Brief Update

To everyone back home who've been asking, yes I am very much alive.

Ok end of post bye.

LOL #joking

School has started for a couple of weeks now and I've surprisingly been enjoying lessons very much. Although at the moment, it doesn't feel like I'm studying because my brain's still not used to the idea that Media and Cultural Studies is my major. I've been having a bit of a hard time adjusting my mind to look at things a certain way because media's never been much of a focus at all back in polytechnic when I was doing Tourism and Resort Management. Media to me, has always been in the back seat of whatever topic/module that I was studying and was so minor it was barely significant at all. But right now, it's taken the centre stage of things and I'm terrified that I wouldn't excel in it like I hoped. Nonetheless, lessons-wise, everything's still going good so far.

Asian party with some of the fellow SingSoc lads

Socially, I've gotten to know so many new people but none that I particularly feel close to. I'd really like to know how all these people around me make friends so easily because I sure as hell don't. For me, truly being friends with someone is like giving a part of myself away, and I don't want to be doing that so freely and easily just yet. I have, however, been finding myself hanging out with the people from the Singapore Society a lot more than I'd expected. They are, after all, my safety net and the closest thing I have to home. I'm still learning and trying to put myself out there a little more with every new person I meet, but sometimes it gets too tiring and overwhelming and I unknowingly go back to my little antisocial bubble where I'd rather not talk to anyone at all. It's basically still a work in progress.

Beautiful Sunday at Quayside with Hong Ming and Yin Kiu

What's exciting is that I've finally begun doing something that I've wanted to for the longest time - dance. Yep you read that right, I've joined the dance society in school and have been going for street classes once a week! This has been at the back of my mind for the longest time, and I've wanted to learn dance and go for dance lessons even back in Singapore. But I guess procrastination got the better of me hence why I never did it :( It's okkkkkkkk, because it's never too late to start. I might even participate in the society's annual show next year! How exciting would that be. Hey why not right, since I've been putting this off for so long, it's time to give it my all, regardless of whether I'm good at it or not.

My dance partner in crime! Wouldn't have done it without her encouragement :)

Maybe this update wasn't very brief after all.

D-5

I didn't think I'd have problems leaving this place and the people behind to pursue an overseas education. I knew I'd miss the people back home, I just didn't know how much.

Over the past week, I've been meeting up with friends to catch-up because chances are it'll be a whole year before I would be able to see any of them again. Knowing that the lunch, dinner and supper sessions I've had lately would be the last time I see these faces for the longest while - it truly breaks my heart. I'll miss out on birthdays and enlistment and POP and ORD and the frequent supper sessions and other fun and important stuff sobz I'm so sad now.

For a long time, I've always seen myself as emotionally detached to the people around me. Even though deep, deep, deeeeeeeep down I know I love these people to bits, I just didn't think I'd have a problem leaving them. Afterall, it's not like I'll be gone forever right? It's just a year right? I may not have many friends, but the few that I do, I hold super close to my heart. But right now, one year suddenly seems incredibly long.

Upcoming

It's currently D-25 before I leave this city to start a brand new phase in life - University. The thought of living independently is slightly daunting but I'll have to say the excitement far outweighs the fear. Also, it helps knowing that I'll be living in an incredibly student-friendly city :) Plus, the city centre is right across the street AND I'll be living near Chinatown?! YES.

The city does look bloody amazing as well; definitely seems like a place I wouldn't mind spending my next three years.


I think excited would be an understatement.

Rakuten Official Launch in Singapore

Over the past four days, I've been working at the Rakuten's official launch in Singapore as an event helper because I needed the money, and because it was really difficult to take up a properpart time job considering my travel plans over the next few months. I was also incredibly hesitant turning up on the first day because apparently everyone else there signed up for the job with their friends, while I was doing it alone. That might not have seemed like the smartest thing for me to do, considering my social skills (or lack thereof), but it definitely paid off because it forced me to open up and talk to new people and getting to know them.

