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Are you a Fundamentalist Atheist?

2010-07-24T00:22:00.001+08:00

Taken from www.tektoonics.com

You may be a fundamentalist atheist if...

You believe that extra drippy ice-cream is a logical proof against the existence of God, because an omniscient God would know how to stop the ice-cream from being extra drippy, an omnipotent God would have the ability to stop the ice-cream from being extra drippy, and by golly, an omnibenevolent God wouldn't want your ice-cream to be extra drippy.
Although you've memorized half a dozen proofs that He doesn't exist, you still think you're God's gift to the ignorant masses
You believe the astronomical size of the universe somehow disproves God, as if God needed a tiny universe in order to exist.
You think questions like, "Can God create a rock so big that He cannot lift it?" and, "Can God will Himself out of existence?" are perfect examples of how to disprove God's omnipotence and ultimately how to disprove God. When someone proves to you the false logic behind the questions (i.e. pitting God's omnipotence against itself), you desperately try to defend the questions, but then give up and go to a different Christian site to ask them.
Related to the above, you spend a great deal of your spare time writing to Christian websites asking them these very questions.
You spend hours arguing that a-theism actually means "without a belief in God" and not just "belief that there is no god" as if this is a meaningful distinction in real life
You consistently deny the existence of God because you personally have never seen him but you reject out of hand personal testimony from theists who claim to have experienced God as a reality in their lives.
You can make the existence of pink unicorns the center-piece of a philosophical critique.
You say that there is no God and that those who believe in God do so in blind faith, yet your claim that there is no God also rests on blind faith.
While you don't believe in God, you feel justified on bashing God or attacking those who believe in something that you KNOW doesn't exist; fighting against or even discussing about a non-existent being are the symptoms of mental illness!
You blame God for the starvation, sickness, pain and suffering in the world... when, indeed, it is MAN's greed, politics, selfishness and apathy that not only causes, but also ignores the sick and the starving masses. We aren't our brothers' keepers, but we should be
When asked where the big ball of matter (that started the "Big Bang") came from, you insist that it popped out of nowhere.
You say that the existence of God is a "blank idea", since no one knows the universe's secrets, yet you continue to state your opinion of God not existing as a "fact".
You believe in many things about history (the culture of the ancient Mayans, egyptians etc.), yet you refuse to accept personal modern-day testimony from someone who has personally experienced God.
You ask Christians to come on to your forum to address issues you raise. When you don't like the answers or can't accept them, you proceed to delete the conversation.
You believe that planes, computers, calculators, compasses, etc, were "all obviously designed," yet the human body, being intricately more complex was "obviously a product of biological evolution." It seems the more complex the apparatus, the more obvious the "fact" that it was not designed.
As a member of the Skeptic's society you pride yourself on being skeptical of extraordinary claims. You also pride yourself on silencing everyone who is skeptical of the extraordinary claims of evolution.
Isaac Newton does not count as an example of a great scientist who believed in the Bible since he died before the Origin of Species was published.
When you watch a punt returner run a 93 yard touchdown, you marvel at what evolution has done for the human race. But when someone gets cancer, you blame God for it.
When you're discussing the origin of the world, the phrase "uncaused cause (God)" is a stupid, meaningless thing to say. You will, however, settle for "uncaused effect (the world without God)".
When you ask the question "How can life arise from non life" you are told to "get a basic biology textbook". When you ask "if the answer is so easy why don't you tell me?" you are called an ignorant buffoon.
You love to castigate Christians for being "anti-science" if they deny evolution from goo to you via the zoo, and to preach that they should adapt their thinking to the "science" of our day. But you also castigate the Church of 400 years ago for being anti-science, when it DID adapt its thinking to the science of ITS day i.e. Ptolemaic cosmology, then joined with the Aristotelian scientists of the universities in rejecting Galileo!
You have recently stuck a Darwin fish on your car in the hopes the people with the Jesus fish on theirs will be offended.
You can claim with a straight face on sites like Talk Origins that "Evolution does not have moral consequences" despite the fact that prominent evolutionary advocates like Richard Dawkins and Daniel Dennett vehemently assert that evolution does transcend biology in a way that has profound effects upon ethics.
When the Pope says that God may have used evolution, he is an enlightened religious leader whom Christians should listen to. When the Pope preaches on the sanctity of human life from conception, and thus denounces abortion, he's just a senile religious bigot who should keep his opinions to himself.
You insist that science is completely partial to all ideas, is not dogmatic and researches all possibilities - except creationism and/or intelligent design.
When a creationist points out problems with the evolutionist model you claim that the whole point of science is to answer problems like these. But if you can point out even one problem in the creationist model it should instantly be abandoned as absurd.
You are a person who absolutely believes that life came from non-life, yet absolutely deny the possibility of anyone rising from the dead.
You won't bet $10 on a football game because a 50/50 chance isn't good enough, but you have no problem gambling with your life on the nearly impossible odds of a cell randomly generating from nothing.
You teach a belief as truth beyond any shadow of a doubt. Yet of course, you ignore that fully educated scientists in most other nations have proven against Darwinian theory. Like the Chine paleontologist who reportedly says: "In China we can criticize Darwin but not the government. In America you can criticize the government but not Darwin."
You insist that "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence", then claim that Jesus never existed.
When you use a historical point to prove Christianity is false (i.e., pagan parallel to Christianity), history is objective truth. When a Christian uses real historical scholarship to prove you false, history was written by subjective men and therefore cannot be trusted.
You reject what Cornelius Tacitus wrote about Jesus, dismissing it as "too late", but you readily accept what he wrote about Tiberius and Augustus.
You not only spell "God" with a lower case "g," but you also add an "E" to "B.C.," and replace the word "Christ" with an "x". Yet, when asked to name the planets you have no problem with spouting out the appropriate list of Roman Gods. Heck, you'll even spell them with capital letters! Not only that, you can even spell and pronounce the name of the 800-mile-diameter Trans-Neptunian Object 'Quaoar', and are delighted that it comes from the creation mythology of the Tongva people (aka the San Gabrielino Native Americans).
In addition, you say that terms like "AD", "BC" and "Christmas" (as opposed to "winter holiday season") are medieval, outdated, bigoted poison and must be eliminated at all costs from the world, yet the fact that our months and days are largely named after Roman, viking etc. figures (eg. Janus - January, Thor - Thursday) is a glowing testimony to the diverse and wonderful nature of human history.
You believe that Hitler claiming to be a Christian is undeniable proof that he was a Christian, while George Washington only claimed to be a Christian in order to win the people's favor.
You are outraged at the slaughters in the Bible ordered by God because of the need at the time (such as the Midianite children's tendency to avenge their parents after growing up), but then vigorously defend the bombing of Hiroshima on the grounds that the Japanese would fight to the death.
You assert that the crimes and failings of some Christians (acting inconsistently with the teachings of Christ) disproves the whole edifice of Christianity but that the crimes and failings of some atheists (acting consistently with the fact that atheism can provide no basis for objective morality) should on no account be held against the philosophy of atheism.
You assert there is no absolute categories of good and evil, that all morals are merely personal, social and evolutionary constructs but then you can still describe Christians and Christianity as absolutely immoral, repugnant, evil and a danger to humanity and not feel even a twinge of hypocrisy at the monumental illogic of your position.
You get angry when Christians tell you you're going to a place that you don't think exists.
You're convinced that people only believe in God because they're afraid of going to hell, despite the fact that if there is no God, then there's probably no hell either.
You think Christians are narrow-minded for believing in only one religion, but atheists are open-minded for believing in absolutely none.
You believe that Christianity discriminates, because you have to join their religion in order to be a member of their religion.
You don't like Christians because they are stuffy and judgmental and you don't like judgmental people. You also don't see the irony in this.
You believe that nativity scenes should be banned from public view, but that anyone objecting to pornography only has to look the other way.
Your only knowledge of The Bible comes from searching 'bible contradictions' in Google.
When you say "I don't know" you are being brave and honest. When a theist says "I don't know" they are being dishonest and are trying to dodge the question.
You quote The God Delusion like Christians quote the Bible.

The Vision of Five Angels

2010-07-17T23:11:00.002+08:00

The rapture is getting closer. I would like to share this with you.

The Vision of Five Angels (Vision, Prophecy, Revelation)
Written by Rev. Samuel Doctorian
Patmos, Greece, June 1998

CONTENTS: First Angel (Asia) | Second Angel (Middle East) | Third Angel (Europe) | Fourth Angel (Africa) | Fifth Angel (Americas)

I came to the Island of Patmos on May 5, 1998. For several weeks, alone in a house, I was struggling to live by myself, and try to cook and do other things around the house. I tried to eat as little as possible. I spent my time in prayer and fasting. I found a little chapel next door, where nobody goes, called St. Nicola Chapel. I went there pouring my heart to God. On a hill next to the house I found a marvelous rock. I went often and sat on that rock, prayed, meditated, and read the Bible. Several times I went to the cave of John, where he saw the great revelation.

While meditating for one month in this solitary place, I thought, "I wonder if the Lord will ever send a tenth angel?" I had seen angels nine times before - In England; in Belgrade, Yugoslavia. I had seen an angel in Amman, Jordan, in Jerusalem. Another angel with his message had delivered a woman from being hanged in Upper Egypt. I saw the last angel, the ninth, in Beirut, in the midst of the war. The angel awakened me physically, 3:00 o'clock in the morning. He told me to get out of the country immediately. I am grateful to the Lord until today. I don't know what would have happened to me if the angel had not come. Heaven will tell that one day. So here in Patmos I thought, I wonder if I would see an angel for the tenth time. There were times when I was alone in the house praying, I felt such presence, I wondered and asked the Lord if an angel was coming now. But it was not to be. One night I dreamt about an angel. It was tremendous. An angel told me to just fly in my dream. I felt is it possible? But an angel was telling me. I was on a high cliff and I really let go and was flying in the most beautiful way. I came down and landed just like having a parachute, peacefully. But that was a dream. That was not real. I wanted to see an angel, like the nine times before.

20th of June, 1998. 3:50a.m., here in Patmos, suddenly my room was full of light. There are not lights around here. The house sits by itself at the end of a road, near a monastery. Of course, I wondered what this bright light was. And lo and behold, as I was wide awake, this was not a dream, I saw five beautiful angels. I saw their faces, perfect. Looking like human beings, but full of light. I saw their eyes, their face. Their hair was so beautiful. On my right side, there were two lovely angels. When I looked at the others, trembling, suddenly I saw the other three had wings. I had been asked many times, if the angels I had seen before had wings. I had decided the next time I would see an angel, I was going to ask the angel, if he had wings. Everybody was asking me. Other times when I had seen angels, I was so scared and trembling, I did not have the nerve to ask them if they had wings. Now I saw the three angels on my left side with wings, and the two on my right without wings. They all had hands. They had beautiful white robes all the way down to the floor. Very hard to describe with human words. I wondered why five angels had come. I was trembling, shaking. I wanted to cry, I couldn't. The place was full of light. Suddenly the angel on my right side, the first one said, "We are five angels, from the five Continents."

Just before I could see the tremendous revelations of the angels, in the Spirit, I was in a great meeting where a great multitude of people were present. They were God's children, from many nationalities. I was on a platform, standing behind the pulpit. I was preaching in English. I had an interpreter on my left side. He had dark hair, gray suit. But I couldn't remember to what language he was interpreting my message. I was prophesying. This was the prophecy:

"My church, you preach love, teach love, but you need to practice love, and to show love.
There is need of unity in my body, there are many divisions among you.
My Spirit will not move and work where there is no unity.
There is carnality in my church.
Too much uncleanness in my church.
I desire and want holy people.
I died to make you holy."

While prophesying, I'm trembling. I'm lost in the Spirit. My eyes are opened. I'm looking to the great multitude.

Suddenly I saw these five powerful, mighty, shining angels, totally in white, come towards me. I began to go backwards from the pulpit about three, four meters. I was going to fall down. I didn't know what to do. I was wide awake, but in the spirit. Some power helped me not to fall.

As I was wondering what all this was, the angel on the right said, "We are here to give you messages of the five continents of the world." The moment I heard that I could hear the multitude, the crowd, thousands of them, saying, "Oh, Oh, Oh..." I believe the multitude saw the angels also. And somehow the Lord revealed to me that the time is coming in many parts of the world where God is going to reveal Himself through the ministry of angels. It's going to happen publicly, in churches. Thousands will see angels at one time. The Lord is witnessing that. Angels will be ministering to the Body, in these last days.

Suddenly the message started to come, "What you see and hear, tell it to the nations." This was not something I should keep to myself. Even they accept it or not, I have to tell it to the nations.

First Angel
The first angel, the farthest from me and to the right, said, "I have a message for all of Asia."

