TwentyThree

Jurassic Park

2012-02-12T00:23:00.000-06:00

It perhaps is one of my favorite movies of all time. Come on, who, when they were a kid didn't think dinosaurs were the coolest thing the in world? Yeah, I thought so. I also happen to love the theme song of the movie. It's perhaps one of the most iconic theme songs for a movie out there. Picture yourself sitting at the edge of a cliff, overlooking the ocean, watching the sunset. Exactly how I feel every time I hear this beautiful piece of music. If not that, it reminds me of my childhood. Gaah, I miss being a kid, that carefree, dinosaur-loving kid I used to be. Enjoy.

:')

2012-01-30T23:22:00.001-06:00

It's videos like this one that just make me want to cry. Cry and be thankful for the life I have been blessed with today. The world is a beautiful place. Thank you God. :)

As of Late...

2012-01-28T17:17:00.000-06:00

I have been thinking a lot. Thinking about how this semester will turn out. Thinking about home. Thinking about life, in general. It's sort of bringing me down (a little) and as much as I try not to show it, I really look worn out, as if I hadn't just arose from a 7 hour sleep. What is happening to me? I want to be back to my normal self again, that Faiz everyone knows as loud, cheery and friendly. To everyone who has been affected by my mood swings of late, I truly apologize. I am only human and it's just one of those times.

Ps// I think a hug from mom and dad is way overdue.

New Beginnings

2012-01-18T21:17:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was officially the start of my second semester here in Minneapolis. I have to say I was excited to kick start this semester. I wanted to be productive again. I wanted to be meet up with more familiar faces again. Ultimately, I wanted to go back to school. I have attended all the classes I will need to attend and it seems like it will still be a challenging semester for me nonetheless.

For the past couple of days, I have met up with most of the friends I was looking forward to meeting and I have to say I couldn't be more happier to see their faces again. I know for sure I can count on them for homework help and studying.

I am also trying out this thing known as 'budgeting'. I hadn't tried it yet since I came here, but I feel like it is time to do so (crazy right?). Wish me luck?

So here's to another great semester ahead. Here's to new friendships. Here's to new beginnings.

:)

We Are Young

2012-01-08T00:40:00.001-06:00

Heard this song on Glee and fell in love with it almost immediately. I think this this will be my current anthem. It is rather true. I mean, when was the last time you did something not because you had to or needed to, but did something just...because? So I guess just live life to the fullest, and cherish every single second of life you have because you never know when this gift can be taken away from you.

Friday Night Lights

2012-01-03T16:26:00.000-06:00

One of the best films I have watched in a while. I think you would agree with me as well. Watch it, you won't be disappointed. I will end this with a quote from the movie, which I think is very inspiring.

"To me, being perfect is not about that scoreboard out there. It's not about winning. It's about you and your relationship to yourself and your family and your friends. Bein' perfect...is about being able to look your friends in the eye...and know that you didn't let them down. Because you told 'em the truth. And that truth is, is that you did everything that you could. There wasn't one more thing that you could've done. Can you live in that moment...as best you can with clear eyes...and love in your heart? With joy in your heart? If you can do that, gentlemen, then you're perfect" - Coach Gary Gaines.

2011, The Year That Was

2011-12-31T19:00:00.000-06:00

At times, it baffles me how fast time flies. It seemed like it was very recent since I made a similar post like this last year and now it is time to do another to recap this year. Like 2010, 2011 was great. In fact it was amazing. Yes, it started slow, but I feel like in the end, it all worked out. So here are 11 events that made this year (in no particular order), the year the was for me.

1. January. This was the lowest part of the year when, I had to defer my enrollment to The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities because the planets did not align. It was such a bummer for me as all that I needed left was my VISA. However, it took 2 months for them to finally issue it (2 weeks after classes here started) and this in turn sort of left me no choice but to defer my enrollment. Yes, when most of my friends were going to start their new chapter of life in their respective universities in America, I was stuck in Malaysia, where for the next 8 months or so, I did absolutely nothing (except driving here and there, A LOT of driving).

2. Singapore with the family. It was a (rather impulsive) decision my sister and I cooked up for the family, just before I left for the USA. It never seemed like it was actually going to happen, but then, it did. When it did, everyone in the family was stoked. Yes, I did go to Singapore the previous year, but I did not care. This time would be with my dear family. We covered the Singapore flyer then walked the grounds of Marina Bay Sands. We also did the Singapore Night Safari and also conquered Universal Studios (quite literally EVERY SINGLE RIDE from 10am-10pm) besides shopping like nobody's business on Orchard Road. Good times, good times.

3. Heading to Minneapolis, finally. It was the day I anticipated the most all year. When it did come, I honestly did not know how I felt. While waiting to fly out, I decided it was too late to turn back. I did not waste my time and energy waiting for this day only to give up in the end. Eventually, I made it safe and sound and quite honestly Minneapolis grew on me almost immediately. I am pretty much settled in now and am glad everything worked out perfectly.

4. Fall 2011. It was my first semester here. I honestly did not know what to expect. Yes, classes here are harder than what I am used to but after the semester started picking up steam, and I got to know more people, it became easier for me. I have to say, I surprised myself with this semester. My CGPA is at an all-time high and I made it in the Mechanical Engineering program automatically. I am happy. I am grateful. Life is great. Thank you God. :)

6. Thanksgiving in Nebraska. I couldn't believe when my parents said OK. It was one of the best birthday presents ever. I flew to Nebraska to visit my dear friends and have fun. And boy did we have fun alright. From walking the grounds of UNL, to cooking a decent meal and a great Thanksgiving dinner with a friend's friend, what else could I ask for. This year, there was a lot to be thankful for alright.

7. Christmas in Wisconsin. So it finally came. The moment I have been waiting all semester long. To visit my host family again. It has been 3 years since I have seen them last and it feels so good to be back (feels because guess what, I am writing this here, home in New Berlin). In fact, it feels so good, that it was as if I had never left. I was welcomed with open arms from both my mom and brother Tommy and I couldn't be happier. Christmas dinner was amazing, as I got to meet the whole family. I also was surprised with Christmas presents. Yes, despite this being my first Christmas ever, it was (and will probably be) the best one I ever have.

8. Being independent. I have to say it is rather hard to be independent. To be on top of your bills, cooking for yourself, laundry, making sure the money is in check. A lot. Quite honestly, I think I've been doing alright in this department. Being away from the family teaches you to be independent I suppose, and I am grateful that I have been coping, thus far.

9. MTV World Stage 2011. I almost did not go and when I found out I scored 2 tickets, I decided my younger brother was the one I wanted to bring along. It was the one last thing before I leave to Minnesota that I would do with him. He enjoyed it alright, and so did I. I am glad I brought him along, cause he never has been to a concert before. And what better way than to attend a 30 Seconds to Mars and Neon Trees concert. Great huh? I am sure he had a blast and will cherish the memory of his first ever concert forever.

10. Kept extraordinary friendships in tact + made new ones. What can I say? I love my friends. I surprised myself here by getting to know the people I know today. Quite honestly I figured I was going to be a loner the whole semester. However, that all did not happen. I surprised myself by befriending a lot of new people and I feel very comfortable here now. Thanks, all of you. You know who you are.

11. Tennessee. This was a surprise trip for me, but I am glad it did happen. It is such a beautiful place with beautiful weather and breathtaking scenery, everywhere. It was an amazing trip spent with even more awesome people. Thanks a lot mom, Uncle Tom and Tommy. Love you guys. :)

All in all, 2011 was such a blast. It seems like my new chapter of life took off exceptionally well. Although I still am getting used to a lot of things, I feel like I am getting there. Despite missing home at times, I am glad I have my friends here who put a smile on my face every single day when I get to school. Love you guys. So, here's to everlasting friendships. Here's to more great memories to cherish. Here's to 2012.

Where The River Bends

2011-12-04T23:48:00.000-06:00

I Miss Home

2011-11-30T21:46:00.001-06:00

It's true. I mean yes, I am having such a blast here, but sometimes, I feel like I wouldn't want to be anywhere else but home sweet home. It would be nice to sit down and have a chat with my mom right now. I feel so conflicted now, it seems like the only person I could talk to is her. I seriously don't know what to do anymore. I don't want to talk over Skype. Cause I am sure she'd cry. And when she does, I will too. I mean it's nothing serious, its just a life chat with my dear mom. I usually had these sessions with her over afternoon tea back home regularly and I feel extremely lucky that I can do that and talk to my mom just like any other friend. But now, it seems like Skype talks are just too short to fit in weeks of updates, hence I don't get to talk about much. And Skype is NOT the same OK. Yes it does help, but I feel like we are still separated by vast oceans and land. I know I am a strong person, but a person is only so strong. I am not sure why I feel so down now. I think it's just the semester that's wearing me off. I am extremely demotivated now. Oh well, it's just 3 more weeks. Then off to WI. At least I can call that home.

21

2011-11-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

I feel like time goes by way to fast now. It seemed like it was only yesterday that I celebrated my 20th birthday and my dad's 51st at Bubba Gump Shrimp. Today I turn 21. This year's celebration will be drastically different though. I will be on my own this year. Family is half way around the world and the nostalgia is kicking in. No, there won't be a nice dinner where I can order anything I would like or will there be any birthday presents from my parents, sis and bro-in-law and yeah well, family. But I guess that is life. I am rather sad that I am not there (Malaysia) to celebrate my 21st birthday with them but at least I have my friends here. I have my 'family' of my own. But still, its not the same but I'm OK with that.

There are so many things I should be thankful for. In my short 21 years of life, I have lived in 3 different countries (3 different places in the USA, England and of course, home which I call Malaysia), traveled to over 40 different countries (and counting), met so many amazing people (many more to come of course), and I have to say I have been enjoying my life. I am blessed with the most amazing friends in the world, and an even more amazing family. What more can I ask for?

So, here's to life. Here's to growing up. Here's to being more mature. Here's to more experiences to come. Here's to the year ahead.

:)

The Story So Far...

2011-11-20T20:37:00.001-06:00

1. I realized that time moves extremely fast when you're having fun. It seems like only yesterday since I left home and today marks the 3rd month of my stay here in MN. I am having a blast here, and I have met so many different and great people along the way. I have to admit though, I do not really know many people from my country here. I have no idea why but it almost seems like they want nothing to do with me. Oh well, I have made my group of friends already so I don't mind.

2. I have surprised myself countless times since my stay here. Before I left I was a nervous wreck. I doubted myself in EVERYTHING. But I proved myself wrong when I decided to take all the necessary (and possible) risks I could. I purposely came here without contacting any of the Malaysians prior because I wanted to find the place I would call home myself. I want to be independent. If I did contact them (an option most of the Malaysians here do) I perhaps wouldn't have discovered my full potential. Yes it is a safe way to be with Malaysians, but I did not travel 9000 miles away from home to hang out or chill with my buddies from...Malaysia. Hence, most of my friends are Americans. Not to brag here, but seriously it all worked out in the end. I am extremely happy here now and I have 'family' of my own here already. If you guys happen to be reading this, you know who you are. :)

3. Classes are going. Yes they are. Albeit the classes being 900 times harder than they were back home, I am still hanging on. I do update my parents in everything (yes I still give them updates on my quiz & test scores) and they are actually OK with it. I mean they tell me to keep it up, be determined and in the end God will prevail. At one point I wanted to give up, but a talk from mom proved to be what I really needed. After that, I was more determined than ever.

4. I do miss my family. Despite me having a great time here, there are those moments (sometimes at the worst possible time) that I get that sense of nostalgia where I am enjoying the great times I had with my family, not to forget, the scrumptious home-cooked meals my mom made. I really miss her sup tulang. Ahh...her sup tulang. Oh and not to mention her rendang, her CHICKEN RICE, her EVERYTHING SHE COOKS! Wow, I never realized I missed Malaysian food this much. But hey I am proving to be a good cook here. Made myself a couple of delicious meals before and I have many more months of discovering my cooking skills. I cannot wait to get back and make my family a dish instead. Besides the food, I miss the cats. Yes I do.