      

I gave out (and ate) sooooo many Shiroi Koibito biscuits over the four days and I haven't even been to Japan yet!! I also managed to bring home two boxes of Shiroi Koibito and one box of Sakura de Langue Chat back home! There was SO MUCH LEFTOVER. Wish I could've taken a few more boxes to give to my friends :(

The sun has been out to kill over the past four days, and I'm almost positive I've gotten a shade darker. The sky was also a huge tease, often bringing storm clouds over our heads but never actually bringing rain. Standing 10 hours a day for four days was definitely not cool.

Working with fun, friendly, and helpful people always makes the work more tolerable and enjoyable :) Had a great time working with Muse Inc and I'd definitely return to help out in future events!

For now, I should really be packing for Japan. I'm flying in less than 24 hours!! Why am I so last minute!!

P/s: cherry blossoms here I come!

Food: Johor Eats

Headed to Johor Bahru for an afternoon with the parents the other day. Dad had a meeting there but I only tagged along because I've been craving for the Restoran You Kee's char siew and roasted pi pa duck for the longest time. The char siew meat is slightly fattier and much sweeter than most places but that's exactly what I LOVE about it. I don't usually eat roasted ducks much because the meat is always super dry and tough but You Kee's roasted pi pa duck has ridiculously crispy skin and tender meat! Ahhhhh, I'm salivating just thinking about it now. Also, their claypot tofu and herbal soups are really good so do give it a shot if you're ever there!

Another interesting find on this day trip was Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory. This is a family-owned bakery and has been in operation since 1919! All their goody goody yum yums are baked in traditional ovens fueled with firewood, which is something we definitely don't see much in Singapore anymore. I was really looking forward to trying the bun with coconut shreds and gula melaka inside but there it was sold out by the time we got there :( good thing is, at least they kept churning out the crazily soft and moist banana cakes that they're most known for! We bought two big boxes and my family finished it in two days! It was THAT good. (and also because you can't keep it for more than two days because they don't use preservatives hahaha)

Restoran You Kee XO Enterprise
83-83A, Jalan Dedap 7, Taman Johor Jaya 81100 Johor Bahru
Tel: 07-355 5037
Daily 10am - 10pm

Hiap Joo Bakery & Biscuit Factory
13 Jalan Tan Hiok Nee 8000 Johor Bahru
Daily 8am - 6pm (closed on Sundays)

Sweet Treats,

Met up with the girls yesterday to finally settle our Krabi accommodation once and for all. We've been dragging it on for so long due to all our conflicting schedules but I'm glad we finally got it done yesterday! And somehow in the midst of booking and planning, we went on a full-on pigging-out session. D'Good Cafe > Wimbly Lu Chocolates > Dessert Bowl > Chomp Chomp Food Centre. So much for getting our bodies bikini ready hah.

Crazy excited for the Krabi trip now even though I'm not much of a beach holiday person, but I'm super pumped for the water activities and feasting on seafood and spamming my instagram feed with endless photos of sunsets and silhouettes because that's just what people do when they're on holiday am I right.

You,

I can't remember the last time we talked, a proper conversation and not one of those hi-bye / you like my photos I like your photos kind of crap. Has it been five years? Or was it six? Has it really been that long? Because if it has, then why do I still remember the past like it was yesterday? Why do the memories feel so fresh? We were friends. And till this day I'm still not sure what messed us up so badly that we can't even look each other in the eye anymore. But hearing your voice yesterday made me think a lot about how we could be friends again, how we could continue from where we left off all those years ago.

And even after all these years, I don't think I've ever stopped missing you.

Quarter Life Crisis

I’m at that point in my life where I need to seriously consider where to go for uni and what to study in uni, or if I even want to go at all. It’s not that my parents can’t afford it or that I don’t have the grades to make it, but is it really necessary for me in the long term? Will my degree be put to waste if I apply for jobs that look not at education, but at experience? Statistics have shown that nearly half of college grads are working jobs that don’t require a degree, and 40% of graduates from top universities could not find jobs in their chosen field. I have looked up some job openings that I’m interested in as possible career routes and none mentioned anything about education (ok maybe a diploma at minimum, but that's exactly why I chose poly over JC!!!), but instead indicated a mandatory 1-2 years experience in the related field.

