It's been a while. Work this year has been way busier that I've could have imagined. Currently, I'm on the third week of my three week vacation. The first break since last September and tbh, I'm pretty glad for it.
The first half of the year's been pretty cool. I felt like I have been recognized more for the effort I put into my career and I've grown to be more confident in myself in this respect. Got to fly for an overseas business trip in KL (granted its flipping near SG) and worked at the EY KL office. Stole one of their lanyards too. I've went on my first department trip to Thailand and made new friends in the Company. Got to know some more colleagues and drank the hell too much.
I've also touched ground in Africa - South Africa to be exact. The landscape is more similar to Australia than I expected, seeing how the two countries are at least 6 hours apart. I attended the World Choir Games and we clinched a Gold and a Silver medal for the Pop and University categories respectively. I wished we could have done better but I'll treasure this experience nonetheless.
I guess the above is not bad for 7 months. I do low-key wish there was someone I could always share these experiences with though. However, knowing what I've signed up for at work for the next year, I definitely would put those intentions on hold for now. Looking forward to what's to come in the next 5 months.
Cheers.
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Sunday, August 20, 2017
Lucid Invasion
Lucid Invasion
The world stops spinning when I catch your face
and haunting silence entraps the body and soul.
New photos of covetous smile you decide to grace
summons pesky old memories to cruelly unfold.
The heart beats faster, harder and aches.
The room, a storm. Burning. Freezing cold.
And as tiny mended cracks fracture unfazed,
laughing cupid boasts and struts his poison bow.
The mind tumbles last, but crumbles nonetheless,
no match for your lucid invasion.
My sanity, you cradle and tenderly caress,
soothes uneasy before assured purgation.
Your ghost, I buried, I swallowed, I fought.
Tell me, my love, do you enjoy playing God?
The world stops spinning when I catch your face
and haunting silence entraps the body and soul.
New photos of covetous smile you decide to grace
summons pesky old memories to cruelly unfold.
The heart beats faster, harder and aches.
The room, a storm. Burning. Freezing cold.
And as tiny mended cracks fracture unfazed,
laughing cupid boasts and struts his poison bow.
The mind tumbles last, but crumbles nonetheless,
no match for your lucid invasion.
My sanity, you cradle and tenderly caress,
soothes uneasy before assured purgation.
Your ghost, I buried, I swallowed, I fought.
Tell me, my love, do you enjoy playing God?
Monday, June 05, 2017
Stheno’s Kitchen
Stheno’s Kitchen
Tick. Tick. Tick.
Tick tick. Tick tick
Tick-tick-tick-tick
Tik-tik-ti- Ding!
They’re ready!
Mittens. Pan. Table.
Hot! Hot! Hot!
Setting them down by the busts to cool.
My hair gets impatient sometimes,
hissing at the smell of those freshly baked meat.
I pet them down and put them in their place.
As I walk through the kitchen, I smirk at those hardened eyes.
Perseus will one day taste my mastery too.
Plate. Plate. Plate.
Fork. Fork. Fork.
Chair. Chair. Chair.
They call themselves Gods; playing with the helpless human dolls;
Creating freaks of nature like little Perseus.
So very tiny, so much desire to impress, so so close to being stoned to death.
Her only sin was being flawless; all she ever wanted was to be loved.
It was Jealousy, prejudice and injustice; the family that proved
the downfall of my baby sister. Their heads will mark the sacred ground
where she lay. I will turn their bodies into a temple.
And she shall be worshipped.
And she shall be immortal.
Euryale!
Fumble fumble fumble.
Snakes in a mess.
Eyes bloodshot.
Poison dripping from the side of a fang.
Sister. Sister.
Let’s eat.
Tick. Tick. Tick.
Tick tick. Tick tick
Tick-tick-tick-tick
Tik-tik-ti- Ding!
They’re ready!
Mittens. Pan. Table.
Hot! Hot! Hot!
Setting them down by the busts to cool.
My hair gets impatient sometimes,
hissing at the smell of those freshly baked meat.
I pet them down and put them in their place.
As I walk through the kitchen, I smirk at those hardened eyes.
Perseus will one day taste my mastery too.
Plate. Plate. Plate.
Fork. Fork. Fork.
Chair. Chair. Chair.
They call themselves Gods; playing with the helpless human dolls;
Creating freaks of nature like little Perseus.
So very tiny, so much desire to impress, so so close to being stoned to death.
Her only sin was being flawless; all she ever wanted was to be loved.
It was Jealousy, prejudice and injustice; the family that proved
the downfall of my baby sister. Their heads will mark the sacred ground
where she lay. I will turn their bodies into a temple.
And she shall be worshipped.
And she shall be immortal.
Euryale!
Fumble fumble fumble.
Snakes in a mess.
Eyes bloodshot.
Poison dripping from the side of a fang.
Sister. Sister.
Let’s eat.
Sunday, October 23, 2016
When She speaks
So it's been a pretty long time since I last blogged. Quite a bit has happened then. I went to the states for the first time and had a blast; met up with old friends and created memories with new ones. I've also gotten my first bonus cheque and got my first promotion. :) Still trying to get used to the whole work life thing that's going on and hopefully I'll feel more at home in my second year. Not really in a mood to go into details today so I guess I'll just leave with this.