5. This morning during our Skype session with the family back home, I received great news after great news after great news. Life is good. Life is looking up. I am happy. I am content. Thank you God. :)

Its Time

2011-11-15T16:36:00.001-06:00

It's at that point of time where I am starting to get lazy and slack off little by little. This is no good. I mean like really I want to get through this semester and hopefully do well in all my classes and this happens. It seems like ever single class I go to are just dull and uninteresting and I just end up not paying as much attention to what is on the white board (as opposed to writing down and actually understanding what is being written). Hopefully after my (much needed) Thanksgiving break (Nebraska here I come!), I will be more determined and end the semester on a high note.

:)

Random Post

2011-11-11T10:02:00.001-06:00

I want this bike so bad. It looks...breathtaking. Wow. Wow. Wow.

Ps// sorry for my lack of posts, I've been really busy here. Will make a big post soon alright! Have a good day guys!

:)

Untitled

2011-10-06T21:44:00.000-05:00

Despite all the fun I've been having here, and getting to know more and more people each day, there is that part of me that misses home a lot. I miss mama. I miss papa. I miss my siblings. I miss home. I miss the cats. I miss mama's cooking. I miss it a lot. But you know, I am rather thankful I have my friends here who make everyday such a joyous one and truth be told, if I was all alone here and had yet found my place in society, I would probably fall into deep depression. And that won't be good. Cause family is halfway around the world. And no support isn't good for anyone. So here's to the year ahead. Hopefully filled with magical adventures and who knows what else. (OK, that sounded rather cliched but oh well!).

:D

Set Fire To The Rain

2011-09-29T21:45:00.001-05:00

My best mate Nate suggested I listen to this song. It's been playing on replay ever since.

Quickie

2011-09-25T21:36:00.000-05:00

1. Last week was a stressful one for me. Two quizzes and a test in a row. Yes, I know, but that's life. Oh and if you want to know how I did on them: POORLY (well at least I think so).

2. Had a great weekend just slacking off. Seriously I could not take it anymore just studying all day. It was just too much to take. So basically this has been the most unproductive weekend yet. Now, next week will be filled with more studying I suppose.

3. Talked to a dear friend who is in Nebraska at current for almost 3 hours. That was pleasant. Nice to catch up with people you know. Since I'm talking about catch up, I also did some catching up with my best friend back home. Was such a joy to talk after so long. Seriously just made my day and week.

Thats all peeps!

:)

One Month

2011-09-18T23:45:00.001-05:00

It's been a month since I arrived Minneapolis and what a month it has been. I think Minneapolis is a great place to study. Its just so beautiful. The people, the buildings the surroundings. I am so happy here now. I've made great friends here as well and thank goodness we have common hours for lunch cause we all know how it just blows when we eat ALONE...well, I take that back I guess its OK, but I'm an extroverted person so being alone is just not the way I roll. So yeah I'm happy here, more happy than I ever could imagine myself being. If its one thing to complain about is the homework. There's way to much of it than I can handle, but hey that's college! I'll be fine. Take care guys!

:)

Arms

2011-09-16T23:37:00.000-05:00

I don't know why, but I quite like this song.

Minneapolis

2011-09-08T21:17:00.000-05:00

I think after 3 weeks of being on foreign land, I can finally say I am comfortable. I was pretty bummed during the first week and all, but that was pretty much because I did not know anyone at all. Now all that has changed. I am pretty much settled here in my house. I am pleasantly surprised that my roommates and I get along well. In fact I think we get along so well, this house has an awesome vibe. We all are pretty much outgoing and respectful of each other. And quite honestly I'm extremely thankful.

Also, classes started last Tuesday and basically all I was doing was trying to get back into study mode. If you don't know yet, this is the first time I have school this year since leaving Taylor's last year and having to deffer my enrollment last Spring. I sort of felt lost but oh well. I had a quiz on my first day itself. Thank goodness it wasn't graded though, cause if it was I would have been screwed.

Anyway, this update just deals with me being much happier now. I'm extremely comfortable where I am right now and though I do miss home, I'll be alright. So till next time. Take care guys!

:)

Dear Faiz,

2011-09-02T20:31:00.000-05:00

I know you miss your family a lot. Just stay strong and move along.

Sincerely,

Faiz Ahmad

New Adventures

2011-08-31T12:53:00.000-05:00

So far, MN has been great. People here are nice and extremely helpful whenever the going gets tough. It's been a little over a week since I left Malaysia and I am starting to feel a little homesick. The past few days hasn't been easy. Damaged luggage. Check. Looking for housing. Check. Orientation. Check. Orientation sort of demotivated me to the nth degree and it seems like I have no idea what I am doing here. But I guess talking to mama made things 94328743092740329 times better.

Yesterday was Eid and I have to say Eid away from the family is extremely weird. Its my first raya away from the family so I felt a little sad. I guess its normal to feel sad but thank goodness for Skype. I think without that, I would be a wreck here. You see I am very close to my family and I love them to bits. Say what you want to say but I still love my family very much.

After today, I guess I will be busy doing stuff. I hope to meet more people cause I do want to hang out with people here. Maybe I haven't found them yet. Well, lets hope I meet them during orientation and perhaps during the Welcome Day event. We'll see how that goes.

Anyway, I think updating this blog regularly will become harder for me once classes start so I apologize for the lack of updates in the future! Till the next update, cheers!

Feelings

2011-08-17T12:36:00.000-05:00

I feel happy, excited, nervous, sad, and bittersweet all the the same time. I guess it's slowly coming to me that these are my last few days in Malaysia for a while. Being away from the comfort of my own home and family to make way for new adventures in a country halfway around the world. I hope everything will be OK. I hope I can make it through in one piece. I hope I have a blast. I hope I come out a stronger person. I hope I come out more mature. But most of all, I hope I enjoy every second spent there. Here's to new adventures in The States.

:)

Just When I Thought All Hope Was Lost

2011-08-15T12:13:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning, I woke up feeling miserable. I was anticipating being woken up by a phone call. But that never happened. Feeling down in the dumps, I freshened up and hoped for a miracle. The miracle did happen just when I exited the bathroom. It was my phone ringing, begging me to pick it up. It was them. I was extremely grateful. Alhamdulillah.

So now, the new chapter of my life can officially start, as I prepare myself to fly off to The States soon. Yesterday was an extremely productive day. Registered for document check, orientation, transportation to the uni, and most importantly my flight. Now am in talks about my room I would like to rent over there. Hope all goes well with the landlord. Just told her that I will be arriving this weekend and hoping for a meeting on Monday. We'll see how that goes, cause honestly I don't really have a choice, but from the description, I think it is a good choice.

Preparing For The Worst

2011-08-11T22:28:00.002-05:00

Because my life seems to not go as planned. I guess you cannot 'plan' life huh?

I Don't Know How To Feel Anymore

2011-08-10T11:20:00.000-05:00

Sadly, the title makes no sense whatever. You see, this is my second time going through this, and apparently this time it is taking longer. I have no idea why, but it makes no sense at all. If a person had to do the same thing twice, he or she would, logically complete it the second time a little faster if not approximately the same time as the first. Not longer. Definitely baffles me too. Hence, I have no idea how to feel anymore.

Facebook has become depressing at this point of time. You have no idea how it feels when others are already starting another chapter of their life (something I have been wanting to do since the year started mind you) while I am here waiting for a stupid phone call. I seriously am disliking this. It is rather unbearable. I may sound like I am over reacting, but this isn't over-reacting. This is raw emotion. I HATE IT.

I know patience is a virtue, but I have been patient enough already right? 1.5 months is WAAAAAAAY too long. And this isn't even inclusive of the 1.5 months I waitied the first time. You know the first time I went through this thing and it cost me 8 months of my life. Oh well, story of my life I tell ya. Maybe they don't want me there. Well, if that's the case, be it. Thanks so much for wasting my time.

Now, this song makes me feel better.

Panic Mode

2011-08-09T11:30:00.000-05:00

I don't know why, but it seems like the future looks discouraging for me. What if history repeats itself? That won't be good. In fact, it'll be über-depressing. Hoping for a miracle now.

In a completely unrelated note, I am currently addicted to this song.

Travel

2011-08-06T02:30:00.000-05:00

This is perhaps one of the most creative videos I have seen in a while. Such a simple concept, but extremely effective. Which gets me thinking, I NEED to travel MORE. This video inspires me to do so in the future. World, wait for me, I'll be coming!

MTV World Stage 2011

2011-08-06T02:24:00.000-05:00

This is a (much delayed) post about my experience while attending the MTV World Stage 2011 which happened recently. To be honest, there almost wasn't this experience but with what I like to call divine intervention, everything just fell into place.

It all started on the morning of the event when I was woken up with a little bit of ~~great~~ wonderful news from my dad. "You're going to MTVWS11'". I couldn't believe my ears. I was so upset the day before as I was coming to terms with not going, and this happened. Extremely happy, I sort of ran around in my room feeling on cloud 9 for a good 5 minutes (something I can recall doing while receiving identical news 2 years ago). You see, 30 Seconds To Mars was playing and I really wanted to go. I've been a fan of this band since high school and it would be amazing to see them live.

I decided to bring my younger brother with me as I wanted him to know how it felt like to go to an actual concert. I've had my fair share of them and so far they have been nothing short of amazing. Surprisingly, traffic wasn't a hassle and parking was a breeze. My brother and I were extremely excited for what was to come later in the night.

To kick things off was a local rock band going by the name Pop Shuvit. Am not really a fan of the band but they did give a head-banging performance. Next, was this Korean Pop act to come on stage. Quite honestly, I thought they had no place to be on the stage. With names like Pop Shuvit, Neon Trees and 30 Seconds To Mars, I really felt like they were out of place. Quite honestly I thought 'boy-bands' phased out in the 21st century. Guess I was wrong.

Girls (and boys) alike thronged the concert grounds anticipating these 6 Korean dudes, which go by B2$T by the way, to get on stage. And if you are puzzled by how to pronounce the name of this pop band, it's supposedly 'BEAST'. Do not tell me how or why they pronounce it that way, but in my books, B2$T will NEVER, EVER, EVER, look and be pronounced as BEAST. Nuff' on that, they sang (or I think they lip-synched) their way through 6 extremely lyrically-challenged songs. What really troubled me was that a girl standing next to me was balling her eyes out when they got on stage. And when they left, she teared up even more. Hard-core fan huh? When B2$T were done, it seemed like 1/6 of the audience left the concert grounds. I was rather shocked but hey, it was their loss. The best performances were yet to come.

Next to grace the stage was Neon Trees. Now, this band was sort of a bonus for me. I did not really know a lot of their songs, but I was excited to see what they had to give. And boy did they give! Tyler Glenn gave an outstanding performance and he was very entertaining. He didn't mind making a fool of himself on stage, but it was all for the sake of showmanship. He belted out their songs (3 of which I actually knew) and most of the crowd sang along happily to them. Tyler had a way with the audience and there wasn't a moment when I was bored. This was truly an entertaining act. And not to mention the backdrops they used (notice the 'eye')? Cool right? Well, if this was the main course, dessert was to be served next. The band I was anticipating to see for so many years (you don't even know) were up next and I couldn't be more ecstatic. My adrenaline was on an all time high here.

After the the stage was set, Shannon Leto came on stage and started with the drums. I say, he is an excellent drummer. He built up the anticipation for his brother to come on stage and when Jared finally did, the crowd went into a frenzy. I have to admit, not only can Jared sing, he also can pass as a model. No, really, did you see his HUGO Just Different ad? I bet all the girls that day just melted away by his good looks and charm and the guys were just ready to get the show started. I know I was. Now enough of that, the music. They sang 8 songs in total and I sang along to each and every one of them. It was absolutely amazing.

