untouchable. Some people may not agree, seeing the results over the last few seasons. I call for changes too, but I'd never say "Wenger out". Before you get all worked up, this debate will have to wait for another time...

When Pat Rice waved to us, I wanted to bound towards the barriers and advertisers' boards and kiss him. I felt a surging need to give him a big hug to thank him for everything he has done for us. What a legend. The crowd's loudest cheers undoubtedly were saved for the players. Screams rang out when the players started emerging from the tunnel. Sad to say, I had absolutely no idea what the stadium commentator was saying. My eyes served me well though, as I saw the tiny figures on the field and recognised my lads immediately.

The pre-season tour is more an effort for clubs to build up/reinforce their fanbase more than an actual pre-season training programme. So we were treated to some routined drills and very satisfying minutes of football (where Theo made an impressive run to provide a good cross for Chamakh to tap into goal). I wish I had more pictures to share, but truth be told, I was rather enthralled by my Arsenal lads. Perhaps its the lull of a summer without football, perhaps I just miss them too much, but I was so single-mindedly (and -heartedly) fixated on the Gunners.

Ryo's every promising run got me excited. Theo's pace reminded me of the wonder boy that he is. Samir's smile made me love him despite recent stories. See Thomas playing next to Laurent gave me hope. Ramsey's plays made me hopeful. Jack's industry made me fall in love with him over and over again (if only every single one of his shots weren't over the bar). And Wojciech. Oh, how I love our Pole. He was relentless in front of goal, with plenty of mischief to amuse the crowd. He turned a ball away with his bum. He made Jack stand in goal when they were practicing penalties. He made so many brilliant saves. Wojciech's willingness to put himself out there, his sense of humour and his skills between the posts make him my Arsenal #1, for sure. The only thing that got to me was the condition of the pitch. Every tackle lifted turf. Well, what can we expect when we aren't at the Emirates, right?

When the lads did their lap around the stadium, tears swelled in my eyes. I know I am being a total pussy, but the kind of emotions and hopes we invest into the club we love is not very different from the dedication we give to an actual human relationship. In fact, how many can say they have stayed no matter how much disappointment have been flung at them, just because they have made a commitment?

Today, we see Arsenal play the Malaysian national team. I pray it all goes well. I can't wait to see Arsenal on the pitch again. And maybe today Wojciech will hear me calling out to him.

Disgust

2011-07-05T06:25:00.000+08:00

At the way I am eating.
At the amount of weight I've put on.
At how lazy I've become.
At how fat I feel.
At myself.

Stop telling me that I look fine. Think me delusional if you want. Just stop saying it because no matter how many times I hear it, I'll still feel like crap until I reach my goal weight. You won't understand if you're a guy. And if you're a girl, you should know better. I'm tired of people telling me how girls shouldn't be too thin, and then can't avert their eyes when a thin hottie walks by. Just fuck off.

Yes, I'm angry at myself.

Work, Or Something Like It

2011-07-01T05:00:00.001+08:00

Fuck.

I hate the fact that I have to go get a job. Sad to say, I'm not one of those career-driven city rats churning butter into gold. Years ago I was, but not anymore. I'm not even really driven. Of course when I do land myself a job I will work my arse off. It's just getting past the inertia, isn't it?

Some time during my mid-twenties, I realised that work wasn't everything and it wasn't what I wanted to spend my life doing. I realised that I didn't need to have a high-flying career to boast about during dinner parties. I don't know what drove me to this luxurious state of hobo-ness, but that's just the way I am now. Which is probably why I start to hate myself for conforming to the great rush hour commute and its list of consequences not long after I start working. Can't help it - there's a realist knocking on the windows of sanity somewhere in here.

Why, oh why can't I be one of those lucky people who does things they love and gets paid for it? Yes, I do realise that at some point I have to stop griping about it. And I will - I always do. Eventually, I will leap into the corporate world that I so hate just so I can survive in this world and buy the pretty things I want. Maybe I'll finally get the money to take Spanish lessons. I also won't fret about paying for pole lessons every two months. Or having the money to go on holidays. And I can stop rationing my money so that I can last through a week - how fucking pathetic is that? At the very least, through whatever circumstances, I dare say that I do try to live within my means.

I'm so grateful for the offers I've had. Really, I am. And I guess it's about time I responded to some of them. I can already see myself hating my job two years down the road. How's that for "beginning with the end in mind", Stephen Covey?

If only I got paid for procrastinating.

I'm Back!!!

2011-06-27T22:52:00.001+08:00

Not that I've been missed, surely. Everyone seems to have better things to do than keep up with my now sporadic posts.

The UK was excellent. I had a couple of dreadful weeks at work, yes. But the few days when I got to meet friends; and the week James got in, was awesome (look at how brown he looks here!).

I met Daniel and Xavi in London and Lancaster, respectively. It breaks my heart to see that they are no longer together, but I guess things change. I still hold them both dearly in my heart and will always remember our summer of mad fun.

The trip up to Lancaster was superb really. I don't usually go that far north, but it was a very good experience. Perhaps it was just Xavier and his dear friends who made the trip memorable. I do hope I'll get to meet some of the new friends I've made soon.

The week with James was sublime. We had been apart for about two weeks - not a long time I know, but it was the longest we had been apart in the last six months - and it was good just to be close to him. Staying with his folks, meeting his friends, touring the Emirates Stadium with Charlie George, visiting Paris, catching Kings of Leon and The Killers at Hyde Park... I have a smile on my face even as I type this. It's nice to have an insight to his life back home. Thank you baby!

London - it never disappoints.

Now I'm home. Time to get real. I don't like this one bit.

Oh London

2011-06-12T03:38:00.002+08:00

I hate having to share my city with these people. It feels like they are tainting my London, it really does.

How I relish the times here when I did what I wanted, when I wanted, without having to worry about others' expectations. Of course I had friends and worked some of my time around them. I wanted to - it was all my choice. I miss that. I miss having my choice and not having to answer to anyone. I know it sounds terribly selfish. The truth is, it just feels draining and so tiring. Even when I am stressed/working/upset/PMSing, I have to make someone else happy. I know this is not fair to say, but it sometimes feels like no one sees the effort I go to to make things work.

For fuck's sake, I just want some support. I don't want to be chided for every decision I make. I don't want to be made to feel bad if I try, but can't meet someone else's expectations. I want to be held, coddled, respected, appreciated, understood, loved and more. I want to be selfish sometimes without feeling bad about it.

Right now, I'm just going to lie down.

Hello London, nothing will ever spoil you. It is here that I created a world and life for myself. It is here that I found happiness in all my solitude. It is here that I stood up for myself and not decided not to let society run my life. London - you may have ruined me for anyone else.

The First Three Days

2011-06-09T03:45:00.003+08:00

I haven’t blogged for a while because I am back on the road, managing educational tours during the term break. This is my second trip to the UK (landed in

Singapore

on 1^st June). The first day was heavy with fatigue due to the long travel. However the talk in a small pub in Chorlton was very educational. The Beech Inn’s owner’s mother is Singaporean and he hosted a talk by the Lancashire Society. I really loved the presentation and singing in the dialects. Wonderful experience indeed.

Day 2 was an inspiring day dedicated to William Wordsworth. The morning drive to Rydal Mount (where Wordsworth spent most of his life) was breathtaking. Driving to the Lake District always makes me feel so privileged. I love the hilly sights that flank the winding roads, and this time was even better because the weather was fantastic. Rydal Mount was just so quaint and beautiful, and the garden bore the most alluring blend of colours.

The afternoon was spent at Dove Cottage, another home of Wordsworth. It was here that Wordsworth produced his most famous works and it’s easy to see why. The scenery is marvelous. Nature speaks a clear and fluent language here, and her words charmed every beat of my heart.

We ended the day with a fabulous boat cruise across the lake from Ambleside to Bowness. Cold and windy it was, but our venture on water was heartwarming. So vast, yet close enough to touch, the landscape and mountainous horizon left us gasping for more. Shimmering waters under the summer sky lit up in everyone’s eyes as we took in the amazing sights. It’s truly is hard not to love Mother Nature a little more after being at the Lakes. Here’s one of Wordsworth’s most famous poems he penned during his stay at Dove Cottage.

I wandered lonely as a cloud

That floats on high o’er vales and hills,

When all at once I saw a crowd,

A host of golden daffodils;

Beside the lake, beneath the trees,

Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine

And twinkle on the Milky Way,

They stretched in never-ending line

Along the margin of a bay;

Then thousand saw I at a glance,

Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

The waves beside them danced; but they

Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:

A poet could not but be gay,

In such a jocund company:

I gazed – and gazed – but little thought

What wealth the show to me had brought”

For oft, when on my couch I lie

In vacant or in pensive mood,

They flash upon that inward eye

Which is the bliss of solitude;

And then my heart with pleasure fills

And dances with the daffodils.

- William Wordsworth

The day was not without misfortune. First, there was a last minute change of hostels. Then on our way to the Patterdale Youth Hostel, the coach broke down and we had to wait an hour for rescue. To make things worse, we were in an area where there was absolutely no cell service – all the way to the hostel. In fact, as I am writing this (on Microsoft Words), I’m sitting in my room without cell or Internet service. I feel terribly disconnected!!! The great side of this? The very winding drive to the hostel was one of the most beautiful I had ever been on. No words or pictures can describe the beauty of the mountains and valleys, truly. You just had to be there.

We had a rather uneventful third day today. The only thing that plagued my thoughts was - "Why can't Singaporeans be on time?" Isn't it all about respect and consideration? They don't even apologise for being late. If this is the kind of attitude the kids have, I dread to think what our future holds.

A Chiam-pion!

2011-05-09T04:55:00.005+08:00

Let me put a few things out there before I go further in this post.

#1 - I'm not for, or against any party. I am for Singapore, and I believe both parties in the Parliament are as well.
I do however, think that calling a group of parties "Oppositions", carries a wee bit of prejudiciary disdain.

#2 - Yes, I had to vote. For Aljunied GRC. And my vote is still secret.

#3 - I was not at all into the whole political scene and debates like my peers were. Not until now.

The Sg Elections is over and the people have spoken. Only one major issue remains - Potong Pasir SMC.

In the wake of a PAP victory, the residents of Potong Pasir (and thousands of non-residents) are paving the way for a by-election by voting irregularities. While I will not typically agree with attempting to reverse, or challenge a decision like this after an election (the people took a stand and made their choice), this really is an atypical instance. At least for me personally.

Potong Pasir, for decades, has been under the care of Singapore People's Party's Chiam See Tong. The man has practically dedicated his life to making the lives of those who believe in him better. A politician for the people, Chiam has never let the lack of comforts of his working conditions affect the quality of life of his supporters. His passion burns even when his body is riddled with age and illness. Yes, I am biased here, but believe me, I'd sound biased too if I were talking about Lee Kuan Yew.

The decision for Chiam to contest in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC must be one of the most difficult in his life. However, it was one that had to be made if SPP were to hope for a greater voice in Parliament. SPP had to play the GRC game and as a leader, Chiam had to step up. Was it a mistake then? Can we allow politicians such an 'easy' way out after they have failed in their pursuits?

I don't believe Chiam would regard his decision as a mistake. A painful sacrifice definitely, but his cause was greater than his personal desires. He had never really turned his back on Potong Pasir anyway. After all, it's hardly coincidence that his wife became the succeeding candidate. Firstly, it is the emotional appeal to the residents. Secondly, who else could he have entrusted his beloved Potong Pasir to?

There is much talk about the GRC system favouring PAP. I guess I cannot dispute that fully.

How many of you have "changed" GRC without reason? All borders drawn and candidates appointed after careful studies and planning. Then there is also the numbers brought to our attention - an approximation of 40% of the nation's votes went to other parties, but PAP has 81 of the 87 parliamentary seats. How is this so? With understanding (full credit to the good work of PAP, without intent of sarcasm) of community demographics, values, beliefs and needs, GRCs and SMCs are divided and led by prominent ministers to ensure maximum seats in Parliament. Merge areas into GRCs so you can put more members in the constituencies you are confident of winning. Let the uncertain ones divide into SMCs so if these were lost, opposing seats will be minimised. Come on, if I were the party in power, I would have done the same. Respect.

That said, don't forget about the Workers' Party's triumph in Aljunied GRC. A poor George Yeo was ousted no thanks to a dismal team. Voters are forced to look at the competency of a team rather than an individual. The results at Aljunied resulted in the most number of parliamentary seats for WP (and an alternative party to the PAP) ever. For all its possible failings and/or bias, we must also remember that the party running this system, PAP, has brought us decades of stability and improved living.

The big reason why I want to support this Potong Pasir by-election push is this - I want to help protect the dream and lifelong work of a great Singaporean.

Sure, Chiam has come out to say that he will delay retirement and help out as long as he can. But see, one day, he may not even have an SMC to help out at anymore. I believe that in the not-so-distant future, there will be attempts to merge Potong Pasir with one of the GRCs. It's all about strategic positioning. A very shrewd and admirable move really, but one that will not go down well with a town known for its community togetherness, character and a legend of an ex-MP. I believe the sight of an ailing Chiam might have wavered the beliefs of some when voting, as with his decision to battle for a GRC. Leadership is an essence so hard to fathom and see until you are in dire straits.

Is the by-election a desperate attempt? Yes. Perhaps it is even a case of a minority group disrespecting the voters of Potong Pasir. The bottomline is - we absolutely have to try. Make no mistake about it, I do accept the elections outcome and the possibility of this whole thing falling through. I just want to try. Because I have seen the good Chiam has done. Because his love and passion for his country and people are undeniable. Because I want to say I did what I could to save the dreams and life's work of a man I have immense respect for.

Now, if I had my way, George Yeo would be offered a new job too. Amidst all the talks/rumours of strategies and conspiracies, from Lee Hsien Yang's son to the possible ousting of Goh Chok Tong and his allies, dramatic changes have been set in place. I have no quarrels with those who think the action to be made should be reinstating George Yeo in some capacity; or to make Nicole Seah or Lina Chiam an NCMP; or to crucify Balakrishnan for his controversial comments. But I do dread to think that the Potong Pasir cause may be classed in the same category as petitioning to throw out Tin Pei Ling as an MP. *shudder* That candidacy I believe, was a disgraceful folly (strategic one nonetheless) that warrants an outcry. Besides, she did violate the 'rules' of the cooling off period, no?

I have no objections to other parties pursuing what they believe is the best course of action after this national event. But in my heart, this is my cause. This one, is for a patriot.

Grievances

2011-05-05T05:29:00.004+08:00

ARGHHHHHHHHH

#1 - While I am in the UK, I will miss my baby. Two weekends without my sweetie.

#2 - While I am in the UK, I cannot pole. That's a month without pole. A WHOLE FUCKING MONTH!!!

#3 - My netbook keeps going wonky but it makes more sense to bring it because it is light. Plus, the battery on my MacBook is screwed.

#4 - I can't figure out how to get the damn O2 SIM card before I get to the UK. Got free SIM but I can't have it!!! Not fair!!!

#5 - If I can't get the SIM, then I have to think about data roaming. KNN.

#6 - Need to sort out my ticket for the return flight and pray that I don't get one where transit is so fucking long that the trip back takes 24 hours. I'm not kidding.

#7 - I need to be more flexible. I'm really lazy at stretching. I should be able to do amazing things by now but I am only so-so. And my back can hardly bend.

#8 - I need to lose about 3kgs. Yes, I know I am not fat. I just want to lose 3kgs, okay??? It'll make me happier!

#9 - I don't know what to pack for June cos got so many activities. I'm really tempted to bring clothes I wanna throw away for the working leg of the trip, but I don't wanna look like a frumpy old lady.

#10 - I don't know what to get for my man's birthday. I have a few ideas, but... but... I can't decide!!! I am such a bad gifter. Really really bad.

FML

Who You Are

2011-04-28T21:14:00.000+08:00

Don't lose who you are, in the blur of the stars
Seeing is deceiving, dreaming is believing,
It's okay not to be okay
Sometimes it's hard, to follow your heart.
Tears don't mean you're losing, everybody's bruising,
Just be true to who you are

----------------------

When you think you're alone, you never are.
When you think you're in a terrible state, there's always someone else worse off.
When you think there are no choices, it's only because you are blinded by your head.

Only one person can make it better.

And the day things get better is the day you realise who that person is.

xx

Wanderlust :)

2011-04-25T19:32:00.001+08:00

London is in sight. Yes, my friends, I'm coming home. Better get the city ready.

I've just submitted the application to renew my soon-to-be expired passport (you need to have at least 6 months validity on it and mine expires in August) - the first step to going back to the UK. Hopefully the job stint will go accordingly and everything will fall nicely into place - including the extension on the air ticket. We'll see. I don't know which parts of the UK I will be in just yet, but I should know soon enough. Suffice to say, knowing that I will be ending that work trip in London is prize enough for now.

Perhaps I will find some time to take that trip up to Frankfurt to see Eun. It's been too long and I really miss my girl. Or, she could come see me in London. And there's Chelsia and Jacqueline and Xavi and Danny and Sunny... I've missed my mates. It seems I have a couple of days on my own before James comes up. He's got a whole week of fun planned. All I can say is, I can't wait to meet his friends - especially his best mate. And of course, his folks - they are so so awesome! Also, I'm looking forward to see Nick and Paul again - quite a hoot those two.

*dances wildly*

I can think of a few other places I want to go with James. More than a few, actually (we are going to Paris on this upcoming trip though. Woot!). Haha. One thing at a time.

Samson

2011-04-19T03:09:00.005+08:00

I don't remember the last time I heard this, but I heard it again tonight on an old episode of CSI: New York.

The poetry in the lyrics and the simplicity of its message make this one of the most beautiful songs ever. I super love it. And her voice... Just have a listen, will ya?