The moment he said that, in a split few seconds, I could see the whole of China, India; the whole of the Asian countries, like Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, North Korea, South Korea. I've never been to those countries. I could see the Philippines and Japan. Down to Singapore, I saw Malaysia, and Indonesia. Then the angel showed me all of Papua New Guinea, and the whole of Irya Jaya, Indonesia, and down to Australia and New Zealand. This was the message of the angel, to all that part of Asia, including Australia and New Zealand.

"I am the angel of China," he said, "India, Australia." In his hand I saw a tremendous trumpet, not a small one, but a long big one. He was going to blow it all over Asia. So whatever the angel said, it's going to happen with the trumpet of the Lord, all over Asia. Millions are going to hear the mighty voice of the Lord. Then the angel said, "There shall be disasters, starvation, many will die from hunger. Strong winds will be loosened like never happened. A great part will be shaken and destroyed. Great part will go under the ocean. Millions will die in China and in India. Nations will be against nations, brother against brother. Asians will fight each other. Nuclear weapons shall be used killing millions." I heard the word 'catastrophic' used twice. "Financial crisis will come all over Asia. It will shake the world." I was trembling while the angel was speaking.

Then he looked at me and smiled and said, "There shall be the greatest spiritual awakening. Bondages will be broken. Barriers will be removed. Millions in China, India, all over Asia will turn to Christ. In Australia there shall be tremendous revival."

Then I heard the angel of Asia say, "It is the last harvest." I could hear the Spirit say, "I shall prepare my church for the return of Christ."

I was happy with the last few sentences of good news, after such judgment.

Second Angel
The second angel had a sickle in his hand. I heard him say, "Harvest time has come in Israel, and all the countries all the way to Iran, all of Turkey and the Arab countries. Multitudes that have refused me, refused my message of love shall hate each other, shall kill one another, shall be destroyed." I saw the angel raise the sickle and come down on all of the Middle East countries.

In few seconds I saw the whole of Iran, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Georgia, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Israel, and all of Asia Minor full of blood. I saw blood all over these countries. I saw fire, nuclear weapons used in many of those countries. Smoke rising from everywhere. Sudden destruction and men will destroy one another. I heard, "Israel, oh Israel, the great judgment has come."

The angel said, "The chosen, the church, the remnant shall be purified.The Spirit of God shall prepare the children of God." I saw fires and smoke rising to heaven. The angel said, "This is the final judgment. My church will be purified, protected and ready for the final day. Many will die from thirst. Water shall be scarce all over the Middle East. Rivers shall dry. Man will fight for water in the Middle East countries." I saw the United Nations shall be broken to pieces because of the crisis in the Middle East. There shall be no more United Nations.

The angel with the sickle shall reap the harvest.

Third Angel
In the presence of almighty God and what the angels were talking to me I was shivering, trembling. I wanted to cry, but I was not able to. I was so much lost to see what was happening.

I really was fascinated. I couldn't have the courage to ask the third angel, who had wings, to open his wings. Suddenly this third angel opened his wings. I saw him fly over my room and in the spirit showed me the whole of Europe. I saw Europe from one end to the other. All the way from the North down to Spain and Portugal. He had a scale in his hand - a scale of measurement. Whatever the meaning, the Lord will give it to us. I heard clearly the angel say, "I am grieved. I am grieved. I see unrighteousness, uncleanness, ungodliness all over Europe. Sin has risen to heaven. The Holy Spirit is grieved." I saw the rivers of Europe flooding, covering millions of houses. Millions drowned. Suddenly I heard Earthquakes all over Europe. Countries that had no earthquakes before shall be shaken. Suddenly I saw the Eiffel Tower in Paris crumbling, falling down. Great part of Germany destroyed. Great city of London, destruction everywhere. I saw floods all over Scandinavia. I looked to the south of Europe. I saw Spain and Portugal passing through great hunger and great disasters. Many will die from hunger.

I cried and said, "Lord, what about your children?" The angel said, "I shall prepare them. They shall be looking for the appearing of the Lord. Many will cry to me those days and I will save them. I shall perform mighty miracles for them and show them my power."

Fourth Angel
Then I saw the fourth angel fly all over Africa from Cairo to Cape Town.

The angel of Africa had a sword in his hand. I heard him say, "Innocent blood has been shed. Divisions amongst the people. Generation far from the Lord. Thousands of people have killed each other. I've seen my faithful children in Africa. I shall reward all the faithful. I shall bless them abundantly. I shall control the weather- such scorching, burning of the sun. Other parts flooding. Foundations shall be shaken, rivers shall dry, millions will die from starvations. My sword shall judge the unrighteous and the bloodthirsty. So many earthquakes shall happen. Rivers will flow in different directions. Flooding of many villages." God's Judgment shall do it. I saw great pieces from stars falling from the sky upon Africa. The trembling of the earth shall be tremendous. Never happened since the creation. None shall escape the sword of the Lord.

I saw the Nile River drying, fishes dead, stinking all over Egypt.

Great part of the middle of Africa shall be covered with water, millions drowned.

"Lord," I said, "It is all bad news, all destruction. Any good news?" The Lord said, "The final day has come. Judgment day is here. My love has been refused, now my anger has come."

I trembled. I was shaking. I thought I can't bear it any more.

Fifth Angel
Then I saw the last angel flew over America, north and south, from the North Pole to the South Pole. From Canada all the way to Argentina; from the east of the U.S.A., New York, till the West, California.

I saw in his hand a big bowl, a deep cup full of judgment. The angel said he would pour from this bowl upon north and south America.

The angel said, "No justice any more, no righteousness, no holiness, but idolatry, materialism, drunkenness, bondage of sin, killing of innocent blood, families broken, adulterous generation. Sodom and Gomorra is here. The days of Noah are here. False preachers, false prophets, refusing of my love, imitation of religion, having the form of godliness but denying the power."

I begged the angel, "Can you not wait for a little while. Don't pour it. Give a chance for repentance." The angel said, "Many times God has spared and has spoken, but they have not listened. His patience has come to an end. Now the time has come. They have loved money and pleasure more than me."

As the angel began to pour from the bowl, I saw the great icy mountains melt in the north. Flooding came all over Canada and North America. All the rivers flooded, destruction everywhere. The world market collapsing with mighty earthquakes in New York. The skyscrapers tumbling, millions dying, ships in oceans sinking, explosions I heard from all over the north of the country, and millions dying.

The angel was pouring judgment on Mexico and all of Central America. Flooding of the countries, two oceans joining together, the Atlantic and the Pacific. Great part of north Brazil covered with water, the Amazon River turning to a great sea, forests destroyed and flooded, major cities in Brazil destroyed, earthquakes in many places.

As the angel poured judgment all the way to the South, to Chili and Argentina, great destruction took place, like never before.

The whole world was shaking. "In a short time," I heard the angel say, "this is going to happen."

Then I saw the five angels surrounding the globe, the world, lifting their wings and their hands towards heaven and saying, "All glory to the Lord of heaven and the earth. Now the time has come and He will glorify His Son. The earth shall be burnt and destroyed. All things shall pass away. The new earth shall come. God shall destroy the works of the devil forever. New heaven and new earth shall come. I will show my power, how I will protect my children in the midst of all these destructions. Be ready for the day of the Lord has come."

My room was full of light from the brightness of the angels. Then suddenly they ascended up to heaven. As I looked up I saw the angels go in five different directions. I knew they had already started their duties.

For more than an hour I could not move. I was wide awake. I was not sleeping. I was trembling from time to time. Then I said, "Lord, shall I leave Patmos now?" "No," said the Lord, "I have brought you for a purpose." "I'm in your hands Lord," I said, "Let thy will be done. Lord, the messages from the angels all over the world is not good news. It is judgment, punishment, destruction, and devastation. What would people say about me? I have always been a preacher of love, peace and good news."

The angel said, "It is our message. You are the instrument, the channel. What a privilege God has chosen you, to use you to give His message." Then I answered, "Thy will be done."

Still I lay there motionless. I was lost in thoughts. I did not know what to do. I was in the presence of such holiness of God. I wanted to cry but I couldn't. There's no way to weep. I could not laugh, impossible. I was praying, fasting, and seeking the mind of God in order to write everything down in the Spirit. After such meditation, I was able to write all that God's Spirit brought to my remembrance.

Undoubtedly this was a highlight in my life. To God be the glory. Amen.

Samuel Doctorian

Scripture References: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 5:1-11; Hebrews 12:22-29; 2 Peter 3:1-13; Matthew 24:1-15; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; Isaiah 17:1; Zechariah 12:1-3.

Bible Land Mission.
2355 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91104 U.S.A.
Tel: [626] 798-7177
Fax: [626] 791-0036

Photosynth Competition

2010-03-18T20:16:00.003+08:00

Hello everyone. Some updates that I thought I should let you know :D

1. My official website, jsquaredtm.com, has been "Soft-launched". During these three months, the blog will be in an "experimental" mode - meaning that not all features have been implemented yet.

2. I am participating in the Photo360 competition organised by Microsoft. I would appreciate all your votes!

How to vote?
Click here to enter page.

Click on "Sign in" at the top left hand corner and sign in with your Windows Live username and password.

When prompted, enter a username of your choice.

Click on the "Star" to "Favourite" the entry. (Star located at bottom right hand corner of Synth).

Thanks for your votes!

New Image Feature

2010-02-17T10:57:00.004+08:00

For those observant people out there, you would already have noticed that by moving your mouse over the images in the previous post, a short description of the image is displayed.

Art Contest

This image was drawn for the art contest hosted by Powerpets. I used Flash to draw it. And yes, I got the lighting all wrong because I forgot to do the required changes after flipping the Ferret horizontally.

This feature works well on Google Chrome (Wndows & Mac) as well as Safari (Windows & Mac). It also works on Firefox - only that the fade-in effect will not be viewed. I didn't bother testing this on Internet Explorer (any version).

Get Chrome [here] *Mac/ Windows*
Get Safari [here] *Mac / Windows*
Get Firefox [here] *Mac / Windows*
Throw IE into your recycle bin [here] *Windows / Mac (IE5)*

Since I don't use Twitter that often any more, I've replaced the "Follow me on Twitter" icon with a Facebook icon.

NYP PPP

2010-02-13T09:23:00.022+08:00

As most of you might have already realized, I have started school. Not just any ordinary school though. I've started my Polytechnic Preparatory Programme in Nanyang Polytechnic.

I'm taking a total of 5 modules - namely Leadership and Team Building, Appreciation of Life Sciences, Experiencing the New Web, Introduction to Entrepreneurship & Communication Skills.

Recently, I haven't had many blog posts that reflect on my personal life. I thought it might be good for a change.

Leadership and Team Building
This module was in carried out in the form of a 2D1N camp. I have never experienced a 2D1N camp in my entire life - it was enough, however, to get to know the awesome people in my group - Hazel, Sandi, Eng Wee, Alvin, Rory, Cybil, Pei Yun, Karen, Alfred, Yun Ying, Jacqueline, Marissa Joan, Marrisa Weiwen, Brenda, Jixiang & Benezer.

Through a series of interesting (and not-so-interesting) activities, including high elements, we have become the best of buddies. I definitely hope it'll remain that way! :D

Our Bunk

This photo was taken from the Guys' bunk.

(First Row from left): Rory, Joshua, Jix
(Last Row from left): Alvin, Eng Wee, Benn, Alfred

Appreciation of Life Sciences
As much as I had my reservations about this module in the beginning, I'm actually beginning to enjoy it over the other modules. This module covers Biology (with some Chemistry in it). In our very first lesson, we were treated to a video - which identified evolution as being the BASIS for biology. This was something that was impossible to accept, because my faith is founded on the Bible alone. In fact, this isn't a matter of Science vs Faith. Rather, it's a matter of Faith vs Faith. I do not wish to elaborate further in this post.

I enjoyed the rest of the lesson though. From the observing of cells through a $10K microscope, to the extraction of DNA from plants (which included the mashing of vegetables up). Practicals are always fun.

Disgusting Vegetables

The smell and sight of crushed vegetables (carrots, corns, peas) was totally revolting. All this just to extract the Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of these vegetables. We did request for a grinder but it wasn't specified in our practical notes!

That would explain why I was grimacing!

I'm definitely looking forward to the next few weeks, which will include an industrial visit to Yakult and an ice-cream making laboratory session.

Experiencing the New Web
This was what I expected to be the most interesting module. Unfortunately, it is a little slow-paced for me. The first lesson started off with an introduction to the web. The second lecture covered the basics of HTML. Just this week, we started doing very basic flash animations.

Of course, I had to entertain myself. I started doing my own stuff (with the approval of the lecturer). I created my own 8-second flash animation, my own webpage and a random drawing in the span of 2 hours. (With the flash animation taking 1.5 hours).

