Random BLOB

3 months

2011-03-09T08:58:00.002+08:00

Three months since I abandoned this blog....
Not that it was intentional....
But because work has been keeping me occupied....
More responsibilities added now since my last appraisal....
I guess that's how a person walks on in his/her career path....
Soon, there will be no time for oneself anymore....
Really, is it worth it?
Everything becomes a responsibility....
What happens to passion and emotions?
We are humans, at the end of the day....
Humans have feelings....
But there are those who expect the most....
Those who feel that they can achieve more than what they are doing....
But where is the balance?

-Seki- Dreams reborn.... really?

......

2010-12-27T16:15:00.002+08:00

You've gotta be kidding me....
Again?

=_='''

l
l
l
J<@@>< ....

Hmmm....

2010-09-17T10:29:00.000+08:00

*snip snip*

Julian Lau got PUNKED!!!! =p

2010-07-13T11:47:00.001+08:00

Hey ppl, go listen to this....
Someone punked Jules and I was laughing like mad!

http://hitz.fm/onair/morningcrew/audio.asp?c=14&Varp=0

CLASSIC!!!! =p

................

2010-07-11T15:46:00.000+08:00

There's no justice in the world....
There's no point in standing up for people....
Coz in the end, the people you help most are the people who will disappoint you most....

Trust no one but yourself....
Don't even trust me....
Dare you to trust this statement I'm making?

I dare you not to take the risk....

...

2010-06-28T18:17:00.002+08:00

.. . ...... ..
.. .....?

Toy Story 3

2010-06-21T18:20:00.003+08:00

Rarely have I ever experienced having seen a sequel that is better than the previous debut, but this ... this movie is worth every single cent I've spent on. Toy Story 3 was one which totally blew my mind away! There were good mixes of drama, action, romance, slap-stick comedy and values which applies to everyone, young or old.

The plot is simple yet complex enough to include sufficient drama which would stir emotions of the viewers. The comic was fresh and even though there are references to the previous 2 movies, it is still something that first time viewers of the toy story trilogy would not get all baffled and confused. I must say that Pixar, in all awesomeness, has not lost it's touch of creativity and ideas.

I won't give away the movie for those of you who have not watched it yet, but trust me on this, it's worth the watch. Who knew that we could learn so much from mere "toys"? =)

-Seki-

ps- Did I mention that there were 2 -------?

2010-05-04T08:58:00.001+08:00

Sudden Unity ...

2010-04-05T20:42:00.002+08:00

... funny how things
are working out
for the two of
you ... from constant
squabbles to BFF....

Bros ...

2010-04-03T09:27:00.002+08:00

... THREE CHEERS!

Mesmerized....

2010-03-22T19:27:00.001+08:00

... both the show and the company....

Drama and Art Teachers Unite!

2010-03-08T12:25:00.003+08:00

Pure epic awesomeness!

....

2010-02-08T20:32:00.003+08:00

... hooray....

Team Effort???

2010-01-17T08:06:00.004+08:00

Yeah ... Sure....
Just so you know,
WE were not born yesterday....
Praises will only feed
you for so much before
you start BEGGING and CRYING for more....

Whoa!!!! Coolness!!!!

2009-12-26T19:41:00.002+08:00

WHOA!!! Guess what my best friend, his wife and his brother got me for Christmas????

AN ILLIDAN STORMRAGE FIGURE!!!!!!

Proud owner of an Illidan Stormrage figure!!!!

I've always wanted one but was never willing to splurge on it....

Hehehe.... I couldn't resist....

Well, honestly, it seems weird to be giving out a "demon" during Christmas, but hey ... I'm glad they did, because knowing myself, if they did not, I would not ever have one... =)

THANKS A BUNCH, KENNY, YEN YEE AND LESLIE!!!!
You all rock!!!!

Blessed Christmas!!! =p

Blessed Christmas!!!

2009-12-16T08:50:00.003+08:00

The reason for the season
is not what Santa will give you ...
it's about what Jesus was born
to give us all ...
Have you received it yet?

'Tis the Reason for the Season....

2009-12-11T07:24:00.001+08:00

... but every morning I wake up, it feels like a season for sleeping.... *yawn*

Life as an Art Teacher....

2009-11-09T13:18:00.003+08:00

As some may know, I have accepted an offer to become an art teacher at the sister company of Alfa, REAL International School. This is my third day as an art teacher for the students from year 8 till 11. I must say that it was a whole different experience having to deal with the younger ones. Granted they are not all that young but I am surprised how just a mere 3 to 4 years shows so much difference in thinking and maturity. I knew it was bound to happen but this was way too different.

But I guess it is not so much the age that matters. More so to the effect of current styles of bringing up have changed so much since my time. In my days, students did harbour dislikes and hatred towards certain teachers, but like it or not, we still had to respect them for who they are. But today, the kids hold no respect whatsoever. The worst part of it all is not so much the disrespect, but the attitude of the kids nowadays are just outright rude.

It makes me wonder whether parents these days spend much time being with their children in educating them or rather if they spend any time with the kids at all. It is disheartening to know that the community and society of Malaysia is not at all moving forward but instead, going the other way around. The kids have a part to blame for this but I would not hold them accountable as much as I would, the parents. It is foremost, education at home before education outside. Fact of the matter is that schools are here to develop skills but the home is where character is built. It is said that children are a reflection of the parents, but I would rephrase it as more of a reflection of the home culture.

Kids are impressionable. They absorb what they see and do as they see fit.

If this situation continues, I weep for humanity's future....

*SIGH*

My Best Friend's Wedding....

2009-10-20T18:21:00.003+08:00

We used to climb our favourite tree together, sharing stories and catching up on the things which happened for the past week. When we finally got bored of talking, we would find ways to entertain ourselves. I remember this clearly in my mind just as though it was yesterday. We had our groupie, if you may. Often consisted of Kenny, his cousins Yao Yang, Jin Fei, Wei Yen and myself, we were always seen together whenever we were in the church premises. We were like the Asian version of the Famous Five but without the mysteries to solve. There were the additions of Leslie and Chin Chin on certain occasions but they would normally only join us when we were tasked to take care of them. Granted, they were about six to seven years younger than us.

As times went by, Jin Fei and Wei Yen left the group when their parents decided to change church. It was left with the three of us and I can still recall our Sunday routine. It would always be a meet up after attending Sunday School, then we would walk all the way from SS17 to SS15 for an hour or two of computer games at the cyber-cafe. Then, we would go for lunch at the nearby coffee shop. The usual fried rice ala Thai would be ordered and after that, we would walk from SS15 to Kenny's place in SS19. After a session of resting and refreshing ourselves, we would make our way to either The Valley Club or the nearby bungalow lot, converted into half a basketball court to shoot some hoops. Then it was time to go home and I'd walk back to USJ2.

It was a simple routine which involved a lot of walking but I felt that the walking was where the most fun was for us. It was during that time which we talked most and although the scorching sun burned our skins, it was well worth it. I remembered that we made a promise with each other saying that no matter what happened, our friendship would remain as how it is and never change. True enough, we actually held on to that promise until today. We are as how we were and I believe, would be in the future.

There was a time when we were parted because of our studies and our careers. We each took separate paths and for a moment, we were on our own. Somehow, God has fated that one day, we would still meet up and eventually, we did. The beauty of it was that even after the long haul of not communicating with one another, we could still pick up where we left off. there were no "warming-up", "re-conditioning", nor were there any awkwardness between us. We just resumed our ways as how it was last time. But I did notice one thing. Like it or not, Kenny has somehow changed. He was still the Kenny I knew him to be, but now, there was like a "bonus". He was like a "Kenny" with added-on "something".

I guess, at this point, you would predict where this entry is leading to ... HIS MARRIAGE! He was engaged to his long-time girlfriend and honestly, it was because of Yen Yee that Kenny has become an even better person than what he already was. It is times like this that really makes me see the true power of love in a person's life. On the day of his wedding, I was honoured to be asked to be his groom's men. I am not sure about others, but as far as I am concerned, I felt that their wedding was one which was beautiful. It wasn't because of aesthetics, but more-so because my childhood best friend was going to take the next major step in his life. The feeling was like as though you were watching someone really close to you graduate in his or her studies. Seeing that makes me happy about his achievement.