30 Seconds To Mars is a band with a cause. They care about the environment and they advocate world peace. It's a great cause and they spread the word through their music. Simple I say cause music can actually unite people, and if it's for a good cause, why not. Well, the show went off and Jared, Shannon and Tomo gave a stellar performance. Jared was great with the crowd. He called many people on stage for the finale and to be honest, if i was not enclosed in the separate VIP area, I would have ran upfront and make him drag me on stage. How cool would it be to actually 'share' the stage with them? It was quite a nice gesture to the fans because not many artists who come to Malaysia actually do that. Well, to see what really went down while I was there, catch the entire show on-air. Check out showtimes here.

To conclude, MTV World Stage 2011 was a hit. Though there were a few misses with performers for the night, Neon Trees and 30 Seconds To Mars made up for it. To say that I would go again to any one of the band's shows, I will. But I will have to wait and when the time (and money) is right, I'll probably be at one of those shows rocking it out happily. Now, if only I could score tickets to a Coldplay show...

Ps// To all my readers out there, this is officially my 100th post!

Pps// If you are reading this blog, thank you very much!

Ppps// If you are still reading, peace! v(^^)v

A Summer To Remember Chpt. II

2011-08-02T12:16:00.000-05:00

Universal Studios. I always wanted to go there (again) one day and have fun. And recently on a family vacation to Singapore, my whole family went. After a few days of researching on several travel websites, we were set for the day. We decided it was prudent to do the park anti-clockwise and boy it was the best decision ever.

Of course I can go on and on telling you about every single ride I actually got on etc but that would probably bore you to death. Heck it may even bore me to death. Instead, here are the three rides I think are worth a ride (or two).

1. BATTLESTAR GALATICA. Human VS Cylon. OK, Human was thrilling, only because of that massive drop which did not seem to end. Then it sort of just was like any other roller coaster with twists, turns and yes, more drops. Cylon on the other hand was quite the adventure. Yours truly had the chance to ride the beast up front. And boy I tell ya, it was such a joy. Adrenaline rush was at an all time high after this ride.

2. REVENGE OF THE MUMMY. Perhaps because this ride was the only indoor roller coaster in Singapore's Universal Studios. The setting was pitch darkness throughout and boy was it fun! There were a few unexpected twists to the ride, and to find out what, I reckon you go and find out for yourself.

3. JURASSIC PARK RAPIDS ADVENTURE. There was a little bit of drama when we were waiting to get on this ride. Apparently after waiting for 45 minutes, the ride encountered some 'technical difficulties' as they say and had to be shut down until further notice. Mind you, this was actually THE LAST ride we all needed to get on to complete the whole park, yes, entire park. And this happened. We were determined to get on it anyway and with Divine Intervention, the ride reopened at 8pm. We got on minutes later and I have to say it was pretty darn good!

Universal Studios Singapore was a blast for my family and I. It truly is a place to spend time with family or friends. I would gladly come back another time in the future.

Our last day in Singapore was basically filled with shopping on Orchard Road. As there was like a 'further mark down' sale pretty much everywhere, we did quite a bit of shopping there. Yes my friends, we helped Singapore's already blessed economy. But hey, the stuff we purchased were all at a steal, so I guess there is no harm in that.

I have to say I truly do enjoy visiting Singapore. It's just that everything seems more chilled and relaxed there. No, I do not mean people there are slow (in fact I noticed they walk and do things faster than people in Malaysia), it's just that throughout the whole trip, we didn't need to worry about much. Not transportation, not finding places we needed to get to, pretty much nothing. Everything is accessible via their public transportation system and I laud Singapore's decision to invest so much in that. It is truly something to be proud of. So, till we meet again Singapore, I know we will meet again soon.

Magic

2011-07-31T00:25:00.000-05:00

I really need some of it now. But in the mean time, have fun with this rather childish song.

Ps// Is it just me or is Pom-Pom just oh-so-cute!

A Summer to Remember Chpt. I

2011-07-31T00:22:00.000-05:00

It’s funny how for the past 7 months or so, my life was pretty much uneventful. It would pretty much consist of outings with the family on the weekends and the occasional outing with friends. This however, changed recently. It all started with SINGAPORE. It was a rather impulsive trip planned by my sister and I to get the whole family on vacation, TOGETHER. This would be an incredible feat if it did happen, but with a little bit of Divine intervention, it all worked out in the end.

On the 17^th of July, we were off to the airport in the wee hours of the morning. Mind you, we took 3 different flights to get to Singapore due to some scheduling conflicts. My mom, brothers and younger sister and I were on the first flight bound for Singapore. My older sister and her husband came in on the 2^nd flight later in the afternoon and dad came in on the 3^rd flight late at night. This was due to the fact my brother-in-law was still up in the skies when we were ready to take off and dad had a treasure hunt to attend on an island not too far from home.

This would be my younger sister’s inaugural flight and she was rather excited. She was beaming from ear to ear with a smile which I think she found hard to contain. Oh well, I am not a child and yet I get excited before flying too. My younger brother was excited as well cause he had always wanted to go to Singapore. Well, his wish was to come true.

Upon arrival in Singapore, we headed to our hotel via the super-efficient MRT system Singapore has, checked in, freshened up and headed to the Singapore flyer. It would be my first time on it and I couldn’t wait to see the entire Singapore skyline. There weren’t many people there and we got on a ‘flight’ (as they call it) almost immediately. The Singapore skyline was indeed beautiful. So much development was happening in the already über-developed city. There were even some buildings which were never there the last time I visited last year. I was captivated. The view of both new and old buildings together in a mix was simply breathtaking. The ‘flight’ took approximately 30 minutes and then we had a delicious fried chicken lunch at Popeyes.

It started drizzling when we started walking over to the Marina Bay Sands. But it seemed like there was a Higher Power watching over us and the sun came out shining bright as ever. Marina Bay Sands seemed to have finished construction. The Singapore Art Science Museum is a marvel to look at and not to forget the stunning hotel itself which I reckon is the most beautiful hotel in the world. It was here where we met up with my sister and her husband.

A trip to Singapore wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the icon of the country, the Merlion. Hence we walked all the way there from the Marina Bay Sands. Some may think it is a crazy thing to do to walk under the hot sun but you see, Singapore has many of these things that Malaysia seems to get rid of whenever they have the chance: TREES. BIG GEORGEOUS GREEN LUCIOUS OLD TREES. Hence, despite having the sun over our heads, we barely felt it cause the trees pretty much brought down the temperature of the city. After several photo ops on the Olympic Walk and the Merlion, we headed to Orchard Road.

Orchard Road was supposed to happen much earlier than it should have but due to my sister’s delayed flight, it cut the trip short. We didn’t really mind cause we were to go shopping again on that Tuesday, before we left for home. Mom got herself some FitFlops while I got myself a pair of shorts from Esprit. My purchase was perhaps something I really needed cause I did not think I would last a day in Universal Studios in JEANS. Right after, we headed off to the Singapore Night Safari.

At the Safari, I know my family had a good time. We arrived just in time for a fire show (you know where people play with fire etc). Then we were off to the park itself. This trip was rather interesting. When we were there, we saw a (HUGE) flying squirrel glide from a tree, an even larger bat take a toilet break and another bat which was pretty large charge at my (older) sister. Good times I must say.

Dad called when we were almost over with the safari telling us he just landed. After wrapping up the tour of the park, we headed back to the hotel and met up with dad and went for supper. The next day was going to be superb: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS.

Your Surrender

2011-07-05T11:26:00.000-05:00

Neon Trees will be performing at MTV World Stage Malaysia 2011 this year alongside one of my favorite bands ever, 30 Seconds to Mars. This song is currently on replay on my iTunes (don't judge). Also, is it just me or does Tyler Glenn (lead singer) look like Kris Allen with a mohawk (at certain angles)?

True Blue

2011-07-05T10:58:00.000-05:00

It's a good book. Surprised by how cunning Mr. Baldacci is by incorporating humor in a crime/mystery/thriller book. Will definitely be buying more books from him soon.

Not A Good Feeling

2011-07-01T22:44:00.000-05:00

Well, ever since the 29th (June), I've only been thinking of one thing. What if history repeats itself? I am not too sure. I hope it doesn't. Currently, I have a sore throat, a runny nose and feel lethargic. I want this episode to end. I want to be able to move beyond this. I want this to end. I want this to end. I want that phone call. Please.

Holding On And Letting Go

2011-06-29T12:21:00.002-05:00

The Script

2011-05-22T12:36:00.000-05:00

Good News

2011-05-17T11:10:00.001-05:00

OK, this news is a little old, but I am just over the moon now. It all started last Wednesday when I checked my UMinn portal and got the shock of my life. It went something like this: “We are sorry but we cannot offer you admission”. My heart sank faster than you can say OH-NO. You probably guessed it folks, I was not a happy camper. The day went on with me being extremely emotional; it was almost as if I could see my life being taken away from me. Mom tried to comfort me, but even she knew nothing, and I mean nothing would be able to comfort me (except for that ticket into UMinn). Hours went by with me figuring out what to say to the person I have been in contact with for the past few months. For the most part, it was exhausting cause it was a combination of frustration, anxiety, and everything combined. When I knew the office was open in Minnesota, I immediately called the lady. Our talk went for quite approximately 15 minutes and she was very helpful. After referring me to the director of admissions we ended the call. I was to email him about my status and see what he could do about it as she was not able to make decisions. After the email was sent, all I could do was wait…and he replied to me almost immediately. IT WAS ~~GOOD GREAT AMAZING MAGICAL~~ FANTASTIC NEWS. I had a superb rush of adrenaline all of a sudden and later that night I slept with a smile on my face. So, back to today, why am I over the moon? I officially received the (official) email re-welcoming me to the university. I am happy. I am content. Yes I am. Thank you God. So, Minnesota, I'll see you soon!

A Community Service Announcement

2011-05-04T22:57:00.000-05:00

Been discovering music from the other end of the world: Australia. I am impressed with what I've found so far.

Things To Add To My To-Do List

2011-05-04T10:51:00.001-05:00

VISIT THESE THEME PARKS!!!!

:D

Need I say more?

I'm Just Tired

2011-05-02T11:09:00.001-05:00

Enough of all the questions already, I’m tired of it. I’m tired of repeating the story. I’m tired giving you all the little details. I’m tired of you ‘feeling sorry’ for me. I’m just tired of it all. Just don’t ask me “so, when will you be leaving?” AGAIN and AGAIN and AGAIN. Cause truth be told, I have no idea. This whole questioning makes it even worse cause I haven’t even been re-accepted to UMinn, which by the way, freaks me out to the nth degree! So, just shut your pie hole and when I have official word on things, I WILL DEFINITELY TELL. Of course I won’t just go missing in action. Sigh. Enough is enough. Cause every time I try to forget, I have to remember again just to tell you the SAME DUMB story of my VISA being issued late. Grr. Get a life. Would your life be that dramatically different when I do go? I beg to differ.

Life Pt. II

2011-04-30T08:32:00.006-05:00

Have you ever watched a movie and wondered how your future looks like? Well, I just did, and it seems to happen to me, A LOT. Trust me, I have all these feelings in me now that I must say aren’t too pleasant. The future is a scary thing to think about, cause when you do, you think about growing up, being an adult. And being an adult means being responsible. And being responsible means, well, being responsible, DUUHHHH (spoken in a manner only a certain Mahaguru can perfect, you know who you are).

I mean, I guess I am a responsible person now, but the future is filled with the unknown. How am I supposed to know where I will be in say, 5 years? It’s not like I’m psychic you know. And there are all these other things like: Would I be that successful person I have always aspired to be? Would I have that dream job of mine? Would I even be able to pay for my rent? I haven’t even mentioned if I would have enough to even own a car? Gosh, it’s a lot and it is starting to freak me out (a little). Not too long ago, I was a happy free-spirited high school kid. Then next I was in college. Soon enough, I’ll be at one of the most important interviews of my life: MY JOB INTERVIEW.