You can view my Flash animation by CLICKING HERE

Introduction to Entrepreneurship
This must be one of the most stressful modules ever. Every week, we are given approximately 1.5 hours to do our project - this includes the collection of data and preparation of Powerpoint slides. We are then given 8 minutes to do a formal presentation - this includes a formal attire.

Despite this being the most stressful of all modules, I find the challenge of working against time rather exciting.

Communication Skills
This module covers the basics of Communication (well, duh!). I don't think I have much to talk about this module, since it is largely an English class, with tips on how to present your ideas well.

Right now, I have 4 different groups, and have gotten to know people who are not in the same course as me (Information Technology). Again, working with 4 different groups on 4 different projects with virtually the SAME deadline is really a "challenging challenge". But I relish this opportunity. In fact, I'm looking to excel in this PPP.

Apple's iPad

2010-01-28T20:40:00.005+08:00

Firstly, I would like to state that I am truly an Apple fan. I own a Macbook (over other laptops). I own an iMac (over other desktops). I own an iPhone (over all the other phones). I have Apple wallpapers and stickers on my cupboard.

The launch of the Apple iPad has prompted me to write a blog post - in fact, my first post in 2 months!

The hype surrounding the iPad was truly unimaginable. Even up to hours before the Apple Keynote event was actually held, information was still being leaked to leading Apple unofficial blogs like AppleInsider.

Apple has such a big reputation for coming up with new innovations, never failing to surprise the world with products that raise the bar so high. With such a reputation comes great expectations. Unfortunately, in my opinion, Apple has failed to live up my expectations with the release of the iPad, dubbed as the device that enables one to "browse the internet with ease", one that doubles as an "e-book reader". In short, it's just an iPhone - one really HUGE iPhone that cannot make calls.

Like many others, I was truly excited about the rumoured release of a tablet (especially since it was Apple). After revolutionising the world with the iPod and subsequently the iPhone, I was hoping that the tablet would be a killer (one that would directly compete with HP and Fujitsu). What we got, unfortunately, was one device that runs on iPhone OS. This means that Mac Applications CANNOT be run on the tablet.

The closest Mac application that you can get on there is the iWork package (which by the way does not come cheap at 29.97USD for the entire bundle).

While the iPad has access to 140000 applications from the App Store (with more to come as developers work on iPad-exclusive applications), I truly believe that my MacBook is more value for money. In fact, I find my iPhone more value for money too.

If someone were to give me this crippled iPad, I might consider using it. But there is absolutely no chance that I'm forking out over 600 SGD (minimum) to get a bigger version of my iPhone. In fact, if I really wanted a bigger version of an iPhone, I would spend $15 on a super powerful magnifying glass.

Integrated Retort

2009-11-06T08:36:00.003+08:00

As much as I would not have liked the casino to have even reached the shores of Singapore, it is almost becoming a reality. The Integrated Resort is going to be ready for her "Soft Opening", and no matter how "integrated" our retort to this destructive piece of structure might be...

I totally abhor the Prime Minister (and his cabinet's decision) to proceed with the construction of the IR. On the other hand, it would be unfair of me not to applaud Senior Minister Goh for his efforts - during his term as Prime Minister, he had refused to go ahead with such an outrageous and morally degrading plan.

PM Lee had acknowledged that the casino had downsides and that measures would be put in place. Presto! On came the heroic NCPG (National Council on Problem Gambling). Granted that they do have a good programme in place to help compulsive gamblers, taking a matter of such importance lightly is unwarranted.

It is akin to having a pool of contaminated water with gold hidden beneath. However, the odds of you dying before you reach the gold are very high. Yet, people still visit the contaminated pool, in hope of making a quick buck. The government's decision to bring this contaminated pool INTO Singapore will most definitely lead to more deaths by drowning.

The NCSA (National Council for Staying Afloat) would not be able to help much (if it was set up). The agency only serves to throw floats into the pool for those who request for help (or are fortunate enough to have family members requesting for help for them).

It's akin to coming up with an "unworkable solution" after deliberately "creating" a problem in the name of economic benefits.

Surely, they can't be wrong. Did I forget to mention that you had to throw some of YOUR gold into the pool before you're allowed to enter?

Wave Winners

2009-11-01T15:15:00.002+08:00

After putting all the names in a box, we've drawn FIVE winners for our Google Wave contest.

The following users have won a nomination:
* HoT_dEv1L_666
* oyvinro
* Jalevine1
* mclarenfan88
* madsenw

A tweet has been sent out to notify all winners. Please reply with your "Gmail Email". If you are concerned about your privacy, you can use the "Private Message" feature in Twitter.

I'll be hoping to wave with all of you soon!

Thanks to everyone for your participation!

Google Wave Invites

2009-10-26T08:48:00.007+08:00

**Read Below - 3 Invites to be given out**

I'm sure many of you here have heard of the revolutionary Google Wave. A quick search on Google would bring up tons of search results with tons of information.

As such, JTJM Innovation Hub will be giving away 3 free invites.

All you have to do is to leave a comment in this post, stating your Twitter Username and tell us why you want Google Wave.

All entries have to be in by 31 October 2009. The three lucky winners will be drawn on 1 November 2009 and announced in here.

Go on, make a comment (no duplicate entries), tell us why you want Google Wave, include your Twitter username and you're good to go!

Devaluing Nobel Peace Prize?

2009-10-10T11:24:00.004+08:00

In a surprising announcement by the "Nobel Peace Prize" committee, President Barack Obama of the United States of America has been conferred the "Nobel Peace Prize 2009".

For someone who has done so little to deserve it. For someone who has brought largely unfulfilled claims of 'change'. For someone who said, "I do not view it as a recognition of my own accomplishments, but rather as an affirmation of American leadership on behalf of aspirations held by people in all nations".

What affirmation? What aspirations?

When the President was campaigning for the Elections to be the 44th US President, he had frequently gained popularity in his speeches at the expense of George Walker Bush. He had promised change to the previous administration's security policies. He had promised the shutting down of the Guantánamo Bay Detention Camp. Empty promises.

The Organising Committee had awarded Obama the award because of
"his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples".

Under Obama's fantastic leadership, the Israeli-Palestinian peace talks have stalled. The Iran Nuclear issue has also been "deprogressing".

He hasn't fared any better in domestic efforts - the overhauling of the health care plan is one of the most integral areas of his Presidency. Yet, he can do little to convince the opposition to vote for it.

So what was the real reason that made the Nobel Peace Prize committee select Obama as the winner of their award? Was it to encourage America in one of the lowest periods of history? Was it to encourage Obama to carry out the reforms he had promised?

Only time will tell.

Martti Ahtisaari, winner of last year's peace prize, had had decades of experience in resolving international conflicts.

Why was Obama given this award, having only spent less than a year in his position? His empty promises (for now) and his failure to engage a number of big countries (such as India) could haunt him in the future. To make things even more amusing, he was nominated for the award 2 weeks before he had secured his Presidency. Were there no better nominees?

One thing is for sure, the prestige of the Nobel Peace Prize has dropped, at least for 2009.

jChess

2009-07-14T22:45:00.001+08:00

Tetris Cartooned

2009-07-03T20:11:00.002+08:00

Apple Globe

2009-06-20T09:42:00.003+08:00

An extraordinary piece of art by Kevin Van Aelst, featuring the Earth on an apple.

*NOTE* This blog will not be updated for the rest of next week (21/6-27/6) as I take my Preliminary 2 examinations. Stay tuned for reviews on GTA, Sims 3, Windows 7 and IE 8 when I return the following week.

How to be a Robber

2009-06-15T00:00:00.002+08:00

Well, if you do want to be a robber, get something that is more threatening (rather than flip flops and a leafy plant). Even a pair of high heels and a durian could do more damage...

Ununbium

2009-06-13T11:24:00.002+08:00

Scientists have added the heavy element (Atomic Number 112) to the Periodic Table. The new element is massive and unstable — it can only exist for fractions of a second before splitting up in radioactive decay.

It really makes me wonder how many of these "supernova" elements are going to be created.

There are more uses for artificial elements than bombs: Technetium is used in medical imaging, and Americium is used in smoke detectors.

Foreign Talent

2009-06-07T22:20:00.001+08:00

I’m not sure why there is this huge hoo-ha about removing Lee Bee Wah as the president of the Singapore Table Tennis Association (STTA). But then again, the objective of this short post is to address the issue of foreign talent, and not to gripe about something as trivial as the STTA or Bee Wah.

I would like to begin by commending the work of all the foreign construction workers in Singapore. They slog for the benefit of the people (directly). This can come in forms of better housing, better amenities etc. They are also talented in their own fields, each having an integral role to play in the construction industry. They have taken up jobs that are generally “shunned” by the typical Singaporean, worked under the blazing Sun, hoping for a better future for their families. These are the foreign talents I’m largely grateful for – without them, Singapore would not be able to increase her standard of living.

How about imported foreign talents in the area of sports? I have no idea how much the government has spent grooming them, incentivizing them and rewarding them. Question is – is it worth it?

Credit to the team for achieving the Sliver Medal in the recent Olympics. Let’s put things in perspective. They SHOULD finish second. Our republic’s team players are second-string players that have been brought over from China. Had they gotten the Gold Medal, perhaps their coach could have been considered for the Coach Award. Silver was the minimum, judging by their standards.

In what I see is a desperate bid to expand our Sport influence, we have brought a few players over from abroad. What is stopping them from bringing in the likes of Wayne Rooney, Roger Federer, Venus Williams and Tiger Woods into the country?

Do these players help our country to generate revenue, or only appear to help our country generate revenue? How have they made a difference to their lives? I’d like you to figure that one out.

Beatbox

2009-06-04T00:00:00.001+08:00

It's really exciting to see a whole lot of new videos coming up at Ted.com

Recently, I've been watching some extraordinary vodcasts, 14-year old playing the piano, Hans giving yet another compelling statistic presentation, and now, Naturally 7 doing their beatbox (this time on Ted.com)

Enjoy!

Reasons to use Vista

2009-06-02T00:00:00.003+08:00

1. You have lots of cash to spare. Vista could help you to burn some of your excess budget.

2. You love the thrill factor of having to source for separate Video and Sound hardware because they don't work on Vista.

3. You love pissing your friends off. Whenever they come to your home, they'll realize that many applications do not work on Vista (and they will not visit you ever again/mess up your place)

4. Viruses aplenty! Software developers or viral programming wannabes can use Vista as a platform to test for potential system loopholes.

5. You get to take part in the Customer Experience Improvement program (it's not as though you could opt out of it anyway - image below shows how you don't have a choice not to participate)

What are you waiting for? Get your Vista NOW!

Reasons to use IE

2009-05-31T10:02:00.002+08:00

People use Internet Explorer (any version) for a variety of activities such as surfing the internet or downloading programs.

Recently, I stumbled upon this picture, which pretty much summarizes the reasons for using Internet Explorer.

Many of you must have been wondering what the new link in the right navigation bar is for. jTalk is a new monthly initiative by JTJM Innovation Hub to offer tips on the various kinds of technology (eg. Web Development, Software Development etc.) The first issue, on Browser Compatibility, will be released on our 1st Anniversary. As you might have noticed, a countdown timer has been placed at the bottom of every page.

Many emails have been coming in regarding jTalk - I guess it'd be a good time to do a brief introduction of it today. Any comments / feedback? Click the "Post a Comment" button at the top of this post!

Apple Design Process

2009-05-27T00:00:00.001+08:00

An Apple software starts with a sketch of the interface, followed by a "prototype" done in Photoshop, and finally we have the end product. Of course, this is extremely simplified - but you get the general idea.

To see the image below in greater detail, you can "right-click" and "view image in new tab".

Credit to Techradar

Since I'm on the topic...

Adobe CS4 Ad

2009-05-25T00:00:00.000+08:00

Kudos to the production team - great manipulation of clips there :)

Witty Signs

2009-05-23T18:57:00.002+08:00

There's no better way to spice up your day then to read signs that perfectly make sense (grammatically at least).

In addition to this, you might want to check out our "Useful Tools" page. I have just added some great file hosting sites that you might want to use!

Alliteration

2009-05-21T07:24:00.000+08:00

Regally He rides to the rescue of the repressed, his resplendent regalia radiating resilience, a rakish renegade rising to retain and renew the ruined ramparts of this reprehensible repository of rancorous repugnance, the internet. The rulers of what is reportedly reality rage to retain their regal right to reject the reverie of the rabble and restrict the reach of our recognition. The rank-and-file require a ringleader to rip right through the repulsive rhetoric of those referred to as rex or regina before they would riot and rise.

The riposte rings and resonates round the realm as He renders his robust resolve to repel the reprobates. His role is a rogue’s remit, receiving no remuneration or respect. Reluctantly but resoundingly his roar rallies the riffraff. They rush recklessly to redress the ruptures and rips rent by rectors and republican rent-boys alike. He retires to his residence to remain, resting and recuperating to return when required, when the ramifications of his response are no longer renowned, for it is not reputation which he reveres. It is rectitude. He refers to himself as RBX.