When She speaks
Cause'
you can hear the crickets chirp
and listen to the song of the rattlesnake,
the rush of the majestic waterfall
and the welts decorating your forehead.
You feel the drop of Fahrenheit
and the stillness of the wind.
You taste the sweetness of dawn
and the saltiness on your skin.
The world speaks to you with the ole' familiar tongue,
drawing its passionate energy from our one glorious sun.
From the smell of morning dew on each tiny blade of grass,
to chasing after dandelions dancing beside you fast,
from the trees that sway indulgently to the rhythm of your beat,
to the ground that twirl uninhibited to the music of your feet.
You see,
the flowers, they bloom, for just that sparkle in your eye;
exuding parallel magnificence as the milky way in our dark night sky.
The stars, they glow together, with the warmth oozing from your heart,
bringing soft serenity as the dreams begin to start.
And as our little earth falls quietly in slumber,
the glitter magic burns vibrant,
secretly,
silently,
under.
When She speaks
Cause'
you can hear the crickets chirp
and listen to the song of the rattlesnake,
the rush of the majestic waterfall
and the welts decorating your forehead.
You feel the drop of Fahrenheit
and the stillness of the wind.
You taste the sweetness of dawn
and the saltiness on your skin.
The world speaks to you with the ole' familiar tongue,
drawing its passionate energy from our one glorious sun.
From the smell of morning dew on each tiny blade of grass,
to chasing after dandelions dancing beside you fast,
from the trees that sway indulgently to the rhythm of your beat,
to the ground that twirl uninhibited to the music of your feet.
You see,
the flowers, they bloom, for just that sparkle in your eye;
exuding parallel magnificence as the milky way in our dark night sky.
The stars, they glow together, with the warmth oozing from your heart,
bringing soft serenity as the dreams begin to start.
And as our little earth falls quietly in slumber,
the glitter magic burns vibrant,
secretly,
silently,
under.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Just the way you are
In light of the recent shooting in Orlando...
Love Yourself
Like I'm Gonna Lose You
Locked Away
Love Yourself
Like I'm Gonna Lose You
Locked Away
Wednesday, June 08, 2016
Fire
Fire
The fire cleanses and it destroys like Lucifer slays.
Maybe hell and the devil are one of the same,
residing on
every holy candle lit. It dances at the back
of every mind and laughs as
it consumes you like God.
It is described in many ways -
entrancingly green, glowing red,
furiously blue and dark like
the knight.
It chills as it burns and
suffocates
as it breathes.
Do you hear it cackle?
Calmly,
it envelopes and hugs my neck,
kissing with a fervor I've not felt before;
raising my hairs then razing them down;
hissing at my tears, preying with my fears;
blazing souless innocents and begging me-
begging me to fall on my knees,
bow my heart and feign mercy.
Hush.
The sky falls bland as I lay my head.
So I pray that when the light rekindles my face,
the sun would wring
from the anger within,
hipnotic evil that shall live and rise again.
The fire cleanses and it destroys like Lucifer slays.
Maybe hell and the devil are one of the same,
residing on
every holy candle lit. It dances at the back
of every mind and laughs as
it consumes you like God.
It is described in many ways -
entrancingly green, glowing red,
furiously blue and dark like
the knight.
It chills as it burns and
suffocates
as it breathes.
Do you hear it cackle?
Calmly,
it envelopes and hugs my neck,
kissing with a fervor I've not felt before;
raising my hairs then razing them down;
hissing at my tears, preying with my fears;
blazing souless innocents and begging me-
begging me to fall on my knees,
bow my heart and feign mercy.
Hush.
The sky falls bland as I lay my head.
So I pray that when the light rekindles my face,
the sun would wring
from the anger within,
hipnotic evil that shall live and rise again.
Monday, March 07, 2016
Passionate fear
Passionate fear
He came from
round the blind corner.
Our eyes met
briefly before going back to
the phone. His
presence lingered beyond
the sockets.
He knows.
The next day
he was there with his surreptitious
smile which
I knew to grow accustomed to. Shyly
shifted to
check the time. He wore blue
without fail,
conquering my heart, at Eight O' Six
sharp
everyday. Not a peep from me. That is
not our
language.
He started
bringing me places in my mind I
never knew
existed. So fascinated in his glory,
I breathe at
his mercy and cry at his pleasure. I
take him
everywhere, like pocket providence, and
he whispers bittersweet
nothings in my ear.
By the devilry
he possesses, the hex, like musty
roses, course
through my veins, tearing me
from my bloodline,
releasing. those. satisfying.
Endorphin.
He owns my
soul; at every any hour of the year.
He slumbers
mostly and let the electronics entertain
the little
shell as he lay; gentle, sovereign and familiar.
He’ll tug on
my heartstrings when it's time to feed.
Then, he
consumes me whole.
Nightmare of a Daughter
So tomorrow is the 49th day of my grandfather's death. And idk how I feel about that. My aunt's casually brought him up in a conversation today and I swore I was still choked up. I think words can't really express how I feel now so I've penned my feelings down in music instead.
This is my first composition for piano and I'm pretty wretched with emotions now that I can't really tell how good or bad it is (but I have an inclination that it will lean towards the negative side seeing how inexperienced I am).