OK, let me stop right there before I freak myself out even more. Yes, life is tough. No one said it was easy. I got to start somewhere right? So, I guess what I could do is just live in the moment, and make the best of the life I have now and cherish all those meaningful memories of the past. Of course living in the moment does not mean going all wild and all, instead it’s about making the right decisions and hopefully I’ll be directed in the right path. For some, the right path may be hard, for some it may be easy. Either way I put it, life is just like that. It won’t always be fair, but if I try to make the most out of it, it would certainly be enjoyable.

Vampire Weekend

2011-04-20T12:28:00.000-05:00

Cause they make me happy.

:)

Oops I Did It Again

2011-04-19T10:55:00.001-05:00

I know I’ve been lacking in posts but I’ve been keeping myself busy doing other things. Having the internet (and laptop of course) as your only source of entertainment for 4 months does take its toll on people. Exhibit A: ME. So, while I was away, I’ve been busy doing stuff away from cyber world.

Two weeks ago, on a beautiful Wednesday I met a good friend of mine. As we had no idea where to meet up, we decided to meet at the new Taylor’s Lakeside Campus. Nice place I tell you, but I am certain they did not think of the parking thoroughly. My friend and I ended up parking 10 minutes away (by foot) on a gravel road where cars were literally parked bumper to bumper. And that was one of the (rare) times I actually was grateful I drove a car with small dimensions. And yes my friends, that was a good day.

Last week, I went out with 2 of my best friends. We’ve been good friends since we were 13 and I love them to death. We decided against a movie (as it would take up precious chat time) and instead we just ate, ate and ate even more. That too was a treasurable day as it has been a while since we met all at once. Sad, but true, but what can I say, all three of us went to different colleges.

Speaking of colleges, I am still waiting for Minnesota’s reply. I have grown über anxious and nervous as every time I do log on FB, another friend of mine has gotten accepted in University A, B, C or D. I wonder why it is taking them so long to reaccept me. I have constantly been keeping in touch with the lady (from international admissions) I called to tell I was not going to be able to make it for January. She was nice enough to calm me down by telling me not to worry. Well, I am not worried, but its already mid-April and I still haven’t a word. Well, I pray that this week is the week. Please end this agony already. I really want to start on other preparations.

To end this post, I will post a song that I quite like. A bit of an old song but it recently gained popularity on the radio (damn). Damn cause radios tend to kill good songs by playing them at 2, 3, 4 in the afternoon and if they’re obnoxious, 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11 at night. Gosh, way to kill a good song. But I still like this song anyway. Perhaps one of the (VERY few) songs I can tolerate on air. Enjoy.

Skeptic

2011-04-04T23:01:00.002-05:00

So I was really skeptical of the super speed internet. I have no idea why, but is super speed internet really super speed as the service provider claimed it to be? Are we getting as much as what we are paying for? So I decided to test it and was quite satisfied with the results. It is rather accurate. So yeah I'm satisfied.

Cookies II: Attack Of The Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-04-04T08:58:00.001-05:00

I woke up early today feeling a little excited. No, it wasn’t because it was my birthday, but today I decided I was to bake a new batch of chocolate chip cookies. This time I decided to try out a different recipe than the ones before. So, how did it taste you may ask? Heavenly. They are chewy, chocolaty and semi-sweet. Even my sister (who is a baker) approved of this batch of cookies. And again, I am not one to brag, but OH MY GOODNESS, you have to taste em’ to believe how AH-MAY-ZHING they taste! I wish I could teleport some to dear friends abroad. But I guess that isn’t possible. Heh.

Ps// I'm very happy the cookies turned out the way they did!

Pps// Oh, I also got my super speed internet yesterday. IT IS CRAZY FAST. I downloaded a song (which usually takes 2 minutes on fast internet) for 5 seconds. WHOA... I like.

:DD

Au Revoir

2011-04-01T01:34:00.003-05:00

Come Sunday, I shall bid adieu to fast internet speed (4 mb/s) after only 2 months of getting acquainted. This will be sad cause I liked fast internet speed. We had great times together and I shall cherish those moments forever. Well, nope, this isn’t cause we cancelled our fast internet, dad upgraded it to super speed internet (10 mb/s). I mean fast internet was amazing, as streaming videos was no longer a hassle, so I wonder how fast streaming will be on super speed internet. I. KENOT. WAIT.

Ps// Can’t you tell that I am over the moon now?

Pps// Now that I reread this post, it seems like I was on crack while typing. Oh well.

:DD

Tomorrow Is April Fools'

2011-03-31T09:57:00.001-05:00

Well, the title of this post has nothing to do with the content. My younger sister told me tomorrow is April fools'. Hah, that got me all nostalgic thinking about how fun April fools' used to be in high school. Anyway here goes the post:

1. On the radio a few days ago, I heard this girl-ish voice from the radio. No, it wasn’t Justin Bieber, but it was this girl who won a ticket to go see him live in concert next month here in Malaysia. OK, nothing wrong with that, but what seemed so unbelievable was that she was crying hysterically (like she’d won the freakin’ jackpot). Get a grip little girl, cause I know for sure you’re under-aged and you would need parental supervision. Oh did I tell you she won ONE ticket? Good luck convincing your parents to buy a ticket for a Justin Bieber concert girl. If not, those tears would have been wasted. Ha-Ha.

2. I made delicious spice-rub chicken thighs tonight. I was worried that it was under-seasoned, but it came out PREFECT. I usually am not the one who praises myself, but I got to tell you, these chicken thighs were scrumptious. My younger sister couldn’t have enough she ended up licking her fingers. So KFC beware! My chicken is Finger Lickin’ Good too.

3. I bought chocolate chips today. I plan to make chocolate chip cookies soon. I have no idea if I will use the same recipe as before. Will probably need to wait and see how it goes once I end up making em’. Yum-yum. Oh and not to forget, my beloved sister went and bought Baskin Robbins today. 31% off for ice-cream, which I think is such a great deal. This gets me thinking, cookies and ice-cream anyone?

I Miss You

2011-03-23T00:49:00.000-05:00

I think I am slowly losing my spark. I used to be rather optimistic. Now, I would find an excuse to complain, and complain even more. Why did this happen to me? I think this phase where spending quality time with the family is wearing off on me. It was fun, now I just want to be with my friends. It has been too long since I’ve sat down with any one of them over a good cup of ~~coffee~~ tea. Blame it on their busy schedules. Sigh.

Songs I Like

2011-03-17T12:34:00.001-05:00

Cause this is the way songs SHOULD be, NOT the stuff we hear on the radio. You know, the ones where its pretty much 90% loud beats with almost little to no lyrics. Gosh those songs are overrated. Listen to them 2-3 times and you get sick of it already. And I haven't even touched on the auto-tune they rely on to make them sound err...sound non-human? Thank goodness for the iPod.

Such A Beautiful Song

2011-03-14T11:43:00.000-05:00

I have to thank a good friend for suggesting this to me. This cover version is by Boyce Avenue. Check em' out!

Desktop

2011-03-13T11:01:00.002-05:00

Inspired by the photographs I took of the cats I decided to get creative and make a new desktop background. Now I see them every time log on to my lappy. It makes me happy.

:D

Updates

2011-03-12T11:11:00.005-06:00

I kept myself busy by assembling this. It was supposed to be the work of my younger siblings, but they gave up after assembling the head. The reason? They did not understand the instructions. Well, I must say, they do have a point. I too had (a little) trouble assembling this. But in the end it was worth it. It took the whole of last weekend, but only because I was out for half of Saturday. I have to say it looks pretty cool no? I quite like assembling things like this. It keeps my mind working and plus it keeps me productive.

Besides that, I have been driving a lot lately. I think more than I would when I still had classes. Mom hardly ever drives when I am in the car and now, dad has been doing the same too. It’s not that I don’t like driving, but sometimes, I like being the passenger too. Especially when driving about in dad’s car and the destination is KL. I mean the traffic is ridiculous there and I haven’t even mentioned the motorcycles. It’s like they seem to have a license to do all sorts of crazy on the (narrow) roads of KL. Simply put, driving around KL is nerve-wracking. Traffic + crazy motorcyclists + driving dad's car = recipe for a nervous breakdown. Heh, just kidding. But seriously, traffic in KL = RIDICULOUS.

Other than that, my life has been, err, rather boring. Next week my younger siblings are off from school for a week. Let's hope dad brings us somewhere. I want to see a place other than our neighborhood on this hill. Quite seriously, it's getting to a point where I really wished I was actually in college. Dear September, please come soon. Thank you.

Snapshots

2011-03-11T10:23:00.019-06:00

I have been experimenting with my 550D lately. Here are some pictures for you guys to check out. No, I am no professional, but I kind of like how the pictures turned out. Liking the monochrome effect. It gives the picture this classic vibe which I quite like. And yes, they are all cats of the family. I love them to bits.

That's all for now. Till next time.

:)

The Truth

2011-03-10T10:23:00.009-06:00

January this year was awful for me. It was the time where I sort of saw all the hope and dreams I had built crash just cause of one minor issue. I have no idea why my VISA was issued to me later than I had anticipated, but to me, it was frustrating. Everyone told me that they felt sorry for me blah blah blah, but ultimately, they had no idea how I felt. I kept this bottled up in me for quite a while, and I feel like now is the right time to tell my story.

As I prepared myself for the upcoming months, I did not know what to do. I had no purpose. I had no motivation. Hence, in January I became a complete couch potato. I watched TV day and night and I was slowly losing hope. Heck, I even forced myself to watch shows I did not enjoy due to the lack of a better TV show. Mom and dad told me to go out and look for a job, but quite frankly I wasn’t ready for that last January. I seriously needed time for myself. Time for me to get over the frustration I felt. Time alone. Period. As the month went by, I saw that my fitness level plunged to an all-time low. I became lethargic every other afternoon; hence afternoon naps became a formality. I did not like it. But I did not want to do anything about it either.

When February came, I decided to change my habits. I decided to start working on improving my fitness level by doing light exercises. I found out that it was actually good for me as I noticed my fitness level improve significantly. Besides helping me physically, it helped me mentally. I channeled all my frustration and anger to my exercise regimen. It seemed like the perfect distraction for me and slowly, I started to like it. Now I do a light workout every weekday just to pass my time. On the bright side, afternoon naps are now a thing of the past. Besides this, I also started to go out again. Of course as most friends are either in The States or in a local university, outings with the family became frequent. I realized that there was so much that I was missing out on while I was in my phase last January. I realized that this is also one way of God telling me to spend more quality time with my family. And quite frankly, I like it. My family is the most important thing in my life and I love them to bits. In fact, they were the ones who helped me through one of the lowest times of my life and got me back on my feet. So, I owe them big time.

Now I feel much better than I did before but I still wonder about why He did not let me fly off to The States yet. Of course I am still a little disappointed, but I know everything happens for a reason and I am positive that this was for the better. Currently, I am still at home, unemployed, and enjoying every second of every day I have with my family. Cause I know that day will come when I fly off to start a new journey and I will miss them like crazy. So for now, I guess I shall explore the wonders of the kitchen and experiment on new recipes, spend quality time with the family and maintain relationships with friends near and far (THANK GOODNESS FOR SKYPE!). And I’ll do all this while I wait for Fall to come so I can finally start my new ventures in The USA at long last.

Friendship

2011-03-09T19:00:00.004-06:00

Does it make me a bad person if I do not put as much effort in keeping in touch with my friends? Not that I have actually been discarding my contacts like pieces of trash, but do you know how frustrating it feels when it seems like you are the only one trying? I have been through this numerous times and I have to say it sort of feels desperate when out of the blue, I email them or post on their facebook walls. Have you ever been in this situation before? Of course you may think that it doesn’t matter cause as long as the relationship is maintained but what sort of friendship will that be classified as? At times I am saddened by this, but I guess that’s the way we are and that’s how life is. Like François de la Rochefoucauld once said “the only constant in life is change.” And I guess we’ll be living like this till the end of time. But despite all this, I am thankful for those friends of mine who have been there for me when I need them. And in the end you guys are the ones that matter most. You know who you are.

Umbrella Beach

2011-03-09T13:30:00.001-06:00

I quite like this remix of Owl City's song Umbrella Beach.