Kenny and Yen Yee, here's to you, wishing that you will have a great and wonderful marriage. I can't really advise you on marriage life as I, myself, am not married. But if there is one common advise I can give to the both of you (and I am sure you would have heard this before) is that, it takes both the sun and the rain to create a rainbow.

God bless the two of you!

-Seki-

2009-10-15T13:53:00.000+08:00

I haven't been blogging for more than a month... I thought I'd break the monotony....

Goodbye....

2009-09-10T19:47:00.002+08:00

My fun students ...

2009-09-09T09:37:00.002+08:00

... willing to set aside differences
working together for a better grade....

PRICELESS!!!

I have a proposal ...

2009-08-26T17:45:00.001+08:00

... lets hope they buy the idea....

Inspired to Paint ...

2009-08-12T11:23:00.001+08:00

... because it has
been some time....

......

2009-08-06T09:27:00.002+08:00

.......

I'm sick ...

2009-07-29T08:32:00.002+08:00

... it's not H1N1....

The Rationale of Irrational Stupidity....

2009-07-20T09:22:00.003+08:00

It is, yet again a gloomy Monday. Monday seems to be the blame for everything isn't it? For the crappy mood, the boring feelings, the lack of enthusiasm and the lot.... But what is the main cause of it all? What makes Mondays so blue?

As the words of the wise Master Wu Guay says, "I don't know."

I guess it's a matter of perception. People react differently towards the same item of discussion, be it Mondays, movies, books, stuff ... people.... but to that, are we correct in doing what is done? people form opinions and it stays with them until an epiphany happens. While some people manage to realize what is perceived wrongly, most are not so fortunate. Oftentimes, people receive epiphany when something they think does not go as how it was thought to be. By then, it would be too late already, wouldn't it?

But that, to be honest, does not defend the fact that some people fight on and insisting on their decision and thoughts that they still hold on to it for the sake of (blatantly put without emotions) selfish gains. I just attended a seminar run by the company I work for on establishing a code of honour. It wasn't anything I have not learned in BB before but the seminar wasn't particularly for me. It was for the staff of the company. One of the code states and I quote, "Put the company's mission and vision first, group second, and individual third." It is so easily said and basically summarizes the whole set of codes and I believe if it was followed, it would make things flow so easily. Sadly, the human factor is always there to interfere with an already functioning system.

It is also an issue of pride, when in terms of making a stand, but why do people still make stands on what they know to be wrong? Sometimes, the pride speaks so loudly that they are even listening with a deaf ear in hopes to just shut the other person up when he or she is done. Why does irrational behaviour like this happen? When emotions interfere with system, irrational behavior and thoughts take place and when that happens, stupidity is evident in all aspects. There will never be a commendable decision or act taking place.

Questions remain unanswered as we are all different in ways we tackle a situation. However, I just wish people use their God given talent while making decisions. The ability to THINK properly in the interest of the common benefits, be it a company, group or individual.

And yet again, the government makes a stupid decision....

2009-07-12T16:39:00.002+08:00

Hi people,

If you are reading this, it is just a copy and paste from Joe's (Big Joe) blog....
This is with regards to the teaching of maths and science in English.
The link below redirects you to Tun Dr Mahathir's blog.
Please READ THE QUESTION CAREFULLY before you vote.
Just in case, you would like to know what my stand is, I am voting for maths and science to be taught in ENGLISH. Therefore, my vote to the question on Tun Dr Mahathir's blog is "NO".

2012-Teaching of Maths and Science in English for Primary Year 4 andSecondary school will be abolished!

Please go to Tun Mahathir's blog & VOTE if u want Teaching of Maths andScience in English.Tun is strongly supporting teaching of Maths and Science in English & iswilling to convey yr message to the Govt. So, please go to http://chedet.co.cc/chedetblog/ and speak your mind. Strikewhile the iron is hot! Do it for the sake of our kids.

Even if you don't have you own children,your nephews/nieces or friend's children will be affected.Please pass this message to as many people as possible. We need yoursupport.

Timothy Chan Liem Joe

Nicely done ...

2009-06-26T18:49:00.000+08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v3d6SFcDys

... too good not to share....

Me and the FLEA!!!

2009-06-19T08:56:00.000+08:00

WHOA!!!!! COOLNESS!!!!

Dedication to the Super Fakes ...

2009-06-12T20:26:00.003+08:00

... because we were not born yesterday....
But even if we were, don't you think
that is bad acting?

2009-06-03T11:48:00.002+08:00

I was looking through the M-yo website and I cannot help but to re-post the pictures.
Credits go to Ewin for the pictures well taken! =)

Group picture taken after the performances by the M-yo Crew...

Individual Trix Pix compiled and montaged by Ewin....

A picture during NYYC Penang

2009-05-20T16:10:00.004+08:00

Here's a picture taken by Romeo during the Penang NYYC at Queensbay Mall.
Thanks, man! I like this picture a lot! =)

A piece of trash not even worth a damn dollar in any freaking currency....

2009-05-18T09:09:00.002+08:00

Yes.... If "he" is reading this, I'm here to tell you that you are not fit to be called a part of this family. This family, despite having minute flaws, has its greatness and I am proud of it.

X-Con for Yo Blitz Ryan

2009-05-14T09:56:00.002+08:00

I thought it'd be fun to modify the packaging instead of the yoyo this time round...

The X-Con is short for the X-Convict.
With that type of name, I believe it is only suitable to give a prison cell look for the packaging design. Sigh.... I miss doing packaging designs.... =)

Speed Challenge Northern Heats and NYYC results....

2009-05-13T08:53:00.000+08:00

Speed Challenge Northern Heats
1. Jazli
2. Zulhaiqal
3. Adam

NYYC Result

1A
1. Zulhaiqal
2. Jazli
3. Adam
4. Alif
5. Jeremy
6. Sek Yan
7. Faiq
8. Hilmi

Y-Division
1. Jazli 2A
2. Alif 4A
3. Jeremy 5A
4. Hilmi 2A
5. Adam 5A
6. Adam 4A

Congrats to all winners and good job to all participants... =)

Penang NYYC

2009-05-07T09:24:00.001+08:00

Here I come!!!! =p

War and Business.... So similar, yet a whole world of difference....

2009-04-28T19:19:00.002+08:00

Here, taken from Seki's "re-interpretation" of the book of the School of Hard Knocks, comes a book titled, "Seki's Book on Business THROUGH Knocking Hard on the Wall." This article serves as a experiential testimony which supposedly would benefit a business graduate who has undertaken perhaps four to six years of extensive university courses studying the very topic of business administration and management.

Our topic for today is on responsibility and trust. Here, we take two examples of situations in terms of military and it's supposed link to business. Very much like in the military, the word "responsibility" is taken to the utmost priority. When given a task, a unit or a group must do all they can to ensure the duty is carried out with diligence and speed. A unit is said to be responsible when the task or mission is achieved which would then contribute to the bigger overall picture of victory. Each unit will be tasked with different objectives and while sometimes, the motives are questionable, the units will only find out the true intentions of certain battle movements required, therefore leading towards success. Very much how business runs. In a company, there are different departments and while by itself, serves very little purpose in the collective function of the company, each department holds significance to the well-being of the business.

The other topic to be discussed upon is the word "trust". In war, the person next to you will be the person you can trust to cover your back and vice-versa. The person next to you is your closest brother in arms. They serve as your motivation and ultimate dependence when in the midst of exchanging bullets with your enemies. They are the ones you talk to when you are feeling depressed, lonely or home-sick. They are the ones who share your secrets and the same ones you can count on to hold your secrets fast in their mouths. In short, the brother in war is your closest family. In business, the same applies. Your co-workers are the ones whom you can believe in when defending the reputation of the department. They are the ones who stand by the same system you each work towards and are the ones whom you compare notes in trust that no one will leak out information in the course of troubleshooting a particular problem or crisis. They are your "work" family ...

... or at least, they should be....

What I have come to learn in my experience in the corporate world is that, while in theory, all the above mentioned are true in an ideal corporate business sense, the actual situation is very much far from it. And when I say far, I am not talking about Kuala Lumpur and Singapore far. I am talking about Kuala Lumpur and Tijuana in the States far. To be clearer for those of you who have not done so well in geography, I am talking about two direct opposite time zones of the world, far. Our watches may show the same time but the world of difference comes in the form of a.m. and p.m.