Despite so, I do feel that this piece does reflect my inner struggles especially when I first heard of the news. The piece is titled "Nightmare of a Daughter" because I still can't entirely grasp the concept that this is life; or rather, the lack of it. The music starts off with a foreboding feel of the night which leads straight into a chase like tempo, mirroring my anxiousness and fear when my mum called me to the A&E. The abrupt break when I fell eyes on his shriveled self with more tubes in him than breath. Then, of course, the fall; both his and mine - fast, plateau, crash. Heartbeat on the monitor shows hope. Wonderful hope. I speak to him and through our exchange, we dance. But he doesn't wake up. Our conversation, as per in my head, gets heated. Horrible hope. Horribly misleading hope. He moves on (to the other side) and I'm screaming now. The doctor calls his time of death.
This is my first composition for piano and I'm pretty wretched with emotions now that I can't really tell how good or bad it is (but I have an inclination that it will lean towards the negative side seeing how inexperienced I am).
Despite so, I do feel that this piece does reflect my inner struggles especially when I first heard of the news. The piece is titled "Nightmare of a Daughter" because I still can't entirely grasp the concept that this is life; or rather, the lack of it. The music starts off with a foreboding feel of the night which leads straight into a chase like tempo, mirroring my anxiousness and fear when my mum called me to the A&E. The abrupt break when I fell eyes on his shriveled self with more tubes in him than breath. Then, of course, the fall; both his and mine - fast, plateau, crash. Heartbeat on the monitor shows hope. Wonderful hope. I speak to him and through our exchange, we dance. But he doesn't wake up. Our conversation, as per in my head, gets heated. Horrible hope. Horribly misleading hope. He moves on (to the other side) and I'm screaming now. The doctor calls his time of death.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
False advertisement
Advertisement: Just ran 3km* for the first** time this year***!
Note:
*1km slacking included
**energy apparently sold separately
***length of inactivity may not be as advertised
Caution! Side effects may include nausea, euphoria and intense attraction to adorably fluffy stray cats.
Note:
*1km slacking included
**energy apparently sold separately
***length of inactivity may not be as advertised
Caution! Side effects may include nausea, euphoria and intense attraction to adorably fluffy stray cats.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Magic Trick
So my grandfather passed away yesterday. I was just thinking about the number of deaths that I've been through the past few months and I don't know if I can take anymore of them. It has been emotionally draining. Right now, any call about the hospital is just nerve wrecking.
But let's just focus on the positives. Well, my grandfather was very sick with cancer so his last days were in acute pain. At least, he is able to be pain free now. He passed away about the same timing of the day as my grandmother did so I'd like to think that they are now holding hands and being their diabetic selves with each other. He looked so much more at peace asleep then he had been in a long time. His death was sudden but I guess the plus point was the relieve he got.
Another positive. My grandfather helped us with the lottery! First Prize! I don't really know how the different types of lottery work but I guess though the winnings were not much after splitting it among the families, they were still pretty substantial. I guess winning touched me more than the money did cause my grandfather used to love buying 4D tickets and I can only imagine him blessing us with this as a sign that he is looking out for us.
On another note. I didn't sleep at all last night. (Shout out to my amazing friend, Pam, for staying up and keeping me company the whole while < 3.) Idk.. Think sometimes I forget that he really has passed on.
Magic Trick
Tribute to my gonggong.
A volunteer?
Of course, sexy lady at the back.
Dressed in glitter, wavy dark curls, ruby lips.
Lies down in a box; the box. Tight.
Amazing cloth, always velvet.
Catch her scarlet smirk before she's gone.
Black girl, black box, black cloth.
Silver swords, silver saws, silver spikes.
Red girl, red box, red cloth?
Black Death.
No.
No cloth. No box. No girl.
Aha!
Magical cry, magical chant, magical prayer!
Puff of smoke!
Of course, sexy lady at the back.
Dressed in glitter, wavy dark curls, ruby lips.
Now.
Beige boy. Brown box. Golden cloth.
Trembling cry. Diligent chant. Holy prayer.
Incense smoke.
Grandpa?
But let's just focus on the positives. Well, my grandfather was very sick with cancer so his last days were in acute pain. At least, he is able to be pain free now. He passed away about the same timing of the day as my grandmother did so I'd like to think that they are now holding hands and being their diabetic selves with each other. He looked so much more at peace asleep then he had been in a long time. His death was sudden but I guess the plus point was the relieve he got.
Another positive. My grandfather helped us with the lottery! First Prize! I don't really know how the different types of lottery work but I guess though the winnings were not much after splitting it among the families, they were still pretty substantial. I guess winning touched me more than the money did cause my grandfather used to love buying 4D tickets and I can only imagine him blessing us with this as a sign that he is looking out for us.
On another note. I didn't sleep at all last night. (Shout out to my amazing friend, Pam, for staying up and keeping me company the whole while < 3.) Idk.. Think sometimes I forget that he really has passed on.
Magic Trick
Tribute to my gonggong.
A volunteer?
Of course, sexy lady at the back.
Dressed in glitter, wavy dark curls, ruby lips.
Lies down in a box; the box. Tight.
Amazing cloth, always velvet.
Catch her scarlet smirk before she's gone.
Black girl, black box, black cloth.
Silver swords, silver saws, silver spikes.