Cookies!

2011-03-09T09:31:00.000-06:00

I baked some cookies a few weeks ago and I gotta say it was a success. Oh and I made em' with M&Ms cause that's the way I roll. & yes, they were delicious.

Hello Folks

2011-03-07T08:54:00.001-06:00

I viewed my blog today after a week to see that the combined updates of my friend’s blogs make sense as a whole sentence. If combined, it reads: March is here, bored to death huzzah! Weather sucks. OK that was two sentences but I ROFLMAO when I noticed this. OK, not so funny but at least I was amused.

Friends

2011-02-27T09:03:00.001-06:00

It's the little things that can put a smile on your face.

:)

I Am Number Twenty-Three

2011-02-26T10:31:00.002-06:00

I just got home from watching this movie. I guess I have to say it surpassed all my expectations by actually being quite good. There was a little bit of suspense, comedy and action in it. Although not a big fan of sci-fi alien business, I must say after watching this movie, I wonder how it would be like to have the types of powers they (in the movie) posses. I mean wouldn't it be cool? Of course it wouldn't be humanly possible to do so, but think about it, possessing powers only you have. This is why this post is named 'I Am Number Twenty-Three', as I would like to be the 23rd creature/mutant/alien/being. Plus, 23 seems like the perfect number for me.

ps// I reckon that if you have absolutely nothing to do this weekend and craving for a movie, go and watch this one. It may surprise you.

Life

2011-02-25T23:05:00.001-06:00

When you reflect upon your life, and reminisce about the past, I’m sure there would be tears of happiness, sadness and everything in between. You may think, ‘wow, I’ve come a long way from my middle-school-geek ways’ or perhaps even go all emotional and think ‘where’d those good times go’. Whichever way it may be, I think that you should be thankful for the life you have. Like the saying goes, we only live once so make the most out of it. Of course I believe expressing yourself is OK by all means, but we all have to think that whatever tragedy that you’ve been through, you must pick yourself back up from the ground and leap further ahead. I know that it’s easier said than done, but even when the worse seems to strike you, the world doesn’t stop to grief with you, heck, time waits for no man right? So stop being all emotional and put yourself out there. You may discover the wonders of life that you may never have felt before. Go and get some inspiration. Go and have some fun. Go and be productive, caspisce?

Inspiration

2011-02-24T12:19:00.000-06:00

I think I need some inspiration. Cause life here in Malaysia has been less than inspiring. Gosh, I am counting on the days when I leave, FINALLY.

Sing!

2011-02-16T12:12:00.000-06:00

I have to say I fell in love with this song when My Chemical Romance's Danger Days: The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys album was launched. It is so inspiring! And when Glee sang it in this week's episode I was in awe. I think it's one of Glee's best cover yet. Period.

To Work, Or Not To Work, That Is The Question

2011-02-08T09:23:00.000-06:00

I kind of wished I was in the US already. My parent's are urging me to get a part time job. But to tell you the truth, I have no intention of working...YET. It makes me sad that as every day that goes by, I have to ponder on what on earth I will be doing for the next few months of my life. It is true I do not want to rot on the sofa upstairs, but I have no will to actually find a job. Everyday I am reminded by mom to go and ask around the shops in the neighborhood. I'm like 'OK' but then 5 minutes later, I'm on my laptop playing Tycoon City - New York. I know it's a relatively old game, but I am hooked to tell you the truth. And the graphics on my Alienware is superb so it's a plus. Come to think of it, its actually the first game I every played on my system. Am I turning into a gamer? Ewww. Hopefully not. I have no idea how this week will go but to tell you the truth the prospect of me looking for a job is at an all time low. I'd rather sit on the couch and play Tycoon City or read my book, 'The Girl Who Kicked The Hornets Nest', the last of the Millennium Trilogy by Stieg Larsson. I told myself I am so going to read the books before the movie comes out later this year. So I wonder how tomorrow turns out. Any suggestions for a part time job?

ps// I need to plan a Skype session with my friends in The US really bad. They almost always seem to fail. Sigh. :/

Super Bowl Ads

2011-02-07T08:21:00.000-06:00

These are my faves. :D

Doritos®

Snickers®

Pepsi MAX®

Volkswagen Passat

Chevrolet Camaro

Perfect

2011-02-07T07:51:00.000-06:00

"You are perfect to me." Yes, you are.

Whoa

2011-02-07T07:44:00.001-06:00

For the longest time, I thought Greyson Chance was a girl. No kidding. I mean I usually hear this song on the airwaves but never in my life would I think this powerful voice came from a (really) young dude! But anyway I kind of like this song. Listen to the lyrics.

Hopes & Dreams

2011-02-04T11:18:00.000-06:00

This is my first official post of the year. It was not because I decided to kill my blog yet again. It was more because I had so many things going through my head. First and foremost, I was not able to make it for the Spring 2011 session at U Minn. It's all because my VISA wasn't approved in time. As much as I would have wanted to leave already, I guess things don't always happen the way you want it to. It sucks, for me and I am trying my best to keep busy. I guess I'll get a part time job. Wanted to do an internship but that would actually be inconvenient for me. First of all the company(ies) are way in KL. I live in the middle of suburbia. Oh and did I say public transportation here is very ermm...OK I'll just leave it as that. I haven't really been trying to find myself a job yet cause I really don't feel like it. But I guess I should start soon and find something near (home) before I die due to my nonproductive days sitting in front of the TV working my way to become a certified couch potato. Sigh. Cheers to another 5.5 months of waiting to fly off (NOT).

ps// Did I tell you how much I miss my friends? :(

Uncertainty

2010-12-27T09:07:00.000-06:00

This uncertainty of my VISA getting approved in time is KILING ME! I have my flight to book. My temporary place to stay in Minneapolis to book. Like so much! I have options for the flight though. I plan to leave on the 5th Jan. I hope it works out cause the flight plan is awesome! Only 1 stop before I arrive my destination. Oh and I still need to pack. And deal with MARA (my sponsor). Hmm, I hope I can make it through the week.

Fireworks

2010-12-20T09:10:00.006-06:00

As I look back at everything that happened this year, I must say that I truly had a blast. 2010 came and went in a flash and that is clear indication that I had a great time. I must say this year was definitely one for the books. So this post I dedicate to the things that was most memorable for me this year. Yes its going to be filled with nostalgia so brace yourselves.

1. Meeting Kris Allen. This was unbelievable. It all started thanks to this wonderful friend of mine I dub Lady One. It was the grand prize of a contest and I entered it 20 minutes before the deadline. Some may call it luck, but I think it was divine intervention. When I received the text that indicated that I won, I couldn't believe it! Mahaguru was the person I thought who would love to go (as Lady One couldn't make it) and I think he too was excited! Of course we were exited. LIKE DUUUUH, it's Kris Allen for Heavens sake! And out of all the idols, he appeals to me the most. Say what you want about him but it won't change my perception of him.

2. Singapore with 'The Gang'. A spur of the moment idea that turned out to be one of the most memorable trips ever. Like seriously. It was the night were we all went out and while waiting for my transportation to pick me up, Dre, Iki and I discussed some things we could actually do for the summer break. Lo and behold Singapore was one of the ideas and I went on organizing the trip. I believe it was a major success, form the pretty decent cheap hotel to the transport and most of all the splendid time spent with remarkable friends. I couldn't ask for any people more suited to spend the trip with. I think we all did have a grand time and will all cherish the memories we had there.

3. Speech Class. To tell you the truth, THE ONLY class I actually enjoyed throughout my Fall semester. No offense to history, American government and Statistics, but speech was a class to let loose. It was a chilling class that I truly enjoyed doing. Ms. Anna made the class enjoyable for the most part and all the doubts I had with speech just went out the window after the 2nd or 3rd class. Also the great people I spent time with in the class, Hui Xian and Olivia made things just much more sweeter. Thanks guys, it was a blast.

4. Got accepted into University of Minnesota - Twin Cities. Honestly, I wasn't too sure bout this one at first. But after UW Madison rejected me, I felt like I had no choice but to like it. So I did research on Minneapolis and my perception towards it changed. Minneapolis is such a beautiful city! Another plus is the presence of The Mall of America! The campus too isn't half as bad and their School of Engineering is pretty good. So yes, I was disappointed of not getting in my first choice, but everything happens for a reason and I and looking at the positive side of things. So I shall see you in a bit Minnesota!

5. Kept extraordinary friendships in tact + made new ones. Ever since dear college friends left (Lady One, Mahaguru, Dre, Sam, etc) left, ADP was never the same anymore. It was different I tell you. Thankfully awesome friends like Hui Xian (lunch buddy!), Olivia, & Iki was there. I cannot thank them enough you know. Hui Xian, if you are reading this I do not think I would have made it through Fall cause seriously you were my go-to lepak buddy. Olivia, what more can I say? Your radiant smile just brightens the room, anywhere, anytime. Iki, you are just, simply awesome. Also not the be forgotten those beloved friends in The States. I think we have a good thing going on here with us constantly contacting each other. Spring break we MUST meet FTW! Like seriously it's been too long since I saw/heard your voices! I know my Skype sessions fail big time, but blame it on the Internet. I can't do anything if its that which is holding me back. So, guys, I shall see you in a few months OK? I shall be there (on American soil) in a few weeks!

6. Had a remarkable birthday celebration - 3 of them in fact. I had a great time celebrating my big 2-0 with beloved family and friends. First was the usual dad-son celebration cause my dad and I have birthdays only a day apart. We did it at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. this year and it was my first time dining there. Food was splendid, service was great but what really stood out was the time they sang the birthday song. My dad and I were made to stand on chairs and were made to goof off on them! Goodness it was rather embarrassing but I guess I didn't mind cause they were celebrating my dad and I. Next was dinner with the best-est friend Syaz. Knew her since I was 13 and wouldn't do anything to destroy what we have now. Dinner was great and was on her (like I know I'm the guy and all but she insisted)! I will miss the great times we had once I am in The States. Next was Chili's with the Fall Gang. It was so nice of them to actually treat me for my birthday. This year I seriously didn't really want any celebrations but instead I got 3. So thanks to all who made it so memorable.

7. The road to Minnesota. I have to say, applying to American universities can be painful! But after a whole bunch of documents, brain frying and not to mention hundreds of Ringgit used to post the applications, I got in 2 out of 4 of the universities I applied to. Pittsburgh would have been an option if only my TOEFL scores arrived on time. Thank you ETS. Syracuse just didn't seem like the right fit after I re-researched on the university. So I settled with Minnesota and as stated just now, I think I'll be fine. Oh and before I forget the VISA application process too was ridiculous but I guess it is all worth it. So what do I think is the best part of all this? The shopping. I just love to buy stuff. Its rather therapeutic for me and I like it. I still am shopping for stuff as I type this but trust me all the packing will be done on time. I have no choice really. Oh and in relation to my previous post, I will be getting the coat. I really have no other choice.

8. Peppercorn Cafe. What can I say? This super cozy restaurant offers great food and warm service. Sessions here were frequent during Lady One's time and I miss them dearly. We usually went here when we needed to wait for Microeconomics class and most of the time was filled with meaningful chatter. We shall meet again soon Lady One. I know so! But till then we shall continue contacting each other via FB and or MSN.

9. Cooking. Yeah I never thought I would (cook) but I guess this was like a do or die kind of thing. I was inspired by those cooking shows they have on Astro's channel 706 and so I tried some recipes. The first thing I ever made were grilled chicken breasts and I have to say they were pretty good! That was a simple dish alright but hey I am learning. I hope to enhance my culinary skills through the years. I know I shall be doing a lot of it once I am alone. So who said guys can't cook? In relation to cooking, I think I am hooked to reality cooking shows. Top Chef is great and even MasterChef US is fun to watch. Haha!