In my opinion, degrees are only relevant when applying for your first job, or if you have zero experience in the selected field. They’re the only reference for your first employer because they have nothing else to go on with regards to your capability. But beyond that, what purpose does it really serve? I definitely don't think that spending my parents money studying for something that I don't really care for is going to prepare me well for the working world. Instead, what's important to me is volunteering, community work, internships, apprenticeships that are well and truly going to impart me the 'soft skills' that you may or may be able to pick up in university.

Of course I understand that it’s completely different if you’re pursuing a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) or law/medicine or some other academic-heavy field. If that’s the case, I’d say go ahead! Those are hard skills that are not easily attainable and should be worth the $xxk per year that you pay for.

We are a practical society, and we are in a time where grades mean so little compared to real life experiences and skills. Who the hell cares if you have straight As if you lack the basic ability to be a good communicator, to be able to multi-task, to be a pleasant colleague, and a hardworking employee in general? I believe that my generation is one that understands only hard work and determination can bring us success in life, not some flimsy piece of paper tucked away in our cabinets. We may not all be success stories that people will read about, the ones that are able to strive their way to the top without a degree in their hand. But we can definitely be the people who make our own mistakes by choosing what we think is the best for ourselves, and not what society/our parents think is the best for us. Because if things don't work out for me, hey, I'll take full responsibility because it was a choice I made.

My grades do not define how well I’m going to do my job. I've always been a fairly mediocre student when it comes to studying and memorizing nonsense I’ll never need past that one exam i’m going to take. But being hands-on, liaising with people, planning and being task-oriented is where I really excel. And how do you judge those abilities of mine based on the few alphabets and numbers my report card?

Maybe I’m still young and ignorant and don’t know how the world works and the importance of a degree. But one thing I do know, is that I’ll be a lot unhappier stuck studying something I dislike, than slogging my guts out for something I love.

Food: Au Chocolat at Marina Bay Sands

Located at a corner of Marina Bay Sands just above the ice-skating ring, Au Chocolat is the brainchild of the folks behind Ku De Ta and Catalunya. It is divided into two sections - a retail confectionery store as well as a bistro. Au Chocolat is a heaven for all those with a sweet tooth, especially for chocolate. Because hey, who doesn't love chocolate right? :-)

It was quite a last minute decision for Bryan and I to join Sarah, Trisha and Edmund for dinner, but it was indeed a fantastic meal and we had a blast of a time.

(Photography by Sarah/Bryan, Edits by me)

Trisha's Meat Lover Burger ($25)

Truffle Fries ($15)

Previously, I haven't had very good experience with truffle fries hence my slight apprehension at ordering this to share. But nonetheless, I heard about all the raves about how amazing they were so I figured it'd be better to try when there are others around (so i wouldn't be pressured to finish so much of it). AND BOY WAS I GLAD THAT WE ORDERED THE FRIES. The Truffle Fries smelt heavenly but not overpowering, and it was deep-fried so well with just the tinge of crispiness on the outside, but nice and chunky on the inside. However, please be warned that this portion of fries is extremely huge and it took the five of us to barely finish it.

NONETHELESS I LOVE IT AND I'M GONNA COME BACK FOR IT BABEH.

My Shellfish Fiesta Chocolate Crepe ($22)

This dish definitely does not look as appetizing as it tastes. I love the way the succulent prawns, the juicy clams and the abundance of crab meat combined with the delicious sauce to give it a huge burst of flavour that exploded in my mouth. I would say that the price for this was super worth it considering the amount of seafood you get on one crepe. However, I was a tad bit disappointed with the crepe because I failed to taste any distinct chocolate flavour to it, and could have easily passed off as a regular crepe.