Red girl, red box, red cloth?
Black Death.
No.
No cloth. No box. No girl.
Aha!
Magical cry, magical chant, magical prayer!
Puff of smoke!
Of course, sexy lady at the back.
Dressed in glitter, wavy dark curls, ruby lips.
Now.
Beige boy. Brown box. Golden cloth.
Trembling cry. Diligent chant. Holy prayer.
Incense smoke.
Grandpa?
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Their Tears
There has just been way too much going on with recent events, or maybe, I'm only just being made aware of more. From international terrorists to local authorities in certain parts of the world, it just makes me disheartened at how the globe as turned out.
This Christmas, I wish for world peace. I sincerely, wholeheartedly do.
Their Tears
I weep for the coughs I hear down the hall
Their Tears
I weep for the coughs I hear down the hall
I weep for the kiss I've learned not to miss
I weep for the crows and their merciless calls
I weep for the ignorance, probably not in bliss
I weep for the television, the radio, the news
I weep for the children, the arms, the mind
I weep for the emotional physical abuse
Are those bombs falling from the sky?
I weep for the cities crashing one by one
I weep for the world holding cattle of man
I weep for the seas glowing red with blood
I weep for the guy, laying, gasping for air
I weep for the boy sleeping on white dust
I weep for the girl blowing out red candles
I weep for the parent begging for burnt crust
Is there anything we can't handle?
And I weep for the sake of humane humanity
I wish for more compassionate mentality
I hope for nurturing loving maturity
I pray for the some sort of sound sensibility
So many years of ingenious evolution
So many years of quickened progress
Always on point with being efficient
Maybe it's time to start mourning before death.
Sunday, November 08, 2015
Goodnight Grandma
Granny passed away on Wednesday, 4 November 2015. Today, Sunday, 8 November 2015, is her funeral; she was cremated. Living in her new home, we will celebrate her birthday tomorrow, 9 November 2015. On 10 November 2015, it will be the first (in a series of 7 weekly prayers) time we pray for her to cross over to the light.
Goodnight Grandma
Goodnight Grandmama; sleep tight tonight.
Let your dreams take you away.
Let them take you to a far away land with
clouds beneath your feet. Yes, your feet Mama,
your feet! Throw that wheelchair away, you need
it not. Not then, not ever.
There will be no more suffering and no more pain.
You are being upgraded;
your voice more melodious, your nose sharper,
your bones stronger than your stubbornness,
your mind quicker.
But your eyes will stay the same. Those hazels
exude such warmth and wisdom, they have reached
the epitome of perfection.
I miss you Grandmama.
I miss you Grandmama. Rest your precious heart.
Your amazing heart, filled with love, was never
once too full. Every rhythm had a purpose;
you embrace the world on every thump.
Kindness and empathy always by your side
as you touch the lives of the babies and the grandkids,
the girls and the boys, the women and the men,
the father and the mothers, the friends and of course,
the husband. I wonder if it had ever beaten just for you.
They told me your heart had a condition, Grandma.
They told me it was what brought you to sleep.
I think it was just weighed down by the gold it holds within.
You carried so many of us in there, it's incredible
how big it is.
I love you Grandmama.
I love you, Grandmama, I love you! Do you hear
our cries, Grandmama? Grandmama, I am screaming
up to you! Can you hear me? Grandmama!
I love you.
I miss you.
I want you.
Why did you leave?
Goodnight Grandma; I'm going to bed too.
It's still early so I'll send up a prayer, wishing
my dreams will take me away to a far off land
with my head in the clouds.
And through my pillow, I shall meet
the memories of you and learn to beat
the tempo of compassion and song d'amour,
the dance of affection and how to grow room for more.
Goodnight Grandma
Goodnight Grandmama; sleep tight tonight.
Let your dreams take you away.
Let them take you to a far away land with
clouds beneath your feet. Yes, your feet Mama,
your feet! Throw that wheelchair away, you need
it not. Not then, not ever.
There will be no more suffering and no more pain.
You are being upgraded;
your voice more melodious, your nose sharper,
your bones stronger than your stubbornness,
your mind quicker.
But your eyes will stay the same. Those hazels
exude such warmth and wisdom, they have reached
the epitome of perfection.
I miss you Grandmama.
I miss you Grandmama. Rest your precious heart.
Your amazing heart, filled with love, was never
once too full. Every rhythm had a purpose;
you embrace the world on every thump.
Kindness and empathy always by your side
as you touch the lives of the babies and the grandkids,
the girls and the boys, the women and the men,
the father and the mothers, the friends and of course,
the husband. I wonder if it had ever beaten just for you.
They told me your heart had a condition, Grandma.
They told me it was what brought you to sleep.
I think it was just weighed down by the gold it holds within.
You carried so many of us in there, it's incredible
how big it is.
I love you Grandmama.
I love you, Grandmama, I love you! Do you hear
our cries, Grandmama? Grandmama, I am screaming
up to you! Can you hear me? Grandmama!
I love you.
I miss you.
I want you.
Why did you leave?
Goodnight Grandma; I'm going to bed too.
It's still early so I'll send up a prayer, wishing
my dreams will take me away to a far off land
with my head in the clouds.
And through my pillow, I shall meet
the memories of you and learn to beat
the tempo of compassion and song d'amour,
the dance of affection and how to grow room for more.