10. Completing my ADP at Taylor's. Yes guys, I did. I have to say it is bittersweet cause I cannot believe 2 years passed already. Was it all the fun that I had? Or was it cause of the schedule that kept me busy all the time? Either way I must say ADP was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Despite quite a few people who disagree with me taking this degree or showed slight displeasure, I have to say this, I plan my life and I want to live it the way I please. I am here to make myself proud and my family proud so just accept it. I am setting the family bar as the first person ever in the whole family to fly off to study, so have faith in me and support me at least. Now that's out of the way, ADP was a platform for meeting so many people that I have come to care dearly for. Though near or far, I love them to death. May all of you guys succeed in life and have a blast in the US of A! We shall meet up once we're there OK! I am excited!

So, 2010 was quite a year. Though there were those times where I just couldn't take it anymore, I persevered. Soon, I will be on my way for even more new adventures in life. Am I excited? Yes. Am I happy? Yes. Am I nervous? Heck yeah! Will I be missing my family back home? Most definitely. But that is life. We have to move on despite the challenges we face. Even if we are hit with the toughest challenge that makes us crumble and fall, we gotta get back up and put the pieces back together. I am anxious to know what awaits me in the US next year. Hopefully more sweet memories for me to cherish for the rest of my life.

Yay or Nay?

2010-12-19T04:26:00.001-06:00

Some help people, please? Should I or should I not? This is the best I could find. Looking for (a decent) Winter coat in Malaysia is like looking for a needle in a haystack. And no, I haven't made the purchase yet.

Sjfrewqigrevfsda!

2010-12-09T11:17:00.000-06:00

Holy Canoly, I have so many things to do before I leave. Help me God!

D:

Blue

2010-12-06T10:48:00.000-06:00

The reality of me leaving to Minnesota soon is slowly seeping in. I thought I was going to be OK, but I don't think I am. Man, this sucks.

:(

Live It Up

2010-11-29T09:25:00.000-06:00

This is another American Idol related post. So if you are no fan of the show, go away, NOW. Last season's AI was mediocre at most. But, still there were standouts. Last season, I was definitely Lee Dewyze FTW! He has that raspy voice which is really nice to listen to. Plus he seems like a really humble person so that's a plus. I think I may have a trend to become a fan of those I see as 'humble' and of course talented of course. So in commemoration with Lee's album released recently, I am dedicating this post to him.

Take a listen to his album. I personally think its great! He co-wrote a lot of his songs just like another American Idol we all know.

Because I am a fan of...

2010-11-27T09:10:00.000-06:00

Kris Allen.

Enjoy!

The Verdict is in...

2010-11-22T01:01:00.000-06:00

And I will be calling Minneapolis my home away from home from 2011 onwards.Minneapolis is a beautiful city and I am actually excited to head there. Rated among the top 10 least stressful & safest places in America, what more can I ask for?

I will be headed to University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and I am anxious to know what awaits me there. Will the people be nice to me? Will I manage to make new friends? Will I be able to cope with the university life? Hopefully so. Yesterday was an extremely disappointing day after learning that my dream school rejected my application. But I understand that everything happens for a reason and I today I started a fresh new page and took my dream school out of my consideration. I know that God has a plan. Besides, Minnesota is a place I have yet been to in The States, so that will be great too! I can't wait!

And to those who were extremely concerned bout me yesterday, thank you s much for your support. I appreciate every single bit of it. You guys are the best friends I could every wish for.

THANK YOU!

The Final Piece of the Puzzle

2010-11-20T20:46:00.000-06:00

Today, yes, today on this beautiful morning of November 21, I received the final piece of my 'admissions notifications' puzzle. Yes, UW Madison, finally replied me and their answer was: NO. This news is devastating for me as it was my dream school since two years ago. However they say that their Mechanical Engineering program is very competitive and my CGPA of 3.51 just didn't cut it. I don't necessarily take this news easily. But I will have to put my head up, smile and move forward. I am thankful for U Minnesota Twin-Cities and Syracuse University University to have accept me, but still that's just...second best. Man this is no fun at all. I am still trying to digest this news, cause I had rather high hopes for this school. But still like I said, I need to move forward. I gotta learn to let go and accept what's already given to me. Yeah, I know I will, but maybe not immediately.

Hence, this is the perfect song for my mood at the moment:

:'((((

ps// Happy 51st birthday papa! May Allah bless you with many more birthdays to come! :)

And So I made it Through Hell Week...

2010-11-19T07:30:00.000-06:00

Yes, indeed I did, all in one piece thankfully. After all the long hours and the times I even contemplated skipping class, I am here, alive and well. So, here are some things that I learned this week:

1. NEVER, I MEAN NEVER, ever procrastinate on your history research paper that you were given two months to work on. This may prove to be unhealthy.

2. When you're down in the dumps, visit this link. Trust me it got me cracking like crazy. But make sure you visit with an OPEN ♥.

3. Smile always, cause if it's one thing you DON'T want people you love to know is that you are having a tough time and troubled. Note to self, make sure you do express yourself to whoever you can trust though. It ain't good to bottle it all up. It will eat you alive.

4. Facebook is addictive. 'Nuff said.

5. I ♥ my family. I will miss them dearly when I fly off in less than 2 months.

6. Always believe in yourself. :)

7. I miss my friends, near and far.

So, basically that's most of what I learned this week. I'm sure there is so much more to learn and so much more room for me to grow. I believe that. But till then, have a good weekend everyone.

:D

The Little Things

2010-11-12T09:49:00.001-06:00

This week:

1. I revived my blog from the wrath of err...being deleted? Meh. But hey, I am happy I didn't. :)

2. Went to lunch with 2 important friends of mine at the 'navigation preset'. I was more than happy cause I do not even remember the last time I actually had a meal with them.

3. Went through my second last speech of the semester feeling good about it, well, at least better than how I felt in my previous speech so that's good.

4. Had ONE canceled class, but TWO replacement classes. THAT. AINT. FAIR. O_____O

5. Got a phone call. This ain't any sort of call, but a call that made you feel like you were dreaming. The said person on the other end of the line is a dearly missed friend of mine currently on the OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD. Yes, the call TOTALLY made my day. Zhank yewwwww! :D

6. Listened to an unhealthy amount of emo songs cause yes, I was emo. @_____@

7. Checked my inbox so frequently, that I thought I had OCD. This is what waiting for university replies do to a person like me. But still no luck in getting any replies from 2 more unis I applied to. Looks like I shall be headed to my 2nd choice uni after all huh?

8. Had a dream that I met Kris Allen again, of course with my partner in crime, The Mahaguru. I seriously would relive THAT DAY again. ;)

Overall though, the week has been good. Will be hoping for another good one next week. :)

Changing Times

2010-11-10T06:58:00.003-06:00

These past couple of months I have to say weren't the easiest for me. Too many of my dear friends left this country off to another to find new adventures for themselves. I am utmost happy for them, truly I am. But, if only things were different. If only we all got to attend similar schools. If only we could see each other just once more. Cause if it's one thing I know, I really do miss them. I miss the usual brunches. I miss the usual lepaking. I miss the usual chattering. I miss the movies. Oh I do miss the movies. I miss the outings. But most of all I really miss them. Seeing their faces everyday in class just puts a smile on my face everyday without fail. It is not that I am saying that I have not moved on with my life, no, my life did go on. But part of me will always want things to go back to where they were. I want to have those good times again. I want to SEE them again. Oh truly I do. Why does the world seem so unfair now? But hey, I am happy for them and actually excited for their new adventures in the states. As for me? I have been living. I have made new chat buddies. Made a new regular brunch buddy. Made new experiences. Most of all though, I've made memorable experiences in my last semester here in ADP. It's the little things that I see now. Those moments conversation starts on the 6th floor computer room. Or perhaps those motivating chats we have moments before our speech presentations. I really do cherish those now. Cause I have to remind myself, those dear friends I shall meet soon enough, so I will have to cherish these moments with what I have now. There are several notable people that do give me a reason to go to college nowadays and things weren't as though for me as they were say, in September. So, overall, I am doing so much better now. I just cannot wait for what is in store for me in The States next year. I hope all goes well.

ps// Just so you know, "Meet up with 'The Gang' in The States" is at the top of my to-do-list right now.

Off

2010-07-23T08:36:00.003-05:00

I shall be away from blogger for a while. I have no time. I do not plan to delete this. So I shall return to it when I do. But like anyone cares right? Hehe, till next time. Bye!

:)

Happy 4th Of July!

2010-07-04T04:29:00.002-05:00

HAPPY 234th BIRTHDAY TO THE COUNTRY I GREW UP IN.

:)

Impossible Is Nothing

2010-06-27T06:15:00.002-05:00

Well, another one of my masterpieces for you guys. It's a buffalo I suppose? Anyway, come next week, I will have a lot on my plate. A presentation and a test to live through. Hopefully I will do well for both as I do not like to fail. I guess no one likes to fail. But like the Adidas motto

'Impossible Is Nothing'.

And sure if there's a will, there's a way right? So, I'm gonna go to college next week, put my head held high, get through both presentation and test and hopefully come out with a limb (or two) to spare (just kidding). Well, really, I hope I ace both of em'. To all readers of mine (if any), have a great week ahead. And remember, be happy.

:)

On Cloud Nine

2010-06-25T21:40:00.002-05:00

It was a beautiful day yesterday. A little gloomy but what was beautiful about it was that it was cool, as in temperature wise. For Malaysia, cool isn't even close to possible if one is on the lower grounds, but yesterday was perfect. To add on to the beautiful day was the fact that it was Friday. I absolutely love Fridays. Wanna know why? Well, this semester my Friday schedule (for college) ends at 9.15am. So, I zoom back home straight after class (since there's practically nothing to do on college grounds) and am back home by 9.30am. Seems like I barely missed the day yet, right? Funny thing is, I bumped into a friend while walking to the car and she's like "what are you doing now?" and I'm like "I'm going home." The look on her face was priceless (filled with jealousy and disbelief) as she gazed out (for a bit) and probably thought about how lucky I am to finish so early and she has to be stuck in college with one more class to go. ;)

The great day continued back home later that night when I logged on to my Facebook account to find out a dear friend of mine from Germany was also logged on. We chatted for about an hour before I had to leave for dinner. The chat was great. It reminded me of how much I miss those times in Wisconsin and how I am almost desperate to go back and meet all the people I've met during my AFS experience. She told me about the souvenir I gave her which was a Malaysian RM1 note and how she has kept it in her purse since she got it from me. It was quite flattering to know how a friend that I last met 2 years ago keeps those little things for remembrance. She told me that everyday when she opens her purse to pay for things, the RM1 is the first thing she'll see and it would remind her of the ~~good~~ amazing times we shared together both as exchange students. I miss her dearly and and vow to meet her again in the future. Same goes to the other AFSers who have been dear friends of mine. :)

Moving on to today. I was a tad nervous at first as it's the day I would receive the result of a certain test I took 2 weeks ago. I honestly did not want to check it. Scared of failure if you ask me. But I still had to. Face reality. And in the end, it was not as bad as I expected it to be. I and thankful. I am grateful. Thank God I surpassed my expectations and I owe it all to Him. :)

Art

2010-06-25T06:10:00.003-05:00

I ♥♥♥ art. It's another side of me perhaps many wouldn't know about. Like say that parrot up there. I did it out of boredom, during my student helper gig at Taylor's. Yes, this is the only evidence of this masterpiece as I scribbled it on the whiteboard. I hadn't planned it to be that way, but it just happened. I like it though. And I have to say, I impressed even myself. Hehe. Anyway, I don't want to sound more self-indulgent than I already do sound so I shall end here. Till next time people!

Ps// I think I work best under pressure. Like last semester was gila (crazy), but it was the semester where I performed at my ultimate high. Interesting, but it's NOT healthy.

Random

2010-06-21T10:53:00.002-05:00

A shot off my 550D

I ♥♥♥ it (the camera).

:)

Summer Is Supposed To Be Fun

2010-06-17T20:28:00.005-05:00

But why am I not having any? This makes me sad.