Samson
You are my sweetest downfall
I loved you first, I loved you first
Beneath the sheets of paper lies my truth
I have to go, I have to go
Your hair was long when we first met

Samson went back to bed
Not much hair left on his head
He ate a slice of wonder bread
and went right back to bed
And history books forgot about us
and the Bible didn't mention us
And the Bible didn't mention us, not even once

You are my sweetest downfall
I loved you first, I loved you first
Beneath the stars came falling on our heads
But they're just old light, they're just old light
Your hair was long when we first met

Samson came to my bed,
told me that my hair was red,
told me I was beautiful, and came into my bed
Oh, I cut his hair myself one night
A pair of dull scissors and the yellow light
And he told me that I'd done alright
and kissed me till the morning light the morning light
and he kissed me till the morning light

Samson went back to bed
Not much hair left on his head
Ate a slice of wonder bread
and went right back to bed
Oh, we couldn't bring the columns down
Yeah, we couldn't destroy a single one
And history books forgot about us
and the Bible didn't mention us, not even once

You are my sweetest downfall
I loved you first

Not Just A Game

2011-04-18T21:47:00.002+08:00

Fact - You can blame referees and other teams for all your club's failings, but if you can't take advantage of all opportunities thrown your way, you kinda have to look inwards.

Fact - You're happy about a draw only if you were playing against an undeniably better team.

Fact - Football divides and unites. You pick a side and it's burnt into your very being. There's no turning back.

Oh yes it hurts. In fact, I have had people tweet and text me to say they don't want to keep in contact online anymore. To be fair, we weren't even that close to begin with, but yes, football has that kind of power.

There's so much to say, and nothing that hasn't been said.

My Arsenal's flaws, as much as I hate to admit them, are plenty. Yet, every inadequacy only makes me love them more because we keep overcoming hurdles. Over and over again. Then again, we keep tripping on wires as well.

For a few seasons now, the trips have been more pronounced. The media hate us, let's be honest. Our saving graces are our English breed - brilliant and distinguished. Congratulations to Jack Wilshere for winning the PFA Young Player of the Year. But again as we come to the close of 2010/11, we have thrown away our silverware chances. I hate to say this now, but when we lost the Carling Cup, I told James I had a feeling that it would be another season without trophies.

The pain is a dull, mean monstrosity that eats at you from the inside. How can we care this much? How can we invest so much emotionally (and financially, yes) into something we really don't have much control over? There is no tangible reason. You can't explain love. You can't explain the gnawing pain of heartache. You can't walk away.

It's true, I'm Arsenal till I die. Tomorrow, the next game, next season, come what may, I will be wearing our colours. I will love my club and lads no less, even if they do make me cry at night. Friends? Well, if they really can't stand my online blabber, I can only apologise. But if they're the ones who mean anything to me, they'd know how much a part of me this is. We are all entitled our opinions and comments, but I choose my fights carefully.

Of course there's still a chance. But there's also a chance that the League could be won at the Grove, and not by us. I have a knife at the ready. For any "friends" who wanna bring on mockery, don't be surprised if I walked away. I don't taunt my friends directly, precisely because I know what football means to me. So if you bring it to me in my face, I will choose my club over you. Fuck the banter. Yes, I'm a bad loser. I can't explain it, but that is probably why I am such a crazy loner.

It hurts. I wanna reach for a cigarette because I know it will make things better, but I didn't. I haven't learnt how to fill that void yet. Perhaps in time, I will.

Oh, and by the way... Happy birthday Szczesny and Fabianski! =)

Kroenke for Arsenal?

2011-04-11T21:17:00.002+08:00

Perhaps the news came at a time when three points meant a mad lot to us all and thus the proper impact of it hasn't quite settled - the three points from Blackpool are still brewing sweet because I haven't celebrated anything for so long. Truth be told, I don't believe Kroenke would be terrible for us.

And by terrible, I probably mean in comparison to that tosspot of a family who swept up Old Trafford, and the Yank twins who peed all over Anfield.

I am totally clueless the moment money comes into play (unless I have to explain why a pair of Blahniks cost so much more than a pair of Charles & Keith), but it doesn't stop a concerned fan like me from combing through available resources online. I have been reading up on the whole takeover situation from bloggers who are miles more knowledgeable than I am, news articles and obviously, fans' reactions. Wary I am, but I have this feeling that Silent Stan won't bring us down. I am still undecided on what good may come out of this all, but I don't there are grey clouds gathering over us just yet.

We'll have to wait and see I guess. And keep our fingers crossed. At least it seems AW has decent things to say about Kroenke, whereas he wouldn't even work with Usmanov. Perhaps we have all been blindly coloured by the bad taste that takeovers in the PL seem to leave us with. Judging from Stan's footprints in the sports industry and apparent character, we seem to be in pretty good hands. I'm a little bothered by an American owning my English football club (oh kill me if he starts making us call it "soccer"), but this may be a step that will propel us forward - with new vision and money. Who knows.

What I have reservations about is this - my Arsenal is going to be owned, more or less, by one man. I'm sorry, but that kind of dictatorship smells bad. Although, a benevolent dictator is probably the best system of governance possible. What happens then, if he fell horribly ill, or - I'm sorry to say this Stan - suddenly died? What becomes of my Arsenal? I hope these are the things the people in charge will think about and make provisions for. Truly. I don't want my beloved club to fall into the hands of some bratty young American who can't even spell his name right and lives his life in Walmart.

Simply put - Don't break my Arsenal, Stan.

When I Get A Job, I Will...

2011-04-07T17:27:00.001+08:00

- Get Invisalign
- Fix my nose
- Go on holiday
- Shop on ASOS
- Buy shoessssssss
- Take my baby out for a very very very good dinner
- Get more pole outfits
- Take Spanish lessons (finally)
- Buy DVDs
- Get more mani-pedis
- Go for a really long massage

So many more things I wanna do!

What Has The World Come To...

2011-04-07T03:53:00.002+08:00

- The Arsenal not seeing a victory since... I don't know when...
- Talk about Clichy leaving in the summer. Urgh.
- A young Singaporean lad serving National Service who needs a maid to carry his army gear while (I'm pretty sure I'm right about this) he's texting on his mobile phone.
- Company "Directors" who can't write a decent email in proper English to save their lives.
- Feigning to be a lawyer to harass others and to prevent fair comment online.
- Cheating on your wife AND telling her that it's her fault.

You know it's all gone south when morality seems to have drastically lowered, or even missed, its benchmark. I can't do anything about most of the above, but it's my bloody right to complain and grumble. So sue me.

And no, this isn't a thinly veiled attack at D Lian. I hope for S's sake that she finds the strength to do what she deems necessary. As for D and his mates, they've already threatened my Ting, attempted some bullshit skit by contacting her web host, and harassed the real victim - S. How daft are they, really? If they go after my Ting any further, they will taste the real wrath of women scorned. Truly.

A Rocky Day

2011-03-31T16:18:00.001+08:00

It's been 10 years since a legend was taken...

David "Rocky" Rocastle - Never forgotten.

Harmony

2011-03-22T04:46:00.002+08:00

I hardly ever single out people on my blog to criticise because I don't believe in online smear campaigns, but this has happened once too often. Amongst others, online Gooners like SheWore suggested that overseas "fans" are not supporters of Arsenal Football Club because they do not go to the games, etc.

Seriously?

Let me just say that I know not all Gooners feel this way, but to say that is completely elitist and unfair. First of all, understand that not everyone overseas can actually afford to fly to London and catch a match. Secondly, we know and understand that it is NOT just a game. If it were, we wouldn't be slitting our wrists (figuratively of course, just in case you're that daft) when we don't get a result.

I have been to the games. I live in Singapore. I love the Arsenal. It's my life and religion.

When I was living in London, I went to every single game - home and away - including the CL away ones, pre-season tune-ups (yes, even at Underhill Stadium), and the Emirates Cup. A mate of mine, SgGooner, spent shitloads of money to back our lads at Santiago Bernabeu and in Paris; G00ner4eva attends the AGM and flies up very often just to sit in the Emirates and sing out proud for the Gunners; my boyfriend, James, is a Gooner from London, and he's a season ticket holder. Yes, we all live in Singapore currently. Does this make us better/poorer fans/supporters (apparently there's a thin line between the two)? Send me an appraisal form, will ya?

I personally know season ticket holders in the UK who don't know half as much about the club as some of the lads over here. Does that make them bad fans? You think we don't know what the passion and love is like at live games? Come see and hear us over here. We gather for games at 3.45am in the morning, midweek; we are officially recognised by the club; we uphold the name of the Arsenal by getting involved in charity events as an organisation; we sing till we're hoarse, even if it's directed at the telly; we shed tears for the Gunners. Seriously, why are we judging fellow comrades?

Everyone has a right to an opinion. Say what you think about the players and management - it's fair comment and discussion, even if there are disagreements. At the end of the day, we are all proud to wear the Red & White. So why the division? As it is, there are other scums out there who scorn and curse at us. Now we're bringing on the internal genocide? I believe that there are some of us who are more passionate than others. I know we all have different ways of supporting the club we so love and pledged lifelong allegiance to. Let us not be separated by the words of the minority because there is a bigger picture here - and we wear it proudly on our chest.

Victoria Concordia Cresit.

Lucky Me

2011-03-10T19:13:00.002+08:00

My boyfriend is amazing. These arrived with a knock at my door - Hearts and roses.

What else can a girl ask for? Even when he's crazed at work, he finds a way to make me smile. Thank you baby.

As for Spurs and whatnots... Fuck you all. I don't give a flying fuck because you won't be here next season. We will. So go make your DVD, you won't get many more chances to.

To Busacca... up your cheating arse. Now I know Abidal hands are a substitute for the banned snoods and that it's okay for referees to mouth off. Believe me, if I could get close enough, I'll clock you well and good.

Now to look towards the weekend.

Hush Tones

2011-03-04T04:35:00.003+08:00

***Forgive the random drivel. I get the urge to spill nonsensical thoughts sometimes and I can't hold back, or be completely coherent.***

It feels like I haven't done anything really useful for a long while. I'm not complaining about the luxury of idling around the house and sleeping past noon. I'm not saying that it doesn't feel good to finally have time and a life.

This is the problem with me.

I don't like not doing anything because I feel a little useless, and that makes me a wee bit depressed. So I've been indulging in dance classes and cooking. By the by, discovering I can actually cook is a huge yay for me. You have no idea how happy I am to cook for my boyfriend. Yup, I have a boyfriend. How extraordinary, right? That someone can actually bear me for so long. Well, to be fair, it's only been a few months, but he's been pretty awesome. You can check out our Valentine's Day. Otherwise, I've been chilling and catching up on telly series, totally unfettered by the day of the week or time of day.

But not having an actual job bothers me sometimes.

I have never quite gotten back into the whole career-mindedness state since 2006. Let's just say I realised that I wanted more than a career and money in the bank. The reality is a like a brick wall that halts dreams though, isn't it? No work equals no income, and there are so many things I want to do. I feel like work holds me back and I feel like lack of regular income prevents me from pursuing the things I desire. Adulthood is a enigmatic constitution. Why can't we just go through life with impetuousness and unbridled passion? Right now though, getting a full-time job is a little out of the questions because I intend to be in the UK for a while in June. Not terribly long really, just not quite a suitable duration of annual leave to be taking if I had a new job.

I promise these words aren't those of a Sagittarian dying to break loose. It's just my aureated, grandiose ideals. But yes, I know the reality tastes hard, and often bitter. I have learnt to be grateful for the things that I have though. Two years ago, I couldn't see a gilded flower in a field of ashes. I am happy and bubbling with the zest of life (well, almost). I just can't help wanting more. We all do - I believe it's innately human.

I'm going to strive towards what I want. I always will. I want to do something new every year and this year, I am determined to start Spanish classes. After all, I want Cesc to be suitably impressed when he finds me. Haha.
***James baby, you know you're #1 xx***

Stumped

2011-02-28T03:18:00.004+08:00

Truth be told, I couldn't decide whether to write this after the red mist has lifted or not. I guess there's no better time though. I want to write this before I have a chance to be swayed by any excuses we might have post-match. Quite simply, we threw it away. Yes, it was only the Carling Cup, but it was our first sights on silverware for a long while and we threw it away.

The Arsenal succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at Wembley to Birmingham City. Zigic put them ahead from a setpiece but Robin van Persie equalised (and injured himself) with a gorgeous goal before halftime.

It wasn't the prettiest of games but both teams held up and showed grit. It was a late error in the 89th minute that gifted substitute Martins with the winning goal. Harsh on Szczesny and Koscielny, but that was a howler, and nothing anyone say can change that. Fact is though, we should have done better, earlier.

How can a team like Arsenal play so brilliantly against Barcelona and then draw Leyton Orient and lose to Birmingham? I have no excuses or magic answers to that. I only wish that the defeat would drive the Gunners forward instead of breaking them down. So no quadruple then. We're still in it for the treble. Only the next game will tell if the lads can bounce back from this immense disappointment. They have no excuse not to though, millions of fans around the world are still clad in the Red-and-White.

I don't want to be bashing players, but Rosicky was poor out there. I questioned Arsene's subs as well, but I realised of course, Le Boss knows more than I do. I'll say this though, I wish I were big enough to congratulate another team for winning - not just in this competition, any competition for that matter - but I'm not. I honestly, deep in my heart, believe that no one else deserves a trophy more than we do.

Did I want the Carling Cup?
Hell, yes.

Did it hurt to lose it?
Like you wouldn't believe.

Are the other competitions harder to win?
For sure.

But if nothing at all, we are as resilient as they come. And by "we", I mean us Arsenal fans. So shake it off, love. Grief now and move forward. We need to. Our season hasn't ended yet.

Tomorrow, next week, come May, whatever is in our trophy cabinet, I'm Arsenal till I die.

Yes, We Can.

2011-02-17T22:31:00.001+08:00

Ooh to be a Gooner(ette) on this glorious day.

Arsenal 2 - 1 Barcelona.

That's right. We beat the mighty Catalans. Such a sweet, long-awaited triumph that it hours after, I'm still hyperventilating. The truth is, no matter what I write here, nothing can truly and fully express the elation in my heart.

Fact #1 - We CAN beat Barcelona

Fact #2 - We have a youth (Jack Wilshere) in midfield tough and skilled enough to measure up to some of the best oppositions in the world, and then some.

Fact #3 - We have Wojciech Szczesny - the Pole in our goal.

Despite us starting the first half well, Barcelona gained ground on us quickly. Their passes were sharp and they had men to close us off whenever we got the ball. It's not often that another team has more possession than the Arsenal. I won't go into the nitty gritty of it all because the video below says it better.

An early devastation came when Clichy played David Villa onside halfway through the first 45, and the Spaniard deftly slipped one under the legs of Szczesny. Simple, sleek, clinical - exactly what we were missing. It was frustrating, really. How many times we have held up so well, only to be undone by a singular effort? And you thought we would learn.

Arsenal were aggressive at the restart, but the effort of rallying back seemed to be negated by Barca's sublime passing. Thankfully, we had Szczesny on alert. The young Pole hammered away the Catalans' shots like a seasoned veteran. It helped that Djourou and Koscielny were stalwarts in front of our goal as well. Cesc was more involved, as was Nasri - our two creative forces driving the attack. Jack Wilshere was battling in midfield with pace and hunger. And just when I thought our lads seemed to be tiring, Arsene brought on Arshavin, and later Bendtner. Boy, what a difference fresh legs made.

With 12 minutes left in the 90, Clichy lifted in a superb ball into the box for Robin. The Dutchman danced through and seemed to have run out of space, but somehow, by the glorious grace of footballing gods, sliced one by Valdes' near post for our equalizer. The celebrations were mad. I so loved that Robin ran to hug Wenger. That look on Robin's face - Excitement. Desire. Priceless. Some may say Valdes was out of position, but no one can discount the quality of that strike. Top drawer.

Fueled by that Robin van Persie goal, we pressed on and sweet reward came in the 83rd minute. A searching long ball from Fabregas released Samir who galloped into the box drawing Barcelona's defence while waiting for men to arrive. Meanwhile, Tiny (that's our Russian) rolled forward into the box, latched on to a perfect pass by the Frenchman, and slotted home the stunning winner. I'm loving the undershirt he exposed.

Madness ensued. This is football - belief, mental strength and a wee bit if luck. And by the way, that was not a "Barcelona goal by Arsenal". That was every bit Arsenal - top notch Arsenal. The rest of the game, I only remember screaming Szczesny's name as he continued to prove why he's our #1. And look out for Wojciech's celebration of Arshavin's goal in the highlights video - superb.

We came back from a goal down to win this. Against Barcelona. Happiness has found new heights and meaning.

Confession #1 - I prayed.

Confession #2 - I had tears in my eyes when Arshavin scored. And there was running of mascara.

Confession #3 - I celebrated like a deranged woman in front of Arsenal TV Online crew.

I won't deny we need to work through some problems. Clichy can't depend on Koscielny to cover for him all the time (that Kosy does though, shows the mark of a leader). Our midfield needs to close down the advancements and win the ball. Lord knows Jack can't do it all alone. And yes, we have to be more clinical (more of those Robin-esque moments please). Barcelona are incredible because of the way they play as a team (the seasoned big names help too). I'm not afraid to say it - they play and communicate more dynamically as a team than we do. We can learn so much from them. But today, we rose above a team that basically won the World Cup. Today, a psychological barrier has been broken down. Today, the cannons fired and the Gunners shot down a giant.

This Arsenal team have sprung from the deep pits of criticisms. That we have pulled through such a spirited resurgence won't be enough to quiet the critics, but know this, we may be young, but we are ready. With dusted, gleaming boots and the crest on our chest, we are ready. I only hope the lads know how proud we are of them. The job is just half done, and this isn't quite "revenge for Paris" just yet, but it is immense for us fans and the Arsenal players. You see the pride in my captain's face? See him punch the air in celebrations at the very end of the highlights video when the referee blew the whistle. Truly, my Arsenal man.

Barca Lite? We're having a laugh. We play football the Arsenal way. It's no time to be complacent, but we have Sagna back in the next leg at Camp Nou, and Barcelona will be missing Pique. Still, nothing but our best will suffice; and nothing but our best we shall bring. Kudos to the Gooners at the Emirates singing loud and proud. I love you all!

I leave you with the highlights that again and again brought tears to my eyes. I love you Gunners.

Arsenal v Barcelona
Uploaded by denziko2. - More professional, college and classic sports videos.

The Arsenal!

St. Valentine's =)

2011-02-15T10:55:00.003+08:00

I haven't had a proper Valentine's since forever. Like seriously, I don't actually remember the last time someone made such a lovely effort. I did plan something tiny, but that didn't quite work out - international shipping is rubbish.

So.

James gave me the bestest Valentine's Day card ever. It was personalised and beautiful and he gave it to me just after midnight. And yes, that picture is one of our favourites. Thank you sweetie.