The word "responsibility" in the real world of business means "covering your own ass". To put it in shrewd context, it is often used as follows:

"I don't know who did this. It's not me," or,
"I'm not responsible for the mistakes," or,
"Why don't you ask the head? I'm just following direct orders."

The difference is that it is no more responsibility as a whole, but a responsibility of personal security. There is no discipline in defending honours. Only the ever lasting game of "pushing the ball away".

As for the word "trust", let me simply give you a phrase to explain my concept in a nutshell. "In war, the person next to you is the person you must trust. In business, the person next to you should never be trusted". Many people will turn on you when pressured. Some will go to the extent of sharing information vowed not to be released to the others. There is no honour in their dictionary and the same goes when referred to dignity. Backstabbing happens as a form of personal gain and all "trust" is therefore lost.

To say the least, I'd like to question, "what then, is the most important principle in business?" My personal answer would be, "be responsible for your own actions, and trust no one but yourself." Unprofessional as it may sound, but I would like to ask, in what sense is the TRUE nature of business a professional one? Ideally, business is professional when human nature does not interfere with the discipline. Sadly, we are all human....

-SD- With friends there is no true business, in business, there are no true friends

ps- Kenny, if you are reading this, I see you as a friend; not a business partner.

Of zeroes and Ones....

2009-04-28T14:18:00.003+08:00

1111111111111111100000111111111111111111111111
1111111111111000000000000011111111111111111111
1111111100000000000000000000000111111111111111
1111110000011111111111111111000001111111111111
1111000001111111111111111111110000011111111111
1110000011111111111111111111111000001111111111
1110000011111111111111111111111000001111111111
1110000111111111111111111111111100001111111111
1100001111111111110001111111111110000111111111
1100001111111111110001111111111110000111111111
1100001111111111110001111111111110000111111111
1110000111111111111111111111111100001111111111
1110000011111111111111111111111000001111111111
1110000011111111111111111111111000001111111111
1111000001111111111111111111110000011111111111
1111110000011111111111111111000001111111111111
1111111100000000000000000000000111111111111111
1111111111111000000000000011111111111111111111
1111111111111111100000111111111111111111111111

Why? Because I can.... Not saying you can't.... Just saying I can... HAH!

A friendship poem....

2009-04-15T19:20:00.002+08:00

A Loyal Friend
by George J. Caroll
Saturday, June 04, 2005

It's always nice to have a friend
in which you can confide.
He'll be there when you're feeling down,
comforting you by your side.

You know he'll never betray you,
or cause you any harm.
He's just a friend whose tried and true
and never has a qualm.

So thank the Lord for such a friend,
there are so very few.
Loyality is a forgotten trait,
Not so the friend He blessed with you.

Such motivational words.
In awe and wonderment, I stare at them thinking ... just thinking ...
WOW! I can think of just the perfect words to describe such magnifique....

Bloody hell.... Screw it-lah....

-SD- A glutton for punishment over repeated emotionally scarring experiences....

My Freehand Zero!!!

2009-04-14T16:57:00.002+08:00

I decided to give my beloved Freehand Zero a little touch of customizing....

Some of you may know that I have done a bit of silicone recessing for the response system... Already with that, it plays great.

I decided to give it a little weight on the rims....
Get ready for it!!!

Hurrah!!!! I have managed to convert a 65 grams yoyo into a 80 grams!!!!
Now, it spins super long and allows me to play more advanced tricks... =)

Man, I love the Freehand Zero!!! =)

Seki Atomman

2009-04-01T16:29:00.001+08:00

Something I did some time ago. 3D animation never fails to intrigue me...
It's my avatar when I was in a group called MadTricks-X while I was studying in The One Academy. This Robot became my icon in the group. Wish I had the time to model out my other friends from the group.... Ahhh.... the good times.... =)

The effort and time ...

2009-03-24T16:48:00.003+08:00

So, last Sunday, I attended the Disney Princess on Ice. Yes, I went. Not because I wanted to, but for the sake of obligation. Just a conversation which led up to the day's event.

Some months ago, I was having a chat with Vibrante staff and suddenly, Debbie asked us....

Debbie (to everyone): Eh, who wants to go for Princess on Ice?

Me: Nope. Not my thing but thanks for asking anyway.

Debbie: No, no. When I ask like that, It means that I am paying for all of you. You don't need to pay. Siew May, Yiing Hui, want to go or not?

Siew May: Err ... not sure lah. Maybe go back hometown.

Debbie: Yiing Hui leh?

Yiing Hui: Also dunno lar.

Debbie: Seki, you sure you don't want to go? I'm paying you know?

Me: It's not a matter of who pays. It's not my thing to go. But thanks.

So, I got home feeling all relieved that I was not in a position where I was forced to attend something I didn't enjoy (plus the theme of this show was the dreadful and most horrible colour in my personal taste since the day of my existence ... PINK).

During dinnertime ...

Dad: Hey, keep your 22nd March free, okay?

Me: ...

Sis: Why?

Dad: I bought 4 tickets for all of us to go watch ... Disney Princess on Ice!!!

Me: ...

Mom and Sis: (indistinct chattering over previous experiences on Disney on Ice)

Me: ...

Me: May I be excused? I'm done.

Went up to my room ...

Me: @#$%&*!!!!!!

So, looks like i have to go regardless of whether i escaped or not.

Anyway, the day came and reluctantly, I forced myself to attend for the sake of obligations and a filial son's duty. I decided to go grab myself a little childhood because I thought to myself that if I wasn't going to enjoy the show, the least is that I can still relive a little bit of my memoirs. So, I went out to the foyer to get myself a bag of candy floss.

Me: Hi, can I get a bag of these?

Cashier: Sure. They come packaged with a Jawlipop (a medium sized lollipop)

Me: Oh, cool! (thinks to myself that this is a good deal) How much do I owe you?

Cashier: Three, zero....

Me: I'm sorry?

Cashier: Thirty Ringgit

Me: Thirty bucks....

Cashier: Yes.

Just then another cashier walked in.

Cashier 2: Hi sir.

Me: Uhh... hi... (still shocked over what I heard)

I handed over a fifty bucks note still dumbfounded.

Cashier: Here's a twenty change. Thanks! Come again, ya? (Smiles)

Me: Uhh.... ya.... Sure....

WTH????? 30 bucks for a handful of sugar?

The jawlipop package ... wow ... I feel darn "jawli" about it....
More like into the mouth of JAWS....

The bag of sugar....

Still can't get over the fact that it costed me RM30....

Can You imagine how much more I could get with that ammount of money? Probably 15 bags of the same size or more! I was willing to pay RM5 seeing that it is, afterall, a Disney event, but this is madness! So what if it was an original Disney Merchandise? It's not like I can reuse the plastic bag unless for a trash bag ... It's not like the stick of the jawlipop can shoot darts out or is shaped as a sword or even used as a pen! It's just a stupid stick made of compressed paper!

Disney Princess on Ice, this memory you gave me shall haunt me and take my word ... I will never forget what expensive lesson it has taught me.

=_='''

The sounds of Symphonic Oscars ...

2009-03-20T08:45:00.003+08:00

... WOW....

Last Sunday, midway through Bootcamp 2009, I took my leave to see the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra perform. Bought a mediocre ticket which cost me RM40. And it's not like I went there to buy it on the spot. I actually bought it like almost half a year ago! Yes, they sell off real fast. Not just this show, every show.

It was actually Lois' idea to go and I sort of just tagged along. I have always wanted to see the MPO perform but never really took the effort. So since Lois was going and invited me to join, I might as well take the opportunity.

The show was called Symphonic Oscars and showcases the award-winning tunes of the past Oscars. Some tunes included were from films like Ben Hur, The Godfather, To Kill a Mockingbird and The Magnificent Seven. I was totally blown away....

Watching performances from the idiot box or computer cannot match up to being there live. The sounds were just too magnificent. It was worth any price to pay for such great performances and I think I will be visiting them again very soon.

Just one word ... WOW!