:(

Hello

2010-06-17T10:51:00.002-05:00

I'm so tired all the time. I think I need to get myself checked up. Hope everything's OK though. Am really scared of the thought of having some creepy life-threatening disease or life-complicating illness. Let's pray to God that I'm just tired from college. Yeah. Hope it's nothing.

Current

2010-06-14T00:16:00.003-05:00

Well, currently I'm working on a project. Will debut it soon. Hold on to your horses yeah. Have been laughing non stop since starting. :)

Ps// I am still laughing! XD

Can we?

2010-06-13T10:42:00.003-05:00

'Can we pretend that airplanes
In the night sky
Are like shooting stars
I could really use a wish right now (wish right now, wish right now)'

Can we? Cause' I so do need a wish (two, no three to be exact).
Hi, guys, GUESS WHAT, I'm BACK!
:)

And So I Gave Up...

2010-03-17T11:55:00.000-05:00

...on blogging for a while. It has come to my attention that I sort of completely disappeared from this blogging world. Not that I didn't want to blog, I just had no more creative juices in me to actually write. Well, this isn't entirely true as I DID write, just not on here. All my ranting and frustration went in a book so secret, not even I know of it. Heh this doesn't even make sense but yeah. That being said, DON'T expect me to bring it for show and tell yeah? It's is exclusively for MY eyes and writing only.

These past couple of weeks have been a tad bit hectic for me to practically do ANYTHING fun related. Pathetic as it sounds but this is a fact. Why you may ask? College for the most part. This semester proved to be perhaps the most tiring, mentally draining and energy wearing of all semesters I have been through. I thought this semester would go simply by with minimal assignments and projects but BOY WAS I WRONG. Just yesterday (March 17) I lived perhaps what may have been the most hectic college day yet!

8.00am - 9.00am: Calculus
10.00am - 11.00am: Microeconomics
11.00am - 12.00pm: Interpersonal Communications
12.00pm - 1.30pm: Malaysian Studies
2.00pm - 3.30pm: Physics Lab
3.30pm - 5.00pm: Microeconomics mid terms.

Oh My God. Wouldn't you just die if that was you? Honestly I felt like skipping all classes and going only for the test yesterday. But of course guilt took over me and I went to all classes BUT Malaysian Studies. I think it was a great choice because honestly I was almost brain dead by the time I started the mid terms. If I had went to that class, I would have probably fainted on the street (between The Business School and Subang Square) and get run over by a truck, cab, car, AND motorcycle and end up like that poor grandma who died last year trying to cross the road and was split into 10 different pieces. Ewww. -.-

So do you get why I don't get on here as much as I used to? Anyway, I am thankful that yesterday has come and past, and just by going through it, I regained 2% of my sanity. This is an event so epic I must celebrate. (fake)Champagne anyone? BUT WAIT no time to celebrate yet, there are megatonazillion (if there is such word) things left to do!

COMM paper 1
COMM paper 2
COMM presentation 3
COMM group poster
COMM group poster presentation
Microecons cooking fest
Microecons cooking fest report
Calculus midterms
Calculus quizzes which will be on every Friday from now on so that's S-I-X more quizzes! -.-
Physics test 3
Physics project
Malaysian Studies movie
COMM finals
Micrecons finals
Physics finals
Calculus finals
Malaysian Studies finals

And after all this is complete, I have reason to rejoice as the semester will officially be O-V-E-R. This is something I am anticipating so much as I seriously need a break. However, how I will get through these last grueling weeks of college is anyone's guess. I hope I can make it through though. Sigh.

Mood: Tired + relieved

The Day I Met An American Idol

2010-02-12T09:44:00.001-06:00

I was completely ecstatic when I saw the name list. What name list may you ask? Well, it was the contest coordinator's list and on it were the winners of ASTRO's Kris Allen's showcase passes contest. The grand prize? On top of the showcase passes, a pair of meet and greet passes, post-show. Awesome? Yeah, totally. So did I win the grand prize? YES!

The stage was set for the autograph session. I was a tad late for that but oh well, I was more content with the meet & greet passes I won. Oh yeah not to forget, I have to thank a good friend for that. If she never told me about it, meeting Kris Allen would still be, just a dream. Thank you so much. You know who you are. :)

First glimpse of the American Idol himself. He seemed quite cool, immediately greeting the roaring crowd upon stepping on stage. 200++ autographs were signed in 35 minutes. Quite an amazing feat. I guess Kris needed to prepare for the coming show and also have err, dinner? I have no idea. But, I couldn't wait. Especially for the meet and greet. I wonder how amazing it would be.

JJ & Ean entertained the crowd while Kris was preparing backstage. "WE WANT KRIS! WE WANT KRIS!" we all scream out loud. JJ said Kris will come out only if we were loud enough. If it was loud that he wanted, we gave him loud alright. I swear the walls were shaking from the roar of the crowd.

The show started with a bang. He sang Heartless/Gangster Paradise first. IMO, it was amazing. Kris has such an amazing voice. You thought his voice was great on the radio? It's even better live!

There was this moment when I blurted out "Kris Allen, you're awesome!" At that time, the room was silent. Kris was to start another song. Oh shoot. What did I get myself into?! He paused for a while, smiled and said "You're awesome too!" I was shocked. Did he just reply my shout out?! I was quite happy he heard it! But trust me, it was an impulsive reflex of mine I couldn't contain. Don't worry though, at least I didn't make a fool of myself. :)

To all those who think Kris is a snooze fest have you seen him perform? Wow, he knows how to work the crowd alright! And this coming from him, fresh out of Idol last year! He learned a lot from the experience I guess. And he learned for the better. He sings songs with such passion and such pride, we totally feel the emotions he tries to bring into them. And look at the way he strums the guitar! He really feels it! Oh and did you know, there was one point where he CROWD SURFED?! Are you kidding me? CROWD SURF?! How cool is that?!

Kris seemed really happy to perform here in KL. "I'll be back here again for sure," he said. If the time is right and I hadn't flown to the states yet, I shall definitely go. Oh, and when I'm in the states, I'll definitely go too!

Kris and his best mate Cale. Don't even ask why or how I even remember his name, as I am puzzled myself. Maybe because Cale is quite a cool name. Haha! Oh and this picture is just way too cool. I just wished it was a little sharper though.

This was the meet & greet session. As starstruck as I was, I managed to utter a few words to him anyway. I introduced myself and asked how he was. With a puzzled look (perhaps because of my name) he replied with a 'fine thank you'. Kris isn't really tall in real life. I remember standing at eye level with him. So even if he was taller than me, it wouldn't be that apparent. Having said that, after the introduction, I froze. He looked at me and had a worried look on his face (as if I was going to faint Kris! LOL). Then the organisers said OKOK, photo time! So they took the photo, as we couldn't do so with our own clickers. After a couple snapshots and an awkward cheer, it was time to go.

Before I left though, I made it a must to say the things I wanted to say to him. So I did. "Kris, you're amazing you know that. You should come back here sometime," I said. "Aww, thanks man. You guys are amazing too," he replied. "Well...," I only manage to say that as the girls were all over him and pushed me out of the way. I wasn't long before we all were literally ushered out of the room as another group was to do the same thing we did. The night was then over. I left with a heavy heart as I knew reality would kick in any moment now and I would have to get back to my routine schedule. But I had a blast that night. A night I will probably cherish for years to come. Now, who's up for a Kris & Adam concert? I'm sure it would be epic. How I dream of this to become a reality. :)

---

I think Kris had an amazing time here in KL. I wished the 'fans' were more in the know about his songs though. I was, of course singing along to each and every one of them but I can't say the same to the rest of the crowd. They went all the way up front but most of them didn't seem bothered to even sing along. Gosh, I guess they just went because they were captivated by his charming looks. Eugh, they just wasted other people's opportunity to go and catch their idol just by doing so. Unfair huh?

Oh and there was even this uncle who came to protect his pure daughter. I mean the thought of it is fine, but when he started to push me away, I got really pissed. I mean, a show without any pushing and shoving?! We're watching Kris Allen for heaven's sake, not Barney The Dinosaur, in concert! I reckon that uncle should have brought himself and his daughter to one of those. Perhaps he will be more content. Oh and to add on to the rudeness, HE COVERED HIS EARS THROUGHOUT THE PERFORMANCE. How effing rude is that! To make matters worse, he was up front and towered among the others in the crowd! Eugh, imagine if you were up there on stage and saw people covering up their ears listening to you sing. Disrespectful no? Anyways, back to the push. I had my revenge. In what sense? Well, I screamed EVERY SINGLE WORD OF KRIS' SONGS IN HIS EARS. How's that for you-stay-behind-me-and-don't-touch-my-daughter, uncle? Serves you RIGHT. Hehe. Sorry for my ranting. I was truly infuriated.

Oh and just so you know, Kris' set list for that night was something like this:
1. Heartless/Gangster's Paradise ♥
2. Can't Stay Away ♥
3. Before We Come Undone ♥♥♥
4. The Truth ♥♥♥♥♥
5. Red Guitar ♥♥♥♥♥
6. Alright With Me ♥♥♥♥♥♥
7. Live Like We're Dying ♥♥♥♥♥♥
8. Is It Over ♥
9. Come Together (cover of The Beatles' song he sang during AI)

Ps// & yes I did take all the photos included in this post. Except for the last one of course. Oh and Kris is AMAZING. ♥♥♥ him. :)

Mood: Hyper

Saturday

2010-02-07T06:33:00.002-06:00

The weekend came and I was excited. Excited because is was a good friend's birthday weekend. Saturday started slow. I was sure I was going to be late for the 10am (supposedly) meeting at Subang Square. Of course I was going to be right? I left home at 10am. Little did I know it, I was dead wrong, I was EARLY! Everyone was running late. A friend just left home circa 10am, another friend got locked out of her OWN ROOM and another friend was MIA.

So, as soon as I reached I met up with friends who were already there and off we were to Mid Valley. I had a couple of things on my to-do list.

Update points at Topman. My previous card was spoiled and they recently mailed me my new one. Points received between the time the card got spoiled until I got a new one was easily updated with receipts I kept. Now I am RM300 away from my RM25 off voucher. Haha.
Collect a shopping voucher from Robinsons. How I adore the department store. Last year my dad bought a whole bunch of stuff there and I collected points off them with my membership card. Recently, mail arrived for me. One of them stated I had received a RM20 voucher for being such a good customer. Yeah.
Window shop for new shoes. I sort of want to spend my 'student helper' money by buying myself new shoes. I know RM120 isn't a lot, but that's like RM120 off the shoe I plan to buy, so technically, I won't spend as much right? Hehe.

After completing the tasks, it was time to indulge in some American goodness. TGI Friday's was where we headed for lunch. Food there was, as usual, large in all ways. Most of us didn't finish what was on our plate. I ordered a meal which came with an appetizer and entree. I figured the appetizer would be a nice 'appetizer portion', but boy I was wrong. The fried Mac & Cheese was huge! Well, at least for appetizers. It was scrumptious but very filling. Then came my chicken. Wow, it was a challenge I tell you. I only got to feast about two-thirds of the HALF CHICKEN served to me. It was just too much. After our meals, we chatted, laughed and there was a little bit of cam-whoring going on too.

Then came the part the birthday boy 'anticipated'. The birthday cake. He literally grew all red and started 'hating' us for what we did. After a little bit of (singing) Lady Gaga and a speech, we all sang the birthday song, followed by the trademark Friday's birthday song. Again, the friend continued with the 'I-hate-you-guys-but-deep-inside-I-love-you-guys-speech'. However, we know that he loves us anyway so he need not deny it. LOL.

Later we headed to the bowling alley for a planned bowling session. After finding out there was 25 names on the waiting list, we headed to Red Box Karaoke to check the prices. I guess because it was at The Gardens, it was a tad expensive. So it was a definite no-go. We were walking 'casually' (I was walking 'fast' according to others) until inspiration came and told us to stop at Baskin Robbins. I was totally game for ice-cream alright. So was birthday boy. After trying 5 different flavors, I decided to go with my all time fave, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough anyway. I think the dude serving me was like 'this kid tried out like 5 different flavors and he ordered a completely different one?! Sigh'. Oh well, customer rights correct? I can order anything I want to, as long as I pay for it. Then another surprise. The 'fight'. Well, not really. The birthday boy insisted on paying for his own scoop but I was like of course not! I almost tipped my ice-cream over and in the end, the cashier was the one who broke the 'bad' news to birthday boy saying, "I really need the RM10 bill as we don't have small change." I noticed I was the one holding the RM10 bill and happily I paid. Dre, was 'defeated'. LOL.