Alliteration is easy. Maybe you should try harder.

**If you'd like to find out what the words mean, mac users can mouseover and do a Control-Cmd-D on the particular word. Windows Users, unfortunately, have to do it the hard way - go to dictionary.com.

By the way, the text doesn't really make sense :P

Man Utd clinch Title

2009-05-17T08:32:00.004+08:00

A historic 3rd consecutive title.

A record-equaling 18th top division title.

Despite the poor forward performance by Manchester United, whereby they did not manage to get a shot on target in a goalless draw against Arsenal, they had managed to win their 2nd EPL title on Home soil.

This renders their match against Hull unimportant, and Liverpool's matches insignificant.

Can they go on to win the quadruple by beating Barcelona in the Champions League finals?

Tweaks 2

2009-05-14T21:21:00.002+08:00

Yes - you heard it correctly!

In our final installment of upgrades for the site, I have done the following:

* Added new links in the "Useful Tools" section on the right of this page.
Many of the links that have been added are self explanatory. Do take a look at them, they will definitely make life easier for you in this technology dominated world.

* If you copy content from my site, and decide to email your friends etc, a link will automatically be generated back to my site so that your friend can view the whole article / other articles. Try it :)

Tweaks

2009-05-12T00:00:00.001+08:00

A total of 4 major and 6 minor tweaks have been made to this blog. Most of these tweaks are already obvious to you; I would like to keep you updated on what I've done.

MAJOR TWEAKS

** Addition of Comment Bars
This was probably the most obvious change you have noticed when entering the site. The spiffy bar was added to reduce the time needed to post a comment by 50%.

** Google Search
The Google Search engine customized for my blog has finally been activated and found to be working after almost 10 months of non-functionality. It is located on your left.

** Comments Page
The comments page was made to look neater and more intuitive. By clicking on the yellow bar in the comments page, you are brought directly to the comments that are located below the blog post.

** Browser Compatibility
My blog now supports an additional 2 more browsers - Google Chrome and Camino. IE6 isn't recommended.

** Load Speed
The most significant change is the loading speed. The time taken to load each page will be cut by 10% after significant optimization of the codes.

MINOR TWEAKS

++ Mascot Makeover
The mascot at the bottom of this post has been given a makeover - smoother lines + a more realistic facial expression.

++ RSS Link Fixed
The blue RSS Link button has been fixed to work on Firefox as well.

++ myHub Link
The title of my blog, right at the top of this page, is now linked to the home page.

++ Left Menu Bar
People were complaining that the bar was irritating / hard to see. I have darkened the fonts and have also included a "Collapse Bar" bar for those of you who do not wish to view the full bar.

++ Tags
The links to the tags have been moved to make way for the Google Search engine. They are not situated under the menu "Links".

++ Small Icon
For Camino users, you are able to see my blue JTJM Innovation Hub icon instead of the orange Blogger one at the top of the page. I'm not sure why this doesn't work in Firefox / Safari - will try to fix this another day.

Another piece of good news to share. This is my 141st blog post since 20 July 2008, which comes to about 3 posts per week!

That's all from me. If you have any suggestions on how to improve existing features, feel free to leave a comment!

Domino Fun

2009-05-11T10:39:00.003+08:00

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T00:00:00.002+08:00

Sometimes you make me angry
When you tell me what to do
But when I need a hand
The one who’s there is you

To pull me up when I fall
To help me start again
It doesn’t matter what I did at all
You’ll always be my friend

Loving guidance, angelic care,
For all things big, and small,
To help me shop, and brush my hair,
To help me lick my wounds if I brawl.

You’re always there, through thick and thin.
There could never be another.
So where on earth could I begin
To thank you for being an amazing Mother?

Written by Conor

England Campain

2009-05-04T22:58:00.004+08:00

1. Grammar does be important
2. Widout speling, you are going nowhere
3. Nonetheless, use your connectors wisely
4. Prefixes should be accurate to avoid disunderstandings
5. Do not use big and boondoggle words especially when you know not what they mean
6. Ensure That Famous Places And People Have Caps, mr. tan
7. Nly abbrvt th wrd whn ncssry
8. Remember to add! Punctuation marks; at the right “places)
9. Use idioms correctly - only then can you be an apple in my eye
10. Prepositions, when not used accurately, will make your effort go under the drain.

To has summary, however, impt englsh! is disspoken with much dilettante. Like father like son. Especially therefore sporke good! English in the soup.

This list was created by me. If you'd like to add your own rules, feel free to post a comment - I might conseeder addition onto the post :P

Promise of "Hope" 2

2009-04-30T20:21:00.004+08:00

For those whom are Pro-Choice, I'm not sure how you'll feel after watching this video. Just a piece of tissue we're talking about here? Think again.

This brings me back to my original post made in November 2008, titled "The Promise of 'Hope'".

AWARE Saga

2009-04-26T11:20:00.000+08:00

This poem was written by a close friend of mine, Conor. I'd have to apologise to him once again because I promised illustration for the poem. Unfortunately, time does not permit me to do so :(

The thoughts that float inside my head
They're filled with horror, and filled with dread
Because, don't you see? The world is dead
All morals are gone, it is a disaster
Every criminal, every crime, has it's own master
Everything's failing, it's a world filled with tears
Some kid's at school, are covered with jeers
Self-esteem breaks, they think nothing of themselves
No-one bends over, or offers to help
So today you people, who have a good life
Offer a hand, and help to end strife

I find that what the poem says is really true. Especially the part that reads 'All Morals are gone'.

Recently, there has been a stand-off in Singapore within AWARE between the old guards (who are supposedly for homosexual behaviour), and the new guards (who are strongly against the behaviour).

Earlier this year, I had edited an article which was related to Homosexual behaviour. Again, I wish to state my position:

I'm a strong advocate of what Josie Lau and her new team are doing. I have to admit that I'm afraid. I'm afraid that homosexuality would be taught in the Singapore education as a "socially" and "morally" accepted action. Before anyone starts talking about the rights of homosexuals, let me make this clear. I do not condemn the person with a different gender preference. Rather, I condemn the ACTION of engaging in immoral activities that harm the society in more ways then one.

For those who have given feedback to me regarding my February 2009 post, about me mixing homosexuality with Christianity, I thank you for your feedback - they have played a huge role in the crafting of this post. I will not attempt to use religion to explain my distaste for the promotion of "homosexuality as an accepted behaviour".

Firstly, someone wrote in to say that "People with gender-orientation issues are born that way". I beg to differ. From Narth.com (which is not a religious site), "The inaccurate concept that homosexuality is solely biological is extremely misleading. Many therapists tell their clients that homosexuality is biological and therefore unchangeable. These therapists encourage their clients to embrace a gay identity, even when such clients are seeking change for their orientation.". This might not necessarily be prevalent in Singapore in the present, but it might be in the future - which is the reason I applaud the new team of EXCOs for taking a stand.

Secondly, activists claim that they are being discriminated against. However, my stand is that as long as they have basic rights to what any other Singaporeans should have, they have not been discriminated against. The only thing that the society / me condemns is the action of trying to break family values etc. If we want to give every ACTION a right to exist, it would also mean that we cannot condemn terrorist acts, suicide, mutilation etc. There has to be a clear line between what should be accepted and what shouldn't .

Recent events around the world have made this issue more pressing. Ms California (Carrie) was posed a question by one of the judges on what she thought about gay marriages. This had not only cost her a title in the Ms USA pageant contest (she was a strong favourite), it had led to a public backlash. Perez Hilton, the judge, slammed her in his blog following the answer. A quick search online would bring up Perez's derogatory remarks. Again, I applaud these people for their courage in standing up against the act of marrying someone of the same gender.

Go on, I'd love to hear your comments about this issue. Please do not start by correcting my grammar or spelling. I prefer response to my content. =)

Prophecy Came True :/

2009-04-20T20:16:00.003+08:00

My Prophecy / Bold Prediction made in March had come to past. However, this isn't something that I particularly feel happy about. In fact, on 17th April, I had been praying earnestly that it would not happen - but it did. The Catholic High School Edward Becheras Choir achieved a GOLD award for SYF. In all the choirs I've been in, they've achieved Bronze (SAJS), Silver (SAJS), Gold (CHS) and Gold with Honours (CHS).

However, I did not participate in this year's SYF. To put it bluntly, I wasn't selected.

Even as I'd correctly predicted the results of the choir, I believe that there is a lot to learn from this incident. People need to fall. It is a necessity. So in a way, we should be thankful for the sudden change in results. This would actually help up to eradicate complacency, arrogance etc. in future. This isn't specifically aimed at the Choir. The Catholic High School basketball team had also lost their first two matches in 4 years - a result I welcome with open arms. The juniors need to know that the result doesn't just fall from the sky or grow from the ground. Achievements only "arrive" as a result of hardwork, teamwork and strong leadership.

I'd like to apologise to my friend, Conor. I had promised to do an illustration of a poem for him (and post it in my blog). Unfortunately, my time has been rather limited these days with preparations for 9 Prelim Papers and 1 O' Level paper. I'll get to it - I promise :)

Man from the South

2009-04-14T00:00:00.000+08:00

Another fantastic story by Roald Dahl. Here are the 3 clips I managed to find on Youtube - enjoy!

Stopmotion Video

2009-04-13T00:00:00.000+08:00

This is really impressive - not sure how many photographs he took to create the video.

Social Graces

2009-04-12T14:37:00.003+08:00

Litter left on tables. Commuters jostling their way into the train carriages in search of a seat, disregarding the elderly or handicapped. Social graces are lacking so much in Singapore; the probability of striking lottery is significantly higher than seeing someone give up their seats. These acts, committed consciously or unconsciously, have a negative impact on the reputation of Singapore and the strength of our social cohesion. This is a cause to be alarmed.

Singaporeans are quick to gripe about almost everything - not offering any constructive feedback. We chastise people for not extending a helping hand when we fall. We blame the society for anything that has gone awry. However, many do not realise that the reverse is also true. This does not augur well for us as individuals and as a nation.

We should tackle this problem at its roots. The problem certainly does not lie with the laws or campaigns aggressively aimed at solving this impending disaster. It lies with us. It begins with each and every citizen; we have the responsibility to teach our younger generations and inculcate the importance of social values into them.

Firstly, humility is of utmost importance. Humility to help others and treat fellow Singaporeans as equals. Invariably, there will be cases of people conforming to elitism and other forms of segregation. This is a huge impediment to our progress towards a gracious society in Singapore. As Singapore becomes more competitive through the years, there will be times when ranking and position takes priority in our lives. Only by humbling ourselves before our fellow citizens can we better communicate with other groups of people, promoting social cohesion and understanding amongst each other.

Secondly, but no less imperative, is showing consideration towards fellow citizens. A simple act of allowing passengers to alight from trains before you board can be classified as a high level of graciousness and consideration. This goes beyond improving traffic flow in train stations. It is about setting good examples and encouraging others to do so. If we can see this in the same light, irresponsibly leaving litter behind, refusing to give seats up etcetera would be a thing of the past.

Finally, a simple word of praise or encouragement has more positive impacts than criticising others. For example, Temasek Holdings has been receiving some criticisms following her losses incurred in her investments. We question the effectiveness of this "company" are are quick in passing hurtful comments. Did we realise that it was this "company" that was also responsible for our country's healthy reserves? Encouragement over criticism is the way to go.

If we can make kindness and those values mentioned above part of our lives, Singapore will become a more gracious society.

Mantguin

2009-04-10T21:33:00.002+08:00

My poor attempt at cross breeding a Praying Mantis and a Penguin...

Arghhh - I'm down with a fever today... I guess it's because I stayed up beyond 12am for 3 consecutive days to finish up on my homework. Guess homework will have to take the back seat whenever I'm feeling tired :/

iPhone Shuffle

2009-04-08T21:24:00.002+08:00

With the release of iPhone 3G, many wonder what is in store for them. When Steve Jobs gave his first keynote on the iPhone, he mentioned something along the lines of 'The iPod. The iPhone. They are not two separate objects.'

Well, perhaps we should 'review' that statement. "The iPod. The iPhone. The Shuffle. They are not three separate objects. Introducing, the new - iPhone Shuffle!"

Below is the video:

For those of you whom are still living in your own world, this is just a spoof video.

Who is that on the line? :P

Unveiling "Sixth Sense"

2009-04-05T09:53:00.003+08:00

What a breathtaking address by Pattie Maes and Pranav Mistry.

In her presentation, she was demonstrating how the use of a "Sixth-sense device" might become a reality. With just a camera, projector and some other equipment hanging from your neck, you could easily do your daily stuff with some simple hand gestures.