That evening (after a tiresome round of taxi hassles), he surprised me with dinner at Equinox. Dinner (damn expensive one that he'd planned for for a while. How amazing is my man?) by window seats in a romantic restaurant overlooking the city - it doesn't get any better than this.

We failed to take pictures of the amuse-bouche and oysters - I put that down to the hunger - but everything else looked and tasted superb. We especially enjoyed the poached salmon with a spicy crustacean bisque. Divine, I tell ya. AND the scallop dish? That scallop was huge, juicy and mucho fresh.

Scallop!!

The poached salmon

And the Moet Rosé and the beef short ribs and the delectable desserts and the petit fours... They took a picture of us to commemorate the day as well. I love love love it.

We walked back to his flat after dinner and there he presented me with carrot cake (so good) and Pocky under the pillow. I'm telling you... Superb Valentine's Day.

Even though James had to get up really early in the morning, we talked till late (strange and revealing topics). I love that everything is so natural and easy. And I can't say enough thank yous.

Muchas gracias mi amor.

Hit Hard

2011-02-07T00:05:00.004+08:00

Fuck.

I'll say it here - losing a four-nil lead is hard to swallow. No, I won't watch highlights and relive that stupid game. No, I won't blame anyone yet cos I'm still incensed (except Dowd). And no, I will not read football news even if it were to delight in Man Utd's defeat at Wolves. The Invincibles - P: 38 W: 26 D: 12 L: 0 - read it and weep you Mancunian shites.

At least I have James to make things better.

Now for Chelsea v Liverpool. Seriously, Torres looks weird in blue. I'm mucho disappointed in that boy. I thought he was more than this. He turned out to be another Cashley Cole.

Later.

Gunners Rally Back

2011-02-02T23:51:00.001+08:00

It's not often that we go behind and come back to win - well, at least not often enough - so this one against Everton is worth celebrating over-the-top for. For one, the goal Saha scored shouldn't have been allowed because he was well offside. Then again, apparently none of us know the rules as well as Lee Mason does. They might as well make me a lino (unless Keyes and Gray object).

The lads showed immense grit to come back with two goals from Arshavin and Koscielny in the second half to take the points. The goals, the celebrations... the Arsenal makes me so happy and I'm so proud of the players.

Here are the highlights:

And I absolutely love the celebrations. See the winning goal again with the jubilant team after - from Arsenalist - as always, he's the most efficient and reliable for putting up these videos. James loved the last bit when Arshavin hopped onto the top of the pile.

ev2135yg
Uploaded by arsenalist.

I won't even go into the yakkity yak of one David Moyes who said that Cesc had a few offensive words in the tunnel. Arsene Wenger insisted that Cesc did not exchange words with the referee and he invited the reporter to have a look at any footage and/or to ask Mason. Bite me, Moyes.

Twenty-four games down, 14 more to go. The Arsenal!

She Wore A Yellow Ribbon!

2011-01-26T06:40:00.000+08:00

It's not that I don't want to write about the Arsenal here - I'll never get sick of writing about my club - I am just really juiced out after churning out material for Mio Stadium. So please forgive me.

The Arsenal are going to the Wembley!!!!

I just thought that was a worthy shout. Ipswich gave us trouble, but we held them off and scored three to nail our place in the finals of the Carling Cup. Sublime goals from Bendtner, Koscielny and my Cesc in the second half (I'll post a clip of the highlights once they are available. Or follow Arsenal Singapore on Twitter because they will always provide a link) secured us a place against either Birmingham or West Ham.

The semi-finals wasn't triumphed without incidents (especially if you consider the fact that we did lose 1-0 in the first leg), but the lads played so well! Denilson was solid. Robin might not have scored, but he was a menace for sure. Cesc was SUPERB (I can't believe I can love a man this much). The rest of the lads ran the studs off their boots. Thank you.

I'm especially proud of Jack Wilshere. The young 19 year-old has matured at an exponential pace as a footballer. Controlling central midfield the way the he does belies his tender age. The lad is very special indeed, and I am so happy he dons the Red-and-White. If you haven't already noticed this, Jack's passing is remarkable. His ability to pick out players around the field is noteworthy - a lethal combination of skills and vision. Sure, he is very much an unfinished article, but the glaring potential there cannot be shrouded.

Special mentions also, to Djourou and Koscielny - the defensive pair has an awkward understanding and chemistry that just seem to work. Djourou is there bossing them about, and Kosy is out intercepting passes and chasing them down the deck. Brilliant.

So forget that Szczesny was a little non-communicative at times (I hope Sagna is okay). And forget that the pundits are talking about Cesc diving. Forget that Arshavin still looks a little out of place at times (let me remind you that Tiny had two assists). Whatever it may be that's bugging you, forget it. Right now, bask in the moment and brace yourself for Wembley. We're on our way.

Bali Time

2011-01-18T02:24:00.000+08:00

*post edited*

Good fortunes found us travelling to Conrad Bali for a long weekend. I can't begin to tell you how beautiful the place is. The sights in Bali are out of this world - the waves of the Indian Ocean at Uluwatu Temple, the sunset at Tanah Lot, the fantastic setting at the uber chic and cool Ku De Ta, and more. Ask James if you don't believe me, we ate so much good food! Not just in the wonderful restaurants we went to, but the in-room dining was fabulous - they had James' favourite banana sundae.

First things first, this is the view of the pool at Conrad Bali.

We were very lucky to get good weather there. I now look like Eboue's sister, I'm so tan!

I would highly recommend Conrad Bali to anyone going to Bali. James also loved the heavenly-smelling towels we were handed every time we had a meal there. I finally asked them what they used to scent the towels on our last day there. Frangipani! We chanced upon some Frangipani-scented soap and massage oils later at the airport and James bought them for me =)

And we made two new friends - Conrad and Bumbu (he's the big one). Conrad went everywhere with us. James even has an album specially for him. I dare say it was love at first sight for James and Conrad. He loves the little monkey and couldn't stop taking pictures of it the moment he set eyes on it.

The food here is great and the resort is so beautiful we really had trouble getting out of it - so we spent Saturday in exploring and taking a gazillion shots. There was a lot of lazing by the pool of course. More pictures on James' Facebook.

Bumbu Bali (that's how the second, bigger monkey got his name!) was the first restaurant we had dinner in. Terrific Indonesian food at a very affordable price. I won't say it was cheap by Bali standards, but it truly was a delicious meal. The rustic interior was very cosy, and we were greeted by a flurry of polite staff and flowers tucked behind our ears - yes, even the man had one. I thought it looked rather fetching on him. Haha.

We spent Sunday out of the resort. First, it was Uluwatu Temple. The cliff overlooking the Indian ocean was spectacular. The monkeys there, not so much (hahaha). Still, it was rather entertaining seeing tourists feed them and avoiding them on the main path. I had to wear a purple sarong because visitors had to cover their knees. Purple is so not my colour and the very strong winds there kept blowing it up anyways.

We slithered off to Seminyak after and I love love love the area! We found a favourite little place together - Cafe Bali. Great food and ambience, and I simply adored the eclectic selection of art pieces and chandeliers. If we ever went back to Bali and Conrad Bali was above our budget, I'd definitely want to stay in Seminyak area.

This is a shot of our first sunset together at Tanah Lot. A beautiful sight this is. Although a wee bit commercialised, the breathtaking temple, cliff and crashing waves made it all very worthwhile, not to mention the mesmerising sunset.

After dark, we stopped by the much hyped about Ku De Ta. I dare say this place deserved all its praises. Ku De Ta was gorgeous. The service staff was super attentive and the food was brilliant and the people were beautiful and the kitchen was efficient and the decor was tasteful... The whole place was just off the hook. The sight of the waves rushing in viewed from the outdoor portion of the restaurant was incredibly stunning too. Yes, so this was more expensive than the rest of the other places, but you HAVE to go there. If you're on holiday, why deprive yourself of such spectacle? I only wished I were better dressed.

Monday was checkout day for us. We managed to get a slightly later checkout time which was awesome. We then were picked up for our spa appointment at Baliwis Spa not far from the hotel. After a two-hour rubdown session, we headed back to Conrad for more pictures, a very late lunch, and then chilling in the lobby bar before we were picked up for the airport.

It was a wonderful weekend away. I think the only downside was my mad hair - the strong sea breeze and my lack of conditioning made it uber hard to manage.

For making the fantastic getaway possible;
For the laughs - especially when we say the same things at the exact same moments;
For all the airport jokes - the most un-PC stuff we somehow manage to conjure up while waiting for our flights;
For the inane chatter and comfortable moments of silence;
For bearing with me after I had drugged myself -

Thank you baby.

Dishing It Up

2011-01-13T02:33:00.001+08:00

So I've been cooking.

Yeah seriously. And I haven't set anything on fire yet. I'm quite sure there's a direct correlation between age and being kitchen-savvy. Whatever it is though, I'm really happy to be whipping up goodies for three reasons.

#1 - It's a simple reminder that I finally have time to do something that I rather enjoy. I love scouring the Net for new recipes to try and I'm narcissistically delighted when whatever I'm making comes out well.

#2 - Considering I used to set kitchen appliances on fire, this recent good form is a fortuitous circumstance that I intend to make the most of. It's nice to see people enjoying the food I've made.

#3 - James seems to like the food.

It has been a great start to the year, and it is a bit of a big deal for me since there are a few major changes in my life.

On the job front, I've been pleasantly surprised by some offers. There isn't anything spectacular, but it's heartening to know there are people out there who appreciate all the hard work I've put in the last few years. Those of you who know me well will know I'm not particularly career-driven (yeah, I'm sorry work isn't the plinth of my existence). I just really want to find something I like doing, as opposed to simply something that I CAN do. The problem is identifying what that is, because there aren't many things I am very passionate about.

Right now, Life is all dandy because I sleep till noon, watch the Arsenal weekly, travel (Tokyo last November. Bali's next. London is on the cards too.), cook, and pole dance. And yes, there's the James factor too. It's a wee bit scary because I haven't been in this place in a while. Obviously I still have a lot of things to work on - I only have about three lifetimes of issues - but it's nice where we are.

The only things I've yet to do is find more time for Salsa, and take Spanish lessons. I wish there was a way to get everything I want without having to work. Bleugh. Fat hope, slim chance.

One thing I do know for sure, is that I will stop worrying about and overthinking stuff. Or at least try to. Live in the moment for while. That's right, I'm going to enjoy today and be thankful for the things that I have. That means not worrying about finding a job (till after Chinese New Year), not thinking about how I always screw things up with a significant other, and not wondering about the next step. I just want to be. Because right now, that's what's putting a smile on my face - just being me.

So it's a little over an hour till the Arsenal game. I'm going to marinate the pork I bought earlier - I'm making James a lunch/snack - then I'm going to shower, watch House and wait for the game to start.

Ain't Life peachy?

New Beginnings

2011-01-03T03:10:00.002+08:00

I can't begin to describe how honoured I am to be part of Eddy and Kelly's wedding. The couple has been together for a decade and known each other for more. Truly, they are the modern romantic fairytale that we, the jaded, have all forgotten. If ever there were such a thing as "the perfect couple", I can't think of two people who better epitomise the concept. Congratulations you two. May the years ahead be filled with joy, laughter, mini Eds and Kellys, and blissful happiness.

The countdown to 2011 was laidback but the company was awesome. Thank you my dear friends, for being there with me.

I can't say the first few minutes or first hour of 2011 was fantastic, but I take it that things can only get better from here. This year kicks off with many firsts. I hope for my sake that faith will be well placed. I don't want to be angsty anymore. I want life to begin. Now. So I'm doing away with the negatives as much as I can, and retaining all the positivity I can garner.

No one knows what the future holds and we can only continue moving towards it one step at a time. I've got my Louboutins on. Let's go.

It's 2011!!!

2011-01-01T02:08:00.003+08:00

Happy New Year!!!

I can't believe how fast the year went by. The end of 2010 and the beginning of 2011 brought about some revelations - Life really does teach us some weird lessons. I'm determined to make the rest of the year better than today - which (haha) shouldn't be too hard - starting from now. And of course, the turning of a new year calls for the usual resolutions that we never really quite get around to fulfilling.

Revelations
- Loyalty is one hell of a rare trait. I will treasure every ounce of it, be it from friends or family.

- There is no point saying too much sometimes. Those who are worth your time and a place in your heart, already understand.

- Life's curve balls are wicked. But I'm strong enough to get through shit whichever side of the line I eventually fall on.

- While everyone deserves a chance, there are some who are just not worth your time. The sooner you walk away, the better your life will be.

- Metabolism of a 30 year-old is a bitch.

- I'm a bitch. Not a revelation, but seriously.

- Writing makes me feel infinitely better. I dare say it's better than *gasp* retail therapy.

- I have a lot of clothes. And shoes.

- Football dictates my mood.

- I love the Arsenal more than you do. Really.

Resolutions
- Don't expect too much. Disappointment may be the downfall of the sane.

- Respect the people you choose to hang around. Otherwise, just don't be around them.

- Honesty isn't always the best policy, but I resolve to be honest to those I respect as much as I can, as long as it is my call. Things/situations that involve others belong to the murkier pond.

- Be less moody. Let my happiness not depend on someone else.

- To do my best to be considerate of other's feelings, especially those I call my friends. Remember that even if they don't gripe or whine or rant, they have feelings too.

- Take Spanish classes.

- Get a kickass body.

- Seriously start saving $$$.

- Be more patient with the people I love.

- Let those walls down. Be vulnerable.

- Save empathy for those who are worth it.

- Learn not to wear all my emotions on my face, i.e., be a better liar.

- Say what I mean. Mean and do what I say.

- Get a job.

Demons Banished

2010-12-28T18:29:00.004+08:00

It's been too long.

Early this morning (GMT+8) at 4am, a bunch of us gathered at TNP Sports Bar at St. James' to catch the Arsenal game against Chelsea. Needless to say, it was more than worth getting up at an ungodly hour for. The Gunners won it 3-1 with goals from Song, Cesc (yea Baby!) and Theo.

Not only were the goals sublime, the celebrations of fans and players alike ignited a fierce camaraderie that (I'm not exaggerating here) crossed borders. With the exception of a few, the lads played well, but nevertheless got us all pacing and swearing when they conceded that one Ivanovic goal. Defence still needed work, but I must give praise where it's due - Koscielny and Djourou were fabulous.

The original video I posted doesn't work anymore. This one has less details but a lot more drama. Love it!

Perhaps for the first time, I didn't agree that Cesc was MOTM, but what the hell. We got the three points. Convincingly as well. I am so proud of the lads. Each goal was brilliantly setup and scored. Each play was intricately weaved. I only regret to see that Samir didn't bag one for himself. We all know he deserved it.

I can't wipe the grin off my stupid face and watching the highlights again and again just makes me look even more like a lovestruck schoolgirl. To be fair, Chelsea have been in shite form. Again, I don't give a shit. A win is a win is a win. This was extra special since we kept Drogba rather quiet and frustrated Arsely to gibbering fits. Hopefully, this psychological strike will sink Chelsea's smug face and give the Gunners a huge boost of confidence (keep complacency at bay please).

How I needed that after the day that I had... Now to put the damn Mancunians in their place.

The Arsenal!!!

Colorgenics - Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T02:12:00.001+08:00

Yes, I know some of you think it's silly, but it's been a while since I did this. Only the extremely bored people out there, or a stalker, would know that I do this Colorgenics test every once in a while. So here's my result today...

-------------------------------

You are tending to pursue your objectives with concentrated intensity and it would seem that whatever obstacles may come into your path, you will stick to your guns and will not allow yourself to be deflected from your purpose. You are striving to achieve recognition and what is more - you deserve it.

You are in need of rest, some peace and quiet. You feel the need to be close to that someone special, that someone who can give you that special consideration and unquestioning affection that you seek. If you don't find that 'special someone' and resolve your problems very soon, you are liable to become extremely introverted and cut yourself off from society.

You need a friend - a close friend - and you are willing to become emotionally involved with the right person, but you are very demanding and particular in your choice of partners. You are constantly looking for reassurance and it is perhaps because of this that you tend to be somewhat argumentative, but you try to hold back - careful to avoid open conflict - since this might reduce your prospects of realising your hopes of establishing a warm caring relationship.

For whatever the reason, you find it extremely difficult to sustain relationships - that is to sustain them in the manner that you would wish. You are a very gentle sort of person, full of feeling, sensitivity and susceptible to love and affection, looking and longing for a partner with whom you can enjoy 'All things bright and beautiful' - someone with whom you can seek out the more esoteric things of life. But up to now this person has only existed in your imagination. You are very choosy, appreciative, refined and extremely artistic in temperament and it is your hope to seek others who will allow you to form and express your own taste and judgement and who at the same time may assist you in your intellectual or artistic growth.

You really would like to be completely uninhibited - to let your hair down - but you are held back by your sense of logic and rationalilty, since you realise that by simple stupidity you could lose everything - whatever that may be.

Eduardo - One & Only

2010-12-23T21:58:00.000+08:00

February 2008 was horrible for me just because of Eduardo's injury. I can't even bear to think about it still even though I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing at the exact moment.

I made many cards and sent them to Arsenal FC and yes, was one of the few Singaporeans whose well wishes to the great Crozilian was published on Arsenal.com. Cheap thrill I know, but it felt good because I felt like he could see and feel how much I love him.

A few days ago while clearing my junk, I chanced upon this...

One of the many cards I made, but the only one I didn't send. Only because I sent the nicer ones.

I got messages from members of Arsenal Singapore and wrote them down in every card. I wrote the below in this particular one...

Não se preocupe, you will not be forgotten. Arsenal fans around the world will be anticipating and awaiting your return. Don't rush it though. Give yourself as much time as you need. I only hope you will feel our love every step of the way in recovery. Obrigado - for all the good times so far. I am certain you will come back stronger and better than ever, and I look forward to more memorable Arsenal moments then! Boa sorte!

- xoxo, Cheyenne, Arsenal Singapore

And you know what? I still love that man.

Sleep Light

2010-12-21T05:17:00.002+08:00

I dreamt of being in LA. I didn't see him at first but I knew DG was there. I had bags of shopping around me and DG walked in with another for me. I can't remember what the present was but I remember being elated. It was something I had told him about and he remembered. All I recall is a black bag with white text.