Sarah's Ultimate Benedict ($22)

Edmund's Roast Chicken ($25)

Bryan's Duck Confit ($27)

Caramel Apple Skillet ($17)

The Caramel Apple Skillet was absolutely amazing with the caramelised apples coupled with the vanilla ice-cream and a sprinkle of pecans, sitting on a bed of fluffy cinnamon-y pancakes. The combination of the flavours left us wanting it so much more, and this was quickly devoured by us in a matter of minutes! I would definitely go back to Au Chocolat again just for this!

Au Chocolat
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
#01-03
2 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018956
www.auchocolat.com

Opening Hours
Daily: 10am - 11pm (last order at 10.30pm)

The night's #ootd!

Had a blast with this lot! Thanks for the good time :-)

Candid shot by Bryan

Slightly apprehensive about the upcoming week, because after this short one-week holiday, I'll be starting my internship soon. And the thought of that frightens me to my bones because I don't know if I'll be able to get along with people, and if I'll be able to adjust to the environment and the 9-6 lifestyle that I'll be living for the next six months.

But I am hoping for the best.

x

Food: Tanjong Pagar Cafes

Okay so I'm kinda being forced by Sarah to churn this post out asap because this little cafe-hopping adventure of ours actually happened approximately two months ago oops. I'm sorry, I'm terrible at sitting my ass down to complete a proper blog post. Anyway, it's been a while since I last picked up my camera, especially since I've got an iPhone 5 now lol. Hence I'm kinda rusty and pictures may not be as pretty :-)

1. Selfish Gene Cafe

The first stop was Selfish Gene Cafe which has been around for quite some time, but I just never had the time to make my way there. I've heard about this cafe from a few of my friends, and they have always seemed to receive positive reviews.

I was looking forward to the highly raved about Breakfast Plate consisting of the usual works - scrambled eggs, english pork sausage, honey baked ham, sauteed mushrooms, toasted brioche etc. However, I was disappointed when I heard that they were sold out for the day; perhaps the lunch crowd had beaten me to it. Hence leaving me no choice but to give the other items on the menu a shot.

Smoked Salmon Sandwich

The Smoked Salmon Sandwich was simple and delicious - something I'd definitely return for. With fatty smoked salmon slices, cream cheese, gherkin and cucumber nestled between two slices of ciabatta bread, it was unpretentious and went well together as a quick lunch fix.

Beef Sandwich

The Beef Sandwich was fancier in taste with the use of dijon mustard that tasted a little too much like wasabi to me (not a fan of wasabi lol). But apart from that, everything else tasted pretty much okay, with the exception of the sundried tomato bread which was heavenly.

Selfish Gene Cafe
40 Craig Road
Singapore 089678
www.selfishgenecafe.com

Opening Hours
Mon, Wed - Sunday: 10am to 6pm
Tues: Closed

2. Group Therapy

After a satisfying lunch, we headed to the next cafe on our list - Group Therapy. Located on the 2nd storey of a reconstructed shophouse along Duxton Road, it is extremely easy to miss. So remember to keep an eye out if you're looking for this cafe ;-)

This beautifully messy counter greets you the moment you walked through the doors, and I feel that the cafe as a whole had quite a cozy feel to it, and I'd definitely bring my friends here next time just to chill out and hang out :-)

Caramel Granny Smith Apple Pie

THIS APPLE PIE WAS AMAZING. I loooooove it. Topped with gooey caramel and granola bits, every bite of this apple pie was orgasmic that left me wanting more. However, Sarah and I both agreed that this would taste better if served warm, as compared to it being served chilled now. Nonetheless, this is one pie that would make it worth coming back for.