Life as a lecturer ...

2009-03-17T18:58:00.002+08:00

So life has taken a turn now and I have decided to do something I like to do and be able to earn a living. I have decided to lecture. It is my 2nd day as a lecturer and I must say I am enjoying the experience. Being able to share knowledge is one thing. That is what we are paid to do. But being able to share experiences is a whole lot more satisfying.

When I was younger, I've always told myself that I'd like to do something with art. Given the circumstances, however, the country does not permit many options, career-wise. So, I thought, "Hey, why not teach about the things I like and enjoy?"

Seems just like yesterday, I was thinking of what I can do with my passion. Today, I'm kind of living it. Isn't it wonderful when things go as how you wished it to be?

I love my job!

It is ...

2009-03-13T21:06:00.002+08:00

Friday the thirteenth of March ...

..... ........, ... .... ...., ......!

. ..... .... ... .... ..... .... ... . ..... ... .... ..... ...
. .... . ... ..... ....... ..... ... . ... ....... .. ... .... .. .... .... ...... ... .. ........ ".......".
.... . .... ... .. .... 22...
............

-......... ......-

Designer Nightmares ...

2009-03-11T11:46:00.003+08:00

I extracted this from my cousin's blog and I cannot help but to post the same thing up here in my blog. It just speaks to designers so well!

Thanks for the enlightenment of the truth, Pui-yan Che Che! =)

My first yo-yo video!

2009-03-05T23:34:00.002+08:00

About 15 minutes of recording, 10 minutes of editting, 20 minutes on the Windows Movie Maker, and there you have it ... my very first yo-yo video.

And to think that I spent all those time for a two minute plus production.... =_='''

Funny isn't it? ... or is it not?

2009-03-03T18:35:00.002+08:00

Just the other day, I was faced with many questions in my mind ... work, family, BB, friends, interests, etc. It's kind of scary to look at each and every one of those things and thinking what my life goals are. It is not because I do not have answers to each, instead, it is because I have answers which freaked me out! Let's go through it....

Work

I'm currently a part-time Marketing Executive for a music school and at the same time, a part-time lecturer in an art college teaching history of art. My final destination is to be a full-time lecturer in the current art college I am in. Hopefully, once I am settled in, I can utilize my resources and prepare a proposal for a thesis I would like to have published to either earn a Masters of Fine Arts or a PhD if I can manage to push it through. Pretty much an academician at the end, not minding a wage that could sustain me and my interests. I'm not after luxury as how the common world would want or at least dream of it. I prefer to live simple by common standards and take life by the very raw essence of spur, be it right or wrong. Of course, if it is wrong, there must be something to learn from it and not to force and insist in what seems to be an unreasonable justification of pride.

Family

I am a grandson, son, brother, nephew and cousin. I have many ties to fulfill in my filial duties but I am not one who takes it to the next level. I am most loyal only to my grandmother, immediate family members and the second aunt from my mother's side whom we (my sis and I) have come to call her "aunty-mother" since young. A godmother if you will. I will acknowledge the rest if they are around, but I do not make it an effort to visit them on a regular basis; well then again, who does? My principle is simple: Why should I do it, if they don't? Cold as I may sound, I am not one who does not recognize a good deed. I speak of appreciation with high regards because I know what it is like to be unappreciated.

BB

I am an officer who has worked my way up since the start of the company, from recruit, to Primer and currently, a Warrant Officer. I take charge of the company ensemble, and teach certain badge classes. Ranks do not matter much to me as I see it only as a tool for discipline only when it is needed to be enforced. Perhaps being too friendly in approach towards members have earned me the title as an easy-going officer who cares nothing for discipline. No, I do take discipline very seriously. I play hard, but I also expect and demand hard. I have low tolerance for inefficiency when it comes to getting things done and get very pissed off when people take me lightly. If members get pissed off with me so easily, it is not my loss. Chances are, they will meet with others far worse than me. If you can't take me, you will most likely not survive in the corporate world. I'm not cocky, I'm stating facts.

Friends

I have many friends, but there are but a handful who are actually close to me and know me for who I am. I recently did a test on my personality and had a professional interpret my test results. He said (and I quote), "You like to make friends although you have very little need for them." Am I really that independent? Or am I just prone to pissing people off that even if they end up avoiding me, I can still find a way to live on? How long can I live alone?

Interests

Quite simply, visual arts, music, military administration and yo-yo. Really, there's not much I can tell about each.

I guess what I am really afraid of is that I am too familiar with what I want and what I need. So much so that I do not anticipate surprises. Everything has already "fall into place", if you may. How can it be so? I want to sometimes do something radical and unlike me, although not many people know my true self. Well, to rephrase, I'd like to surprise myself once in awhile. I wonder if that is possible? How can I surprise myself with something I am anticipating? Hmmm....

Renovation ...

2009-02-16T17:15:00.003+08:00

... help....

An update so late... =_='''

2009-02-04T07:00:00.003+08:00

Well, as the title says... it is so late. I couldn't cover anything which happened during the Chinese New Year holidays. Well, there were too many things to do and note down anyways. So, here's just a short update for my blog just so anyone is wondering whether I'm still alive. Yes, I am! But then again, who cares? =p

One particularly interesting thing did happen to me though. Pei Ann sent me a CD! Thanks! Yes, as you have said, Erik Friedlander is such amazing and innovative cellist! Never thought it would be so "different" and away from mainstream. His unique way of playing a song gives excitement in some sort of darkness! Sooooo my taste.... =) Thanks again, Pei Ann! By the way, I sent you an e-mail about receiving this CD. Did you miss it?

So ends the update. I don't even have time to draw the few lines for a blob.... Can you imagine how hectic my life is starting to get? And even when I have time, I'd rather hit the sack to recuperate.

Happy Chinese New Year, people! =)

About mua....

2009-01-22T13:26:00.002+08:00

I stumbled upon this in Ally's and Rutti's blog. You read and be the judge.

Your view on yourself:

Other people find you very interesting, but you are really hiding your true self. Your friends love you because you are a good listener. They'll probably still love you if you learn to be yourself with them.

The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:

You like serious, smart and determined people. You don't judge a book by its cover, so good-looking people aren't necessarily your style. This makes you an attractive person in many people's eyes.

Your readiness to commit to a relationship:

You are ready to commit as soon as you meet the right person. And you believe you will pretty much know as soon as you might that person.

The seriousness of your love:

Your have very sensible tactics when approaching the opposite sex. In many ways people find your straightforwardness attractive, so you will find yourself with plenty of dates.

Your views on education

Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.

The right job for you:

You have many goals and want to achieve as much as you can. The jobs you enjoy are those that let you burn off your considerable excess energy.

How do you view success:

Success in your career is not the most important thing in life. You are content with what you have and think that being with someone you love is more than spending all of your precious time just working.

What are you most afraid of:

You are afraid of having no one to rely on in times of trouble. You don't ever want to be unable to take care of yourself. Independence is important to you.

Who is your true self:

You are full of energy and confidence. You are unpredictable, with moods changing as quickly as an ocean. You might occasionally be calm and still, but never for long.

Do yours here:

http://www.quizbox.com/personality/test82.aspx

I can't help but to think that the dating part is inaccurate. LOL. But then again, so do many of us who did this test.

Sekob the "Sekigami"...

2009-01-15T09:40:00.000+08:00

... weird things
intrigue me....

Ganbateh!

2009-01-05T20:06:00.000+08:00

... Air on G
by June 2009....

End of one, beginning of another ... (Good or Bad?)

2008-12-30T14:53:00.003+08:00

It is the 30th December of '08. I'm in my office having just completed another marketing material for Vibrante. I'm working full day today so, I'm practically stuck in the office until it hits 5 pm. Well, perhaps this time that I have gave me a reason to think about 2008 as a whole. Dang ... it sure was a bumpy one.

I guess I never really practiced what I've been preaching. Things about balancing out the ordinary miracles which happens in our day to day lives. Perhaps I was too focused on the hard hitters that directly punched me in the face. Hey, I'm just human after all. It's like telling a starving scrawny child to be grateful that he is still alive while I am chewing away a half stale hamburger. Surely, to me, a half stale hammie may very well end up in a bin for fear of it being rotten. But perhaps, to that kid, that stale meat sandwiched between two bread could be the very last meal he was ever going to eat on. Hmm ... point to ponder.