I remember talking about a game that was going to be on and DG assuring me that we would be catching it. I don't know what happened next but I was in an apartment getting ready to go out but I wasn't with him. I saw a picture of Ben and him in my wallet but I didn't feel anything. I was wearing some really awesome jeans (had to remember this because I can't fit in jeans anymore) and a tube top with a jacket. I walked out to find a car waiting but I don't remember where I was going.

Don't recall the rest of it. Strange to dream of an ex in a city where another ex currently resides. Ha. I think the only disturbing thing about it was the picture. No, I do not miss him. Haven't even thought about him in a long long time. And yes, I'm glad he's out of my life. The drama wasn't even worth my time.

Back to catching up on The Mentalist then.

Breaking Free

2010-12-17T23:15:00.002+08:00

Yes, technically now I should be writing more.

I'm sorry. I've just been having too much fun being alive again. Phew...

So much is happening. So much has changed. So much is in the future yet to be grasped.

Xmas is just around the corner and truth be told, I can't wait. I'll be making Christmas Pudding, so this is when you people coming for dinner should start praying. Boxing Day will either be amazing, or a day of pain. Ha.

As 2011 looms and the holiday season takes over, I just want to give thanks for a few things:

- Finally finding the courage to leave the company I had grown so accustomed to.
- The tattoo that I finally got. And the many others that will follow.
- Having Situ and Spike in my life. I can't believe they know this much shit about me and still are my friends.
- Pole classes and the amazing new friends I've made, especially the incredibly beautiful and funny Sijia.
- My own room again.
- An incredible Mum who I love so so much, yet can't stand to be around too often.
- Seeing the true colours of some of the people around me, and realising who are the ones who actually care.
- You.

Already I have a list of resolutions to fail in 2011. Stay tuned for that one.

xx

Crazy Week

2010-12-10T13:10:00.003+08:00

Hot damn.

Finally, I'm out of employment. I'm not saying that like it's a fabulous thing, but the truth is, this was a long time coming. Let's see if I get my life back, even if it's in the depths of poverty. Ha-blardy-ha.

In the recent pole classes, I have been feeling a little useless. Mainly because I have injured hamstrings, but also, the new moves are really tough and so hard to get. It doesn't help that I'm not the strongest around. I really have to work on my core.

James' mates, Nick and Paul are in town. Naturally, we did Thirstday at Wala Wala. The drunk English lads were quite a sight. We all had lotsa fun and there are quite a few more Gooners now aware of Arsenal Singapore, I hope. That, or they think an Asian girl and three Caucasian lads are starting a cult.

It's shaping up to be a crazy weekend. I have aerial class, pole practice, a jamming session and more. And then comes the game against Man Utd. I'm worried, nervous, but I can't wait.

Not long before 2011. This has been one helluva crazy year. I can't decide if I've grown or regressed. All I know is that I feel like I have weathered through another year of drama and time just flew by in the blink of an eye.

This year, perhaps I'll learn to make some resolutions I can actually keep. Then again, I haven't learnt in 20plus years, so why would things change now?

Along Comes A Nasri

2010-12-05T05:11:00.001+08:00

You bet I want to rave about Samir Nasri. If those lilywhite scums can talk about a so-called "Messiah" (we're having a laugh), we can boast about our saviour of football.

Through a display of pure class and sublime genius, Samir Nasri scored an incredible brace against a hardy Fulham to give us a 2-1 win at home, and push us to the top of the League. This time, for more than 30 minutes. A special mention here for Birmingham and Everton - Good job.

The 90 minutes was not one without the usual frustrations unfortunately. And teams somehow have a strange way of scoring against us in the most screwed up circumstances. I'll explain this later. Truthfully, the minutes after Samir's first goal and before his winning second, were a little dreadful to watch. Instead of talking about our various goal attempts the way I sometimes do, I'm going to jump right ahead to those two extraordinary goals scored by our #8. Because let's face it, when football is this beautiful, there is nothing more.

Arsenal had been dominating play when the first goal came through in the 14th minute. By some rubbish defending, the ball was gifted to Andrey Arshavin who deftly poked the ball across the box to an unmanned Samir Nasri. The Frenchman pounced on the pass, shimmied passed two defenders (and quite literally fell them on their arses), before bulleting a left-footed, wicked shot passed the keeper and another defender. I'm not kidding when I say this - Samir made it look magically easy. His superb control of the ball was utterly sick to watch. I hope Mark Hughes watches this again and hurl all over his sheep-shagging lap. Like many other Gooners have pointed out, had it been Messi who scored like that, the journos would have been all over him. But here at the Arsenal, we're understated (and underrated) like that.

The second came with 15 minutes of regular time left. Samir Nasri would this time prove that the Arsenal have the ability to actually "walk" the ball into goal. Frenchie attacked the left and bulldozed over the entire Fulham defence, including Schwarzer before converting with his right foot on the turnaround at a deathly narrow angle.The man can dribble the ball like a fiend. The composure exuded by the lad and his superb celebration after scoring - class. Samir wanted the points, no doubt about it, and it showed through his game.

Follow this link to see the highlights of the game. Fair warning, be prepared to be blown away.

For the entire season so far, Samir has been a beacon. Having now scored 11 goals, the Frenchman showed us how much he wants to win and how much he is willing to put in for the team. Every single game he's started, Samir puts in 110%. He's there chasing and providing and creating. I burst with pride when I see him play. In the absence of our Cesc and the lack of goals from the strikers, Samir alone has stood out and taken up responsibilities of his teammates. Equipped with such class and technical abilities, this young lad is just blossoming and I have a feeling he is going to be one helluva legend for the club I so love.

Two worthy goals to take us to the top of the Premier League table. I dare say no other team's ascend has been this sweet for the last few seasons.

WE ARE TOP OF THE LEAGUE, SAY WE ARE TOP OF THE LEAGUE!!!

I'm grateful for the amazing manner we managed this and I pray we will be in this very spot at the end of the 2010/11 season.

Andrey Arshavin has also picked up from his disappointing start of the season. Another fantastic assist from him for the first goal, and our Russian superstar was diligent and sharp. Jack Wilshere was a workhorse in midfield, challenging and lunging for every ball that came near him. Pat on the back for the 18 year-old. Tomas Rosicky wasn't pivotal, but the captain of the day did well enough and in my opinion, should start every game.

Fabianski had another good game and he is very much the #1 keeper in the eyes of many Gooners now. Sagna and Clichy were solid, but again I felt we stood off too often. That said, Gael put forth a much more convincing performance against Fulham than all his other games combined this season. Djourou looked surefooted for the period he was on and was immense in the air. I say this every game, but I wish our defence would pack it in tighter. I don't understand why we let in goals so easily. We leaked one with damn Carew in Fabianski's way at Villa Park, but it was the defenders' fault for not picking the ball off Clark sooner. This time, Squillaci and Koscielny clashed heads, leaving the latter dazed and gifting Kamara with a getaway for an equaliser before half-time. If this wasn't the Gods of Footballing Defence trying to send a message, I don't know what is. So come on lads, pull it together for our sake.

It is not possible to wish for a team with 11 Samir Nasris. That would make the breathtaking gold he weaves look like common street tricks. We just all need to pull our own weight. And I know our lads can. If nothing at all, we play with heart, and that's more than can be said of the players in any other teams.

Thank you Samir, for making my week. I will forever remember the spell you casted tonight. Thank you for reminding us that football can be this beautiful.

Note to Gareth Bale: The DVD edition of Football School of Samir Nasri will be released soon for your education and reference. Kindly place your order at therealmessiah@youvebeenschooled.com.

Identification

2010-12-03T18:07:00.000+08:00

You know how some people you know make really bad decisions in life? And they have this incredible ability to blame everything else but themselves? I wish I had that.

I wish I could say that the tragedies unfolding weren't my fault and attribute them to bad luck. I want to say that I keep attracting the wrong people, that I am so unlucky to be in this work situation, that things always don't go my way. Truth is, I keep making bad decisions.

Perhaps it's this internal mechanism I have to sabotage my happiness. Perhaps really, I don't want to be happy because being an angsty spinster is much more colourful (it really isn't). Perhaps.

STK says I expect too much out of everyone and want the world to go at my crazy pace. That I shut down when people fail those expectations, and others mistake my behaviour as a lack of concern or aloofness. Spike says I have ADD and get bored too easily. And that I only strive through adversity.

It's all just because I really don't know what I want. I do make things difficult for myself - that much is obvious. I think I do it because I want new challenges all the time. I need to learn contentment.

I need to stand still and feel the sunshine and the breeze and the breath of humanity on my face.

A Short Escape

2010-11-29T15:40:00.005+08:00

Getting on a plane and jetting off is my favourite thing to do. It really almost doesn't matter where I am going as long as I am not at the same place for much too long. I'm pedigree Sagittarian.

I have never quite gotten into the whole J-pop rage, or craved going to Japan like some of my mates. It was all too cutesy and gimmicky for me. This holiday however, good company and cheap airfare saw me heading to Tokyo.

Thanks to James, I managed to get a decent price for a flight on Singapore Airlines - because really, it's the only way to fly. While the trip wasn't as long a holiday as I'd have liked, it was a welcome getaway from the drudgery grease I was stuck in.

I knew the trip would be great because Situ was gonna be there too. And we even managed to catch each other when we reached Haneda Airport, how awesome was that!

The first thing that impressed me in Japan? The toilets. Very very clean and they have bidets, heated seats, and the sound of running water to mask the sound of you peeing. Ingenious.

Our first challenge was figuring out the train system (and yes, we got cheated a few times). You really should have seen all the different lines on the map. It was messier than a tossed up tri-colour pasta salad. Of course we didn't have much trouble getting around - we are very savvy city travelers *ahem* - but we both believed the fare system could be made much simpler. We did seek assistance from one especially memorable man. I swear, his voice was impossibly high-pitched. He was very helpful and talked a lot, and when I turned back to face James, the Englishman's face was priceless. Truly, James even wanted to drop by the same station again on our way back just so he could see High-Pitch Man again.

James and I stayed at the Sunroute hotel in Higashi Shinjuku. Not the most interesting of places, but relatively convenient. Also the rooms were tiny as expected, but very comfortable (for me, at least) and clean.

Contrary to popular belief, I didn't shop much. In fact, I bought more souvenirs and snacks for people than stuff for myself. Just as well since I just spent $1000 on H&M... So this was what we did.

Day 1

Asakusa
Shibuya
Ebisu
Ueno

Gorgeous day, just cause it's my birthday.

Lovely sights, but a wee bit disappointing that we actually didn't eat any Japanese food this day. Haha I don't know how we managed that. Amazing photography exhibition at the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography in Ebisu before we had beers. Then the gang took me to Hard Rock Cafe at Ueno just so they could laugh at me while the staff regaled me with a birthday song. Awesome day.

Day 2

Akihabara
Meiji Shrine
Harajuku
Meguro
Samurai Bar (Asakusa)

Headed to Electric Town to look for a camera but really, it wasn't as cheap as I expected it to be. Then it was Meiji Shrine at Harajuku station. The place was surreal and absolutely beautiful. We had perfect weather this day so it made the walking around even more enjoyable. Yun managed to get a couple of pair of boots at Harajuku after. I also managed to meet up with Brandon who was thoroughly entertaining - days of the week will never be the same again. Dinner in Meguro before the bunch of us headed up to Samurai Bar for evening drinks.

Day 3

Shinjuku
Imperial Palace
Ginza
Ebisu
Haneda

Terence and Yun headed up to Nikko while James and I ventured out on our own. Shinjuku first after we'd checked out. Brandon met us and brought us to a fantastic ramen place in a little street. We ambled around without much aim, but I did manage to get my Pocky chopsticks that I wanted. Just a note - Tokyo is fantastic for beauty stuff. There are so many stores selling falsies and other cutesy beauty products and accessories.

James and I spontaneously headed to Tokyo Station and my search showed that the Imperial Palace grounds were there. It was so beautiful to see the colours of Autumn in the middle of a concrete jungle. James got some great photos there. I wish I had a DSLR too.

Ginza was just a little stop for us cos I wanted to see what it was like in the middle of town. We did manage to find a fabulous desserts cafe - Berry Cafe. Awesome cakes, I tell ya.

After a little treat, we headed back to the hotel to collect our bags before going to Ebisu's Footnik for football - Aston Villa v. Arsenal. Footnik wasn't hard to find and even though I don't drink, I found a familiar comfort being in a pub. We had dinner there and Situ joined us for the game.

Finding Arsenal fans in foreign land was a strangely amazing feeling. Of course my beloved Arsenal had fans worldwide, but it was that easy camaraderie that overwhelmed me. Football does mad things to my heart. It was 3-1 when we left (had to catch the last train to Haneda Airport). I was on Twitter constantly and when Wilshere scored our fourth, I was bouncing in the train station. I'm so proud of my lads.

The wait for check-in was a drag. I only remember saying stupid things to James that could well rival the incredulous stuff ("mint lemon fravor"!) we had seen in the few days. Was so tired that I slept the entire flight home.

So there. Our adventure in the land of dodgy English and weird signs.

Poor James had to bear with not just the annoying greetings in shops, but my coughing and snorting while we were in Tokyo. Yes, I am still sick as a bitch.

-------

I'm at a little crossroad in life - distancing myself from a job that I have worked my arse off at for the last few years, detaching myself from some friends. I'm trying things that I haven't tried before. The hard part is not knowing what I want and where I'm going. It feels like I am throwing everything I have away and damning myself for the pits. Sure could use a little help and direction. Anyone?

Wanderlust

2010-11-23T11:44:00.002+08:00

I'm writing this as the aircon in the office is blowing its gusty wrath on my bare neck. And I'm nursing a runny nose, a scratchy throat, an angsty cough, and bitchin' cramps.

This is an obvious, but I hate to be sick. Especially since Tokyo is literally a couple of days away.

There's still so much to do. I haven't packed, but really I'm not worried - I pack really fast. I haven't printed out the train map and directions from the train station to our hotel. I still haven't decided if I should get a SIM card in Tokyo, or just pay for data-roaming. It's $20 a day for unlimited usage. But it's not like I'm actually going to be using that much right? I don't know! HELP! I haven't decided if we should go for the Haunted Tokyo tour. All I know for now is that we are definitely going to buy shoes. Ha-blardy-ha.

I'm not huge on touristy sightseeing. I'm more of a chilled out, just walk around, and bask in local culture and food kinda person. I'd hate for the itinerary to be relentless, but at the same time, we don't have much time so I want to get around as much as possible.

It's been a while since I've traveled with friends. I hope they remain my friends after the trip. I'm not particularly difficult, but I can get a little boring cos I'm really laidback.

After this, I'll either plan a shorter trip to Taipei, or plan an longass one to Europe. I wish I could stay in London for a while. Anyone who knows how I can, or has a job offer, please please please write me!!!

I met the ladies and bride-to-be for dress fitting on Sunday. So awesome - I really love spending time with my girls. We are all having different styled dresses, but following a common theme. The taller girls - two Rachels and Anna are wearing a lovely satiny blue, while Eva and I are wearing the same floral design but in colour reversals. Hard to describe but I think we should look okay. Eva was eagerly taking pictures of everyone during fitting - can't wait to see the tailor with her judgmental tape around me.

For those not in the know, I lost a little bet recently. I shan't say what it entailed, suffice to say that losing was well worth it. I do wish I could meet more guys my age though. Well actually, I wish I could meet men much older, but they are all either married, attached, or strange. Ain't it sickening to be single and old? And the youngsters coming my way are starting to bore me... All but one - you know who you are - friendship has its benefits.

Okay then, foreign lands await, but I'm still in Singapore and duty calls.

Tootles.

Ardent.

2010-11-21T05:04:00.000+08:00

This blows.

After an awesome Friday, it seems my weekend has taken a turn for the worse. No, I can't talk about that damn game. Go have a look Mio Stadium if you want to, having to write one post-match piece is painful enough.

The insomnia is back now that I am back home. Hopefully, when all the renovation is done, I'll have my room back and all will be good again. I suspect it is the recent 90mins that is keeping me starkly awake and sulking.

By the way, to the people I have offended on Twitter, I'm not apologising. Firstly, if you don't know how much the Arsenal mean to me, we're obviously not that close. Secondly, if I don't even know you and you're taking the piss, I have no qualms about telling you exactly how I feel. Thirdly, if you aren't a Gooner, just go away. FFS, if you want to talk about being a fan, do you even know football or the history of your club?

On a more positive note, I made it through hot Bikram yoga Saturday morning. Yes, I survived. Not without soreness, but I did. And considering the night that I had, I deserve some kind of pat on the back just for that. Pole was a little less rewarding. The aches hindered my practice, but when showcase came around, I pushed myself to do as much as I could. It was only a few minutes on the pole, but it felt so incredibly good (despite my loud cries of pain as I attempted as much as I could). At least I don't feel like a fat tart for not working out.

Sunday is just starting. Fitting with a couple of gorgeous ladies, then a dinner date with some young dude. I doubt anything would change this weekend's mood, but I shan't make the innocent suffer for my pain.

Damn.

Being a football fan is a slightly masochistic undertaking. Sometimes I get angry at myself for caring this much, but at the same time, I know I wouldn't have it any other way. I may not know all the legends and their stories, and I may be too far away to make my voice heard, but never will there be a day I give up on my Gunners. Come what may, I'll take the victories and the batterings in stride.

Will I ever find someone/something to love as much?

Damn.

Brief Updates.

2010-11-18T02:01:00.001+08:00

Huge ego boost today - even if I was in my sweats. Seriously.

Today is the day I had a two-hour stretching session, pole practice, and salsa. Good work out, you'd think. However, I couldn't stretch much because my hamstrings hurt so much. Same problem at practice. And then salsa at night didn't last all that long - I didn't even work up a sweat.

Spent my evening at The Cookie Museum tasting with James, Lee and KingMeng. We had free tea and tried tons of new cookies. Lee and I spent a combined $390 on cookies alone. May I just say though, aside from the fantastic cookies and exotic teas, the Salmon Quiche there is absolutely divine. DEE-VINE, my friend. An absolute must-try.

I'm finally feeling like I'm sliding into my groove. I feel better, only because I've been doing things that I want to do.

