Tragic Ending

Far off at the apex of a mountain, covered with thick snow, laid a wooden house made out of centuries old thick logs. Although generations have resided there, laughter and sorrow were shared, the house remained sturdy. It was as though any form of catastrophe would never succeed in bringing the house to ground. However, no matter how firm the house stood, a slight mistake would blow everything apart, likewise, a strong metal would turn brittle as it corrodes if it came into contact with even a tiny droplet of water.

A usual day it was. In the serene house, everyone was awaken to a cloudless day as the bright scorching sun shone through the transparent windows of the bedrooms. The children were too tired to get up and they decided to sleep in for another hour or so. Blame it all on the surprise party last night that their parents had planned for the youngest son who just turned 7. It was indeed a memorable night for the family because for once, the family had a chance to gather together to celebrate someone’s birthday. Usually, the father would be out till midnight, doing odd jobs to earn some extra income to fend for the family.  

Everyone had a whale of time yesterday, dancing around the house with the rhythm of the music, which was practically beating through every corner of the dwelling. It’s no doubt that lethargy had bitten its way into the body of every soul that night. However, there was an exception. Little brother here was prancing around the house that morning after he was awaken by the blistering heat that had filtered its way through the ozone into his bedroom. He was so overwhelmed with joy and excitement that a big slap on his cheek might not be able stop him from laughing.

The other children were as dead as zombies. Lying down on their respective beds, the children gibbered about the annoying voice, which eventually turned the quiet morning into a disaster as it was consumed with the worst noise pollution ever happened on earth. Poor mommy had to crawl out of bed from her hubby’s warm embrace to prepare some breakfast for the highly-spirited little one in order to quiet him down and please the others. Turned on the gas stove, mommy fried some eggs, sausages, bacons, and some baked beans. Swiftly, breakfast was ready and the little one soon indulged himself with it. Finally, the morning was at peace once again.

Everything happened too quickly that day. The fireplace was still burning like there’s no tomorrow when the half-awake mommy had carelessly forgotten to turn off the gas stove before heading back to bed. The chilly wind from the opposite mountains blew into the house and sped up the diffusion of gas throughout the entire space. The leaked gas was never noticed and soon it was in contact with the burning fire. BOOM! The entire antique blasted apart mercilessly, as though God’s wrath was acting upon it. The impact of the blast was so tremendous and powerful that the windows shattered into billions of tiny pieces. Splinters were seen flying in different directions with great speed. Flocks of birds veiled the cloudless sky as they were frightened by the sudden deafening explosion. Neighbors were jolted and they rushed to the scene immediately, but it was already too late. Nothing could be done but to stand aside helplessly, witnessing as the raging fire engulfed the wooden house within split seconds. None survived the blast that day. It was indeed a tragic ending for such a loving family.

Inspired by a scene from : “Shooter”

Love Is A 4-Letter Word

What just happened was supposed to make me feel better and a sense of relief but I’m feeling otherwise. I was expecting smiles but what I got was a face of disgust. I didn’t really got slapped by negative expressions but I can feel that my action wasn’t welcomed. I thought I was doing the right thing but the act made me feel as though I was an irresponsible person. Whatever it was, I finally did what I was supposed to do weeks ago.

After alighting the car, double-parked at the side of the road, I marched straight into the Taman Megah pet shop. Maybe it was the right day to buy pets, the shop was crowded with enthusiastic families and couples, looking through the transparent cages, hoping to find the right pet from themselves.

Grudgingly, I climbed up the steep stairs to reach the 1st floor where white mice were being displayed. Holding tightly onto the paper bag, I walked up straight to a worker who was arranging the packets of pet food on the shelf. It was a multi-colored mooncake paper bag I was holding and maybe that attracted the attention of the workers? *shrugs* Before I was even given a chance to explain my next move, the workers swarmed round me and started peering into the bag.

“Saves my time,” I thought. So I spilt it all out from the very day I bought the mouse, to the day I used them as “guinea pigs,” till now where I finally realized I couldn’t afford anymore to take out time from my “hectic” timetable to attend to their hunger and thirst. Then for a moment, I experienced a pin-drop-silence situation, which was way too awkward to stand. And having so many pairs of eyes staring back at you wasn’t anything nice at all, what’s more, they were all pet lovers.