For starters, what I've learned from the past year is to NEVER make any resolutions. Chances are, it will (and it has) backfire on me. Take for instance, I vowed to lose weight. But instead of losing weight, I ended up losing TO weight. You can't really blame me though, I was in the land where potatoes and many other high-carbohydrate food were a staple diet. Yes, I am justifying myself and yes, it is because I am guilty. Which actually, brings me to another resolution not coming to reality. I vowed to not justify myself. Actually, I was doing quite well until just now when I decided to justify myself. Hmm ... am I just making it a point to go against my resolutions for the sake of proving a point? Are my points really that valid that it is worth contradicting my resolutions? Oh well, perhaps it may very well be. Sorry, I will not justify that statement. A little deep thought will give it reason enough.

It pretty hard to stand up to what I believe in sometimes especialy when there aren't many people who decides to think like me in the first place. And even if there were, chances are that the person will have a different interpretation to the stand. I cannot find myself agreeing to that matter of interest but neither can I totally deny it at times. It actually makes sense to a certain level sometimes.

Perhaps, sometimes it is the people around me which makes it hard to prove a point. Many people choose to concern themselves over things that do not concern them at all in the first place. Take an example, I've been single for quite some time now and honestly, it is starting to creep me out a little. What is to happen to my future? However, that is the least of my worries. What bothers me most is when I start to get a litle bit more intimate with a girl, meddlers will come in and tell me why it is not a good idea. Sometimes, it even goes to the point of becoming a matter of argument. Damn it! Shouldn't those meddlers become more concern over the fact that I've been single for too long to the point where others are asking about where my sexuality bends towards? POINT TO CLARIFY: I'M NOT GAY! And to top it off, their meddling could very well be a potential factor for me to lose a close friend. Wake up to the 21st century. Being close does not mean taking the plunge into the next level.

For awhile now, I've taken the effort to not want to know how being betrayed is like. Yet again, it arises and happened to me this year. It was worse than what I've felt previously. This time, I was alone with no physical comfort. It was painful. I was in a land I did not enjoy being in, I was sick, I was surrounded by people whom I perceived as friends. And when trouble came, no one came. I knew that if I were back in Malaysia, easily three to four people close enough to me will detect a certain amiss in me. I didn't even have to tell them. They'd ask me instead. Over there, I shared. But the difference was after that, I was left alone. In fact, I was not only left alone, I was distanced!

Oh well, let it be. It's the end of another year. I can only look forward to the new one.

I wonder what it's going to be like?

Possibly the worst Birthday I have had.... WTH, man?!?

2008-12-21T08:28:00.003+08:00

Date: 21st December 2008
Time: 0830 hrs
Situation: Critical
Chain of events: Disappointment, Misunderstanding (or at least perceived), Catastrophe, Destruction

How it all started:

About two weeks ago:

"I wanna go out on my birthday."
"Sure."

Status: Normal

About a week ago:

"I wanna go out on my birthday."
"Sure."

Status: Normal

Four days before:

"I'll be going out on my birthday. I'm sure yet. There are no plans made."
"Okay. Go ahead."

Status: Slightly Excited

18th December:

I'm getting a little excited to go out on my birthday. Still no plans made. Still keeping it free and easy. Still leaving it to, perhaps, the last minute and wishing to just get out and go free.

"Boy, it's time to practice for tomorrow's REAL Education Group's Christmas Caroling."
"Okay."

Went to REAL Corp, waited for everyone to waste my time while I just continued to goof around with my guitar. Practice was at 1700 hrs. started at about 1740 hrs. Hmm, way to go at punctuality. Oh well, certain things cannot be helped and neither can long winded trainings and seminars. But last i heard, training ended at 1715 hrs. How long does it take people to move up the stairs to go to the meeting point? Do the maths. It's just a flight of stairs.

That aside, we still started our practice. Our first and final practice, mind you. I'm well familiar with the songs since I've played them COUNTLESS times. But good ol' leader of the team prefers to rearrange the scores and put in his own version of the chords, making it sound ... erm ... how should I say ... perhaps a little unorthodox? Which is still fine considering change is, in a way, "fresh".

While practicing, I have not read the chords beforehand. And neither has the team leader provided a set for me to have a read. I guess it is just so, since it was impromptu. My playing was of course in accordance to how other people would normally play it using conventional chords. Team leader decided to stop and put blame onto guitarist for messy playing and making it sound "weird".

WOW. He decided to just stop the whole team practicing to point out that "I" was playing weird and that "I" made the whole team sound weird. Okay, sure. Maybe it is because I'm the ONLY musician there that he could start pissing me off embarassingly. Maybe it was because playing those chords would make the whole team sound weird because they were singing weird collectively in the first place. Weird? Yea ... perhaps it is me since I am the one who sticks out like a sore thumb. Yeah, sure. Go ahead and piss off the weird one. He's expandable anyway. Who needs a guitarist?

Status: Tension slightly built, but still on the excited side.

19th December:

Started off with work and pretty much worked till it was 1600 hrs. It was time for me to go next door for the Christmas gathering. Went there, training was still on. Okay, fair since the party was supposedly starting at 1630 hrs. I can wait. Party started, caroling done, all went kinda smooth.

Just a thought worth thinking about; did the people care when we played the carols with alternate arrangements? Honestly, I didn't see anyone give a bother over it. Chances are, they don't even know that it was on alternative chords.

BUT, that being said, all is done, all went "well", let it be.

Status: Normal. For some reason, the enthusiasm to go out has somewhat died down.

20th December:

My, my. I believe this is when the story gets interesting. 0005 hrs, I received a call from Grace Tan asking me to look out of my window. Saw her and the Choy sisters holding a cake with candles lit up. Wow, a surprise visit! Suddenly, I felt a little hyped up! Some people actually cared! Went out there, blew the candles and invited them in. The family's asleep, so we decided that it was best to keep noise level at a minimum. We adjourned into the kitchen and had the door closed. I was still in a state of shock mixed with happy and in that time, I guess the mood of the situation was good. The girls were laughing and cheering away while I was still stoning.

Suddenly, our cheerfulness mix stoning was cut off abruptly when the sister decided to storm in and distastefully told Ally off with regards to an sms conversation prior to the surprise visit. I am not sure and neither do I care who was at fault, I just believe it takes two hands to clap and if I am not one of the hands, the "telling off" could have waited for another time. After that untimely (stupidly untimely) incident, the mood of the party was of course disturbed. I was still stone but I was sober enough to know that the awkward situation required some saving.

The mood returned back to cheerfulness but you can't help but to notice that it wasn't as before. It's like a pool of stagnant water. All calm and unmoving. You could even see that the dust settled on the surface is not moving. Then suddenly, a stiring stick comes in and swirls it into a vortex. after the stick is taken out, the vortex slowly dies down and the water becomes calm again. Once again, the pool of water looks calm and unmoving. But, should a speck of dust fall to the surface again, you can see that it moves in the direction of the vortex due to slight under current.

The party ended and everyone returned to sleep. The same morning, I woke up to have chores greeted in front of my face. I still had to wash the cups, fill up the bottles of water and refill the standby jugs of water. The only difference is that the "sister's" dog is taken care of. Normally, that would be my duty as well. Ironic isn't it? How it is "her" dog but "I" have to care for it while she sleeps in until it is time for her to get ready for work. Yes, all of those, I have to do because some people care shit for responsibility.

Well, it was still bearable. It is, after all, my job regardless of whether it was my birthday. Chores will be chores and people oblivious to their phillial piety, dwelling in their own selfish nature will be as what I have labeled them to be. I was in the midst of planning what I should be doing and where I should go when all of a sudden, the mother required some chauferring. Wouldn't be that bad if It was at say 0800 hrs or 0900 hrs, but it had to be 1015 hrs and requires chaufering back from the place at 1100 hrs. Well then, looks like my plans for the day is done for. I agreed that I would stay home in the evening for the sister's dog while the rest of the family went to visit a cousin of mine. I will accept responsibility for that. In fact, I was willing to do it.