Mum's overhauling the house, which means that I've checked into a hotel room for the next couple of nights. Even more alone time - what else could I possibly ask for? I want to thank everyone for all their support through all the rough times. You have no idea how much I appreciate your love.

A gal pal of mine has fallen into some difficult times recently as well. I am glad I can be there for her now. It breaks my heart when I know a friend is hurting and can't do anything about it. And I'm grateful that she's letting me into her life.

Work is easing up for me. Probably because no one at work thinks I'm stable enough to take on anything. Haha... I want to say, "just as well", but I'm better than that. We'll see how things go.

It's the holiday season again, isn't it? Expect lots of travelling and presents and cheers.

Ting is coming back soon! I miss her and have so much to tell her. Fly safe baby! I'll be waiting for you here in humid Singapore!

Situ will be coming up to Tokyo with me next week as well. I'm joyful beyond words. Birthday with the bestie and some darn awesome friends. I must be doing something to please the Big Guy.

It's back to work tomorrow, but something super is coming up this weekend. This Saturday, the big match looms. North London Derby baby, and we are at home. I really want to whip some Scums' arses. Who's with me?

Climbing Up.

2010-11-15T06:36:00.000+08:00

What a fantastic weekend. Will talk about the Samsung EFF event later. First up, our trip up to Goodison Park.

Thanks to a first half goal from Bacary Sagna and a second from my Cesc Fabregas, the Arsenal came away with three important points that see us stand in second place, two behind Chelsea. Everton clawed back with a late Cahill goal, but the victory was ours at 2-1.

Let's do the usual three pointers most prominent to me in these fruitful 90 minutes.

1. Howard Webb is a tosser.

2. Our lads are amazing and I am so loving our Double Fab weekend.

3. The game is never over until the final whistle.

How Everton could get away with so many hard tackles on our lads, I'll never know. Yes, we complain about the referee-ing every game. Fair enough - fans always are biased. But this next line came from an objective ESPN Gamecast commentary - "Heitinga boots Song to the floor then kicks him twice for good measure." So I'm not going to ramble on about Webb because it's going to be yet another droning drivel. Suffice to say, I don't like referees.

Next, I want to say how proud of, and incredibly lucky I feel to have the service of one Samir Nasri. Tireless and intelligent, Nasri is the kind of player with a vision that surpasses most opponents' power of hindsight, and the diligence to drive that vision into action. He has great sense of positioning and truth be told, he dares to take the shots. Our first chance of the game came through the Frenchman and it was our first sight of possibility despite the effort being blocked by Distin. We had otherwise been a little bit shite. While others like Arshavin and even young Wilshere did very well to penetrate Everton's defence, it was Nasri's stinger that was parried away by Howard in the 36th minute. The loose ball fell to Arshavin who picked out (surprise surprise!) Sagna. The rightback displayed great skill before shooting into the roof of Everton's goal. Extraordinary skill from Bacary Sagna.

While I was celebrating the goal, I had a flashback. This was only Sagna's second goal for Arsenal. The first time he scored, was the opener against Chelsea. Stupid Drogba spoiled the party. Yes, I was afraid that the same thing would happen and the halftime whistle didn't ease my fears.

Thankfully though, my Cesc came through for me in the second half. Latching on to a pass from substitute Denilson, Cesc played in Chamakh who returned the ball for him to volley superbly passed Howard. The goal was sweetly weighted and placed. I watched it again and like I said on Twitter, I'm pretty sure I had a mini orgasm when I saw the replay. Please please please see the highlights and watch this goal.

Chamakh would have given us the third had he turned in Fabregas' 59th minute wedge into the box. Alas, the Moroccan sent the ball skyward from four yards. It's easy to say that I think I could have turned that sitter into the net, doing it is a different thing all together.

Unfortunately, our lads begun to play a very laidback passing game against an Everton that was eagerly pressing. It isn't that I think we shouldn't. I just wanted to see us keep pressing for a sure-thing. After all, the game isn't over till it's over. And the pressure kept mounting from the host.

We were at risk of losing the points if not for save after save after save from Fabianski. Shots that were swung directly at him, fumbled in a scramble, aimed at the top corner, lunging for the lower corner - all palmed away by an alert Pole who has shown how precious he is, and the kind of quality that he can produce under immense stress. Look at the last 15 minutes of the game and you'll be awed and blown away by the number of saves Fabianski made. I can't even blame him for Cahill's goal because rightly, someone should have been defending the post.

We held out the four added minutes, but to a fan like me, it felt more like four hours. My heart was in my mouth and I seriously felt like I needed a pacemaker. But we earned the points. All three points, and we go within two points of the leader.

Thirteen games down, 25 more to go. The Arsenal!

Samsung English Football Fanatics - Prizes Galore For Football Fans

2010-11-02T18:52:00.007+08:00

My calendar year revolves around the months of August to May. During this time, all travel plans, weekend outings, and yes, even dates are damned to the scheduling of Arsenal games.

Yes, if you're a football fan too, you'll know exactly what I mean.

It is during this time that your Internet browser's bookmarks come in very handy. Every football forum, news channel, and notable blog fuels your fever pitch. I used to be involved in almost all the popular blogs and discussion boards until a reality called "a job" took over. It also explains why I appreciate the creativity and smarts behind something like Samsung English Football Fanatics.

Simply put, the Facebook application puts together what I think local fans need - a platform for exchange. Sure, there isn't an RSS of news stories, but every fan worth his salt have already got the down-low. Samsung EFF on Facebook focuses on the Big Four and the stories surrounding them.

Led by celebrity captains - mine is the delectable Jamie Yeo - discussion topics are updated regularly so fans can post up comments and thoughts. I think it's perfect as well, that we are not bound to just commentary on our chosen club. You can leave word on other club captains' topics as well if you fancy.

The new talks usually revolve around the latest news or games. Sometimes, depending on the creativity of your captain, random topics are surfaced. Random, but never dull.

One of the best things about Samsung EFF is that you are rewarded for simply being a fan of your club. This is what I mean.

A new Trivia Challenge is re-launches every week. Essentially, you can take part in any of the quizzes put up by the captains. Be the first 10 highest scoring people, and you get free beer. It doesn't get any easier than that. I have yet to win any though. I blame it on bad timing. I always get the answers, but not the prize. I do know plenty of fans who have won free beer though, and yes I know who you are and I expect you to share. What are you waiting for? You're five questions away from free booze! Even if you don't win, your points go towards the leaderboard (more on this in a bit)

The other feature of Samsung EFF, is Prediction King.

As literal as that is, I love how the icon for the application is an octopus (R.I.P. Paul). Prediction King's scoring runs in two cycles:

Round 1 : 4 October - 9 November
Round 2 : 10 November - 14 December

Make your predictions, challenge your friends, win, and you get the points. Can't mess this up.

Samsung has put in place incredible prizes for playing:

Round 1 Prizes
1st Prize : Samsung Digital Camera NX100
2nd Prize : Samsung Galaxy S
3rd Prize : Samsung Blu-ray Player BD-C7500

Those are awesome prizes!!! And yes, even if you don't win, your points go to the leaderboard. The leaderboard is simply a point system raked up by your participation on Samsung EFF. The more trivia you answer, the more correct scores you predict, the more points you get. No, Samsung didn't forget the prizes.

Here are the amazing prizes you stand a chance to win simply by taking part in the activities on Samsung EFF:
1st Prize : 46" LED TV + Blu-ray Player
2nd Prize : 40" LED TV
3rd Prize : 37" LED TV

I don't know about you, but I think every football fan should be signing up for this right now! Football, the chance to smackdown your enemy in an online discussion board, predict scores (which we all do all the time in our heads anyway, be honest) and win prizes. There has never been clearer rewards for doing something you actually like doing.

Android users, you only have to search for "Samsung Football" on Android Market to find the application!

So join me now! Especially you Gooners - let's give our Jamie some support - and by December, you might just be rewarded with some awesome Christmas presents from Samsung!

Click here to Samsung English Football Fanatics page.

A Perfect Song

2010-11-01T04:08:00.001+08:00

What a weekend.

The important stuff first...

Arsenal 1 - 0 West Ham.

I can hardly describe to you how frustrating this game was. Well, I tried to on Mio Stadium, so check that out if you want to. We had 23 to West Ham's five shots. That's right - 23 to five. And we only bagged one. Important as that lone goal is, I am a little sore we didn't get more. I really felt like those right bastards deserved a true bollocking.

The top three frustrating things:

1. Scott Parker

2. The referee.

3. We played beautifully and took our shots, but we just could NOT get the ball into the net. It was pure and utter annoyance.

That's probably why it was so much sweeter when Song's diving header delivered us the win in the 88th minute. I was so happy I wanted to throw myself at the telly and kiss Song's face. If ever there was a football superhero comic novel, the still shot of Song flying through the air for that nod home would be the cover.

The truth is, I thought the Arsenal lads played a fantastic game against the Hammers. We held our shape and were fiercely dominant. Credit to Robert Green - the number of saves he made saved West Ham from sure humiliation.

From the was a superb Arsenal lead up in the 24th minute from Song and then Sagna (got the ball to Cesc, but Green equaled my Baby's efforts), to Song's 88th minute goal, and every Cesc, Sebastien, Andriy, Samir and Theo attempts in the between, I was boiling like water in a whistling kettle. We had so many chances thwarted and the West Ham lads were downright going at our lads.

As the match wore on goal-lessly, I was getting both angry and frustrated. What does it take? It was truly down to bad luck and bad refereeing. There were the fouls by Parker, the wrestling of my lads to the deck, the obvious penalty that we should have won when Arshavin was brought down. The last straw came when substitute Theo Walcott, who was released brilliantly and clear on goal, struck the upright. That was, by the way, the second time we had been denied by the woodwork in that game.

Heroics surfaced in the 88th minute. Gael Clichy floated in a perfectly weighted ball that connected with a mop of platinum blonde hair to give us the victorious goal. Song's diving header was decisive, strong, and impossible to stop. I was so happy and proud. Alex Song! On a Saturday night filled with enough excitement to warrant me a pacemaker, the Cameroonian served up relief, joy and new waves of exhilaration. In that moment, my weekend was complete. It was simply... perfect.

Perhaps in the wake of all that crazed action, I should take time to point out that our defence actually looked decent. Koscielny and Squillaci seemed to be working well together, and Fabianski does strike a better note in the hearts of many Gooners after having several good games. I did make a comment about him not holding on/catching the ball more, but Pete pointed out that he was at least punching it farther out and not dropping it in the danger zone. Well said. So a gold star for the rearguard this week, even if it was only the Hammers they had to deal with.

I take great pleasure in knowing that we put Grant and his boys in their rightful place. The sheer lack of class blatantly presented on that field should be enough for some kind of disciplinary action. It just goes to show why West Ham are where they are on the League table. Brutes like that should not be allowed to play such a beautiful game.

My three highlights of the game:

1. The goal by Song, obviously. Smashing header, and a perfectly lofted assist from Clichy.

2. Chamakh getting rough. Taunt if you want, but I like a little fire in my players. That confrontation on the field earned him points in my book.

3. When Cesc's long-range attempt hit Scott Parker square in the face. That's lesson numero uno from a real captain. Learn.

Ten games down, 28 more to go!

The Arsenal!

-------------------------

The dreaded event ended on Friday night. The experience was made more than bearable thanks to a wonderful team. Specially thanks to Christian for being an absolute gem. He even took care of the clearing out Saturday morning so that I could stay in my room a little longer. What a star.

Pole class was equally awesome. We did the elbow stand this week, and even though I haven't mastered getting perfect lines yet, it was awesome fun!

I wish I could make it for all the pole practice sessions and pole classes of the week. I have so much fun during class that I wouldn't leave if not for my tired muscles.

Also caught The Social Network this weekend. Awesome show. Absolutely loved it. I got home and started Google-ing for more facts about the whole Facebook ownership saga. If you haven't caught it yet, go.

And Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield are so hot.

"Money or the ability to make it doesn't impress anybody around here."

- Mark Zuckerberg, The Social Network (2010)

And you know how sometimes you just spot the most hilarious messages in the most mundane things? Here's mine to end the weekend - DBS must be darn proud.

Class Over Cash

2010-10-25T02:55:00.002+08:00

In a mindblowing display of class over cash, Arsenal traveled up north to claim three points and three goals against Manchester City. You read that right - a win and a cleansheet. Chew on that, you cynical yakkers.

Sure, the home team had a man dismissed just five minutes into the game. Cesc had played through Chamakh before Boyata hauled down the Moroccan and was deservedly sent off by Mark Clattenburg. Tough for City, and to their credit, they never quite looked like they were a man down until much later in the game. While critics may want to put this superb victory down to numerical advantage, but we went, have always gone, and will always go, to win. The fact is, I can't believe City never went down to nine men. De Jong was an absolute brute.

The Arsenal lads on the other hand, played a mature and beautifully weaved game. Yes, there were times when I kept shouting "shoot", but which Gooner doesn't? Truth be told, had we taken more chances, it'd have been a more brutal scoreline. The goals we scored though, were enough, and came in blindingly sublime fashion.

In the 20th minute, there came some lovely to and fro between Arshavin and Nasri as they danced into the box. The Frenchman finally swept it home from the right tres clinically. It was so sweet that I screamed myself hoarse. Andriy might not be on the best of forms, but that was an assist worth lauding. The finish? Pure class. Samir has been consistent and reliable for so long, I can only hope he knows how much we all love him. And I can't believe he wasn't MOTM. He is in my heart though.

We should have gotten our second in the 39th minute after Kompany fell Fabregas just inside the 18-yard. Unfortunately, Cesc's penalty was saved by Hart. At halftime, we were a goal up, but I was honestly a little distraught. We cannot afford to miss opportunities like that, not against ANY team. Couple that with Clattenburg's harried booking of the Arsenal players, I was less than pleased after the first 45.

However, the lads proved to me that I had nothing to worry about. They came into the second half raring to go and began testing City's rearguard right off the blocks. Man City dug in as well, but our Pole was great in goal. I'm terribly proud of Fabianski.

Twenty minutes into the second half, the Gunners shot down City. Cesc put in a great pass to Chamakh, but the Moroccan couldn't really get there. The ball however, fell to Alex Song and he lobbed a beauty (you have to read that as bee-youuuuuu-tee) into goal for our second. Yes, I got hoarser at this point. It was a terrific finish. Hart had no chance. That's right. You can bring on the Adebayors, but this is the Arsenal and we're still gonna stuff a right one up your arse, you damn Mancs!!!

After the second, I thought our lads really took the game up another notch. Man City looked like they were just about starting to feel the lack of a man. When Bendtner and Walcott were introduced, there was a fresh burst of strength in our lads and it would prove to be crucial too.

Only two minutes of regular time remained when Nasri salvaged a ball that looked sure to go out. His perfect run was followed by a decisive pass forward to Nicklas. The big Dane then smashed a delightful third beyond Hart for a convincing Arsenal victory.

I cannot begin to describe the kind of happiness I am feeling right now. I feel so... full. Full of pride and joy and yes, even a little disbelief. A surreal tangibility grips me when I look at the final score again and again. Boasting rights, I tell ya. That's right. Money can't buy you success or class; mendacious words can only get you so far; and you can keep trying to halt our captain, but sooner or later you're gonna get arsed.

Man City 0 - 3 Arsenal. Read it and weep.

The Arsenal!

The 25.

2010-10-23T07:32:00.003+08:00

It's my little indulgence, filling up these mundane questionnaires and answering potentially embarrassing questions.

You know the drill. Copy the questions, fill in your own answers, blah blah blah. All I ask is that you email or leave me a comment so I can read up on your little secrets too.

------------------

1. How old are you?

This is a depressing first question. I have celebrated my 25th birthday a few times.

2. When was the last time you cried?

Wednesday. When I saw Eduardo hug the lads on the pitch after the Shakhtar game.

3. Describe your first kiss.

With whom? I'm too old to remember my first kiss, but I think it was a little messy and obviously unremarkable.

4. Describe your perfect kiss.

Simply put, our mouths fit.

5. Favourite colour?

The Red-and-White.

What? That counts!

6. Name one vice you have.

Smoking.

7. Pet peeve?

Dishonesty.

8. Use your favourite exclamation, your most frequently used swear phrase, and the funniest retort you've ever heard in one sentence.

Fuck me sideways, I don't give a flying fuck when she said, "Up my cheebye turn left."

That's the strangest sentence I have ever written. And just to clarify, it was my girl Liz Too who used that last phrase. Someone had just asked her for directions. Yeah.

9. Biggest fashion faux pas?

Bell-bottomed jeans. Judge away.

10. And your current fashion obsession?

The maxi dress.

11. What's the most absurd group/page you've joined on Facebook?

"If all men looked like Johnny Depp, I'd be such a whore."

And it's not absurd. It's true.

12. What's the worst thing you've said after sex?

Nothing. I don't say mean things in that situation. If it's that bad, I'm just silent.

13. The most appropriate thing to say the morning after?

Buhbye.

14. What's your best Halloween costume?

Sadly, I haven't had many Halloween parties. But I did go to one in London dressed as Lauren Cooper.

15. Your favourite holiday is...

Are we talking public holidays or vacations?

Used to be Christmas, now it's whenever I don't have to go into the office.

Vacations - London and Prague.

16. Your specialty dish?

I don't cook. I have a history of setting small fires in kitchens.

17. Name one song with food in it.

Lasagna whoaaaa... lasagna whoaaaaa...

18. Your favourite ice cream flavour is...

Pistachio.

19. And it's best eaten...

Off Cesc. Any part of him.

20. How many sexual partners have you had?

I'm not answering THAT.

21. Describe your lucky outfit.

Any dress, and killer lingerie. That's all the details you're getting outta me.

22. Your best asset?

I know others have their opinions, but I still like my freakishly long arms.

23. Body hangups?

Bad skin. And I could do with slimmer hips. Also, I hate my knees.

24. First three things you notice about the opposite sex?

Physique (especially shoulders). Face. The way they shake my hand. Command of the English language.

Yes, I stated four. So shoot me.

25. The deal-breaker?

I hate it when people lie, so that would have to be it. Honestly though, every relationship is different so it's a little hard to say.

------------------

The Rout of Shakhtar Donetsk

2010-10-20T06:19:00.002+08:00

It was pure demolition. Arsenal 5-1 Shakhtar Donetsk.