I was then bombarded with questions and comments - “Have you lost interest in them?”, “They are so skinny and timid.” - that really made me feel as though I had turned into some cold-hearted and irresponsible monster. As you know, those mice were my first pet ever since I was born to this earth. Although it felt great playing with those mice, but I find it really troublesome to keep something alive while I’m actually struggling to sustain mine. Maybe they were right that my interest wasn’t really there at all. Sorry.

Anyway, I think I did the right thing by returning those mice to them. I hereby hope the best for my mice and I’m really happy for they now have a better owner than they previously had.

**************************************

On a different note, I have a little announcement to make : I might be going on a short hiatus. The occasion : Streamyx/TMnet screwed up my line due to some managing problems and they need to cut off my Internet for a few days in order to get everything into place. Hopefully this repairing progress won’t take up too much time.

Busy Saturday!

Yesterday was no ordinary day. I broke my weekly routine of waking up at noon on Saturdays. As I struggled to crawl out of bed, I gave my body a long stretch. And hell yes, I could feel the stiffness running down my neck right through the  entire length of my spine. I think it could shatter like a hollow-dried-up bone if I were to give it a slight twist.

As I gradually sat myself up on that soft and warm bed of mine, I felt like falling right back onto bed. With perseverance, I resisted the lethargy. However, battling against the fatigue in me was not the only reason that was holding me back from dozing off. The fear of being late and having my mom to go all ballistic, yelling and screaming at me early in the morning kept me wide awake. In fact, that powerful reason sped me up. I was prepared and ready to go within 15 minutes. Impressive.

Hopped into the car and off we went to Pudu. My mom’s old friend/my sister’s godfather who is from JB came all the way here for a few reasons. First, of course he’s here to pay us a visit. Second, to see his god-daughter/my sister. Third, he bought my sister a new cell phone – 5130 Xpress Music. Arriving at Pudu, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the day I went to Genting with my college mates. It was indeed a joyful day that it had made itself an indelible mark in my mind.

Anyway, we picked him up and went to Megamall/Mid-Valley for lunch. Thank God we made it there early because the traffic was building up and swelling at the time we were going back, which was at around 3. There obviously weren’t enough parking lots both in Megamall and The Gardens for those desperate shoppers yesterday! And I thought Malaysia and the whole globe are experiencing economic downturn. I just realized I was so wrong.

However, the highlight of the day was Han Quan’s surprise birthday party at Rakuzen, which his awesome girlfriend – Wei Guan had previously planned for him. The point is, I didn’t expect myself to be able to join them. I thought I was going to miss all the fun until Li Foong’s message came in at around 9, saying that they just started eating. Because of that, I decided to blend into the group at SS15. Met up with many unfortunate incidents before arriving safely at Rakuzen.

Unfortunate incidents : -

• Missed the junction connected to Subang Jaya.
• Decided to make a U-turn in Sunway, but missed the turning.
• Having a tough time coming out of the parking lot beside the toll.
• Paid RM 3.20 for the most ridiculously expensive U-turn.
• Arrived at SS15 but couldn’t find SS15/5A but /3B,/4A/4G instead.
• Went to the row of shops beside SJMC, which I later found out it’s SS12.
• Made hell lots of calls to Wei Guan and Li Foong asking for the exact location of the shop. Sorry for disturbing.
• What made me burnt with anger is that the restaurant is actually at SS15/3B instead of SS15/5A. Hell!

Went into Rakuzen through the most foolishly designed entrance door ever, I was greeted warmly by the waiters and waitresses. I turned my head 360 degrees, trying my best to spot some familiar faces but failed. Climbing up the staircase, I could already hear Wei Guan’s voice echoing around the 1st floor! And yes, I was then confident that they were there. *I’m not implying that you are loud, Wei Guan. It’s just that you have a sharp and clear voice. (=* A huge group indeed with a total of 20 people! I admit I made a grand entrance there. Frankly speaking, sitting down at the far right of the row wasn’t any good experience at all. I felt quite sesat to be honest.

I had my dinner before going. So I was down to sipping some green tea from Wei Hoong’s cup, picking up a few green peas to munch, and eating one part of the “Fish Ice-Cream.” When the bill arrived at our table, the amount was stunning. I didn’t pay anything of course, but I heard that some had to pay extra just to make up the total and one of them was the birthday boy himself. Absurd. Some cheeky fellow escaped without paying I guess.

So we were all at the entrance when Wei Guan suggested that we take a group picture and a group picture we took. 

While others were having a tough time deciding where to go next, we camwhored instead!