Sunday, October 18, 2015
Butterfly
Wrote this a few days back but was too tired to put it up.
Butterfly
Please pause. Freeze pane. Let me take another breath in again.
You were, right here, right there. I can't remember your name.
You are the blue shirt on the crowded bus,
each person pushing me toward the memory of us.
You are the music buzzing in my ear,
every beat touching me, holding me down.
You are the cool breeze on a hot sunny day-
surprising and fleeting, a phantom lingering fay.
In my arms, I caught you, I held you. Only to open up feeling our sheer dismay.
Butterfly
Please pause. Freeze pane. Let me take another breath in again.
You were, right here, right there. I can't remember your name.
You are the blue shirt on the crowded bus,
each person pushing me toward the memory of us.
You are the music buzzing in my ear,
every beat touching me, holding me down.
You are the cool breeze on a hot sunny day-
surprising and fleeting, a phantom lingering fay.
In my arms, I caught you, I held you. Only to open up feeling our sheer dismay.
Sunday, October 11, 2015
I'm In Love With You
I'm In Love With You
I see your smile on the boy next to me.
Your eyes glitter across the hall.
Your lips on mine when my head's asleep.
Your gentle touch catching me as I fall.
My heart runs free through the park at day.
My love, the chain, around my neck.
My memories dances with the said, unsaid.
You hold power to change smiles to tears and back.
What am I to do,
when I'm still in love,
with the one I've grown apart?
What can I do,
when I'm deeply in love,
with the one who broke my heart?
I see your smile on the boy next to me.
Your eyes glitter across the hall.
Your lips on mine when my head's asleep.
Your gentle touch catching me as I fall.
My heart runs free through the park at day.
My love, the chain, around my neck.
My memories dances with the said, unsaid.
You hold power to change smiles to tears and back.
What am I to do,
when I'm still in love,
with the one I've grown apart?
What can I do,
when I'm deeply in love,
with the one who broke my heart?
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Update on life
Sorry for the lack of activity recently; I have been travelling quite abit. So today I thought I'd just pen my thoughts on the past two trips I've been on and also the horrid horrid dental appointment I had yesterday.
Let's start with the pain at the back of my head. Wisdom teeth extraction is brutal! Honestly, I cried the entire procedure. I can't even tell why. I wasn't in pain but I guess the fear was too overwhelming. After the procedure, I just wanted to curl into a ball and cry (which was what I did). The dentist was freaked out. hahaha. I didn't regret doing it but I guess the numbness in my lower jaw and the lack of ability to control what I presumed was a right to do so scared the shit out of me.
But I'm feeling alot better today. The bloody gauze do not look as menacing as before even though the bright green mouthwash still do. At least they are out. One week of soft foods and I'm back to normal again. Can't wait.
Australia Grad Trip #2: 15-31 August 2015
Do not ask why I didn't post this earlier because I have no good excuse. Laziness is probably a factor.
I'd like to break this trip up in to 4 parts: (1) Caversham Wildlife Park (2) Farm Stay (3) Esperance Tour and (4) Exmouth Tour.
(1) Caversham Wildlife Park
One of the most amazing experience ever. This part was the only one that we planned ourselves because I was basically done with planning trips. It was so amazing because the animals were so tamed and they are just so lovely. We could touch them and feed them and had just an amazing time there.
(2) Farm Stay
This was the first tour we had with Aussie Perth Tours. We met our driver Graham who was just a darling! Requested for him for our next tour. The farm stay was great! After our night at Wombats Backpackers, the farm stay suite made me feel like Cinderella. We got to feed the animals and pet them as well (as you can see, I am a sucker for animals). We even got to hold some of them. We rode the tractor by ourselves with hysterical screaming because it jerks when you change the gear. It was a good change from the city and a lovely experience. The barbecue dinner might have helped quite a bit as well.
(3) Esperance Tour
On this tour, it was more about seeing nature on land and agriculture. By that, I meant the forests, the rocks, the wineries and the farms. The forests and rocks were breathtaking because they were so gigantic. There was something about feel so small yet so filled with potential of being powerful there. Of course the walks also gave amazing views but what topped everything was the climb of the Centennial tree. To get to the top, we had to climb god knows how many spikes hammered into the side of the tree. To be honest, it is as safe as it sounds here (it was not safe), but the view made everything worth it (if you survive). The wineries are good though we did not spend a lot of time there. Bought a few bottles back that diminishes faster than I'd care to admit.
The best part of the tour was how personal it was. I was really glad to have met Graham. He shared with us about his life (he is one bad ass dude - ex-military, ex-racecar driver) and believes and thoughts about the Australian system. I believe it is part of the experience to get to know the locals. He also introduced his friend, Tony, to us. Just as you thought no one could ever be this sarcastic, you have Tony. Tony still races, which is super cool since he is about to be 70 years of age. Between the boys and us girls, we ate the entire leg of pork which Tony intended to feed us for 2 meals. We are fat.
What was not so good was the fact that we also learnt more about our agent (Aussie Perth). Their business is borderline unethical in terms of the way they treat their staff (they underpaid Graham nearly $400 below market rate) and their tours are vastly overpriced for the amount of limitations they placed on our expenditure. When I holiday, I want to eat what I want and not have a $6 imposition on the meals that I have supposedly already paid for.