They were to leave at 1800hrs which meant that I would have to be back by 1700hrs. Assuming I wanted to go to One Utama, which would be the closest living shopping complex apart from Pyramid which I have more or less got bored of, I have to drive down and back which would take approximately an hour one way thanks to the weekend traffic. That meant that I would have to start driving back from One U at 1600 hrs. Now, lets say that after sending the mother home, I would take about an hour to get myself ready. 1115 hrs, I'm back, take an hour to wash up and prepare, 1215 hrs. Get myself out of the house, brace the traffic, reach One U at about 1315 hrs. That leaves me less than three hours to go around say, have lunch, look around the bookshops for interesting reads and whatnots. Come on! What can you possibly do with two hours and forty-five minutes? That's barely even enough time for me to browse through MPH to look for ONE good book!

So, what did I do? I spent my birthday miserably in front of the comp watching JDramas. Not like it's something I do not enjoy. I do. Just not on my birthday. I wanted to do something not routine. Something I would not do on any given weekend. To many (like the sister), visiting a shopping complex is not something they would consider as special. To me it was. Often have I turned down going out with friends just so that I would have a more prominent presence in the house as a son. Even then, I am labeled as "not home" since I stay in my room most of the time. Do I turn down tasks and chores when given or asked of me? I don't! Okay, sometimes, I do it with a sense of dissatisfactory, but nontheless, I still do it!

So, there goes my "EXCITING" birthday that I was planning not to plan and just have fun.

Status: Pissed, Pissed beyond being pissed, Pissed to the point where I do not know how feeling pissed is like.

21st December:

I was thinking yesterday, that maybe after church today, I could make up for lost time yesterday. I could still get myself over to a place with a big bookstore and browse through some interesting titles. So, I consoled myself.... BUT ... yesterday night, after coming back from the cousin's place, the father asked if I could stay home for the "sister's" dog again from 1500 - 1800 hrs.

...
......
.........
.......................................

Way to go on sensitivity. Looks like another day of ruined unplanned plans.

Morning greeted me with chores written all over. This time, the "sister's" dog is in my care again. Only difference is that he is fed already. Combing, giving him a treat and all is still my job. After stressing over chores, I decided to shower and get ready for church. After shower, the mother decided to ask a stupid question. After knowing that I would stay home for that damned "sister's" dog, she asked if I was going out today. WOW. Way to go at stating the obvious. What was I to answer? I was already up to my neck, supposedly trying to tame the tongue. I'm only human. We can only tolerate up to a certain level. I answered, "I can go out, meh?"

Talk about defensive instincts! The mother straightaway flared up and talked about things that have nothing to do with the conversation at all on how loyal and dutiful she is and even commenting on how I was not fit to lead bible study. Where's the link? I'm having trouble finding that out as well. I was so angry, I could not see myself to go to church in such a state. The mother continued her jabbering and pulled in the trick of ALL mothers stating the efforts of raising a 25 year old son is going down to waste. Then, the father decided that I was not in a position to vent out my frustrations because I was the young one. WOW. That was another hard blow on me. Did he mean that the youngest in the family will never be given the chance to voice out? Are we the ones who are doomed to only be in the receiving end of shit? Are we not human?

Status: Pissed with disappointment and failure to get my story accross since I was cut off while trying to explain.

I do not ask a lot. In fact, I try not to ask for anything. But why am I generalised and put in the same category as the sibling? I prefer to work with what I have. I was trained to be like that. I only ask for some sensitivity towards my side of the story.

I can accept it if people say they forgot what I told them despite countless reminders leading towards the date of request. But isn't it logical that perhaps people want some time to themselves on their "special" day and not be bogged down by chores? A ride to a place may seem like a simple request but the timing is what matters. The beauty of it is that since my car was the only one available, it left me no choice, didn't it? So, do not give the crap about getting the father to fetch you there was a possibility. Fact was that it was not possible. BUT ... frustrated as I was, I still did it, didn't I? Not with the best attitude any son can offer, but I still did it, didn't I?

Perhaps, next time when we ask something from someone, we should first think of the possible unseen obstacles to it. It just takes a little bit of sensitivity and a whole truckload of common sense. At the end of it all, I guess what I am trying to say is that:

Don't piss off the wrong person....

WTH, man?!?! ...

2008-12-11T14:30:00.002+08:00

... Don't piss off
the wrong person....

Young Musician Camp 2008....

2008-11-29T13:32:00.000+08:00

... more like musical
daycare....

Chiminon....

2008-11-20T17:03:00.000+08:00

Sounds of a
Thousand Beauties....

Tango del Cello ...

2008-11-14T18:31:00.001+08:00

... el baile de amor
con el violoncelo....

Romanticizing a Cello ...

2008-11-10T19:56:00.001+08:00

... or so I think
I am....

Carry the Anchor ...

2008-10-29T12:52:00.002+08:00

.. alone, we can't,
together, we can....

Founder's 2008

2008-10-28T16:41:00.001+08:00

Selangor State event....

Chores Chores Chores ...

2008-10-21T08:26:00.002+08:00

..........

The endless perils of a NAGxecutive ...

2008-10-13T10:58:00.001+08:00

... are you done yet?

My room!

2008-10-13T10:38:00.003+08:00

Well, it's been some time since renovation started and my room is finally up!

Here are some pictures.

First and foremost, My workstation!

My shelves filled with books, oh, so precious!

Wardrobe and extra shelves on top

An upclose look at one of my shelves containing my
Gundam Seed Destiny collection.

Last but certainly the top in my list ...

MY FEATURE WALL!!!

This is still a WIP.
Planning to put up some paper graffiti when i have more time.

More updates on the feature wall soon!

WHOA!!!!

2008-10-01T11:39:00.000+08:00

My room is almost ready! I will post some pictures once it's done!

Then, I'll start painting my feature wall... WHAHAHAHA!!!!

-Seki-

0_0''' ... =_=''' ... ToT'''

2008-09-22T11:28:00.002+08:00

So, it's been almost a month since I've come back and catching up with old friends seems never ending. Despite that part of my life, I've been searching for a job despite people telling me to take a break first (not my mom and dad though). Honestly, I'm not too in a hurry to start a career just yet, but what I am keen on is to get a job confirmed first before i start to enjoy whatever is left of my "unemployment" period.

It has been really tough to say the least because my house is in the midst of renovation and therefore, juggling between personal space, parents' demands, friends' catching up, renovation progress (since I am labeled as the 2nd Man of the house ... =_='''), and Symphonee's whims are quite a handful to handle. I must say that my ability to adjust back to Malaysia has been one of ease. Perhaps it may very well have been so since I considered myself never having left Malaysia for that matter. My stay in Tasmania, if you would like to put it, has been one for duty and future prospect purposes for home (Darn! I just get the feeling that this statement is a bit cocky ... no intentions okay? ^o^)

Just two weeks back from Tazzie, I've been back on active duty with the Boys' Brigade and church worship. It feels good to be serving, though there are times when I can't help feeling the coldness the church has grown into. It is sad but perhaps it is because of the limited space we have since the Subang side has shifted over to Pantai due to construction. I hope that this feeling is just temporary. Apart from that, the youth in Subang has grown weak due to the change and numbers are just dropping tremendously. Are we as a church not doing enough? What can we do?

In BB, there are times when I feel like an alien since my leaving of BB for nearly 2 years. The bond that we used to share amongst members and officers are not what it used to be anymore. Question towards the officers? Perhaps answerable. I'm very afraid of losing vision in the BB. But until then, I can only trust in God that BB2SJ is in good hands.

Stress appears everywhere. However, at the end of the day, it is not how stressed we are, but how we handle it.

-Seki-

Back to BOLEH-land

2008-08-28T08:24:00.002+08:00

So it has been some time since i last posted something but given the fact that i just arrived Malaysia less than a week ago, you can guess how busy I have been. There just too many mamak sessions to attend to! That being said, however, I finally have time to be sitting here at home in front of the Pentium 4 desktop of my home, which recently got upgraded to a 768 MB ram (whoa!!!). Well, honestly, like that ever mattered to me. But, hey, you can't complain as it still serves its purpose as a PC! At least it performs better than my Pentium Mobile, recently upgraded 2GB ram, which takes only FOREVER to load to the Windows screen.