Will this ever turn into a reality? I'll leave you to decide on that one. For the full video, please go to Ted.com and do a search on "Pattie Maes" :)

Research has shown that...

2009-04-03T22:42:00.002+08:00

Notice how the line "research has shown that..." is being overused in our daily lives. Almost every other time, when a "research has shown that" something could happen as a result of something, it's never true. It is just like the debates on how healthy alcohol is for your body; if underwears can be eaten; or even if defecating causes heart failure. We'll never understand how these "researchers" come up with their conclusions...

That aside, I was tickled when I saw this cartoon. I'm sure you'll like it as well:

If you have difficulties reading the text in the image, right-click and select "Open Image in New Tab". This would work most of the time, unless of course you're still using the buggy IE 6 (you'd have to Open Image in a New Window in this case).

Apple Fruit

2009-03-31T21:49:00.002+08:00

I'm sorry guys - I've been rather random these few days. No juicy articles / news, funny jokes / stories etc.

However, I managed to do a Short Ad for Apple :P
**DISCLAIMER - This advertisement is not related to Apple Inc. in any way.

Mrs Wings

2009-03-30T22:22:00.006+08:00

Look - I was really bored... This is definitely slipshod work, but nonetheless, I present - MRS WINGS!
(credit to Javince and Edward as well) :D

*View with Firefox / Safari. Don't ever try to view it with IE6 =P

Microsoft Bummer

2009-03-26T00:00:00.000+08:00

I love to use Internet Explorer 6 (comparing with IE 7 & IE 8).

The picture below shows Microsoft's website with a highly unsightly drop-down menu alignment. The words are skewed to the left. That is how bad IE 7 / 8 is at reading CSS codes. They take 50 million years to display the CSS... and yet.... they hardly get it right. They couldn't even make their own website compatible with Microsoft Internet Explorer.

I would not be surprised, if at the end of this whole thing, a footer is inserted in Microsoft's website: ' This site is best viewed with Mozilla Firefox 3.x'

iPhone 3.0

2009-03-25T22:30:00.002+08:00

I have been using Mr Wee's iPod for a few months already. Even though it's a first-generation iPod, it has impressed me sufficiently for me to continue using it.

My dad has an iPhone 3G. And guess what this phone is lacking? Yep - video recording capabilities.

It has been rumoured (perhaps it's already confirmed) that Apple will be releasing it's iPhone 3.0 Software which might just include that function. Below is the only picture I managed to lay my hands on:

I'm looking forward to seeing the new phone model, although I'm no where near coveting one...

Bruce McCall

2009-03-21T15:18:00.003+08:00

I've been impressed by Bruce McCall's pieces of art - not only because his drawings are good, but because they also have humour in them.

Like how these animals are auditioning for King Kong:

Then there's this one about driving to your doorstep:

Oh and guess what's in your drainage system...

If you'd like to watch his video, go to Ted.com and search for "Bruce McCall" :)

3-year old speared

2009-03-16T22:24:00.002+08:00

This boy was playing when he fell on an iron rod left standing on an under-construction terrace. The 1-metre rod pierced through his body and broke, resulting in his fall from the roof.

Thank goodness he survived the operation. He was fortunate to have only injured his liver...

Polar Bears

2009-03-15T14:50:00.002+08:00

Remember those cute polar bears you've always thought of cuddling?

This might change your views :P

These polar bears have surely done a messy job...

Prophecy....

2009-03-06T22:04:00.003+08:00

Never once have I posted a message as boring as this... But I have to get this off my chest. For those of you reading this, don't ask what it means - you'll find out in 2 months time. I believe what I'm about to say will come to pass. We'll see about that =)

I'll write this in "third person":

James had loved Melissa from 2003 to 2005. Sadly, he had to move on in life - he had no choice but to leave Melissa. In 2006, he met a person resembling Melissa; her name was Molly.

Molly was almost a carbon-copy of Melissa in terms of appearance. However, what she did not know was that she had had 2 black tumours in her brain. The brain is a very complex network of nerves (although I will not go into that).

Molly was an athlete, having won at least 6 consecutive 100-metre dashes. She was getting proud and arrogant, unaware of the fact that two tumours had already been lodged in her brain.

She is running that race again this year. James still loves her but cannot accept the fact that she was veering towards the "evil" side. Molly was completely oblivious to her downfall (which she was plotting).

Come March / April, Molly will collapse. Molly will wither. And Molly will be the subject of ridicule. Then, James would only stand by and shake his head somberly - perhaps frustrated that he could not do anything to help her...

Countdown to CL O'Level

2009-03-01T12:07:00.005+08:00

The 6th June CL Paper 1 countdown timer can be viewed by scrolling to the bottom of this page.

To anyone who wishes to embed this countdown timer in their blog, feel free to use this code:

<object width="350" height="270"><param name="movie" value="http://www.fhqhosting.com/ui/O%27Level%20Chinese.swf">
<embed src="http://www.fhqhosting.com/ui/O%27Level%20Chinese.swf" width="350" height="270"></embed>

You can change the width and height codes to suit your web layout. If you have a request to do a personalized countdown timer, try using the tag board, and I'll see if I'll have the time to help out :)

Infant Boy Marries Dog

2009-02-22T10:51:00.002+08:00

Reuters - Thursday, February 19

BHUBANESWAR, India - An infant boy was married off to his neighbors' dog in eastern India by villagers, who said it will stop the groom from being killed by wild animals, officials and witnesses said on Wednesday.

Around 150 tribespeople performed the ritual recently in a hamlet in the state of Orissa's Jajpur district after the boy, who is under two years old, grew a tooth on his upper gum.

The Munda tribe see such a growth in young children as a bad omen and believe it makes them prone to attacks by tigers and other animals. The tribal god will bless the child and ward off evil spirits after the marriage.

"We performed the marriage because it will overcome any curse that might fall on the child as well on us," the boy's father, Sanarumala Munda, was quoted as saying by a local newspaper.

The groom, Sagula, was carried by his family in a procession to the village temple, where a priest solemnized the marriage between Sagula and his bride, Jyoti, by chanting Sanskrit hymns, a witness said.

The dog belongs to the groom's neighbors and was set free to roam around the area after the ceremony. No dowry was exchanged, the witness said, and the boy will still be able to marry a human bride in the future without filing for divorce.

Indian law does not recognize weddings between people and animals, but the ritual survives in rural and tribal areas of the country.

I have only 3 words for them, "Bizarre AND retarded".

Hands through Pants

2009-02-18T18:58:00.000+08:00

This drunk guy was attempting to wear his pants (as a shirt):

The next time you drink, try not to go to the beach =P

Woman Misses Flight

2009-02-17T20:51:00.000+08:00

A woman who missed a flight on Cathay Pacific throwing tantrums... Apparently, this has become a Youtube hit:

A Mother's Love?

2009-02-16T00:00:00.000+08:00

Dear Child,

I am writing this slow because I know that you can't read fast.

We don't live where we did when you left home. Your dad read in the paper that most accidents happen within 20 miles from your home so we moved. I won't be able to send you the address, as the last family that lived here took the house numbers when they left so that they wouldn't have to change their address.

The weather isn't too bad here, it only rained twice last week. The first time it rained for three days and the second time for four days.

The coat you wanted me to send you, your Uncle Steve said it would be a little too heavy to send in the mail with the buttons on, so we cut them off and put them in the pockets.

We got another bill from the funeral home. They said if we don't make the last payment on Grandma's grave, up she comes.

John locked his keys in the car yesterday. We were worried because it took him two hours to get me and Shelby out.

Your sister had a baby this morning but I haven't found out what it is yet, so I don't know if you're an aunt or an uncle. If the baby is a girl, your sister is going to name it after me, she's going to call it Mom.

Uncle Pete fell in a whiskey vat last week. Some man tried to pull him out but he fought them off and drowned. We had him cremated and he burned for three days.

Three of your friends went off a bridge in a pick-up truck. Ralph was driving. He rolled down the window and swam to safety. Your two friends were in the back. They drowned because they couldn't get the tailgate down.

There isn't much more news at this time. Nothing much has happened.

PS, I was going to send you some money but the envelope was already sealed.

And since we're on this topic on jokes, I thought I might want to share with you the "Laughter Scale":

hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha.....

National Service

2009-02-15T14:08:00.002+08:00

National Service (NS) is the compulsory conscription in Singapore of all male Singaporean citizens who reach the age of 18. They are required to serve a two-year period as Full Time National Servicemen.

The government has also recently announced that "unfit" men will have to go through a vigorous 8-week training (up from the previous 4-weeks). This sure gives me an incentive to make sure I do my pull-ups right...

Anyway. the picture below showcases the financial costs + cost effectiveness of the military's equipment in the US.

I can't imagine how heavy that thing will be in 2060...

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T22:26:00.002+08:00

To all who celebrate it - I don't :P

The photo shown below was taken from Flickr. This couple was spotted having a great time in the park. Notice the contrast (not only in skin colour but in the clothings as well. One looks like an aborigine :P)

I'll make it a point to try to do at least 1 post a week. Prelim Exams are just round the corner. After that, we'll have 2 more Prelims before the actual O' Level exam. Basically, I will be largely occupied for the entire year - do check back weekly for articles on my blog :)

trans50 Speech

2009-02-08T11:59:00.007+08:00

Below is a speech which I drafted when I was in Secondary 2. Information contained in the speech is not necessarily (and most probably) not accurate.

Good morning Ladies & Gentlemen, welcome to the Biannual Singapore Transport Review.

The objective of my speech is to introduce to you the Singapore Transport system in 2 years time (2050). The entire project will be named "trans50".

Firstly, we are already making rapid progress in the construction of the Diamond Line. In other countries, they have the magnetic levitation train system. In Singapore, we believe that we should bring our Mass Rapid Transit network to new levels of innovation. Therefore, we have embarked on a floating train project - one which does not require the use of any guided rails. By it's date of completion, we will be the first country in the world to have a driver-less train to be powered by environmentally friendly alternatives - faeces and other forms of waste matter.

Secondly, our massive bus fleet will be fitted with more chairs for a more comfortable journey. We are in the midst of constructing Quadruple-deck buses which can sit 400 people. Roads will be lined with special bus lanes with state-of-the-art sensors. Again, as a cost cutting measure, drivers will no longer be needed. The savings will be passed on in the form of concessions for commuters who earn less than S$0.50 a month.

Thirdly, our taxi system will be revamped. Singaporeans have been complaining that Singapore has a shortage of taxis, especially during peak hours. To solve this problem, we have decided to increase the number of taxi operators from 5 to 28. This will introduce a total of 6 million new taxis into Singapore to meet everyone's needs - literally.

The last component of our public transport revamp involves the changes in the "EZ-Link" card. All commuters taking the trains, buses or taxis, will be required to have a mini chip implanted into their wrist in a highly painful operation. This chip will be termed as the "VOLTZ chip". When boarding any of the public transports, the VOLTZ machines will automatically deduct the required fare from the balance. As an added feature, the VOLTZ chip will deliver an occasional electric shock to the commuter should the chip balance go below S$0. This marks a much-hyped breakthrough in Infocomm Technology.

To ensure that the use of our public transport remains profitable for the companies, we have stopped the sale of cars in Singapore. The only retailers that are allowed to market cars include HotWheels! and Toys r' Us. Existing car owners will have to pay a weekly road tax of S$500 in hope that they will support our cause to help the environment.

For all of you attending this seminar, you are invited to be our pioneers of the VOLTZ programmes. Proceed this way for surgery please...

Windows 7

2009-02-04T21:09:00.003+08:00

I haven't tried the new Operating System that Microsoft is launching soon. However, from the reviews posted online, it is quite clear that Windows 7 definitely executes itself more cleanly as compared to the bug-plagued Vista. However, it is still a few notches below Tiger OS, despite trying to imitate the design of the distinctive "Apple Dock".

To give us a variety of choices (the same mistake they made in Vista), Microsoft has decided to release 6 different versions of Windows 7 (the main ones):

Windows 7 Starter

Windows 7 Home Basic

Windows 7 Home Premium

Windows 7 Professional

Windows 7 Enterprise

Windows 7 Ultimate

In all fairness, Microsoft has tried to fix all the problems that appeared in Vista. This includes over cluttered taskbars (solved by changing Applications on taskbars into Icons only). I believe that IE8 also works significantly faster than IE7. But that's besides the point - I wouldn't want to have trouble with CSS codes on IE. There is a Firefox Add-on which allows the opening of a "Best Viewed in IE" page on a new tab - cool isn't it?