(4) Exmouth Tour
Vietnam Grad Trip #3: 11-15 September 2015
I have to say, I really enjoy travelling. Went to Hanoi, Lao Cai and Sapa this time round although we spent most of the time in Sapa. It is really different especially since I was travelling with family (dad and aunts). It was a lot more focus on relaxing rather than hands on.
Day 1 - Travel: We took the night train to LaoCai from Hanoi before taking the bus up to Sapa. The night in the train was the worst. Seeing that I was the youngest, it was natural that I'd sleep at the top bunk with the small ass railing that was screaming at me to fall every time I decided to turn. At least I managed to catch some sleep on the bus before having a nice refreshing morning shower in Sapa.
Day 2 - Sapa: The mountains were a breath of fresh air (see what I did there?) and an amazing host of serenity. The home stay was first and I really enjoyed it. The supposed plan was to trek the 14km from the hotel to the village but it rained so heavily, the floods would not let. In the end, the bus drove us up as far as it could and we trekked the remaining 3km (I think) in the rain. Most tiring 3km ever. 3 kilometers may seem like such a short distance and I was pretty sure I would do fine with 14km but the hills were unforgiving. Everyone was panting and we had to stop quite a few times to ensure all were doing alright. It got so bad my aunt had to look for her breathalyzer. Thin air and the multitude of slopes do not go together well. However, we were rewarded with the most amazing fries I've ever had. Garlic, butter and a bit of secret seasoning was the bomb. My hands could not get off them. Everything was minimalist so you can imagine the confusion of how such a rural kitchen could whip up something so amazing. At night, we had a herbal bath that was so good but a little too much for my older companions. It made all of us sleep like babies though. Recharged for the next day.
Day 3 - LaoCai: We went to the BacHa market today. It was a little overwhelming for me. Though it was huge, the tourists and locals combined took up much of the floor space while the animals and merchandise (I guess you can lump them as one category in this case) took the rest. Buffaloes, horses, birds, pigs, dogs, cats and chickens were all sold as food, pets and helpers - some were raw, some cooked, some live. It was eye-opening but uncomfortable at the same time. Went through the market once in 45 minutes and I could not bring myself to go through it again despite having the time. Camped out at a "touristy" cafe and ate some not-so-amazing food. At least my father learnt how to differentiate a good buffalo from a bad one. If he were to marry me off here, he could get himself 5 buffaloes in return. Depending on my "market value", he could earn up to 60k. What would my mum say?
After a relaxing boat ride to calm my nerves, we actually went to visit my guide's house. His wife is an educator and we managed to see all the little kids learning English in a room. She sure did make use of us. I was tasked with teaching the kids the numbers 11-20 and also correcting some of the phrases she wanted to put up on the walls as decor. The kids are adorable!
Day 4 - Sapa: Back in Sapa to buy our souvenirs and visit the Cat Cat Village. The sheer name of it scared my aunt because she has a phobia of cats. To my dismay (as a filial niece), the village has no cats at all. What it did have was amazing views. The walk down and up was brutal though with 800 steps each way. Luckily, we had our motivations. At the bottom of the village was a traditional performance waiting for us and at the top was traditional wine. I'm glad none of us gave up halfway to take the motorbike taxi up. At the village, we got to try their sticky rice and buffalo meat. Surprisingly, it tasted really good! The buffalo was spicy though up the sticky rice helped to reduce the pain in my mouth.
The bus ride down from Sapa made be nauseous. Luckily, we had a breather before taking the night train back to Hanoi. This time I slept much better. I think tiring ourselves out with the trek helped a lot.
Day 5 - Hanoi: Back in Hanoi, we had to wait for 2 hours before our pick up would come to bring us to the airport. Camped at the NewMoon hotel while waiting then had this most amazing street side noodles/Pho. Best meal since.
I guess, my Vietnam trip was not how I pictured it but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I managed to experience new things while bonding with my dad and my aunts, and that was lovely. But I'm glad to be home (except for the ache in my mouth). Depending on how fast I recover, I might just travel again before my work starts on the 29th!
Let's start with the pain at the back of my head. Wisdom teeth extraction is brutal! Honestly, I cried the entire procedure. I can't even tell why. I wasn't in pain but I guess the fear was too overwhelming. After the procedure, I just wanted to curl into a ball and cry (which was what I did). The dentist was freaked out. hahaha. I didn't regret doing it but I guess the numbness in my lower jaw and the lack of ability to control what I presumed was a right to do so scared the shit out of me.
But I'm feeling alot better today. The bloody gauze do not look as menacing as before even though the bright green mouthwash still do. At least they are out. One week of soft foods and I'm back to normal again. Can't wait.
Australia Grad Trip #2: 15-31 August 2015
Do not ask why I didn't post this earlier because I have no good excuse. Laziness is probably a factor.
I'd like to break this trip up in to 4 parts: (1) Caversham Wildlife Park (2) Farm Stay (3) Esperance Tour and (4) Exmouth Tour.
(1) Caversham Wildlife Park
One of the most amazing experience ever. This part was the only one that we planned ourselves because I was basically done with planning trips. It was so amazing because the animals were so tamed and they are just so lovely. We could touch them and feed them and had just an amazing time there.