The visitors could be described as flat at best - yes, exactly like Coke without the fizz. Surprisingly, they weren't lacking behind that much in ball possession. But surely anyone watching the match in the wee hours of the morning here in Singapore had no doubt that Arsenal was not only in control, we were dominating - the iron fist sort.

Captain Cesc joined us for this game after a five-game absence due to his hamstring injury. Unfortunately, my Fabregas was less than 100%. His perfect lobs and deep passes still made their showing of course, but the usual fine finesse was a little lacking. Wilshere, on the other hand, gave us a little hope and awe. The youngster was tremendously composed on the big stage. Now I know some people are still talking about his recklessness, but in all honesty, I love it. I love that Jack has the drive and the capabilities. I love that he can take on the big boys without standing off. I have very high hopes for that boy.

Our first goal came quite early from a 19th minute scrambling in the Shakhtar box. The keeper spilled a cross, and Djourou had arrived to pressure him. The ball somehow fell to the feet of Alex Song who managed to roll it over the line from about a yard and a half out. I don't care how it was scored. We were a goal in front and I was busy yabbering on Twiter. Song presents the most likely candidate to hold midfield in our young squad. I adore his strength and resolution, and he brings his best to every game. This one, he definitely deserved to score in.

Just before halftime, Song took on the assisting role as he strutted down the right in support of Eboue. His cross in was deflected, but it landed perfectly for Samir Nasri to strike home our second. Frenchie had been steadfastly consistent in the recent games. I have actually come to look out for him during every attack. He weaves a beautiful kind of magic that only an Arsenal man can and Shakhtar witnessed that delight firsthand.

Just as I thought we were sitting rather comfortably with a two-goal lead, Djourou was fell in the box after the restart. It was an obvious penalty and the referee didn't hesitate to point to the spot. My Fabregas converted the spotkick with much confidence and ease. I didn't think he was going to score so that penalty was a super huge cherry on top of the sundae for me.

Then Shakhtar unleashed Eduardo.

The emotions I felt when I saw Eduardo's face, indescribable. And from the expression of our Crozilian, I am guessing he was basking in nostalgia too. I really do love him. I remember sending him cards after that terrible injury, and being so excited when I got a note back - even though I knew it was probably the publicist's work. Dudu will always be an Arsenal man. That kind of class he exudes... If only there were more players with his kind of honour and integrity nowadays.

Minutes later though, it was again the Gunners who lashed out. This time, it was an orgasmic display of classic Arsenal that seized me and had me gasping for breath. Rosicky, who had taken over the armband from Cesc, tapped a one-two with Jack Wilshere, and the youngster went on to finish with brilliance and utmost composure. The proximity of Pires must be getting to the lads. It was football beautiful enough to bring tears to your eyes. And Rosicky, unselfish and unerring, was pivotal. It is so good to see our Little Mozart back in action. Not just for a few minutes, mind you. This game, he played like the man who earned that title. And if you've lost count, this was the fourth goal.

The fifth came only three minutes later when a defeated Shakhtar Donetsk failed to tighten their offside trap. Chamakh was the player released and he was gifted a superb lob from Nasri that he finished off with ease. All the white shirts just stood still.

Shakhtar's consolation came in the form of the ex-Gunner. Dudu's instinct had him in the right place when Jadson's cross drifted into the box. Amidst some scrambling, he powered the ball through for the visitors. True to his words before the game, he did not celebrate. Not that they had much to cheer about. But Arsenal home fans went wild for Eduardo. Sure, it might have been different if that had been an equaliser or a match-winner, but the fact that Dudu was back and back on the scoreboard was something worth cheering about.

My emotions are madly twisted in a array of Red-and-White now. I am so happy at the way we triumphed, but truthfully, I am more in awe of Eduardo. I miss him so much. A player of his calibre, class and skill. Just simply, him. I do wish he were back at the Grove, but even if that never happens, I am proud to say that he once donned our colours.

Eduardo, our Crozilian we endearingly call Dudu, I salute you.

Arsenal 2-1 Birmingham

2010-10-18T03:10:00.003+08:00

We got the win we so needed on Saturday.

Yes, I am super thrilled. It IS about damn time. Thing is, I really don't think we played well enough to be boasting. It's true that Jack played superbly, as did Nasri. And despite the lack of centrebacks, we held up. Just bear in mind though, it was just Birmingham after all - no disrespect intended.

I am not pointing fingers at anyone and I am cutting Djourou some slack because it has been a while since he's played. Squillaci was a great skipper and I loved how quickly he approached the referee whenever we suffered mishaps. Midfield was doing a little better than the previous game. However, the stark truth of our lack of clinical ability in the last third was, as usual, painfully obvious. It's frustrating. I appreciate that we are not of the Frank Lampard School of Hammering-A-Shot-That-May-Just-Be-Deflected-In mindset, but we have got to take our chances when we can.

And Jack's dismissal? I thought that challenge was unnecessary and rash, but I can't help feeling it was a little unjust cos Atkinson's inconsistency is just bloody annoying. I am however, grateful that Samir stayed on after his little stunt earlier in the game.

It just doesn't look like we will regain the Arsenal magic anytime soon and it bugs me like crazy. Again I say, there is too much quality in this squad to be mediocre. But also, I'm glad I'm not in Liverpool's shoes. There is always someone with more misfortunes, but we should be measuring ourselves against the great, not the flailing.

I am thankful though, for the three points. It's been too long and I've had too much shit to deal with. So I guess for now, I'll just take it 90 minutes at a time. May the next 30 sequels bring more joy.

Shakespeare's CXXVI

2010-10-16T01:19:00.002+08:00

O thou, my lovely boy, who in thy power
Dost hold Time's fickle glass, his sickle hour,
Who hast by waning grown, and therein show'st
Thy lovers withering, as thy sweet self grow'st;
If Nature, sovereign mistress over wrack,
As thou goest onwards, still will pluck thee back,
She keeps thee to this purpose, that her skill
May Time disgrace, and wretched minutes kill.
Yet fear her, o thou minion of her pleasure;
She may detain, but still not keep her treasure.
Her audit, though delay'd, answer'd must be,
And her quietus is to render thee.

My Friends Are Awesome

2010-10-12T17:32:00.005+08:00

I haven't felt this low in perhaps a year. The emotional turmoil, the work, the everything else.

And during this state of emotional upheaval, I have friends who are so willing show me that they care about and love me. I don't know what I've done to deserve this, but I am so very grateful.

Thank you for the flowers (Nadnut and Lee).

Thank you for all the tweets, texts, MSN messages and phone calls (too many to name and I don't want to miss anyone).

And Vandalin has just told me that he bought me my own domain name - yourroyalsiren.net/com/org (yes, .org cos I'm not-for-profit. Yet). I am completely blown away.

I fucking love you all can. If not for the fact that I don't sleep with friends, I'd be humping you all right now. Hard. And I bat for both teams, so the girls can't escape me.

Okay, I'd better stop before I freak everyone out.

Seriously, it's been a while since I have been this depressed. But it's also been forever since I felt so loved.

I hope that I will get to share in all your laughter and joy, and be there to hold and love you if ever Life deals you a curve ball.

For the first time in my life, words fail to convey the heartfelt warmth and gladness I feel.

I love you all with all my heart.
xoxxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Bare

2010-10-12T00:53:00.002+08:00

This manic-depressive cycle is a bitch.

One moment I'm gay as can be (go on, bring on the jokes), and the next I'm so weighted with emo thoughts I can hardly get myself out of bed.

I want to be there to help everybody - colleagues, friends, even mere acquaintances - when they hit a rough patch. Even when I am slowly burning out, it hurts to know that I can't do more to help, to lend a listening ear, to be there. Ironically, it is during this period that my closest friends and loved ones reach out to me and I push them away. Then I feel like a complete idiot for hurting them. It's all a nice cycle if you can picture it now. I'm a co-dependent model/diagram all by myself.

It doesn't help that I make really big decisions when I am this reclusive, beat-up self. I don't regret them all, but I'm getting too wise (read: old) to be rash. Soon, I won't be able to get away with it anymore. Then what excuses do I have?

A very level-headed me reckons the reason I need to bury myself in other people's problems is because I don't want to face my own. All that bubbling vile secrets that surface every once in a while to haunt me.

Sigh.

See what one weekend without football does to a person?

Addictions

2010-10-08T01:54:00.003+08:00

"Who needs reasons when you've got heroin?"
- Rent-Boy, Trainspotting (1996).

Life and addiction never looked better on the silver screen.

Of life.
Of desires.
Of lust.

Perhaps the sweetness is always in the somewhat forbidden realm. That which entices and grates on your rationality at the same time. How often are we overwhelmed by id? Claimed by a vulpine temptation and crazed urge that can only be soothed by the next fix. And when it does come, it consumes you completely. Only to suck you in cruelly once more when you are done surrendering to it.

No respite.

The only real element that has the power to yank you out of it, is perhaps time. Or a friend willing to swing a bat to the back of your head.

How do you fight the monster that brings out the best and worst in you? I say take his hands and dance. Sometimes control can only be regained after you've conceded.

Sometimes.

O My Pole

2010-10-04T04:45:00.002+08:00

Just finished my piece for Mio Stadium. It truly sucks to be writing about football when the Arsenal isn't on best form. No disgrace at dropping points at Stamford Bridge though - the lads did put forth a decent effort and our Polish keeper Fabianski was adequate in goal. Till the next match then.

This past week has been a bit of a whirlwind. I have been out of the office a lot for meetings and errands. Others are even busier, but I really feel I have no energy for this. I will try harder.

Missed Salsa and Rueda last Wednesday due to work commitments. It was worth it though cos I was there to help Char pull through a good show. This is what keeps me going I think. I like being able to help out when people need me. But I probably didn't mind it only because I didn't have to deal with clients as much cos I wasn't the project manager. Made up for Salsa on Saturday though - danced till my new dress was soaked. Gross and totally unglam, I know.

Before Salsa, I had my first Pole 4 class and also, I attended the Klub Party at Zouk.

I hadn't been on the pole for two weeks and after that kind of time away, the thought of pole was a little daunting (but still, pole lust won over). It's amazing how easy it is to fall in love with pole dancing. The overwhelming feeling of empowerment and joy that takes over is just incredible. We revised the Butterfly, which was the last move taught at the previous level.

Eunice went on to teach us the Tess Spin - not hard but I need a little more work to make it look graceful - the mid-pole invert and the Chopper. I'm really proud of myself for succeeding in the mid-pole invert at first go. I was very apprehensive because I had a lot of trouble mounting into the Serpent in the past and the thought of having to do it while already on the pole seemed implausible.

Then it was the Chopper. Eunice wanted us to do it the easier way first - getting into a hip hold then transitioning - but gave in to our anxious requests to learn it the right way. And I did it on the first try too! I really don't know where I found the reserved strength to pull this off. I am inclined to believe that it was the adrenalin from my excitement of getting back to pole again.

Vandalin and I went down to Klub Party at Zouk later than evening. You read, that right - evening. We were there at 7.30pm.

I wasn't too excited about going to a K-Pop teenagers' party, but hey, DJ Funky T was spinning and I was quite happy to be there to support.

The party was much better than I expected! Amidst the sea of grooving teens I took photos and videos for the DJ and had an awesome time. These K-Pop loving kids can dance!!! You really have to be there to believe it. As usual, DJ Funky T pull out a great performance.

As was expected of a teen party, it ended at 10.30pm and Vandalin and I headed onwards to Salsa the night away. The problem with having such a full day? The midnight food cravings. We were hungry at the end of the night and my darling whipped up a quick hot stew of beef with carrots. It was bloody awesome and very satisfying. Thank you!!!

Oh and we also caught Get Smart this weekend on DVD. DVD nights are blissful and Get Smart was perfect after a mind-numbing long week and extra-long Friday. Rounded up the weekend by spending most of the day with my folks and then dinner with Vandalin's. All in all, a pretty decent weekend if you minus the damn football results.

Sigh.

And now, it's Monday again. I'm already counting down to the weekend.

My F1 Weekend

2010-09-27T03:01:00.001+08:00

It seriously and truly pisses me off that the only two matches I've missed this season thus far saw us drawing and then losing. Fucking heartbreaking. I could go on and on about this but I think I'll reserve a little something for Mio Stadium.

The past few weeks have been beyond crazy. Simple reminders of why it may be a good idea to look elsewhere. After all, I look at Lizzie and she seems pretty awesomely happy. Of course, a big part of that is Gav. So happy for you babe!

So it's been a few weeks of madness. I don't expect it to ease up though cos I have another event coming up soon enough. That said, I've continued making full use of my weekends. Weekends are a godsend, I tell ya. No, I didn't spend my time on the tracks (thank goodness), but I have my version of an event-filled three days.

This weekend I slept in A LOT. In fact, I spent most of Sunday horizontal. Ask Vandalin if you don't believe me. But still, I wouldn't have it any other way. Before Snoozefest Sunday though, I had a brilliant time out with my friends.

Friday, was Cakie's going-away party. Her summer is over and our darling is now back in Hogwarts. I miss you already babe. Lame jokes are always missed, but it's your incredible sweetness that I will hold dear. Thank you for being real and being a friend. I hope you know that I will be there whenever you need a shoulder or just a ear. May you find your happiness everyday in the simplest things. Muack!

We headed out Saturday to the Johnnie Walker Jet Black Party at One on the Bund. I found myself picking on the setup and all even before we got into the party area. Note to organiser: Carpets HAVE to be taped down. Drunk people tripping on loose carpet is not funny.

Anyway, I bumped into so many old friends and acquaintances. Had awesome fun despite the questionable music, and I have Nadia to thank! Yes, she's that petite, hot blogger and she's a bundle of joy drunk! Heh. Another note to the organisers: You should always have enough glasses and mixers at a party. 'Nuff said.

Another work week looms. I am looking forward to the weekend already. I at least know that I have Zouk to look forward to. We're gonna see our friend DJ Funky T! Woots!

Guile, Or Something Like it.

2010-09-20T18:20:00.001+08:00

Men prey on women.
Women manipulate men.

Facts no one can really deny.

I'm definitely biased because I stand on this side of the fence. And I'm appalled by the way men congregate and sniff out vulnerable girls. I'm not just saying - I have actually seen it happen. It's not always apparent, but it's true.

I reckon over the years (no thanks to the might of evolution perhaps) men have developed supernatural sensory devices that seek out vulnerable partners for sex. It starts out on the platonic pane of course, but very quickly the vile stench of predatory instinct takes over. These moves are so hidden sometimes even third parties can't spot them. While I agree that it takes two to clap and these encounters are almost always consensual, I can't deny the obvious patterns of deception and eventual hurt.

In no way do I mean that women are weak and can't see through the farce. But really, we all need a little something ourselves too, don't we? And sometimes circumstances blind everyone, even the guys. What I have a problem with, are lads who only go after women who are going through hard times. Step out from behind that pseudo-hero mask and man up.

Cynicism grows just from knowing there are types like these out there. Too many.

There is nothing wrong with consensual sex. There is nothing wrong with being discreet. I guess there is a thin line that the immoral naturally trips over.

Pent Up

2010-09-16T01:27:00.006+08:00

I think it's a common phenomenon - we always think we are busier, have more responsibilities, and more things to do than our colleagues and/or friends. It probably is just proof that we are all a little self-obsessed.

What I really don't like though, is people brushing me off when I say I am working. They tell me to "take a break lah", or "just meet for a while lah", or "aiyo, work so hard for what?" and it annoys me. Why? because I feel like you are trivialising my situation and that makes a sleep-deprived, work-ladened me really frustrated.

Don't get me wrong now. I appreciate the common, "take care of yourself ah. You're working too hard" comments from friends. I just feel that some people don't understand the kind of work I have to do and the amount of things that weigh down on my thoughts and shoulders. Surely I wouldn't be so masochistic as to put myself in situation where overwhelming amounts of work is dumped on me. That just happens to be how my work is sometimes. As if it's not unbearable enough to bear the words and attitudes of some of my clients who seem to have a library of disparaging remarks, acquaintances whom I meet occasionally to take my mind off work disregard the nature of my job with callous words.

I am sorry that I have missed birthday parties, weddings, and gatherings. Believe me, more often than not, it was not my choice to.

I used to think that at least people at work knew what kind of effort I was putting in. I think they did. But no one cares that you're burnt-out and need a break and can no longer find the motivation to do your best. All they want is simply your unquestioned productive hours. Even when I try to help (because the client and vendor came to me with questions), I am brushed off brusquely (at least I felt that way). I know that two weeks of leave was a break from the office, but I was working too. I know it shouldn't matter because I wasn't working for the company. I'm just saying - I don't have much left to give.

Do you know what it feels like to rush out an urgent piece of document and then have it ignored? If you asked for it, then at least have the courtesy to read it. Do you know how frustrating it is to have to tell someone the same thing over and over again? I know you are busy, but hey, guess what? I am too. After I have sent and reminded you about a document four times, I think I've done my part. And when I have done something and told you about it, how do you think I feel when you forget, suggest something else to the client, and I have to start from square one all over again? And do you know that when I ask you for things and you asks someone else to do it for you, that someone else feels as if I am not doing my job? I know because I have heard them complain about others before. Also, when I report something to you and you don't remember, and end up asking like three other people to ask me the same thing, I feel like I have to report and answer to the whole world. Doesn't help also that you are so adamant about things in front of me, but give in to the clients in the end. You have every right to of course. I'm just saying that it makes me feel shitty cos I don't see why I should be fighting to maintain a respectable profit then. And in case you didn't realise, you are putting me down in these cases also because you are not letting me make the calls on my own projects.

Whatever lah.

I know I have my cranky moods. I know there are others who work harder and don't complain. But really, after today's mad client outburst, I think I've had enough. You don't even know how fucking frustrating it is. You don't even hear my tears as I talk to you. And it's simply because I don't matter.

When work and some parts of my social life are less than fulfilling, is it a wonder why I enjoy spending ME time at home?

Regurgitation

2010-09-15T13:10:00.002+08:00

Long weekend. Vlee. The Arsenal. Awesome rest. Sex. Pole. Upcoming pole showcase (stress!). Annoying clients. Uninspired. Losing my motivation at work. Outsider. Unappreciated. Mustafa. Conversations till 3am on a weeknight. Cheesecake. Eva's unbelievably even tan. Eva's sickeningly perfect body. No sleep. Curbing need to shop. Eat. Fat. Scale is still friendly but I shouldn't push my luck. Getting soft in the midsection. Weights. Exercise. Body obsession. Lethargy. BBQ. More food. Salsa. Rueda. Yoga DVD. Resident Evil. Milla is so hot. Champions League. Need to de-clutter.