Since we are on the subject of Apple Inc. as well, one guy actually designed a fantasy iPhone 4G (if you can't see the full image, right click - open image in new tab):

That's all for today! Hopefully we have something better coming out in Windows 8 :P

Promise of "Hope"

2009-02-02T21:39:00.004+08:00

Barack Hussein Obama is the first person of mixed race to attain this office, and that is truly historic. He campaigned on the slogans of "hope" and "change". However, change for the sake of change is not always a good thing. And many of the changes President Obama has in mind fill me with dread.

During his campaign, then-Senator Obama promised Planned Parenthood that his first move in office would be to sign the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA). That wasn't his first move, but it's still on his frightening, pro-abortion agenda. If FOCA becomes law, it will undue any regulation that currently restrains the slaughter of innocent babies via that detestable practice casually referred to as abortion. It will negate parental consent laws, parental notification laws, and even laws restricting the most barbaric form of abortion - partial birth abortion. The president has identified unplanned children as a "punishment" and stated that it is "above [his] pay grade" to determine when life begins. He has no respect for the unborn, as was evident by his refusal to back an Illinois bill that would require medical help for babies who survive an abortion and are born alive.

Obama moved quickly after he was inaugurated to reverse the ban on government-funded abortion overseas. American's tax dollars can now be channelled to export infanticide, and this is just the beginning of Obama's pro-abortion agenda. Abortion rates in the U.S. have slowed in recent years, but for all President Obama's rhetoric about wanting to reduce the number of abortions further, his agenda will inevitably see the number of unborn victims of murder skyrocket.

Obama has published on the new White House website his support for abortion, as well as his support for the homosexual agenda. Yes, he wants to get rid of the federal Defense of Marriage Act and institute other measures that will virtually guarantee that Christians will not be able to follow their moral compass in speaking out about the sin of homosexuality. The slight majority of American voters wanted change. But change comes at a cost. The cost of this change will be unimaginable.

Taken and edited from Contender Ministries

Toilet Bowls

2009-02-01T00:00:00.000+08:00

Some innovative Toilet Bowl designs :P

Ever tried peeing into someone's mouth?

Or perhaps into your classmate's musical instrument?

Or even onto your living room sofa!

Google Mail Goggles

2009-01-31T21:52:00.002+08:00

Have you sent messages that you should never have sent before? Gmail launched a program in 2008 that might actually help to "confirm" the sending of that message (explicit / vulgar etc.)

Mail Goggles will make you solve a few simple math problems to help you to verify if you're in the "right state of mind".

By default, Mail Goggles is only active late night on the weekend as that is the time you're most likely to need it. Once enabled, you can adjust when it's active in the General settings.

Ken Lee

2009-01-29T22:26:00.005+08:00

This was hilarious - featuring this Bulgarian singer, Valentina Hasan, attempting to sing "Without You".

This video was the most catastrophic of all:

Improved, but...

The "Ken Lee" Lyrics:

No one ken to ken to sivmen,
nor yon clees toju maliveh.
When i gez aju zavateh na nalechoo more,
new yonooz tonigh molinigh,
Yon sorra shooo,
yes ee shooo, ooo.
-Ken leee
tulibu dibu douchoo
Ken Lee,
Ken lee meju no more.
Ken Lee
tulibu dibu douchoo
Ken Lee,
Ken lee meju more

Entertainment value - Ken Lee wins hands down. But hear Leona Lewis sing it - impressive:

The "Without You" lyrics:

No I can't forget this evening
Or your face as you were leaving
But I guess that's just the way the story goes
You always smile but in your eyes
your sorrow shows
Yes, it shows
I can't live
if living is without you
I can't live
I can't give anymore
I can't live
if living is without you
I can't give
I can't give anymore

Topped PSLE

2009-01-28T22:11:00.002+08:00

I was just browsing through the stack of old files in my computer when I came across this:

O' Levels will be next *grins*

In soccer, AIG have decided to end their sponsorship with Manchester United. It has also been rumoured that Manchester United's 2009/2010 Season Jersey will look like the one worn 50 years ago.

Personally, I feel that the design was horrible - so much for the "nostalgic value"...

Useful Tools

2009-01-24T00:00:00.004+08:00

Listed below are a few Science Resources that might be helpful to you (in your projects, experiments etc.). If you should find any broken links, please leave a comment to report it.

Desktop Calculator
File Extension Finder
File Hosting
Math Problem Solver
Old Version Softwares
Online Conference
Online File Converter
PDF to Excel Converter
Periodic Table 1
Periodic Table 2
Resource Sharing
Vocabulary Builder

Invisible Pieces of Art

2009-01-23T00:00:00.001+08:00

More impressive stuff being showcased on the Internet :)

The 2 pictures below actually show 2 people who have been cleverly *camouflaged*. The artists sure did a good job with painting them to match the surroundings!

You might also have noticed a new RED banner at the right side of my blog. This will be linked to a post (that I will make on the 24th of January). Please be patient as I gather the relevant resources and compile them into 1 post :)

Mac Wheel

2009-01-22T00:00:00.002+08:00

Introducing - the Mac Wheel! Everything has never been so hard. Imagine a notebook without a keyboard...

In case some of you haven't realised, this is a spoof video. The production team have done a commendable job on their clip :P

Barack Obama Inaugurated

2009-01-21T22:33:00.003+08:00

As much as I do not fancy this man to be at the helm of the United States of America, I'll have to hand it to him for his inauguration speech. Although it fell short of Abraham Lincoln's standards, it was still impressive.

Speeches, however, are speeches. It remains to be seen if he has the ability to carry out what he has preached.

PART 1

PART 2

Tagboard Activated

2009-01-19T21:42:00.001+08:00

Firstly, my tagboard is now operational. It can be accessed through the navigation bar:

Secondly, I would like to relate yesterday's experiences...
Here's a story that Michael Ross Watson used in his sermon on Sunday:

One day, James' father came home very late from work (as usual). His son, James was waiting by the door for him.

James asked, "Daddy, how much do you earn in an hour?"

His dad, somewhat annoyed by his question, replied, "$20".

After a short period of silence, James proceeded to ask his next question, "Could I borrow $10 from you?"

His dad, thinking that his son might have wanted the money for the purchase of useless toys or other redundant items, simply replied, "No."

James walked back to his room dejectedly. Whilst he was in his room, his father pondered about what he'd just done, and realised that his son might have actually needed the money. Furthermore, it wasn't often that his son came to him for money.

He walked into the room - expecting to see his son awake. Sure enough, James was sitting upright on the bed. His father gently handed the $10 note to him.

A grin spread across James' face as he reached out from beneath his pillow to pull out a few dollar notes. Upon seeing this, his father saw red again.

"Why would you need so much money for?" he shouted angrily.

James handed the $20 to his father and replied, "Here's $20. Please come home earlier tomorrow to spend 1 hour with me- just to read the Bible and do meaningful things. I'll pay for 1 hour of your time"

Following the sermon, I proceeded to Jurong West Community Library to do my Community Involvement Project (CIP). I was tasked with introducing library users to the new SMS notification system. Believe me, standing for 3 hours straight was no fun at all.

Fortunately for me, I especially enjoyed myself when I was given the opportunity to guide some Indian and Bangladeshi workers on how to register for library memberships and use the library computers. My experience with talking to people was a pleasant one - all of them had the courtesy (except 1) to finish listening to what I had to say. Looking forward to my next 3 hours this Friday.

Now, that was yesterday. Today was rather interesting as well. During our lessons, our Geography teacher raised a question to the class, "Do you all know what the term 'baby boom' means?"

One of my classmates proudly shouted, "Does this terms describe the process in which a baby explodes when it is born?"

Another incident - English remedial. The teacher was reading a passage halfway when she told Derek to sit down. It went something like:
" I groped... Derek (please listen)"

That's all for today! Remember to leave a tag!

Amazing 3D Pavements

2009-01-17T17:17:00.002+08:00

The following drawings are done by Julian Beever. They are eye-catching and realistic. I've picked out a few of my favourites and listed have listed them below.

Remember, these were done on pavements (so they are actually flat on the ground).

For more of these stunning pieces of art, visit Village of Joy

Morons in IM

2009-01-16T21:12:00.004+08:00

Recently enough (in fact, just a few minutes ago), I received a IM message from a person with the email: sasuke_chow_@hotmail.com. Allow me to show you excerpts of a chat log - with a guy who taught he was playing me :P

Sasuke:
i am jason friend

Me:
Hi Jason's friend! What is your name?

Sasuke:
Alvin Chow. Give me your phone number ok? I am good people

Me:
62503035. You can call me only if you give me your number.

Sasuke:
0122929180

Me:
You are not picking up your call? (I wasn't calling)

Sasuke:
you say what

Me:
Right. I'm not a retard. You have 5 minutes to do a self introduction. If I'm not happy with it, this convo goes into my blog :D

Sasuke parted this conversation. Session Closed.

Moral of the story: I do not have a brain the size of a peanut. In fact, I have been widely praised for my highly evolved brain. :P If you have the chance, why not drop a message to Sasuke. Most importantly - enjoy yourself!

Gross Cheese

2009-01-14T20:41:00.002+08:00

Cheese is loved by millions around the world. But do you know what lies inside every bite you take?

To ripen cheese and add flavor, bacterial strains are freely injected and smeared into the substance. But not all have been accounted for, a new study finds.

Researchers at Newcastle University in England have now identified eight previously undiscovered microbes on the French, brie-like cheese called Reblochon. The potential benefits of these new microbes are still unknown.

Factories are adding more bacterial groups into cheese to achieve enhanced flavors, meanwhile disinfecting their products at the same time with high levels of pesticides while remaining under government standards.

"Virtually 100 percent of the cheese products produced and sold in the U.S. has detectable pesticide residues," according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Extracted from livescience.com

No Goal?!?

2009-01-05T21:29:00.002+08:00

I pity the guy who missed that shot - must've gotten a shelling from his teammates & coach O.o

I'd like to apologise - haven't found the time to write the second part of my Taiwan Experience. Give me till the end of January...

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T00:00:00.010+08:00

There's no better way to start a new year post on my blog than to describe my experiences in Taiwan. Because I'm tired, I'll do Part 2 of my experiences on Jan 2 / Jan 3. The post below relates the first 4 days of the vacation.....

If you are not a fan of my long-winded stories, feel free to leave anytime. This will probably be one of the few articles that are not formal, not interesting and perhaps not concise :P

Here goes...

DAY ONE

We arrived at the airport. Throughout the arrival hall, there were people shouting "Huan Ying, Huan Ying!" It was only later did I realise that they were saying "Welcome, Welcome!" instead of "Exchange Gold, Exchange Gold!".

It didn't take long before we got onto the tour bus. Our tour guide was "Ceng Qing Long". He requested to be known, more affectionately, as Jackie, Jackie Chan or Ah Long. We stuck with "Ah Long" - which also has another meaning :P

Ah Long gave us a small treat (pineapple-tart cake) when we were on the bus. This proved to be a good appetizer. We were due for Taoyuan Train Station for a ride to the Night Market.

At Taoyuan Station, there was a 7-11 store. Well, nothing unusual (except that they handed colorful receipts O.o). All 29 people in the tour group were reserved, we were no different.

It was then an idea struck me about taking a photograph of my family. It was also then that I discovered that the tripod was at home. Imagine my disappointment... This tripod would have proved to be handy for the next few days. What a pity.

After a short stop at Banciao, we reached Taipei. I was greeted with a "Disabled Elevator" sign. Well, since it was disabled (or for the handicapped), we trudged up the stairs to the exit.

The Night Market was bustling with activity. Bad news? We had to find a place to eat. The night market was ruled out without much hesitation (actually we went inside for 15 minutes to check things out :P).

It was only after passing a Shopping Mall and a few roadside stalls did we manage to get to a stall selling fried rice (which was relatively empty since it was deep inside). We kept ourselves entertained with their local television channels whilst enduring a long wait for the food.

As we were making our way back, there was a beggar kowtowing on the floor. He was doing that nonstop on the hard gravel floor (ouch!). My parents dropped a note into his bowl.

Just one more road to our meeting point. But guess what? That ONE PARTICULAR ROAD had a green man flashing for 99 seconds! Nope - that does not give us more time to cross the road. In fact, it actually encourages the driver to speed off in front of us with no respect to the traffic laws at all. This is one possible reason why a time of 99 seconds was set for a 5 metre long zebra crossing.

After that, it was a bus ride back to Imperial Hotel, Taipei.

DAY TWO

Breakfast was consumed before we moved on to Tamshui Fisherman's Wharf.

It didn't take long before we needed to use the washroom. I almost went into the one labeled "Lady". When I turned, what greeted me was even more hilarious (picture below).

'Opportunities to shop will be scarce...' was the advice that was given to us. We took some time to shop for souvenirs for colleagues, friends, superiors etc. When we were returning to our coach, a motorcyclist actually gave way to us (the one and only time it happened throughout our whole vacation).