Anyway, that lappy of mine is being fixed back at the Acer HQ. Just in case those of you who do not know what happened, both hinges of my lappy gave way and decided the weight of the monitor is too much a burden. It has been some time since I have written, literally, so instead of the picture heavy entries that I usually post, here is a written one (or typed, if you may)!

Life is good back in BOLEH-land and I must say that contrary to popular perception, I am not falling sick for the first two weeks back here. If you really must know, I think I was more sick in Tasmania during winter than I am back here. Sure, the air here is polluted but at least I do not get nose bleeds due to overly dry clean air during winter (or anytime except for summer). My driving skills have not gotten too bad, nor is it still any good. But I must say that I am still a little overwhelmed by the "courtesy" of the Malaysian drivers. I believe too much system in Tazzie can be bad for a Malaysian who will perhaps, spend eternity back here. The "aunty" drivers who can only afford their BIG-NAMED cars thanks to richer husbands, do not help in the situation any better. But that being said, BOLEH-land is still very much the way it was before I left the country.

Only difference was that some of the people I used to hang out with. Everyone seems taller and older. Most, though, are still the same.

Anyway, this is as far as I will go for today. I will blog more and this time it will be a mix of pictures and written posts. Till then, enjoy your day!

-Seki-

Convocation ...

2008-08-12T06:25:00.001+08:00

... because it's time....

Feeling inspired ...

2008-07-31T10:40:00.002+08:00

... because things are
possible when you
want it to be....

Check out 'OneRedPaperClip'.

Waiting to go home ...

2008-07-21T13:44:00.001+08:00

... beacause at times,
that's all you can do....

Out in the Streets

2008-07-15T07:21:00.004+08:00

So, I managed to pass my assessment and although I was told that I could score (by professors and lecturers of the school), I didn't. I guess when it comes to art, preference is a very subjective matter. Perhaps the assessors are not intrigued by the same fascinations that I have with street art. *COUGH* ... conservative conformists ... *COUGH*. Oh, Don't mind me, I'm just coughing out loud.

Well, anyway, that being said, I've still passed ... disappointingly....

Below are the artworks I've displayed. The biggest piece of my work is not included in here as it involves multimedia projection onto the painting. I'm still figuring a way to put it here. But, until then, here are the pictures:

The Artist Statement
The artist statement serves as the main idea
or story that the artist is trying to bring out
to the public. While most people prefer
to print it on paper and stick it onto the wall,
I've decided to paint it ONTO the wall ...

... and it continues down to the floor as well.

Read my Mind ... I left it Behind
This artwork tells a story of leaving
thoughts that traumatizes a person behind.
It is never fully left behind because the imprints
of the thoughts will never fade away.

Cool Idiocy
Need I say more?

Cool Idiocy (part 2)

Trails
Where does a skater seek opportunity?
But then again, does it really matter anymore?

This set of works are a process of self-realization for me. There certain things that we love to do at one point in our lives but because of an unfateful (or fateful) incident, we may wake up one day not being able to do it anymore. So, cherish the ability with each passing day and be content. There will come a time when we just won't be able to do it anymore.

It is good to practice ...

2008-07-14T08:23:00.002+08:00

... because it wastes paper (TOO MUCH!)
to pick up the skill again....

It is good to observe ...

2008-07-14T08:17:00.001+08:00

... because there are times
when someone thinks you do not know
that he/she has many masks....

Perceived Grattitude

2008-06-29T19:40:00.003+08:00

... because there are times when we just do not fit in....

Insecured Praise Seekers

2008-06-27T22:32:00.003+08:00

Supposed teamwork.
Why don't you all just shut up
and do your work?

I want ...

2008-06-26T23:31:00.002+08:00

... to learn and play it well....

I suddenly feel motivated again.

I've always loved the cello. Something to do with the beautiful bass sounds it creates.

Sekob loves his ...

2008-06-22T06:01:00.001+08:00

It plays so smooth!

A touch of personality ...
MY personality! =p

Nankurunaisa....

2008-06-22T05:44:00.003+08:00

... Because everything will work out in the end....

Check out the Blood+ anime....

Confused

2008-06-20T09:41:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday!

2008-06-18T20:28:00.004+08:00

So, yesterday was mom's birthday. We had a chit-chat on the phone and mom being mom, asked about myself more than the actual reason for my calling to wish her birthday greeting. I guess that's where a mother's love never fail to put her loved ones ahead of her. Thanks, mom.

So happens, it was also Bernice's birthday, but since her boyfriend took the trouble to fly down from Adelaide to meet her for this reason, we decided to allow them their time for romance. Jonathan, the organizer, decided to hold her party one day after. It's a real pity that Bernice's boyfriend, Kenny couldn't join us for the party although I think he would very much love to.

Well, anyway, the party was a good time to catch up with Jonathan, Sarah, Bernice and Er Li (the Monash 5s) since it's been sometime I had met up with them. Everyone's really stressed up over the semester.

I decided to buy a plain shirt and personalize it for her....

It's winter, so long sleeves will do well, and besides,
it's not too hot to wear during summer as well.

I painted a cello for her since she is a cellist.
I think I'm gonna pick up cello or violin when I have the time ...
HOPEFULLY!

The princess of the day and the artist.
I'm posing with the product, not the person ... HAHAHA!!! =p
Just kidding. =)

Well, Bernice, have a nice one and I hope you enjoyed the fellowship and the efforts your friends painstakingly sacrificed for the success of this party.

Happy Birthday, Bernice!

Hishoku no Sora (Scarlet Sky)

2008-06-15T21:44:00.004+08:00

I watched the anime series titled 'Shakugan no Shana', and I'm not sure why, but everytime I hear the opening theme song play, I'm filled with emotions that make me want to cry. It's not like I understood what was sung. And to be honest, I've had a few times where my eyes did well up with tears. So after watching the whole two seasons which were released, I decided to do a little research on the song lyrics translation. Then, I understood why I cried....

Lyrics ： Kawada Mami
Music & Arrangement ： Nakazawa Tomoyuki
Vocals ： Kawada Mami (I've)

Japanese phonetics:

Soshite kono sora akaku somete mata kuru toki kono mi de susumu dake

Surechigatte iku ‘hito’ mo magirenakushita ‘MONO’ mo
Itsuka wa kieyuku toki
Atsuku yurugasu ‘tsuyosa’ hakanaku yureru ‘yowasa’
Shosen onaji mirai

Sonna nichijou kouka wo tokashi arawareru hi kureru sekai

Kaze ni nabikase sen wo hiite nagareru you na kamisaki teki wo sasu
Yurikitta omoi minagiru yume
Subete wa ima kono te de shimei hatashiteyuku dake

Mata hi ga hitotsu otosare sotto dokoka de kieta
Genjitsu kawaranu hibi
Dakedo tashikani kanjiru kimi no nukumori kodou
Kore mo shinjitsu da to

Soshite kurenai koujin wo maki yuuhi wo sei ni ima hajimaru saa

Naze takanaru kokoro ni mayoi tomadoi kanjiru no
Hayaku itazura ni abaredasu itami kowashite

Sora ni nijinda yaketa kumo wa uchi ni himeta negai ga kogashiteru
Tameratta hitomi ukabu namida demo ashita no chikara ni kaete

Subete sasagete mai orita chi saeru yaiba hitotsu de yami wo kiru
Itsu datte mune wo oku no hikari　mabatakasete
Kono mi de shimei hatashiteyuku dake

English Translation:

And therefore, dye this sky red. The time has come again for my body to only go forward

Even the ‘people’ who pass by and the ‘THINGS’ which become lost in confusion
Will one day be like vanished memories
A passionate unwavering ‘strength’, a fleeting swaying ‘weakness’
They meet the same end after all

Such ordinary days melt the mundane world. The sun appears above the crimson world

Flutter in the wind and draw back the lines. Like the flowing tips of the hair, pierce the enemy
The feelings which were slashed, the swelling dream
Now, I will only carry all of my duties in my hands until the end

Once again, another light has fallen, it has quietly disappeared to somewhere
It’s the reality which doesn’t change day after day
However, I definitely feel it, your warmth, your heartbeat
This can also be called the truth

And therefore, it becomes crimson, scattering the mundane world. It’s now starting in the background of the evening sun

Why do I feel hesitation and confusion in my rapidly throbbing heart?
Hurry, destroy this pain which explodes in useless rage

The stained and scorched clouds in the sky burn the wishes concealed within
Tears welled up in my hesitant eyes, but change them into strength tomorrow

Offer up everything to the land where I have descended. With my single bright blade, I shall decapitate the darkness
The light deep within my heart will always sparkle
I will only carry out my duties until the end

It is a beautiful story and it is complimented with a beautiful opening theme song. Perhaps it was the way Kawada Mami sang it with feelings. Surprisingly, the song is upbeat but with quite a sad but energetic melody. Some sort of like a need to fulfill an honourable task and therefore requires sacrifice. Mind you that at this time, I still did not know what the song meant. Kawada seemed to have captured my attention to her singing. She was like communicating with me via tunes and managed to reach out to my senses. Without a doubt, I cried real hard after finding out the meaning of this song.