Looking forward to Friday night on a Monday morning. Tsk. My life has to change somehow.

Can't blog or write properly cos I'm just too tired and can't think in proper sentences. I'm not even remarking on thoughts and/or events in chronological order.

Again, I wish I could be irresponsible and just walk away.

Happy Lucky Ducky!

2010-09-09T17:52:00.001+08:00

The anticipation and wait almost killed me. The looming long weekend is literally a few hours away. Work still has its way to get to me as I have to brief a designer after work-hours, but it's all good! THREE DAYS. THREEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

Oh I can't wait!

I'm catching Vlee this Saturday. Not to mention the usual pole and prac earlier that day. Then I have football! Well, football and/or salsa. We'll see. I expect I will have to keep an eye on the visual works in the brewing over the weekend but it's okay cos I have THREE days of leisure! When was the last time I had three days of my own time, I don't even remember.

*dances around with pompoms*

I'm about to head off to meet a friend for a quick errand and then to pick up mooncakes for my mum and Ed's. AND I just received my ASOS loot. It's like the big guy up there wants me to be happy.

I haven't been this happy for a while. Damn, my life is like, damn sad. Hahahaha.

Pictorial Weekend II

2010-09-06T04:23:00.002+08:00

The good parts of my weekend.

If only I never ever ever have to make a living.

Fuckity fuck.

I consider myself extremely lucky. My friends are so amazing. Despite not seeing each other in ages, we still talk and hug and manja each other like always. I love my friends so much I want to zip them up and keep them in the little thumbdrive we got at MCM21, so I can carry them around with me everywhere.

Okay, enough of my weirdness.

Pictorial Weekend I

2010-08-30T04:12:00.002+08:00

Theo Strikes First. Andriy Finishes The Business.

2010-08-29T02:39:00.000+08:00

Today's 2-1 win at Ewood Park was not an easy one. Theo Walcott's early goal was quickly cancelled out by Diouff (urgh, I really dislike that guy. And now there are two of them!!!). Blackburn really stood their ground in the first half, but I thought we did extremely well to keep possession and deprived the home team of goal attempts in the second half. You have to give it to the lads - despite letting one through so early, they didn't crumble and in fact, served up a right riposte in the form of Andriy Arshavin.

I could go on to talk about the match, and highlights, and perhaps even how Pedersen managed to annoy us all with his perpetual towel by the sidelines, but I reckon there are many more sports journalists out there beating me to that. Besides, the only thing I am thinking of post-game is the severity of Robin van Persie's injury. So, a little something different this time.

First up, Cesc Fabregas. No, I will not defend my man's poor performance. I will however, say that the accusations of him having lost his faith and dedication to the team, is a tad unfair. It's true that I can't deny the summer fiasco. However, I think the man who has done so much for the club has a little more pride and honour. Playing without heart really isn't Cesc's style. I say cut Captain Fab some slack because really, he has come back from the World Cup and he hasn't been involved in the last couple of games. Let's not forget that he did thread a few brilliant balls through in the first half. As usual though, those are easy to miss once you focus on the negative.

Yes, I love the man. But I don't think I am being unduly biased here.

Next up, Theo "Wonderboy" Walcott. He's really out to make an impression, isn't he? Four goals in two games. I hope the scoring streak keeps up.

Aside from putting them into the net, Theo's passing and crosses has improved as well. I remember a time when his crosses floated over everything and everyone. Nowadays, young Theo has developed technique that matches his vision. I am so proud of him really and how much he has grown - physically, mentally, and technically as a player. I hope he continues playing like the world class star that he is.

Now back to the topic of skipper-ship. When Cesc gets substituted, the armband goes to Almunia. You all know I love Manny and have spoken up for him on many occasions (and I may of course be very wrong when I say this), but he really doesn't seem like the most influential player out there. If based on the mere merit of possessing unfaltering team spirit, Almunia deserves it. Otherwise, I reckon it should go to someone like Vermaelen or Song. Thomas may not have been the Arsenal that long, but that lad is seriously stalwart. And Alex? I have come to see him as the new "Invisible Wall". Not crazy about the new hair though.

My point is, we need someone who can command and communicate, as well as be an excellent reader of the game. I don't mean that Almunia doesn't fit the part, I am just suggesting that we may well have better options.

We'll dissect the other players another time eh? Till, then - 3 down, 35 more games to go.

The Arsenal!

Food Tasting @ Tiffin Club

2010-08-26T17:07:00.005+08:00

It feels almost wrong to be writing a food tasting post in the wake of the whole Lady Iron Chef fiasco, but really, this is too good not to rave about (see? There are positive vibes around still).

I was invited by TK to a food tasting session at this little getup near my office - Tiffin Club. Tucked in a little corner, this quaint gem (haha) exudes a little old school charm with much modern fittings. We were welcomed into the upstairs dining room which is a cosy hall that holds about 50.

The wait staff was very attentive and polite as we were led to our seats with minimal fuss and our ordered drinks served up promptly. The chef Iskander Latiff then came to our table and explained that he had prepared a few (such an understatement) dishes from the menu for us. Then he left us to work his magic as eager chatter ensued at the table.

The first two dishes served were the Tiffin Satay and Otah.

I regret that I don't have a better picture of the Otah. It was so smooth and flavourful. A delicately thin slice of tradition served up with a modern touch of cheese cracker and salad. I loved how this Otah does not overwhelm the palate and I adored the cheese cracker accompaniment that gave the dish a crunch.

The Satay was spectacular! Not only was the meat on the skewers soft and juicy (thigh, not breasts!), they were much chunkier than the traditional satay we know. The rice on the side was less sticky than ketuput, but I liked it because it wasn't too heavy. The peanut sauce served up in the middle of this platter of savoury delights? Uber chunky and absolutely delicious. Definitely a treat I'd go back for.

Next, Tiffin Club sent us their Beef Ribs - a boneless and braised version. The Beef Ribs has got to be the most tender and succulent ribs I have ever had. Seriously. They have this mash potato-like thing on the side which they call their "potato puree". It is extremely light and fluffy, not too rich at all. A real delight!

The Pork Two-Way followed before we had time to finish raving about the Beef Ribs. Pork Two-Way consisted of barbequed pork belly on one side and a roulade of pork loin with Chinese scallop sauce on the other. I liked that the pork belly wasn't too fatty at all, but what I really took to, was the pork loin. The fragrant sauce used and the tenderness of the meat were elements reminiscent of a home-cooked meal. I felt incredibly good after devouring it.

And no, that was not the last of it.

When the Grilled Graffeo Tenderloin arrived, we thought we couldn't eat anymore. We were wrong.

The tenderloin was so beautifully platted. This aged tenderloin has a crust of Graffeo dark coffee beans and the aroma was so uplifting. Cutting into the tenderloin revealed its perfect done-ness and the one bite of it sent us all to heaven. This tenderloin is so good I have no words. The coffee lend the meat a distinct chocolatey smell and taste. This was a masterpiece. The sides were so well thought out as well - from lightly seasoned potatoes, to the slightly spicy greens. We ate EVERYTHING on the plate.

TK left before the desserts arrived. His BIG loss!!! The chef brought us their chocolate tart and lemongrass panna cotta. I'm a fan of panna cottas and this just drove me over the edge. The lemongrass flavour was so delicate and elegant, I finished it even though I was stuffed. Not crazy about the berry compote - perhaps this will be better served on the side of the panna cotta. I'm salivating now just thinking about it.

The chocolate tart was delicious and had liquer-poached pears in it. The vanilla ice cream on the side is also made by Tiffin Club's kitchen - it was very smooth and velvety.

The entire experience was superb and uber intoxicating. I'm well impressed by the chef and his crew's attentiveness. Chef Iskander was also very patient in attending to our questions about the food, and I really appreciated his hospitality. I would definitely recommend this place to any diner with a discerning palate who is looking for a fresh take on fusion food and loves a cozy dining environment.

Visit Tiffin Club at:
16 Jiak Chuan Road
6323 3189
Open Mon-Sat 9am-6pm

Quote Sinning at Tiffin to get 15% off the ala carte menu!!!

A big thank you to TK for inviting us to this tasting. Sorry you couldn't stay for the whole meal big guy. It was so good!!!!

This is us with Chef Iskander after the feast!

Back On The Pole

2010-08-23T05:08:00.002+08:00

Happy birthday KingMeng!!!

Although our little surprise party wasn't the most surprising, we all had so much fun =) And look at the incredible cupcakes!!!

See the birthday banner behind KingMeng? From today onwards, everyone turns 30 at every birthday - just so we can reuse the banner. Hahaha.

That Friday night was spent with some amazing friends. I was in the smoking room for most of the night, but managed to catch up with my ladies. AND I saw more of DuaPaiLang than I expected *ahem* For the sake of his modesty, the pictures shall not be posted.

------------------

On Saturday morning, Nadnut, Joelle and I headed to Karri Family Clinic for our second cervical cancer vaccine jab. This one must be more potent than the first because my arm hurt almost immediately after!

Aching arm and all, I headed to pole class. This time I was more confident going up the pole just because my sports doctor assured me that my rib injury wasn't dangerous. It still hurt like a biatch, but before, I was worried about aggravating the rib and causing permanent damage so I held back a lot. Doc says though that my condition, costochondritis, is troublesome and may take a while to heal. However, if I could take the pain, I could carry on with pole. He even sent me for a X-ray just to be sure that I didn't have a fracture - apparently my swelling was more pronounced than normal.

So I managed the Gemini and Scorpio on Saturday, just not the Hip Sit (it requires me to crunch up with my ribs on the pole which causes too much pain). I guess that will have to wait for one more week then.

------------------

Sunday was supposed to be lunch out with TK, but there was a little mix-up. So Vandalin and I met up with Nadnut and Ah Tiong for lunch and some shopping at Ikea and Giant. All the while Nadnut and I were moaning about our achy left arm. Hahaha.

I think it was a Sunday thing or something, but we were all a little lethargic. Great to have met up still. Nadnut and I now have the same mirror! And Vandy found us the perfect hooks to hang it up with!

And to Vandy - Sorry I was such a bitch this weekend, baby. Can I blame it on PMS? And I really was tired after watching How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days. Sorry I'm not more caring while you were coughing your lungs out and I hope you feel better soon.

Oh! And the Sup Buntut? Blardy delicious! Yummy!

Think of Popeye's and Arnold's and all the other fried chicken waiting for you. Drink more water! And seriously, you don't need that many doses of vitamin C.

Okay! Siren, out.

Theo Hits Three

2010-08-22T01:47:00.002+08:00

Arsenal's first home game of the season proved to be an auspicious one. Six goals and a cleansheet (plus, I am quite sure I peeked Almunia sipping tea and biting on a biscotti on the other end of the field) - that's better than anyone of us could have hoped for. And in this rout of Blackpool, Theo got his first hat trick for the club, Chamakh got his first goal, and Cesc made his first season's appearance. Blardy brilliant, I tell ya.

Blackpool and their horde of fans (impressive turnout really. I feel bad they have to bear the long trip back up north in bad spirits) had a great start at the Emirates Stadium. In fact, I believe they forced the first save. But it was the Gunners who drew first blood. Theo's first goal of the game came in the 12 minute - a smarting shot that easily beat the keeper after a very useful assist by Arshavin.

As the game wore on, it looked like Walcott was in this for some real hunting. He was up front and going at the defence like a menace. Chamakh did well to draw defence away and our lads were at Blackpool like plague after Theo's first goal. There were too many squandered attempts from Chamakh, Rosicky, Arshavin and the likes.

Just after the half-hour mark, Chamakh's great run forward was halted by Evatt, who happened to be the last defender. Referee Mike Jones whipped out his red card immediately. I wonder if teams are going to worry about playing the Arsenal now. Two games and we have successfully dismissed two players. While the foul on Chamakh was absolute, the dismissal was a little controversial. Replays showed that Evatt went in for the tackle outside the box - or so I objectively observed. Anyhow, Andriy Arshavin coolly converted the spot kick for our second.

A mere seven minutes later, a nimble Jack Wilshere sliced open defence with an awesome pass and Theo Walcott did good by putting that into the back of Blackpool's net for his second and Arsenal's third.

The first half ended Arsenal 3-0 Blackpool, but from the look of things, there were more goals to come. Most of the goal attempts came from Theo and Chamakh, with the former making the better use of his chances. To be honest, the game was looking one-sided and the lack of a man on the visitors' side hardly helped their cause.

Diaby killed any hopes of a comeback from Blackpool just minutes into the second half when he sent home a well-finished effort after a great run and assist from Bacary Sagna. Then only nine minutes later, Diaby was on the helping end as he gifted Theo with the pass that completed his hat trick. By now, Blackpool looked like they were praying for the final whistle. And mind you, we were still shy of the hour mark.

For the next 25 minutes, the highlight of the match (aside from way too many wasted chances) was the introduction of Cesc Fabregas into the game. Captain Fab is back! Oh, and there was that fantastic feat of control by Vela as well. He danced around three defenders who looked like lost children, but failed to place the final touch passed the keeper. Vela is a very strong player and I so look forward to his blossoming at the club.

Chamakh finally hammered the nail into the coffin in the 83rd minute when he rose the highest to nod home a Van Persie corner. The Moroccan certainly deserved one, after about a 150 tries.

At the referee's whistle, we had six more goals than Blackpool and six times more goal attempts. If that's not a one-sided game, I don't know what is.

Hopefully, Chamakh's nerves have been settled now that he has his debut goal (I'm so happy for him!!!). While his finishes were far from clinical in this game, he played a huge role in pressuring and stretching Blackpool's defence. Theo, on the other hand, looked set to kill and I hope the game ball will remind him of greatness he has within him. I look forward to a season of consistently superb performances from Theo Walcott. Perhaps his time has indeed come.

I also want to point out that Sagna and Clichy were extremely diligent and important in this game. Their work rate improved tremendously and Clichy seems to have found his crazy legs again. It's a strange comfort also, seeing Song on the field. Our entire defensive line from midfield onwards seemed more confident to move forward. Well, either that, or it was because we were playing Blackpool.

Surely the critics and some fans will argue that we should have gotten more. It's true that Chamakh should have gotten a few more, and probably Vela too. But when it's all said and done, we have maximum points in the first game at home and a huge boost to our goal difference.

Now 36 more games to go.

The Arsenal!

Awesome Threesome

2010-08-20T03:44:00.001+08:00

Hanging out with good friends is one of the most rewarding things to do.

Eun is visiting from Germany and we have been meeting. It is so fulfilling and lifting to be able to talk to people who understand you. It helps that these people are smart, interesting, love the hell outta ya. Eun, Irene and date, Edmund and I, were at J Pot at VivoCity for dinner.

I know I look a little nonchalant in this photo, but I was really really really happy!!! Look at how incredibly beautiful my friends are!!! *Beams proudly*

I wish Eun were living in Singapore. I can see us staying together in a simple apartment and having the time of our lives. The year 2008 was made amazing precisely because of these two ladies. And although Eun only comes into Singapore for a couple of weeks a year, we have always managed to pick things up like she's never left. I need to make more of an effort to see Irene (I do love you!) on a regular basis.

I so needed this. Real people. Real friends. No matter the circumstances. How lucky am I?

Life Teaches You

2010-08-18T03:40:00.004+08:00

They say you become the company you choose. Groupthink much?

In the past year, I've met some people and learned from the things they've said and done. I've discovered more about myself and what I want and do not want in life.

I have met new friends whose conversations always lead to sex. While it is mostly in light, jovial ticks (which I do enjoy!), some don't know the line. Perhaps I'm simply much too old to be enchanted. In any case, it has come to the point where I frequently get annoyed and just tune out of conversations. One's sexual interests and escapades do not have to be publicly announced to make them interesting individuals. Don't get me wrong. I love sex, but I don't have enough adolescent guile to convince me that it's the only topic that piques interests and/or curiosity, or draws attention. This sounds really condescending, but I know better.

I have also encountered many - as this is common - who deem that the ability to drown oneself in as much alcohol as possible is a laudable attribute. I have nothing against celebratory drunkedness, or the occasional guzzle that eventually results in someone puking their guts out in public. It's the boasting and incessant blabber that irk me, as well as the grand admiration of other's drinking ability to the extent that it seems like it adds points to their personality. These feelings may well be because I don't drink. However, there was a time I did - working in a wine company, having wine tasting every week, and having to entertain partners meant that I was tipsy almost everyday. I was young then and I don't remember acting like that. Then again, I'm so ancient now. Perhaps I have forgotten how terrifying I was. In which case, I'm perfectly glad that that part of my life is over. I still enjoy the occasional drink and love the smell of whisky though.

While I am not the most confident person out there, I am relatively comfortable in my own skin. I do whine about being fat, but that's kind of like a girl's right. It isn't just the physical, it's behavioural as well. So many I've seen are so uncomfortable in their skin that they feel the need to play up their 'personalities', inadequacies, arrogance, or troll-like manners, etc., just to get attention. Then there are those who project their insecurities on others - okay you are better than I am, whatever. Can we move on now? Some of them graduate to become the Delusional. I've seen examples of alpha-figures whom others adopt their behaviours from (sometimes outside of a conscious decision) because they strive to be better people. "Better" here is used loosely of course - if one's values have hardly changed, these contrived efforts always come off short.

It would be untrue to say that I have never been guilty of the abovementioned doings. Measured on a pane of severity, we have all been there somewhere, sometime. All I am saying is that I've learned enough in my time to know what irritates me. And all these give me a better understanding of where I want to go/want to be in my life.

That, or I have become incredibly intolerant. Someone please shoot me.

What a Debut!

2010-08-16T03:31:00.006+08:00

As far as I'm concerned, the 2010/11 season started tonight, and may I just say, what a way to kick off the season. The Liz was packed shoulder-to-shoulder even though it was a late Sunday game. In fact, the main restaurant and the poolside were opened to accommodate a good 500 odd fans who had gathered for our first game of the season.