Empty stomachs again. We travelled to Badasan Restaurant for our lunch. This was also the first meal that 10 people from different families had to sit together. The atmosphere was tense and we were all stiff. The food that arrived wasn't bad, but there was something missing - the lively atmosphere that I longed for.

We proceeded to Freedom Square. We had freedom to do whatever we wanted. Unfortunately, there was NOTHING that we could do there O.o

How do you tell the difference between a real / fake pearl? Well, according to Just Pearl, if you squeeze a REAL pearl in your hand, it won't turn hot. I was trying to find a furnace to prove them wrong. But besides that, their objective was to sell us their Pearl Powder / Jewelery.

This was followed by a trip to Yeliu Geopark. We were greeted by a "Wellcome" sign (yes, another spelling error). The rock formations, which were created naturally, were breathtaking. After taking a few photographs, we walked to their version of our "Pasar Malam" and bought packets of Cuttlefish and Salmon Floss (something like Pork Floss).

Taipei 101 came right after dinner. Please pardon my poor shot below. I had to steady my hands for 5 seconds in Night-mode (which was made very challenging without my tripod) We were given the opportunity to explore the building in a stipulated time. Believe me, going up to the 88th, 89th and 91st storey wasn't cheap. It was 400 TWD per person.

The better night view shots of the Taipei Landscape will not be shown here. Instead, have a look at the Taipei 101 Wind Damper that helps protect against typhoons and earthquakes by reducing the effects of wind and vibrations on the building. This structure weighs over 600 tons.

On the 91st storey, it was highly impossible to take any proper shots at all with the wind thundering against my hands. WHERE WAS MY TRIPOD? Gah. Since we couldn't take any proper shots, we *engaged* a photographer to digitally insert our pictures into the Taipei skyscraper (499 TWD for 2 shots). It was also because of this that we had to rush down the building (we were keeping the whole group waiting). To make matters worse, even though the elevators were the world's fastest, there was only 1 going down. We had to queue...

Again, we were given the opportunity to shop at another destination. However, it was more of buying foodstuff than souvenirs. A few of us desperately needed the washroom. Fortunately, we chanced upon a restaurant nearby. The waitress was kind enough to allow us to use their relieving facilities.

Yaward Hotel. Slept.

DAY THREE

Dragging your luggage across carpeted ground was difficult. Thankfully a porter came to help us. Unfortunately, we didn't really calculate correctly and only offered the potter 20 TWD (which he politely declined). We only realised this, to our chagrin, on the coach x.x

Food courts were a rare place to be in the places that we visited. This one boasted a mini-foodcourt as well as Delicacy shops. I munched on some Red-bean Pancake before going off to the Sun.... I meant the moon.... Or both O.o

Sun Moon Lake was packed with tourists. We bought a few fruits from the roadside stores whilst the rest of the group went into the temple. We avoided the temple - especially after the mishap that happened in Japan the last time round.

It's time we kids had some "fun". Formosan aboriginal culture Village (FACV) was our next destination. We took the cable car twice. Once to go to some deserted area and the other to get out of it O.o

Lunch was, shall we say, awful. It was later known as the "Instant Fried Rice". The rice was soggy, and it was so blend. We siblings (sister & I) conquered Space Mountain (not thrilling at all), Waikiki Wave (the wind was great), Gold Mine Adventure (Flume ride / Sliding down a steep slide on a raft), the Venetian Carousel (spinning 2 rounds per second - I was extremely dizzy after this one), Pirate Ship and finally the Monorail.

After the less-than-half-day fun, we settled into Prince Hotel - finally getting an adjoining room. The first thing I did was to make it seem like the doorway was a mirror image, making some members of my family think twice before walking through...

DAY FOUR

International Breakfast was scrumptious. Croissant, muffins - nothing short of heavenly. We grabbed our tickets to rush to the final theme park of our trip.

It was a long walk before we could event sit on any ride. We covered the Waikiki Beach (turning 360 degrees, dizzifying), Ferris Wheel (allowed us to view the whole theme park), Crazy Coaster (thrilling + jerky). Lunch was chicken, and chicken. Yep - 2 pieces each. That pretty much sums up our theme park experience.

After checking out from the theme-park hotel, we took a break at another rest point. By now, you should have noticed that we are like nomads. We have no fixed accommodation and most of the time (literally, inclusive of sleeping time), was spent on the coach travelling. Ah Long basically summed up our first four days as "Sleep, Eat, Toilet, Travel".

Another break. This time to buy MORE cuttlefish + some sugar coated donuts. When we were done, we were due for another temple visitation. This time I had diarrhea and had to be confined to a cubicle. Enough said.

Dream Mall, reputed to be one of the biggest malls in the world, was way below my passable grade. In fact, Singapore's VivoCity might prove to be a more attractive draw. On the more positive side, they succeeded in making people pay for their plastic bags. If Singapore would like to save on resources (notice I did not mention the fictional global warming), perhaps this could be an aspect that they could look into. We bought tons of instant noodles before making our way to another night market.

Oh before that, allow me to show you some of the funny signs that I saw there. If the signs are too small for you to read: Right Click - View Image

Back to the night market. The roadside stores were pretty unhygenic. Therefore, we settled with the steamboat restaurant. It was a wise decision as I was still suffering from stomach pains. The soup really warmed my stomach :)

Apart from some spelling errors in the menu, the service was awesome. The waiter was patient and helpful.

Finally, we checked into Metropolitan Hotel (which had it's fair share of Rubbish English as well). I'll share them with you tomorrow.

I'm surprised you have lasted this far. I'm surprised I've lasted this far as well. Wish all of you a Happy New Year!

Blog Stats 08

2008-12-31T00:00:00.001+08:00

It is fitting that I end this year with a breakdown of our visitors. I'd like to thank all of you for your support for this past 4 months.

Here are just some stats collected:

Screenshot of my Visitor Source :)

4773 Visits
1921 Absolute Unique Visitors
32538 Pageviews
6.82 Average Pageviews
00:04:48 Time on Site
12.09% Bounce Rate
32.29% New Visits

IE Users: 2638 (55.27%)
Firefox Users: 1851 (38.78%)
Safari Users: 126 (2.64%)
Opera Users: 71 (1.49%)
Chrome Users: 67 (1.40%)
Other Users: 20 (0.42%)

4602 (96.42%) used Windows
128 (2.68%) used Macintosh
32 (0.67%) used Linux
11 (0.23%) used others

Returning Visitors: 3228 (67.63%)
New Visitors: 1545 (32.37%)

**Once again, thanks for all your support. I hope to see bolder stats next year :)

Retrenchments

2008-12-30T16:02:00.005+08:00

Firstly, I would like to apologise for this long break I took. I'm trying to rush out a blog post about my Taiwan experience - but it's too long for publishing :P Let me try to summarize it first.

Secondly, I've received feedback that my image previewer is too translucent. Therefore, I've made it slightly more opaque (just slightly)...

Meanwhile, amuse yourself with this strip:

Survivor: In the Workplace

Dodge, Bush!

2008-12-25T00:00:00.003+08:00

President Bush's appearance at a news conference in Baghdad was interrupted by an Iraqi journalist who shouted in Arabic — "This is a gift from the Iraqis; this is the farewell kiss, you dog" — and threw one of his shoes at the president, who ducked and narrowly avoided being struck.

As chaos ensued, he threw his other shoe, shouting, "This is from the widows, the orphans and those who were killed in Iraq." The second shoe also narrowly missed Bush as Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki stuck out a hand in front of the president's face to help shield him.

Below are 3 clips illustrating this "historic" event...

Awesome performance?

Toilet Paper Cheque

2008-12-24T00:00:00.003+08:00

Gah - first we had people paying their bills with drawings of spiders (one of my previous blog posts). Now we have them writing cheques on toilet paper O.o

Perhaps he should improve on his handwriting as well...

I quote DailyMail

Dick Roper's glow of pleasure at using two sheets of toilet paper to write a cheque for a parking ticket was short lived.

Although Her Majesty's Court Service said they would accept the £30 cheque, they demanded an extra £15 to cover the fee for cashing it.

Smiley Moon

2008-12-23T00:00:00.002+08:00

Taken from National Geographic

"The heavens smiled down on Earth on December 1 in a rare celestial trifecta of Venus, Jupiter, and the moon"

The more amusing part of the article:

"People in Asia saw a smiley face while sky-watchers in the United States saw a frown, though we're sure it was nothing personal."

Critical Bug in All Versions of IE

2008-12-22T00:00:00.001+08:00

Adapted from ComputerWorld

The unpatched bug in Internet Explorer 7 (IE7) that hackers are now exploiting also exists in older versions of the browser, including the still-widely-used IE6, Microsoft Corp. said late yesterday.

Today, a Danish security researcher added that Microsoft's original countermeasure advice was insufficient and recommended that users take one of the new steps the company spelled out.

In a revised security advisory, Microsoft said research confirmed that the bug is within all its browsers, including those it currently supports -- IE5.01, IE6 and IE7 -- as well as IE8 Beta 2, a preview version that the company doesn't support through normal channels.

Users running any of those browsers on Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Server 2003 or Server 2008 are at risk, Microsoft said.

Footnote by Joshua: What's new? Just stick with Mozilla Firefox O.o

Is Mario Invulnerable?

2008-12-21T00:00:00.001+08:00

So the star doesn't really work :P

The Esc Key

2008-12-20T00:00:00.001+08:00

Someone help please! My escape key is running away! :(

Today marks the first day of my Taiwan trip - I will be back to blog about it on the 28th December. Meanwhile, I've lined up a few exciting posts that will appear at 12AM each day. Enjoy!

Actor Slits Throat

2008-12-19T17:45:00.002+08:00

This is no joke. An actor slit his throat on stage when the prop knife for his suicide scene turned out to be a real one.

Daniel Hoevels, 30, slumped over with blood pouring from his neck while the audience broke into applause at the "special effect". It was only when he did not get up to take a bow that anyone realised something had gone wrong.

Though bleeding profusely, Hoevels survived because the knife missed the carotid artery as it sliced into his neck.

Guardian.co.uk

For the next 7 days, I'll be away on vacation. I've lined up a series of exciting posts throughout these days (they'll appear at 12am each day). Enjoy!

Interactive Ads

2008-12-15T21:44:00.003+08:00

I'd bet that most advertisements have irritated you at one point or another. What do you do? You Block those ads. Perhaps advertisers are finally getting some intelligence. They (a selective group only), realized that it was NOT WORKING OUT. WOW! (adds Sarcasm).

Have a look at this innovative way of advertising:

Perhaps a video isn't that impressive huh? Why not experience it for yourself! Click here to see the Wii Ad.

Blindness

2008-12-14T09:22:00.001+08:00

This was from an email I received recently...

There was a blind girl who hated herself just because she's blind.

She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend. He's always there for her. She said that if she could only see the world, she would marry her boyfriend.

One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her and then she can see everything, including her boyfriend.

Her boyfriend asked her, "now that you can see the world, will you marry me?" The girl was shocked when she saw that her boyfriend is blind too, and refused to marry him.

Her boyfriend walked away in tears, and later wrote a letter to her saying. "Just take care of my eyes dear."

This is how human brain changes when the status changed.

Only few remember what life was before, and who's always been there even in the most painful situations.

Life Is A Gift

Today before you think of saying an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak.

Before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someone who has nothing to eat.

Before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someone who's crying out to God for a companion.

Today before you complain about life - Think of someone who went too early to heaven.

Before you complain about your children - Think of someone who desires children but they're barren.

Before you argue about your dirty house, someone didn't clean or sweep - Think of the people who are living in the streets.

Before whining about the distance you drive - Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.

And when you are tired and complain about your job - Think of the unemployed, the disabled and those who wished they had your job.

But before you think of pointing the finger or condemning another - Remember that not one of us are without sin and we all answer to one Maker.

And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and thank God you're alive and still around.

Life is a gift
Live it
Enjoy it
Celebrate it
EMBRACE IT
And fulfill it

And while you are at it give love to someone today
Love someone with what you do and the words you say
Love is not meant to be kept locked inside of us and hidden
So give it away "Give Love to someone today!"

Batam Trip

2008-12-12T12:51:00.003+08:00

I was away from the 7th - 10th December on a trip to Batam. I will attempt to, in the most interesting way possible, briefly describe our expedition.

A team of 49 choir members + 2 teachers assembled at TP Harbour at 10 am awaiting our ferry to Batam. The check-in process was hindered by the fact that many had their NRICs printed on their Boarding Passes (instead of their Passport number).

Upon reaching Batam, we immediately went for practice. I began calculating the amount of time we spent singing. After the practice session, I started receiving messages that went "WELCOME TO INDONESIA". Believe me, it was irritating.

3 sessions with the 3 clinicians over the 3 days proved to be a fruitful learning experience. This would usually be followed by games of Bridge (in Room 215 :P) and sessions of Table Tennis.