(2) Farm Stay
This was the first tour we had with Aussie Perth Tours. We met our driver Graham who was just a darling! Requested for him for our next tour. The farm stay was great! After our night at Wombats Backpackers, the farm stay suite made me feel like Cinderella. We got to feed the animals and pet them as well (as you can see, I am a sucker for animals). We even got to hold some of them. We rode the tractor by ourselves with hysterical screaming because it jerks when you change the gear. It was a good change from the city and a lovely experience. The barbecue dinner might have helped quite a bit as well.
(3) Esperance Tour
On this tour, it was more about seeing nature on land and agriculture. By that, I meant the forests, the rocks, the wineries and the farms. The forests and rocks were breathtaking because they were so gigantic. There was something about feel so small yet so filled with potential of being powerful there. Of course the walks also gave amazing views but what topped everything was the climb of the Centennial tree. To get to the top, we had to climb god knows how many spikes hammered into the side of the tree. To be honest, it is as safe as it sounds here (it was not safe), but the view made everything worth it (if you survive). The wineries are good though we did not spend a lot of time there. Bought a few bottles back that diminishes faster than I'd care to admit.
The best part of the tour was how personal it was. I was really glad to have met Graham. He shared with us about his life (he is one bad ass dude - ex-military, ex-racecar driver) and believes and thoughts about the Australian system. I believe it is part of the experience to get to know the locals. He also introduced his friend, Tony, to us. Just as you thought no one could ever be this sarcastic, you have Tony. Tony still races, which is super cool since he is about to be 70 years of age. Between the boys and us girls, we ate the entire leg of pork which Tony intended to feed us for 2 meals. We are fat.
What was not so good was the fact that we also learnt more about our agent (Aussie Perth). Their business is borderline unethical in terms of the way they treat their staff (they underpaid Graham nearly $400 below market rate) and their tours are vastly overpriced for the amount of limitations they placed on our expenditure. When I holiday, I want to eat what I want and not have a $6 imposition on the meals that I have supposedly already paid for.
(4) Exmouth Tour
This last part of the tour we booked through Aussie Perth as well although they outsourced it to Red Earth Safaris. We were charged $1020 for a $785 tour before getting a refund of $157 after we sent in a complaint. Their itinerary was also greatly outdated.
But let's focus on the good. The tour was amazing despite all our grievances above. The trip was all about sand and water where we hit the beaches again and again. The best part was the snorkeling. We say manta rays and stingrays and turtles and fishes and corals and sharks and clams! It was simply amazing! The tan lines I got, on the other hand, was too much sexy than I've bargained for. Food on this trip was basically cooked by our guide and he is a great cook! Enjoyed this thoroughly!
But let's focus on the good. The tour was amazing despite all our grievances above. The trip was all about sand and water where we hit the beaches again and again. The best part was the snorkeling. We say manta rays and stingrays and turtles and fishes and corals and sharks and clams! It was simply amazing! The tan lines I got, on the other hand, was too much sexy than I've bargained for. Food on this trip was basically cooked by our guide and he is a great cook! Enjoyed this thoroughly!
Vietnam Grad Trip #3: 11-15 September 2015
I have to say, I really enjoy travelling. Went to Hanoi, Lao Cai and Sapa this time round although we spent most of the time in Sapa. It is really different especially since I was travelling with family (dad and aunts). It was a lot more focus on relaxing rather than hands on.
Day 1 - Travel: We took the night train to LaoCai from Hanoi before taking the bus up to Sapa. The night in the train was the worst. Seeing that I was the youngest, it was natural that I'd sleep at the top bunk with the small ass railing that was screaming at me to fall every time I decided to turn. At least I managed to catch some sleep on the bus before having a nice refreshing morning shower in Sapa.
Day 2 - Sapa: The mountains were a breath of fresh air (see what I did there?) and an amazing host of serenity. The home stay was first and I really enjoyed it. The supposed plan was to trek the 14km from the hotel to the village but it rained so heavily, the floods would not let. In the end, the bus drove us up as far as it could and we trekked the remaining 3km (I think) in the rain. Most tiring 3km ever. 3 kilometers may seem like such a short distance and I was pretty sure I would do fine with 14km but the hills were unforgiving. Everyone was panting and we had to stop quite a few times to ensure all were doing alright. It got so bad my aunt had to look for her breathalyzer. Thin air and the multitude of slopes do not go together well. However, we were rewarded with the most amazing fries I've ever had. Garlic, butter and a bit of secret seasoning was the bomb. My hands could not get off them. Everything was minimalist so you can imagine the confusion of how such a rural kitchen could whip up something so amazing. At night, we had a herbal bath that was so good but a little too much for my older companions. It made all of us sleep like babies though. Recharged for the next day.
Day 3 - LaoCai: We went to the BacHa market today. It was a little overwhelming for me. Though it was huge, the tourists and locals combined took up much of the floor space while the animals and merchandise (I guess you can lump them as one category in this case) took the rest. Buffaloes, horses, birds, pigs, dogs, cats and chickens were all sold as food, pets and helpers - some were raw, some cooked, some live. It was eye-opening but uncomfortable at the same time. Went through the market once in 45 minutes and I could not bring myself to go through it again despite having the time. Camped out at a "touristy" cafe and ate some not-so-amazing food. At least my father learnt how to differentiate a good buffalo from a bad one. If he were to marry me off here, he could get himself 5 buffaloes in return. Depending on my "market value", he could earn up to 60k. What would my mum say?