We finished 1-1 at Anfield (Ngog 46, Reina 90 og) so it really wasn't a breakthrough performance from the lads. It was one Laurent Koscielny though, who made such an impression that I'm pretty damn sure every one knows (and can pronounce) his name now. He got Joe Cole sent off right before the end of the first half, nicked Kuyt in the nuts in the second, and got sent off himself in the closing seconds. If that's not the making of a cult hero, you tell me what is.

Arsenal took the game to roaring Anfield and our first strike was a stinging swig by Thomas Vermaelen. Samir Nasri laid off the short freekick for the assist, and if not for Reina's fully stretched form, Arsenal would have had the early lead. There were a few floundering moments in our own box though, as the new defensive line looked apprehensive and Almunia was extremely flustered from simple setpieces.

I reckon it really isn't the fact that we don't have a good keeper. It's that we need to pull the rearguard sufficiently tight so that they give the keeper more confidence as well. I'm not discounting Almunia's errors but really, the entire backline (including Manny) HAVE to do so much better.

The event of the first 45 minutes must surely be the sending off of Joe Cole after his ferocious tackle on Koscielny. To be fair, I don't think Cole had much (if any) malicious intent. But referee Atkinson flashed the red without hesitation and our centreback was stretchered off.

When Koscielny resumed play after the break, I was elated and surprised. Finally! We have a player capable of taking on the brutes! That gladness was shortlived as the opening minute saw Ngog score a smasher against us to send Anfield cheering. I couldn't blame Almunia for that really - it was a very good goal. I do however, fault the defenders for not halting the move earlier.

Liverpool must have had a good 10 to 15 minutes of spirited play after going in front. Arsenal came back well to settle in the game and after the introduction of Rosicky and Walcott (I was hyperventilating when I saw Theo changing into his shirt), we were back to good form. Reina did very well to deny us a couple of times, and the lads were plain out of luck not being able to score even from the scrappiest pieces of play.

The scrappy play that eventually salvaged a point for us came in the 90th minute when Rosicky's cross caused a little fracas in the box. Chamakh was there and I'm not entirely sure what he did, but it was enough to send Reina scampering the ball into goal for us. Tough luck for the Spaniard. He had been superb for Liverpool all night.

Our Almunia showed he can palm away bullets too when he parried away Gerrard's effort in added time. Koscielny got booked for kicking Kuyt in the crotch, and then unluckily got sent off when he was booked again for a handball just before the whistle.

So it ended a point a side in a game where one debutant was sent off at the end of each half. While I am glad that we took something away from Anfield, I'm thoroughly unsatisfied that we didn't use the numerical advantage at all.

While defence faltered, midfield looked disturbingly empty. It simply cannot be that we can't find someone to distribute the ball in the absence of Fabregas. Jack might have been a little out of place but the youngster was trying. He just wasn't getting much out of his gallops. Eboue was brilliant in the first half. Diaby was well... okay. Nasri worked his French behind off. Our frontmen were disappointingly quiet. Perhaps Arshavin and Chamakh haven't found the right chemistry yet, I don't know. Whatever it is, we have a lot of work to do. But take heart my fellow Gooners, for as much as we were lacking in our element, I honestly thought we brought together a very good game. In fact, I still think we deserved three points out of this.

This is just one down. We have 37 more to go.

The Arsenal!

-------------------------

It's a great feeling being back at the Liz actually. The atmosphere was tremendous. See my handsome guys, Pete (with the cramped fingers) and Steve (with the sly, wiry smile)!

I know I am a real bitch when it comes to football. I get angsty and moody, but I reserve my right to be so. I posted a little something about being an Arsenal fan a while back. As much as it is for a laugh, there is a lot of truth to it. No, to me it is not just a game and I don't expect everyone to understand it. But I do expect you (if you're a friend of course, otherwise I don't really give half a flying rat's arse what you think) to respect it.

If I get flammably aggressive during football season and run my mouth off without thinking sometimes, I apologise. For everyone that I will inevitably piss off from now till May 2011, I apologise. I have been known to abandon ALL weekend plans just for football, and I will be majorly annoyed for half a week if we don't come away with a satisfying result. If that seems inconsiderate, I apologise.

It's a selfish indulgence. It's a chosen lifestyle. But tell me, what is one (long-term) thing you're unfalteringly passionate about and won't compromise? Some relationships don't even hold that kind of commitment. At the very least, I am capable of fierce loyalty. And that, I will never apologise for.

Old & New

2010-08-11T13:05:00.004+08:00

I'm so burnt out.

I cannot concentrate on the things I need to do. One task and I'm whining like a bitch. I never used to be like that.

Nowadays, I start looking forward to the weekend on Monday morning. And I can't wait to leave the office everyday - whether it's to go home, or to meet up with friends. I remember a time when I used to push myself to finish everything I wanted to. Now I just tell myself that there's always tomorrow.

Not the best attitude to have at my age. After all, there are plenty of young executives dying to burst into the market.

I find myself dreaming of mani-pedis (I'm having one later), thinking about salsa class, worrying about my muscle injury because I want to resume pole on Saturday, and the likes. And I fill up my day with MSN, Plurk and Twitter. I wish I could blame social media for the demise of my motivation, but I think right now it's actually my salvation.

Also, the people here don't take MCs when they are sick. Makes me feel guilty even if I did want to call in sick. Not the best culture, right? If you did take a sick day, you might be deemed as slacking off. Or you'll get phone calls anyway. We don't even take days off after working the entire weekend, but I guess that kind of saves me the reprimands from being late every morning.

Still, being here is pretty awesome. I love the people I work with, even if I am damn cranky and moody sometimes. I do appreciate that I am, at the very least, doing something I know how to with the people I actually enjoy being with. I reckon not many people can say the same.

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I am convinced that my health and skin problems are caused by insufficient sleep (stress too of course, but nothing I can do about that), so I am resolved to sleep earlier every night. If only I didn't get dreams about work. I hate waking up and remembering work dreams because I am always extremely anxious as I would have been in the midst of solving some problem.

So from now on, I will sleep by midnight every workday. Even if I can't sleep, I will go lie down in bed.

And I have to get mum a new bed. I'd give her mine if I have to. I can't keep sleeping in the same bed as her (yes, you read that right. Mum has invaded my bedroom). Every night, I only pop into bed when I am very very tired because she's there already and I don't want to lie in bed tossing and thinking and using the computer when my mother is right next to me. So, new bed.

Amidst all that rambling, here's something positive! ES texted me to tell me that he got me an iPhone 4G! So happy. Am waiting to get it when he comes back. Should be before the end of August =)

Also, ES2 (gawd I sound like such a player) bought me like the most amazing thing ever. I love love love it. No, I'm not telling you what it is. Suffice to say, I will be much pleased whenever I stay over. And thank you baby, for always being there with your goofy actions, sleazy lines, leery eyes, and big hugs.

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I'm not exactly sure why, but I feel like I am constantly waiting for something. I have so many expectations in life that nothing seems to satisfy me. Surely I am realistic enough to know that I can't have everything I want? Apparently not. Yet.

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It's Wednesday. Salsa night!!!

National Day 2010

2010-08-09T13:40:00.003+08:00

I'm rather jubilant today.

It's probably because I've had ample sleep. And I have my new oven. And I am so enjoying my ME time. And I have swimming to look forward to later. And that I am still stroking my freshly cut tresses (I love Nana!). And the reminder that it is now August and the Premier League is starting very soon!!!! ROOOAAAARRRRR!!!!

Been on Twitter since I crawled out of bed and adding people Twitter is suggesting (people I actually know AND like of course). I've also hauled out and heated my oven because the instructional manual says I should heat it up once before using it.

Good news - the ribs don't hurt that terribly anymore. Unless I cough or sneeze. Hopefully I'll get to practice Tammy and Gemini very soon. Not being on the pole makes me feel lazy. I didn't slack off during warm-up on Saturday though (but Eunice and Celestine did make me sit out some bits) and I'm thrilled that my split is getting better.

I really don't know why I'm in such a fabulous mood today. I can't wait to get up and do stuff by myself. I'm gonna wash up soon so I can go run some errands.

Got friends back in town as well and I'm packing my calendar with dinners and social events. Can only pray and hope that my work schedule allows me to fulfill them all. I keep dreaming about work as well. Damned if I knew why.

Happy National Day! I don't care what day it is. As long as I don't have to work, it's a very good day!

Ouchie

2010-08-05T04:04:00.001+08:00

Dammit.

My side hurts like mad. I don't even know what I did exactly to pull/strain/sprain the muscle. I only know the sharp pain won't leave me alone.

I've been to the doctor and the sinseh. I've tried stretching. Didn't work. Resting it a little. Didn't work either. Now I/m massaging the area. But, because the pain spans from right under my right breast to my back, I really do look like I'm feeling myself up while I'm trying to right the pain.

Please please please let me get better before pole class on Saturday. One way or another, I'm gonna nail the Tammy and whichever new move *waves fist in determination*

Another One Down

2010-07-31T15:04:00.002+08:00

Work isn't always fun.

Working when you have a mild ear infection, swollen eyes, throbbing headache, slight fever, cough, sore throat, and a spearing pain in the side is definitely not fun.

But well, I got through it. Barely.

I think I really am getting too old for this job. I admire how STK can do it, but I do want time for myself and I need a life. I don't think there are many who feel obliged to work under those conditions.

It's not entirely over but I have this weekend to enjoy and man, I'm not gonna waste it. I'm going to rest plenty and watch movies and just chill.

Nua-ing is a luxury.

Eventful Saturday!

2010-07-26T03:40:00.002+08:00

Was a tiring but very eventful weekend I've had.

And I really don't want to go back to worrrrkkkkkkkkk...

Ah well.

Early Saturday morning, I met Nadnut, Joelle, Barffie and Ting for the first of our three cervical cancer vaccine shots. A big thank you to Nadnut for the invitation! Look at my pained expression.

It was over really quickly. All in all, I must say it was a very positive experience with Dr. Leslie Tay, better known in the blogosphere as the man behind I eat. I shoot. I post..

If you haven't gotten your shots my dear girls, please do. And check out Power Over Cervical Cancer website for more information.

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Saturday was also the last of my Pole 2 class, which meant one thing... SHOWCASE! We had so much fun!

Level 3 will be taught by another wonderful instructor - Eunice. But I am going to miss Celestine and her quips so much! We love you babe!

All you ladies out there should so take up pole dancing! It's so much fun!!! Check out Acro Polates and join me for more pole fun! The instructors are superb and incredibly HOT!

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Later that night, Vandy and I were emcees at the annual JJSalsaRengue Salsa Party! Uber exciting performances I tell you!!! I especially loved the Kungfu Salsa shine display by the lads. Didn't get pictures of that because I was busy working but it took my breath away.

The theme was Pink & Blue, which explains why he was all decked out in pink.

I'm so happy that I finally took up salsa and got to know these wonderful people. For those of you who are interested in taking up Latin dancing, check out JJSalsaRengue now! I promise you, June and Jackson and the rest of the crew are AWESOME!

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Okay then. I think I'd better get to bed soon. Reality bites once the sun comes up.

Under The Weather

2010-07-23T00:12:00.001+08:00

What. The. Hell.

I headed to the hospital today for some medical tests - nothing serious, just the routine yearly checks - and now I'm sick.

Argh. I felt my eyes getting heavy since yesterday and now they are swollen. There is a dull ache and heat behind my eyes. And my head is throbbing.

The only upside is that when my eyes swell, my double eyelids are damn obvious. Ironically, I can't put on makeup to accentuate them cos that would make the swelling worse. Hopefully, it'll subside by tomorrow. Fingers crossed.

I hate being sick. And somehow, I always seem to fall sick only when I am on leave. It's as if my body were waiting for the most opportune time. I can't fall sick now. Got event next week!!!

Sigh.

Plus, I have lotsa stuff lined up this weekend. The vaccine, my pole showcase, and JJSalsarengue's anniversary party.

Dear Body,
Please hold off the baddies until the end of next week. Pleeeaaassseeeeeee....

Mind Opener

2010-07-20T00:16:00.002+08:00

"What's the most resilient parasite? An Idea. A single idea from the human mind can build cities. An idea can transform the world and rewrite all the rules. Which is why I have to steal it." - Cobb, Inception

Mindblowing.

Dreams.
Reality.
The fluid transience that divides them.
Perception is the only truth.

For someone who's always wondered along the lines of similar theological concepts, I greatly appreciate how Nolan has put together an intricately weaved masterpiece that both closes loops and opens minds.

Inception is so substantial, yet intangible; so out-of-the-box, yet so plausible; so real, yet so questioningly skeptical; it asks questions and questions answers. I bloody loved it.

The Oscars was made for movies like that.

Two And Counting...

2010-07-19T00:59:00.004+08:00

This was a two-movie weekend. Two pretty cool ones at that.

Predators isn't exactly an award-winning film, but I love it all the same just because I kinda grew up with Aliens and Predators. So there is some kind of weird nostalgia that rouses in me when I watch those alien warriors battle. We spent quite some time after the movie talking about the honour code of Predators.

Despicable Me was the one show that Vandy was terribly keen on, way before it actually opened. Funny as hell. I totally loved the minions!

Everyone's fave "It's so fluffy!" quote from the irresistibly adorable Agnes is really cute, but the other one that stuck was, "Oh poop." HAHA

Up next, Inception.

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It's technically Monday morning now and the blues are just about setting in. I do love my job. And I realise as well that I have it really good. After all, how many of you can say you love the people you work with, or work for? But sometimes I wonder how long I can keep at this. Why can't I find the motivation that was there before? Because right now, I feel incredibly guilty and think I should work my arse off, but all I want to do is get more Me time.

I guess we can't have it all.

SPAIN ARE THE CHAMPIONS!!!

2010-07-13T02:25:00.001+08:00

This is definitely a tad late. Work and a social life kept me from sharing my utter senseless joy at seeing my Spaniards lift the ultimate footballing prize.

For the first time ever, Spain won the top honors after beating a hardy Holland 1-0 in extra time. I don't think Iniesta will ever forget that moment. I would like to remind everyone at this point that it was my Cesc Fabregas who ignited that magical moment.

I don't even recall when I started supporting Spain or why. I only remember being awed by the individual players in their league clubs and noticing that Spanish players were superbly balanced - form, class and flamboyance, without going OTT. As a female admirer of the sport, I despise being slighted for watching football for the hot men. Well, you know what? Having eye candy ain't half bad. And damn, the Spanish team had the best lookers.

Regrettably, I missed Spain's game against Switzerland because I was on a plane. I ached having to see that dreadful scoreline on the in-flight news channel. Somehow I felt that I had let my lads down because I had missed the game. It's the same way when I miss an Arsenal game.

A few years back, I called Spain, the Heartbreakers. They had a team so full of talent but were unable to put their name on anything worthy. Still, I was obsessed with them. I know a few players' birthdays by heart (Cesc, Xabi - same as mine!, Casillas, Puyol etc) and I wanted to take up Spanish.

When they became European champions, I was so elated I think I lived on happiness for a whole month. And two years later, the Spaniards repaid my faith in them thoroughly. The World Cup. My God, my Spain are World Champions! How can I ever put all these emotions down in writing?

Many will say that the Germans or the Dutch deserved the title more. I think no one deserves it less. Everyone in the tournament was playing for the highest glory. I can doubt no player's devotion and desire. At the end of the day though, be it luck or sublime football, Spain came out top. And in my most unbiased opinion, the lads deserved every ounce of that gold.

I am so happy.

One star on the shirt, and many more to come.

Know Your Bruises

2010-07-09T00:50:00.001+08:00

Or better known as "battle wounds" in my pole dancing world.

This is simply too good not to share. Thank you baby!

South Africa 2010

2010-07-08T04:58:00.004+08:00

And history shall be engraved in gold.

I'm so happy and pumped with adrenalin I can't sleep.

Carles Puyol's thundering header in the 73rd minute halted the mighty Germans' campaign and propelled Spain to their first ever World Cup Finals. Never mind that Pique and Puyol seemed to have clashed heads while rising for the ball. With pain and sweat, comes glory. The 32 year-old Catalan never looked happier.

Why oh why didn't he take his shirt off in celebration? Haha... Sorry, but Puyol's body is blardy amazing. Don't say good things I never share.

It's a little heartbreaking to see Schweinsteiger so dejected at the end. The Germans really did bring a great game. Their road to the semifinals was dignified and probably more convincingly paved. Rarely is there a more worthy opponent.

So my two teams are going head to head in the grand stage of football's most esteemed tournament - I randomly drew Netherlands in a friendly wager with friends, and of course Spain has my heart (and my office bet hinges on them too). This is so MY World Cup.

Joy has new meaning in my life.

Use Somebody - Kings Of Leon

2010-07-02T04:08:00.001+08:00

I've been roaming around, I was looking down at all I see
Painted faces fill the places I can't reach
You know that I could use somebody
You know that I could use somebody

Someone like you and all you know and how you speak
Countless lovers under cover of the street
You know that I could use somebody
You know that I could use somebody
Someone like you

Off in the night while you live it up I'm off to sleep
Waging wars to shake the poet and the beat
I hope it's gonna make you notice
I hope it's gonna make you notice

Someone like me, someone like me
Someone like me, somebody

I'm ready now, I'm ready now
I'm ready now, I'm ready now
I'm ready now, I'm ready now
I'm ready now

Someone like you, somebody
Someone like you, somebody
Someone like you, somebody

I've been roaming around, I was looking down at all I see

Oiling It Up

2010-07-01T04:09:00.000+08:00

I know we are already into the quarterfinals and some of you may think this is a little too late, but what the heck.

I don't know if you realise that Castro has an official World Cup 2010 FaceBook page. I checked out some of the widgets and it's bloody cool! If you ever need a trivia question answered, interesting opinions, statistics, and some very useful predictors, you have to check the page out.

Obviously Spain is my team. There's Xabi, who shares my birthday. Iker, who stole my heart when he was 18. Pique - I want him for Le Arsenal. I could go on and on and on. But of course, there is my Cesc - the love of my life.

Do me and yourself a favour and check the page out. And iPhone users - yes, there is an application available *wink*

Magic Number

2010-06-30T04:23:00.003+08:00

7.

David Villa is a godsend and this is the face of victory.

Spain 1 - 0 Portugal

So worth staying up for. We're through! I'm so happy right now I'm gonna get wrinkly from the crazy grinning.

Bring on Paraguay. ESPANA FTW!!!