Ultimate decision – to Han Quan’s castle-like house for a short chill-out! Had my first bite of Wei Guan’s homemade chocolate cake! I didn’t think it’s dry but tasty! Yum yum~ But please take note that my opinion is not reliable because I don’t really eat cakes =)

Then here comes the real fun! We divided ourselves into 2 groups – group 1 (Ming Ken, Yew Jin, Han Quan, Li Foong) played mahjong, group 2 ( Wei Hoong, Zhong Ken, Wei Guan, Sean) played Chor Dai Dee! Wohoo~!

I wanted to play mahjong so much but Wei Guan was too much for self-proclaiming herself to be the Queen of Chor Dai Dee =P So I told her I’m the King of CDD and a cold war broke out instantaneously between us. Of course, the King wins right? But her skills were great too, she just lacked a little luck! So, she’s the Queen and I’m the King! =)

Happy Birthday, Han Quan!

Want to take a look of the night from another perspective? Go to Li Foong’s blog!

Tags I Lurve!

Ten Things i Wish i Could Say to Ten Different People (but don't say their name):

1. I’ve not seen you for days now but I’m starting to miss you already. I like you.
2. You’ll always be my best friend.
3. Happy Birthday! Enjoy this great day of yours.
4. Study Hard but not too hard. It’s only PMR.
5. Thank you for always being there for me. I appreciate it with all my heart.
6. Don’t force yourself into it, you’ll end up hurting both parties.
7. I hope the best for the both of you. Thank you for the advice!
8. Don’t worry too much about it, your mom would set you free eventually.
9. You can be a better person if you change.
10. What have you become? It felt like I never knew you before.

Nine things about myself :

1. Jack of all trades, master of none.
2. I can be talkative and I can be cool. It all depends on who I’m interacting with.
3. I’m observant and I’ve great memories that are meant for short term usages only.
4. I will have insomnia at times because I tend to think too much.
5. I just love hanging out with friends.
6. Action movies are my favorite, especially those that involves martial arts and arsenals.
7. I smile a lot but I get depressed easily.
8. Although I’m lean, I can eat a lot! My metabolism rate is always at its optimum. 
9. I have a dream to be rich to make my wife the happiest woman on earth.

Eight ways to win my heart :

1. My dream girl. C
2. Valuing friendship just as valuing a diamond-studded ring.
3. Having great hip-hop dancing, breakdancing, popping, shuffling, and any other cool dance moves and skills.
4. Creativity.
5. Honesty.
6. Generosity and having great sympathy for those in need.
7. Muscular physique. *I’m not gay*
8. Someone who understands me well.

Seven things that cross my mind a lot :

1. When can my love be answered?
2. When am I finding a job for myself?
3. Do I really like Actuarial Science?
4. How am I going to blog about today?
5. Will I get to see my friends again?
6. Am I addicted to blogging?
7. Why am I not accomplishing the things written on my to-do list?

Six things I do before I fall asleep :

1. Thinking whether should I not go to bed tonight.
2. Read something if I’m sleeping early that night.
3. Say good night to her if she’s still online.
4. Reluctant to switch off my computer.
5. Change into my pyjamas.
6. Set the alarm, which would not take any effect on my wonderful sleep the next morning.

Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever) :

1. My family.
2. The person I like/love.
3. My friends.
4. People who did something for me.
5. Myself.

Four things your wearing right now : (Oh, no! Gotta wear something first! Haha~)

1. Glasses.
2. B.U.M watch.
3. B.U.M shirt.
4. Shorts.

Three places that you would like to go:

1. Europe.
2. Somewhere with my friends.
3. More Partays and Outhangs!

Two things you want to do before you die :

1. Inspire someone.
2. Do everything that’s in my Bucket List.

One confession :

1. I find those moments without your presence UNWORTHY.

I tag:

• Chloe
• Rina
• Li Foong (Will this be your first tag?)
• Sister – Pei Ning

American Idol Season 8

Many people out there might not agree with me, but I think that this season’s American Idol winner – Kris Allen had gotten himself the most undeserving win ever in the whole long list of American Idol history.

I’m very well aware that I might already have started a huge dispute/commotion over here with this disagreement of mine over Kris Allen’s win, but I apologize in advance for having to do so in order to bring out all the dissatisfaction in me.