When I heard her sing, I felt like I needed to fulfill my duties to the end even if it felt like a losing cause. Perhaps, in all hopelessness in the world, there are those who still strive to hold on to something important ... HONOUR.... Honour meant that we fight on against all odds. I am very drawn to this idea and even made it a principle in my life. Probably why I admire the Japanese and their Samurai culture. I guess even in simple cartoons and comics, the Japs have maintained one of their most treasured traditions and that is the mindset of an honourable way of life.

Anyway, I'd recommend anyone who is interested in anime to give this series a go. Apparently, there is a third season to which I am still waiting for it to be released. I will not spoil the story for you. Just watch it for yourself and besides, my main objective in this entry is the song and how it captured me.

You may say that I am an emo person and I'd agree to a certain extent. I do not feel a need to justify myself since this is a part of me. But one thing I have to put through is that I trust my senses and when I feel the way I do, it is probably the most honest feeling that is in me.

Ps:- I did not post my artworks up yet. I decided to put it up only when I have received my assessment results. So, it'll be up soon enough.

Sick!!!!!

2008-06-01T05:19:00.003+08:00

Why didn't i take that jab before I came here? =_='''

The virus is a very itchy one

After living nearly a quarter of a century of my life, I caught that stupid virus. Why do people "catch" a virus or an illness for that matter? Shouldn't we actually be running away from it? Hmmm....

Well, there is a bright side to this incident:

- I now have an immunity to it
- I get to say that I had it in Tasmania while most of my friends had it back home

Hmmm ... somehow, the second excuse feels like it's not something to be proud of.

ps:- For those of you who still can't figure out what virus I caught (even through the obvious picture above), ~~I'd like to start by calling you blind or stupid~~ I caught the pox related to poultry and if you have had it before, you can visit me if you like. Otherwise, stay far away from me because it is contagious.

Sekob in aTerminator Armour

2008-05-28T08:36:00.002+08:00

Fans of Warhammer 40k will relate to this entry....

Sekob in the armour....

Terminator Honours and Power Fist....

Standard Storm Bolter....

Another view....

It's paper construction if you may have noticed. It's too much a challenge to sew it up using felt.

An SMS so unexpected....

2008-05-23T20:26:00.002+08:00

Eves' Night 2008 Gifts

2008-05-18T20:06:00.005+08:00

I think it is somehow expected that nowadays, I'm like the tool for gift ideas.... Honestly, I feel that it's not necessarily a good thing.

Anyway, that being said, here are the stuff I made for the Eves on Eves' Night of 2008....

They are about the size of a 50 cents Aussie coin

Some black ones.

When you put them together for contrast....

Just more play on contrast....

A little limited edition red.
Whoever got them should feel happier.
Only two were passed out that night.

My three favourite colours;
Well, white is supposed to be silver and there are no silver felt.

Trying to create the "m&m" effect with only 3 colours.

I wonder if anyone actually sees the significance of these little miniature blobs....
But then again, who actually cares but the artist or crafter himself?
*Sigh*, I won't bother you with my ramblings anymore for now.
Enjoy what you see!

Sekob with a Mushroom Hat!!!

2008-04-12T22:07:00.004+08:00

Priscilla told me that Sekob reminded her of the mushroom monster in Maple Story....
So, I thought it might look cute. =)

The front....
It looks more like the mushrooms in Super Mario games.

The back....

Thanks for the idea, Priscilla. =)

Timeline 12042008

2008-04-12T15:17:00.002+08:00

Today in Methodist Small Group meeting, we were told to draw a time-line from the past till today....

Yeap ... that's mine....

BLOREN!!!!

2008-04-11T12:50:00.002+08:00

By request ... BLOREN!!!

Eh, Lauren, you owe me a mamak meal when I'm back from Ozzie!!!
=p

Woo Hoo!!!

Sekob's clothes!

2008-04-10T07:27:00.004+08:00

The first set....

It's the same as my coat and shirt I wore for the SLAP exhibition opening.

Here's another look.

A close-up of the collar.

Hmmm.... Why does it almost feel like I'm playing dress-up dolls?
Nah.... I just enjoy making it.... =)

The new BLOB Plushy!

2008-04-09T21:53:00.003+08:00

Yea, so I decided to make some more....

Items needed:
Felt
Large-eye Needle
Thick Thread

My 2nd Blob....
Wasn't too proud of it.
Though as compared to the first one, there is a bit of improvement.
Note that I've stitched the glasses rather than just putting buttons on....
The red thread on the side was intentional.
I thought that the chaotic state of sewing would look good,
but it turned out sucky....

My next attempt saw me improving on the stitch-work.
A little neater, but still not something to shout about.
Also, I've sewed a small base at the bottom so that it could stand.
Rather tedious work but it allowed me to understand the concept of a base work.

Finally, the last attempt.
Stitch-work improved in neatness.
I guess, practice makes perfect.
This time round, the back-stitching on the glasses are neater and more even.

The needlework on the sides are now more defined and though it is much neater,
there is still a natural human touch to it as it is not 100% perfect.

The base....

And finally, the end product!
I'm proud of this Blob plushy....
Perhaps, the next round, I'm gonna make some clothes for Sekob!
Cheerio!

Blob Plush! (1st attempt)

2008-04-08T15:34:00.002+08:00

I know I took after my Dad's creativity.
But now, I think I'm taking after my Mom, Sis, and my Cuz Sis
when it comes to craft making.
I love it!
It's my first attempt in making a blob plush.

What made me want to do plushies?
Check the websites below....

http://www.cherylthinktank.blogspot.com/
http://www.catrabbit.com.au

Thanks for the inspiration!

Btw, this plush is for Sarah's Birthday.
Happy Birthday!

Isn't the picture clear enough?

2008-03-23T13:24:00.002+08:00

You will soon know.... And I hope you feel it too....

Add oil

2008-01-17T07:24:00.000+08:00

For when we think we are weak, we are in actual fact, very strong....
For we are stronger than we think we are....
For if you are strong for yourself, others will also be strong for you....
For I will be strong for you as well....

A gift for the UTAS Graduates of 2007 (Song En Church)

2007-12-29T04:26:00.000+08:00

Splashes of Hope 1-4

=)

2007-12-19T06:09:00.000+08:00

Sekob shot out of a potato gun!!!

2007-12-15T10:56:00.000+08:00

Alex Xu's favourite toy. =)

The new Sekob

2007-12-14T05:40:00.000+08:00

Beautiful Ugly

2007-12-12T19:49:00.000+08:00

Oftentimes, we see something lifeless as something useless or of no worth. But have we ever seen how fulfilling a life has been in its full glory while it was still alive? Don't see things for the way they are. Delve deep, and you will most often find something intriguing; shocking sometimes. In its weak and decomposing manner, there is still beauty behind it. See pass what the naked eye sees. Use your mind's eyes.

My Story 1

My Story 2

My Story 3

My Story 4

My Story 5

My Story 6

The whole series

My Story 1 - 5:
Acrylic on canvas
25cm x 20cm x 1.5cm
Priced at AUD 120.00

My Story 6

Acrylic on Canvas
50cm x 39.5cm x 1.5cm
Priced at AUD 500.00

The whole set will cost AUD 1000.00

If interested, please contact me via e-mail: sekiboy@gmail.com