At the cafe we chatted bout the most random stuff from cars, Malaysia in general and even how a friend went to the petrol station, paid for petrol, but drove off instead. Aduii. The news was too hilarious that there was a moment of silence after the story finished. Of course our laughter broke the serenity. After a few more rounds at Mid Valley, we got bored and decided to play pool back at Subang Square. I got to play a game (which I lost) until my mom came to pick me up. The day was seemingly going to be a snooze after I reached home. It was 7.30pm when I finally reached home. Too lazy to be doing anything, I just sat on the couch and watched a little television. As usual, there was nothing good on.

*phone vibrates*
02.06.2010 20:20
'Congratulations, you are one of the winners for Meet & Greet for Kris Allen Live in KL contest from ASTRO. Please collect your tickets...'

I literally jumped up and down like a monkey. Wow! Really? ME? Just after writing about having 'bad karma' and how I will NEVER win contests, this happens to me. Well, it's perhaps the best first-time-winning-a-contest EVER! I am so happy and I thank a friend for telling me about the contest and of course ASTRO for picking my entry as a winning one!

So, tomorrow I shall be headed to Mid Valley again to catch Kris Allen live and hopefully meet him in person! I will definitely take photos like mad and hopefully I will get a photo with him too! Wish me luck!

Mood: Energetic

Stream Of Thoughts

2010-02-02T08:19:00.003-06:00

1. I think I am getting pudgy. As slim as I am, I kind of think so. I need to hit the gym, ASAP.

2. Kris Allen is coming to town if you haven't heard already. Of course it is an unofficial stop (who would have guessed?! -__-). As usual, EVERY artist seems to go south of the border. I guess Singapore is cooler? Hell yeah!

3. Which makes me think, I want to live in Singapore, you know, after I have gotten bored of the USA (like I will ever! Hah!).

4. My attention span nowadays are shorter than ever. Focus Faiz, focus.

5. I saw a blog one day which has the top 10 tattoo mishaps. #1? Of course, 'Beautiful Tragedy' spelled as 'Beautiful Tradgedy'. Oh the irony. LOL.

6. The workload of college is heaping, and I have a hunch it would be critical in the week after the Chinese New Year break.

7. I cannot screw up this semester. My applications depend on it.

8. I need to register for TOEFL. Damn. I keep forgetting.

9. I want to go to Kris Allen's showcase/concert/show so bad, just as much as I would love to have a retreat with friends, before they leave.

10. Oh, did I mention how bad I want to go to Kris Allen. Tickets, come to me. Please. I tried the Hitz.Fm thing, but as usual, I am just unlucky I guess. I never win contests. In fact, I don't think I will ever win any. Bad karma? FML.

11. I need more sleep. Sleep deprivation is no good.

12. I want to transfer to the States during fall with the others as well. Unfortunately, I haven't enough credit hours. Thank you MARA.

13. My #1 university of choice now is UW Madison, Wisconsin. It'll be a dream come true to go back there (Wisconsin). I miss Wisconsin, and the people.

14. Randomness post much? Yah. Oh well. Heh.

OK, enough of this post. Till next time.

Mood: Exhausted

Tired

2010-01-28T06:09:00.002-06:00

Has anyone noticed how long this week has been? It's driving me crazy. It seems like it never wants to end. Last week flew by in a blink of an eye, but why did it not happen again this week? Sigh. I want the weekend, BADLY. I know it's a day away but still. Oh well, I guess I'mma have to do 1 more day till the WEEKEND!

Mood: Optimistic

Glee

2010-01-24T08:22:00.004-06:00

When I first heard of this show a few months ago, I was like, are producers whack? Are they going out of their minds? What on earth? Another High School Musical? BUT, now its a weekly show? Oh boy, this would be interesting, I thought. You see, I despise anything High School Musical. Nope, I am not bias or anything like that, I watched it alright, but just didn't like it. To make matters worse, I had no idea what the purpose of the third installment was for to be honest.

Anyway, back to GLEE. When I first heard that Starworld was to be broadcasting it in January, I was like hmm, I shall give it a try and deliberate after. So I did watch the first episode (though months after it first debut in the states), and my thoughts? It's quite nice actually! Haha. In fact, I've been watching the show online now since I know I wouldn't have time to pluck my butt every Wednesday to watch a show. I have better things to do you know, ie: college related anything. So I give this show a thumbs up and if you ever want to give it a try, I think you may like it!

"Don't stop believin'

Hold on to that feelin'
Streetlight, people."

Mood: Content

Good Day

2010-01-22T09:12:00.001-06:00

Today was perhaps THE best day I had in weeks. Was a pretty productive one too. Began with the usual stuck-in-traffic-in-the-morning, always just making it in time for class and listening to class lectures. Basically, a typical morning. The fun really started after class. I had asked a few friends (Dre & Ikhsan) for a movie late last night and as impulsive as it may have sound, they were in. And so I was set. I really needed a movie. Been quite a while since I went without one.

So, after classes ended, I asked the friends if they wanted to go already, grab a bite at Pyramid. After a full 15 minutes of doing absolutely nothing standing in the hallways of ADP thinking what to do next, we left the 12th floor (about time we did!). We all left in one car (car pooling is the way of the future!). As usual, I called shotgun, waaaaaaaaay before 'someone else' did. I was actually willing to give my seat away but the 'kind soul' decided to be seated in the back anyway. Oh well. We arrived Pyramid the and found parking space without a hassle. We decided to watch Legion as it was the hype-of-the-moment movie and as soon as we got movie tickets, we headed straight for lunch. Nando's was my suggestion and we went with it. Nando's, satisfaction guaranteed! After that, I went with Ikhsan to the mosque opposite the road for Friday prayers. We sort of had to leave Dre alone but he decided to keep himself busy by doing what else, SHOPPING.

After prayers was done, we met up with Dre and headed for a store known for its quality wear to check out what's on sale. I found a PERFECT pair of jeans. Tried it on, but it wasn't my size. Was a tad snug (I ain't getting fat am I?!!!!!!). FML. I decided it wasn't wise to purchase it. Dre on the other hand spent almost 40 minutes trying to make his mind on whether to purchase the items he tried on. In the end, he purchased them. Oh boy, have I made my friends shopaholics? Hopefully I did not! Heh. We then went for the movie. I decided to call it an OK movie. Was HILARIOUS. As weird as it may sound, I found it a little too funny. Some people actually thought it was creepy. OK, it WAS a little creepy. I couldn't make me stop laughing though. Oh yeah Paul Bettany is cool! I wish I had a voice like his. Haha.

The funniest thing that happened that evening was Dre's parking incident. Trust me if you were in the car, you'd pee your pants. I laughed so hard sans the peeing though cause I'm a pro laugh-er. Hehe. Below is the recap of what actually happened. If you're smart, you'd understand it. Too funny. I couldn't even tell the story holding my laugh. We went to the library and met up with Evone. I was laughing non stop telling her the story. I teared up even! Good times with Dre, as always. Hoping for more good times with more awesome people in the future.

This was Dre's parking incident. Try to decipher it. It's way too funny. Excuse me for the (lame) drawing. It was done with Microsoft ~~Word~~ Paint. What did you expect? Heh.

Mood: Happy

Port Dickson

2010-01-21T08:57:00.006-06:00

Last weekend, my family and I went for a weekend getaway. As usual, papa made an impulsive decision and told us we should go to PD hours before the day of. Thank goodness it was just 1 night so packing was minimal. If he impulsively makes his decision to go somewhere for a week and tells us the night before, that would be interesting wouldn't it? Anyway these are some snapshots I took. Not of best quality as I don't have a DSLR... YET, but I think my point-and-shoot camera is still trustworthy (though 3, maybe 4 years old!). A DSLR would be a major upgrade though. Papa get me one please!

We stayed here. The hotel is sweet!

Private swimming pools?! OMG! They call them 'water homes'.

Normal 'water chalets'.

Our tub. Used the most by youngest sister.

See what I mean? We did not have a reservation so we had no choice but to stay in the normal hotel room. Papa says next time he's gonna book the 'water home', the one with the PRIVATE swimming pools! I NEVER knew these types of rooms existed, in Malaysia, moreover Port Dickson!

Nope, you aren't seeing things. Apparently Antarctica was nearby.

The beautiful sunset.

Sunset from room balcony.

People fishing for something.

The huge red ship.

I am going to refrain from uploading pictures with us in this post for privacy reasons, as you know that anyone can access blogs. We did have fun though. Hope to go for another weekend getaway soon!

Mood: Sleepy

I Don't Care

2010-01-21T08:11:00.003-06:00

I have to stop caring. This feeling of hate is getting unhealthy. That's it. I shall stop caring. No more emo-ing or getting depressed. Who cares if the person is a hypocrite? Who cares if the person is an arrogant fool? Who cares if the person is a disgusting pig? I DON'T CARE anymore. I know my problems won't go away but I noticed it has been affecting my life and that ain't gonna happen anymore. Who cares about the idiotic moronic brainless piece of... I know I don't, at least anymore. I' m tired of caring to much and I need to live my life. Sorry for the past 2 weeks people. I know I've been cold. Now, I shall reboot and be my ordinary, normal self. Thank you.

Mood: Relieved

The First Week

2010-01-15T08:49:00.005-06:00

This week was the start of my F-O-U-R-T-H semester as a college student. It seems like only last month I started this battle and miraculously, a year has passed so now, I'm a Sophomore. Cool? I guess. We get to bully the Freshies (jkjk!). So what do I think of this semester? A LOT of familiar faces have left (for The States) and after this semester, even more will leave. So this semester will be bittersweet, and we have to ensure we make the most of it. I have to wait till next year to fly, and I can't wait. I have been anticipating that moment ever since stepping in ADP.

This semester started a little rocky. I knew this was bound to happen as I had a whole lot of thinking to do about my Calculus and see whether I should or not retake the subject. It was the most painful week-before-college I had by far because the schedule I preregistered for will be useless if I plan of retaking the course. After thinking looooooooooooooooooong and hard, I decided I should, for the better. My GPA was OK, didn't dip into the danger zone yet. Was still up there in the three pointers but I decided I wanted to improve. You see, I did not fail the class, I was just so unsatisfied about my grade. I had the hardest time editing my schedule for this semester considering the probability of full classes, hence me not getting a spot. I made like F-O-U-R different schedules which was quite useless as I entered my desired classes HASSLE FREE. All that brain juice squeezed out...for nothing. FML.

Then the drama unfolded. This is totally classified a.k.a top secret a.k.a I-can't-tell-you-even-if-my-life-depended-on-it, kind of drama so we shall stop here. Going through this and college was quite challenging. This situation just baffles me at times. However, I shall stop complaining/sulking/emo-ing/depress-ing/sad-ing and all the other things in that direction. I need to focus on this semester. My application depends on it, my life depends on it. The antidote? Chris Brown's 'Crawl' playing on replay. I heard this song for more than 47 48 times already today. It is a beautiful song, in my opinion. That and also praying to God for guidance and direction. Don't forget that, no matter what your religion is people.

Highlights of the week include my Interpersonal Communications class. It's pretty darn fun! Perhaps the most interactive class of the semester. Thanks to Andre for telling me this class will be awesome.

Before I kill you of boredom (hey, I AM an amateur writer), I shall stop here. More of this to come.

'If we crawl 'til we can walk again,
Then well run until we're strong enough to jump,
Then we'll fly until there is no wind,
So lets crawl...crawl...crawl...'

Chris Brown - Crawl

Mood: Thinking