After a relaxing boat ride to calm my nerves, we actually went to visit my guide's house. His wife is an educator and we managed to see all the little kids learning English in a room. She sure did make use of us. I was tasked with teaching the kids the numbers 11-20 and also correcting some of the phrases she wanted to put up on the walls as decor. The kids are adorable!
Day 4 - Sapa: Back in Sapa to buy our souvenirs and visit the Cat Cat Village. The sheer name of it scared my aunt because she has a phobia of cats. To my dismay (as a filial niece), the village has no cats at all. What it did have was amazing views. The walk down and up was brutal though with 800 steps each way. Luckily, we had our motivations. At the bottom of the village was a traditional performance waiting for us and at the top was traditional wine. I'm glad none of us gave up halfway to take the motorbike taxi up. At the village, we got to try their sticky rice and buffalo meat. Surprisingly, it tasted really good! The buffalo was spicy though up the sticky rice helped to reduce the pain in my mouth.
The bus ride down from Sapa made be nauseous. Luckily, we had a breather before taking the night train back to Hanoi. This time I slept much better. I think tiring ourselves out with the trek helped a lot.
Day 5 - Hanoi: Back in Hanoi, we had to wait for 2 hours before our pick up would come to bring us to the airport. Camped at the NewMoon hotel while waiting then had this most amazing street side noodles/Pho. Best meal since.
I guess, my Vietnam trip was not how I pictured it but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I managed to experience new things while bonding with my dad and my aunts, and that was lovely. But I'm glad to be home (except for the ache in my mouth). Depending on how fast I recover, I might just travel again before my work starts on the 29th!
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
Naked Moment
Naked Moment
His face so familiar; so estranged.
Our stare intent. His eyes, brown from the memory
of my lips, were blue and black and blank all at once.
His confusion hits me only by recollection.
My gaze transcending; I couldn't tell if he
had beard or had nose or had mouth. But he sure did lose
his voice.
I cannot recall my look I gave but muscles remember
concoction of betrayal, shame and pride through the glasses.
The face of intense silence as the endorphin continue
dusting tickling magic throughout my body. I hope he
didn't look down.
My bare bottom couldn't have handled anything more.
His face so familiar; so estranged.
Our stare intent. His eyes, brown from the memory
of my lips, were blue and black and blank all at once.
His confusion hits me only by recollection.
My gaze transcending; I couldn't tell if he
had beard or had nose or had mouth. But he sure did lose
his voice.
I cannot recall my look I gave but muscles remember
concoction of betrayal, shame and pride through the glasses.
The face of intense silence as the endorphin continue
dusting tickling magic throughout my body. I hope he
didn't look down.
My bare bottom couldn't have handled anything more.
Friday, September 04, 2015
Friday, August 14, 2015
Love Exchange
Tonight, I'm heading to the airport for my second grad trip in Australia. Since I'm leaving (and since I actually managed to wake up as the sun did), I decided to join my grandfather on his morning coffee stroll. His face immediately lit up when I proposed to join him. He smiled so big.
As I got myself ready to go out, my grandfather told me to stay in and spend time with my grandmother (now bedridden) instead so she wouldn't be so bored. When he proposed this, his face lit up even more. I still think it's amazing how two people can still show so much affection for each other after so many years.
Right before my grandfather left, he shouted to his wife "Hey, I'm leaving now. Agnes is here with you! Be good! I'll bring back your favorite biscuits from the market. I'll be back shortly!" She replied, "Did you bring enough money?" This short exchange is so filled with love, I can't even.
Love Exchange
"Dear grandfather,As I got myself ready to go out, my grandfather told me to stay in and spend time with my grandmother (now bedridden) instead so she wouldn't be so bored. When he proposed this, his face lit up even more. I still think it's amazing how two people can still show so much affection for each other after so many years.
Right before my grandfather left, he shouted to his wife "Hey, I'm leaving now. Agnes is here with you! Be good! I'll bring back your favorite biscuits from the market. I'll be back shortly!" She replied, "Did you bring enough money?" This short exchange is so filled with love, I can't even.
Love Exchange
shall I go to the market with you today?"
"Lovely child,
why don't you stay home with grandma instead?
I can go there by my lonesome;
my legs work fine."
"Wear a hat for the sun,
sweet husband of mine."
Sunday, August 09, 2015
Little Things
Wrote this with feelings of nostalgia cause this was one of the songs i loved for him to sing to me. He probably didn't understand how much the words resonated with me and how much I wanted to hear those words from his mouth. So, this arrangement has hints of hope as well as sadness.
On another note, I'm really trying to improve with every new arrangement. If you have any feedback, feel free to comment. All constructive feedback is appreciated!
On another note, I'm really trying to improve with every new arrangement. If you have any feedback, feel free to comment. All constructive feedback is appreciated!
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Shake it out, Skyscraper, Stay with me
Another new mashup: Shake it out, Skyscraper, Stay with me!
Chose the three songs because it represents the internal struggle of one's heart and mind.
Chose the three songs because it represents the internal struggle of one's heart and mind.
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