The food that was presented to us managed to make the mark in terms of Quality - not Quantity. We actually had to wait for the food to be replenished. Perhaps it was a hindsight on the part of the chef / organisers who underestimated the eating power of the kids these days.

On the last day, we went to a seafood restaurant. The people in my table didn't like / know how to eat crab. Tony and me gratefully savoured the food until the tour guide alerted us to the fact that the others had already left x.x We sped up - the 5 of us finished 2 crabs, 80+ prawns and a bowl of soup. Finally, enough food for all of us :P

On my way to the shopping centre (MegaMall), I had a look at my watch and remembered! We sang for 8 hours 47 minutes and 31 seconds throughout the entire trip. It felt good. Upon reaching the MegaMall (MM), I realised it wasn't so 'Mega' after all - nothing really impressive about it.

Apart from Minoshe (that Lingerie shop) and TimeZone (the Arcade), I believe nothing really caught our eye. We spent a bulk of the time in TimeZone - collecting tickets (lots of them) to redeem lots of stuff (shall not elaborate).

Finally, these were the SMSes that I received when I was in Batam:
Indosat (10 messages)
STM - Welcome (4 messages)
62811 (2 messages)
3 Indonesia (1 message)

Can you imagine how pissed I was after receiving 17 messages of the SAME thing?

Google is Hard?

2008-12-06T12:44:00.003+08:00

Some people, apparently, might need some assistance with HOW TO USE GOOGLE... Thus, this website was created...

This website TEACHES you how to use Google and proceeds to do the search for you. And this makes the process so much easier for you O.o

Hollywood Logos

2008-12-04T21:05:00.003+08:00

I'm sure many of you have seen Hollywood movies. Have you ever noticed their logos? If you visit Neatorama, you'll be able to see a well-researched article on the beginnings of these logos.

For a small preview, see the the pictures below :)

Warner Bros. Logos

Paramount Logos

Purity of Occupations

2008-12-03T22:07:00.002+08:00

Ahhh - since we were on the topic of Math in the previous post, allow me to share with you a cartoon (mouseover to see the larger version).

Enjoy!

Hey Mathematician - I can't really see you! Guess Joshua is too far in front :P

Mathematical Cheque

2008-12-01T10:41:00.004+08:00

Now now... All you math whizzes out there - care to solve this problem?

Try solving what this guy is trying to say - how much is he paying the recipient? O.o

Give up?
[0.002 + e^(2pi)] = 535.4936555
The limit of the sum of (1/2^n) as n goes to infinity is 1
Therefore $535.4936555+1 = $536.49
This cheque is approximately made out for $536.49

P.S. I didn't come up with the solution either :P

For those of you interested in Programming / Web Development, perhaps you might want to have a look at some of the tips listed in this website

Don't Fly Me

2008-11-27T00:00:00.000+08:00

The New York Times

It has been reported that an employee for Ansett Australia (Airlines), who happened to have the last name of Gay, got on a plane recently using the company's "Free Flight" offer for staff. However, when Mr Gay tried to take his seat, he found it being occupied by a fare paying passenger.

So, not to make a fuss, he simply chose another seat. Unknown to Mr Gay, another Ansett flight at the airport experienced mechanical problems. The passengers of this flight were being re-routed to various other airplanes. A few were put on Mr Gay's flight and anyone who was holding a "free" ticket was being "bumped." Ansett officials, armed with a list of these "freebee" ticket holders boarded the plane, as is the practise, to remove them in favour of fare paying passengers. Of course, our Mr Gay was not sitting in his assigned seat as you may remember. So when the Ticket Agent approached the seat where Mr Gay was supposed to be sitting, she asked a startled customer "Are you gay?" The man, shyly nodded that he was, at which point she demanded: "Then you have to get off the plane."

Mr Gay, overhearing what the Agent had said, tried to clear up the situation: "You've got the wrong man. I'm Gay!" This caused an angry third passenger to yell "Hell! I'm gay too! They can't kick us all off!"

Confusion reined as more and more passengers began yelling that Ansett had no right to remove gays from their flights.

Glasses are important?

2008-11-26T00:00:00.000+08:00

The following strip depicts how one would look like with & without spectacles...

Vista Code Leaked!

2008-11-25T00:00:00.002+08:00

If the words are unclear, right-click > view image :)

Haiku

2008-11-24T13:11:00.002+08:00

You know these stupid Jap poems which make no sense? Yeah - just saw Mr Wee wearing a shirt with a Haiku:

Haikus are easy
But sometimes they don't make sense
Refrigerator

Consequences

2008-11-23T17:34:00.003+08:00

Everything you do has its consequences - be it good or bad. The following pictures show a woman before and after her addiction to Facial Injections. She got so addicted to these Botox injections that she started to inject oil into her face as well :(

Macology

2008-11-21T00:00:00.002+08:00

The following tips (for the mac) have been taken from Digital Life (dated November 19):

Spotlight is a powerful search tool built into the Leopard OS on the Mac. It searches files, acts as a calculator, a dictionary, and is just plain cool.

Say you want to search for a document with "proposal" in the file name and the file is a presentation.

You've got several presentations from different years, for instance, Proposal 2007, Proposal 2008, and so on. You want to find all the Proposal files that are not, say, done in 2006.

In Spotlight, type: "proposal NOT 2006".

You can use different operators but they must be in capital letters, for example, NOT , AND, Or.

Or, you have "DVD Proposal 2007" and "Blue-Ray Proposal 2007" and you want the DVD file.

Type: "proposal AND DVD".

To play Tetris in Terminal, type "Terminal" into Spotlight and click on the Application result.

Type "emacs" and hit return.

Hit Esc and type "x" followed by "tetris". A tetris game will pop up. Graphics are really awful but it's an awesome discovery :P

Uh Oh

2008-11-20T00:00:00.000+08:00

Another interesting article I found online:

Last week was my birthday and I didn't feel very well waking up that morning. I went downstairs for breakfast hoping my wife would be pleasant and say, "Happy birthday!", and possibly have a present for me.

As it turned out, she barely said good morning, let alone "Happy birthday".

I thought... well, that's marriage for you, but the kids will remember. My kids ate breakfast and didn't say a word.

So when I left for the office, I was feeling pretty low and somewhat despondent.

As I walked into my office, my secretary, Jane said, "Good morning boss, happy birthday!" It felt a little better that at least someone had remembered.

I worked until one o'clock and then Jane knocked on my door and said, "You know, it's such a beautiful day outside, and it's your birthday, let's go out to lunch, just you and me".

I said, "Thanks Jane, that's the greatest thing I've heard all day. Let's go!"

We went to lunch. But we didn't go where we normally would go. We dined instead at a little place with a private table. We had two martinis each and I enjoyed the meal tremendously.

On the way back to the office, Jane said, "You know, it's such a beautiful day... We don't need to go back to the office, do we?"

I responded, "I guess not. What do you have in mind?"

She said, "Let's go to my apartment". After arriving at her apartment Jane turned to me and said, "Boss, if you don't mind, I'm going to step into the bedroom for a moment. I'll be right back".

"OK", I nervously replied.

She went into the bedroom and, after a couple of minutes, she came out carrying a huge birthday cake... followed by my wife, kids, and dozens of my friends and coworkers, all singing "Happy Birthday".

And I just sat there...

On the couch... Naked...

Pay your bills with Drawings!

2008-11-19T13:29:00.003+08:00

Taken from 9News

Below is the complete email conversation that Adelaide man David Thorne claims he had with a utility company chasing payment of an overdue bill.

From: Jane Gilles
Date: Wednesday 8 Oct 2008 12.19pm
To: David Thorne
Subject: Overdue account

Dear David,
Our records indicate that your account is overdue by the amount of $233.95. If you have already made this payment please contact us within the next 7 days to confirm payment has been applied to your account and is no longer outstanding.

Yours sincerely, Jane Gilles

From: David Thorne
Date: Wednesday 8 Oct 2008 12.37pm
To: Jane Gilles
Subject: Re: Overdue account

Dear Jane,
I do not have any money so am sending you this drawing I did of a spider instead. I value the drawing at $233.95 so trust that this settles the matter.

Regards, David.

From: Jane Gilles
Date: Thursday 9 Oct 2008 10.07am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Overdue account

Dear David,
Thankyou for contacting us. Unfortunately we are unable to accept drawings as payment and your account remains in arrears of $233.95. Please contact us within the next 7 days to confirm payment has been applied to your account and is no longer outstanding.

Yours sincerely, Jane Gilles

From: David Thorne
Date: Thursday 9 Oct 2008 10.32am
To: Jane Gilles
Subject: Re: Overdue account

Dear Jane,
Can I have my drawing of a spider back then please.

Regards, David.

From: Jane Gilles
Date: Thursday 9 Oct 2008 11.42am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Overdue account

Dear David,
You emailed the drawing to me. Do you want me to email it back to you?

Yours sincerely, Jane Gilles

From: David Thorne
Date: Thursday 9 Oct 2008 11.56am
To: Jane Gilles
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Overdue account

Dear Jane,

Yes please.

Regards, David.

From: Jane Gilles
Date: Thursday 9 Oct 2008 12.14pm
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Overdue account

Attached

From: David Thorne
Date: Friday 10 Oct 2008 09.22am
To: Jane Gilles
Subject: Whose spider is that?

Dear Jane, Are you sure this drawing of a spider is the one I sent you? This spider only has seven legs and I do not feel I would have made such an elementary mistake when I drew it.

Regards, David.

From: Jane Gilles
Date: Friday 10 Oct 2008 11.03am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Whose spider is that?

Dear David, Yes it is the same drawing. I copied and pasted it from the email you sent me on the 8th. David your account is still overdue by the amount of $233.95. Please make this payment as soon as possible.

Yours sincerely, Jane Gilles

From: David Thorne
Date: Friday 10 Oct 2008 11.05am
To: Jane Gilles
Subject: Automated Out of Office Response

Thank you for contacting me. I am currently away on leave, traveling through time and will be returning last week.

Regards, David.

From: David Thorne
Date: Friday 10 Oct 2008 11.08am
To: Jane Gilles
Subject: Re: Re: Whose spider is that?

Hello, I am back and have read through your emails and accept that despite missing a leg, that drawing of a spider may indeed be the one I sent you. I realise with hindsight that it is possible you rejected the drawing of a spider due to this obvious limb ommission but did not point it out in an effort to avoid hurting my feelings. As such, I am sending you a revised drawing with the correct number of legs as full payment for any amount outstanding. I trust this will bring the matter to a conclusion.

Regards, David.

From: Jane Gilles
Date: Monday 13 Oct 2008 2.51pm
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Whose spider is that?

Dear David, As I have stated, we do not accept drawings in lei of money for accounts outstanding. We accept cheque, bank cheque, money order or cash. Please make a payment this week to avoid incurring any additional fees.

Yours sincerely, Jane Gilles

From: David Thorne
Date: Monday 13 Oct 2008 3.17pm
To: Jane Gilles
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Whose spider is that?

I understand and will definately make a payment this week if I remember. As you have not accepted my second drawing as payment, please return the drawing to me as soon as possible. It was silly of me to assume I could provide you with something of completely no value whatsoever, waste your time and then attach such a large amount to it.

Regards, David.

From: Jane Gilles
Date: Tuesday 14 Oct 2008 11.18am
To: David Thorne
Subject: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Whose spider is that?

Attached

Runglish

2008-11-18T20:43:00.001+08:00

Rubbish + English = Runglish!

Sorry, I doesn't think you have good England!

Comics

2008-11-17T22:06:00.003+08:00

Here are some entertaining pieces of comics I've stumbled upon. The first one indirectly makes fun of the President-Elect (drawn by Joel Pett), the second one is purely ironic.

Viwawa Meeting

2008-11-16T00:00:00.000+08:00

Viwawa is going to have their second Meet-the-Gamers session on 21st November (7PM). See the banner below for details.

Wait - you notice something amiss about that poster. Read the first line again. It says 'We are having our second inaugural Meet-the-Gamers session which will allow us to understand....' How do you even have a SECOND INAUGURAL?

Oh the Irony...

2008-11-15T00:00:00.001+08:00

Nothing beats beating yourself :P

This booklet was supposed to show how *bilingual* our school is (it was done by the CL Department if I'm not wrong). Whether you're bilingual or not, surely you can sense that something is wrong with the English below? xD

For those who can't see the words on the booklet, they read:
The way of the Catholic High School is a way made of two rails Chinese and English, free from any entanglement, straight to the end. Happy are those who follow, they shall obtain a scope of a sound education.

Really makes me laugh...

Beat Box

2008-11-14T00:00:00.001+08:00

This one is not bad at all - at least it has a storyline :P

For those of you interested in more of his *vocals*, check his website out!