It’s no doubt that Simon Fuller had made great efforts in making American Idol a success. His efforts ranges from the discovery of many singing talents among the Americans to the execution of ‘Idol Gives Back’ that came to the aid of the people of Africa with its charitable endeavors. However, I think all efforts showed futile and in vain when the decision of America upon the American Idol of season 8 and the Idol of some of its previous seasons had brought much disgrace to the program itself.

Americans have been making inexpiable mistakes for the past few seasons when it comes to choosing the next American Idol. This statement could be very provoking but the truth could never be veiled forever. Please first note that what I’m about to say here is of my personal opinion and it might not be entirely true. 

First season winner – Kelly Clarkson has been doing well ever since her first debut under the RCA records after her win. She has been winning awards and her albums have been selling like hot cakes worldwide, making her the highest selling Idol winner. Great decision made there, America.

As for the second season winner – Ruben Studdard, is obviously not as successful as Clay Aiken – the runner-up of the season although Studdard’s win had raised his fame to peak. Not only did Clay Aiken released albums of his own, he even authored a New York Times best-selling book “Learning to Sing: Hearing the Music in Your Life” with Allison Glock, has been a frequent talk show guest on “The Tonight Show” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” appeared as a guest star on “Scrubs,” created the Bubel/Aiken Foundation, and many more.

I’m not very sure about the 3^rd season but what I do know is that I hardly hear Fantasia’s music airing on any radio stations. Sad to say, the only song I have of hers is the one she sang during the competition – “I Believe.”

4^th season winner – Carrie Underwood is another great choice made by America. She has been frequently invited as a guest singer at American Idol and even participated in the recent humanitarian trip to Africa under the “Idol Gives Back” program, making that her 2^nd visit to Africa. You can always access to her Official Site to find out more about her, and I bet you that it wouldn’t be a regretful thing to do.

Season 5 was the worst season ever with Taylor Hicks ascending the throne rather than Katherine McPhee. Hicks’ wackiness might have won him the Idol but his singing talent obviously failed him in his debut album. Needless to say, Chris Daughtry who was being eliminated before the TOP 3 is doing way way better than Hicks’.

Season 6 was okay because the top 3 were all bombs, especially Melinda Doolittle but I think she wasn’t given enough credit for her talents were not appreciated well enough. The Davids from season 7 were equally good as well and there was not much to rant about here.

And now, I’m very dissatisfied about the results of season 8. Adam Lambert, although he’s thought to be gay or maybe he is, is obviously a professional singer with a crazily wide range and an innate talent in singing. He showed great ability in controlling his voice when he sang slow songs and originality when he arranged songs to fit perfectly for his insane range and vocals. He never fails to receive compliments and positive feedbacks from the judges ever since the start of the season. He’s born to sing and hence, deserves the throne much more than Kris Allen does although you wouldn’t want someone screaming in your radio.

Comparing Kris Allen to Danny Gokey and Adam Lambert, Kris’s practically nothing without his cutie looks and guitar. He should try America’s Got Talent instead. Danny has great vocal skills and was praised by Simon Cowell, Adam received a standing ovation from Simon Cowell and it was my first time seeing such feedback, and how about Kris? *wonders*

Remember the third performance of both Adam and Kris in the finale? I admit that Kris’s voice suited the song more than Adam’s but did you see how Kris struggled to reach the high note? The judges wouldn’t even bother to comment Kris based on his performance because it was way too pitchy and sucky! Admit that.

I admit that Kris Allen has improved a lot ever since the start of the season and he had strived hard to become who he is right now. But to me, he’s still not good enough to be the American Idol of Season 8. I think he won most of his votes from teenage girls who think he is cute rather than votes from people who think he could sing.

Well, I always believe that American Idol is a singing competition – choose the greatest singer rather than a competition of everything else except singing – choose the cutest guy/choose the hottest bachelor/choose the sexiest look. I’m sick of seeing that actually. Judge based on talents, will you? Our very own Daniel is not any better than that. If Malaysia were to send Daniel for an International singing competition, I don’t think he would even qualify to participate in it.

Disclaimer: I admit that I’m not a very good singer but because I was once involved in the music industry, I know how a good music sounds like and how a good singer sings. That was my own opinion and it’s open to criticism of all sorts. I apologize if I offended you but I was just disclosing the truth that everyone has been hiding from. Stop living in denial! Maybe I am the one who’s been living in denial because the fact is, this is a world of biasness.

Photo Credits: American Idol Official Site ; Reference: Wikipedia.