Group Therapy
49 Duxton Road
#02-01
Singapore 089513
www.gtcoffee.com

Opening Hours
Tues - Thurs: 11am to 6pm
Fri - Sat: 11am to 11pm
Sun & PH: 9am to 6pm
Mon: Closed

3. Restore Living Cafe

Our third stop, Restore Cafe, was a little bit of a challenge to locate. At first glance, the place looks like a vintage shop selling various furniture, cutlery and secondhand goods. However upon a closer look, we discovered the 'cafe' that was hidden within. What seems like a family owned business, this place is definitely unique and worth a visit to.

Lemon Bundt Cake

By this time, Sarah and I were almost completely stuffed and could barely eat anything else. However, the Lemon Bundt Cake was pretty delightful to our taste buds. With a perfect sponge cake texture with a tinge of lemony zest to it coupled with the sugary sweet glaze on top, it was a perfect combination and definitely left us wanting for more.

Restore Living Cafe
124 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088533
www.restoreliving.com

Opening Hours
Tue - Fri: 11am to 7pm
Sat & Sun: 11am to 6pm
Mon: Closed


4. SPRMRKT

Our last stop at SPRMRKT was probably my favourite of the day. Located slightly on the outskirts of the CBD area, this wonderfully cozy cafe caught our eye easily with its homely decor style. The unique thing about this cafe is that they sell all the ingredients that are used to prepare the items on their menu! Hence the name 'supermarket'.

Pork & Winter Melon Soup

The Pork & Winter Melon Soup was absolutely delicious and I've been yearning for this bowl of soup ever since. The broth was immensely flavourful as if it had been stewing on the stove a whole day! (either that or a whole lot of MSG went in, but i'm not complaining because it's still yummy :-P) This piping hot bowl of soup with the radish, carrots and winter melon bits is definitely perfect for a rainy day.

Homemade Batter Onion Rings

The Homemade Batter Onion Rings aren't much to rave over. However, I do appreciate that you could still taste bits of the onion itself, rather than it usual mushy bits served in most places. This was literally chop onions > coat in batter > fry onions, thus you might wanna steer clear if you're not a fan of onions.

SPRMRKT
2 McCallum Street
Singapore 069043
www.sprmrkt.com.sg

Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 8am to 9pm
Saturdays: 9am to 4pm

Travel: Open Water Diver Course in Tioman

Somewhere between the project deadlines and upcoming presentations, I have somehow managed to squeeze a weekend out (12-14 July) and headed to Tioman Island in Malaysia with the school's diving club to take my PADI Open Water Divers' Course!

Things I remember from the trip:

1. Being severely seasick and seasick pills didn't help (coke on the other hand, did)

2. Having pineapples thrown at me and subsequently having schools of fishes swimming towards me. I freaked and screamed and struggled to swim away as fast as my fat limbs could carry me.

3. Ramly burgers.

4. Getting quite badly burnt because guess who didn't put any sunblock on.

5. Seeing a dolphin swimming alongside our boat.

6. Jumping off the boat with only our swimsuits on.

(photos in no particular order)

Was an extremely small group that went on this trip, but extremely fun nonetheless :-)

Me struggling as I get out of the water because the tank was sooooooo heavy :X the boat guy practically had to pull me up after each dive lol

Me being excited underwater lulz

I look terrible here T_T

This post is approximately a month late but I figured I had to get this out before the next diving trip in September (I'll be doing the advanced open water course), and whilst  I still have a little bit of free time even though exams are coming up pretty soon :X

x.

Food: Roll with Maki-san

Such pretty boxes!

Now that this is all the rage, I finally had time and opportunity to try it out! I absolutely loved the idea of a customizable sushi place with such healthy but yummy choices (and some really weird ones too). Also, the boxes are really pretty which is a huge plus point!

Maki-San
The Cathay #B1-17/18
2 Handy Road
Singapore 229223
rollwithmakisan.com

(Untitled)

Sometimes at night I suddenly become aware of all the things I'm missing out on right now, and all the people who I'm not close to anymore, and all the good times that will never happen again, and all the people who meant the world to me who have forgotten about me forever, and I get this awful feeling that's kind of a mix between loneliness and nostalgia.