Suprisingly, I get pretty well adjusted to the local time without much struggle. Get to sleep at 10pm local time yesterday and woke up feeling pretty fresh. Took my time for brekkie and time for me to charged up those hills :)

Checkout the local map and the distance between various points. Target to recee the run to Laguna Hill Mall, so that I won't waste too much time tomorrow navigating the streets when I'm about to start my shopping. Sun is out but not feeling any heat at all. How cool was that!!! Make some wrong hilly turns when I stopped to ask the passers by for direction. No problem at all since I do wanna to get some hill workout. U-turn and make my way towards the mall. Still far from my sight, I wonder whether I've gotten the wrong way again. But well, decided to run till the end of the junction, the lady assure me that I'll see it. True enough, it's just right beside the end junction. Ok. Now I know where it is, this is gonna be my weekend shopping place. Make my way back and recee another hill :)

Took a nap and meet up with my colleagues. People whom I've emailed, spoke over the phone in the past 2 years yet have not met before. Oh boy...I felt that I've downgraded to 'small' size..haha felt good actually. But that should not be the reason that I can eat more..NEVER NEVER!!!

After 16 hours......

Hello people!!! Greetings from LA!

Am glad that I managed to get some sleeps on that 16 hours gruesome flight. Though felt a little bit zombie at first but I think I'm adjusting pretty well. Several things that I'm always concern abt when travelling on business trip:

1) internet service. Do they have one in the hotel? Is it complimentary
2) food. I usually dun eat much in flight. Will feel bloated. But once I'm in the hotel, I'll need food.
3) the surroundings in the hotel. Any convenience store, shops..etc

Stepping in to Aliso Viejo, this small little town surrounded by hills. I am indeed glad that I have the 3 items above at my finger tip. Well, not absolutely fantastic but having free internet access from the room does makes a lot of difference. Just like now :) I'm blogging at ease.

Yea, I'm hungry. Don't wanna go for room service if possible. Less than 5 mins walk, quite a number of take-out, fast food restaurant. Just had my yumilicious teriyaki bento. Serving so big..Just took have.

Next, the surrounding is more of a residential area. Hmm..the hills around....it's just tempting!!! Legs getting itchi liao. I should be out conquering those hills tomorrow if everything goes well.

Ok guys....till then.....

Lonely Journey

48 hours more, I'll embark into a gruesome 16 hours journey in the air. To a place far far a way, seeing ppl of different skin color, different culture. Am I excited?? Hmmm...Not at all. Oh well...maybe the 2nd part of the trip I will be since that is meant to be a retreat.

So yeah...I'll be flying off to LA. Aliso Viejo to be exact is where my HQ are located. 45mins drive from LA airport. Managed to found out from my colleague that there is a small little pathetic gym at the hotel. I'll still have to stick to it if I am not given any choice throughout my stay. All past training will be down the drain if I'm totally out of action throughout that 8-10 days. Haiz.....hopefully I can squeeze in some time. Just make sure that big boss won't make it compulsory to go out drinking after work....I'll be fine....***finger crossed****

Zzzzzzzz

I just don't and have no intention to gel myself with late nights :) After 2 days of consecutive late night, I am sooooooo deprived of sleep now. First one slept at 3am, the second one slept at 12am yesterday. I know I know...12am seems to be early for some...but is definitely not early for me...

I want more sleep..............................................................

Hitting '3'

Being an early sleeper, I tried to catch 1-2 hours nap yesterday afternoon after church so that I won't be too deprive for sleep in the night run. I always have this pre-run anxiety. Can't sleep well, leg feel numb...etc. Anyway, say a little prayer and I'm set to go!

26 Apr 8pm is Sundown Familiarization Rum #4 covering one full loop of the actually loop totalling 42km. I'm not doing the full loop for sure. How can I lost my virgin mara to a fam run right? right? right? Set a target to myself to hit '3xkm'. Maximum 35km. Hitting '3' during MR ultra last dec is a total bizarre and painful. I'm gonna do it in a better form this time...**hopefully***

Run started and I was with Fennel maybe just for the 1st km. This women....say want to follow my pace..I guarantee her that she will not last more than 1km following me. True enough...after 5-10mins....she started her engine liao. I'm all on my own, hello-ing to some that I passed by and soon after...we're into the long, demoralizing Coastal road. The stretch was ok as I have quite a lot of runners front/back of me. But as I was ending the Coastal road stretch, I start to wonder if i should return back by the same way, joining the rest of the 35km runners. The group have scattered so much so that I only bump into 1-2 once I enter ECP. Hmm..I don't think I want to do that Coastal road alone in the dark. Kind of eerie and there's no light at one stretch. Come out with another plan. Run the 42km route, skipping big splash and Bedok reservoir. That should cut approx 6km.

Reached u-turn point at 17km. Gulp down Powergel endurance drink and top up my botttle, eat a banana, chit-chatting. I told the rest of the gang abt my alternative plan. Tagging along with Burnz, Fennel and Laser we went towards the 42km direction. My usual training route :) The 3 of them as usual, on gear 5 while I prefer to OTOT my speed according to my comfort level. First time I'm running alone at this hour. It's really not as bad as I thought. Safety is one of my concern at first but I'm suprised that at this hour, there's still ppl along the street. Passed 12am, parents are still on a bicycle with their kids. Maybe it's the banana that I had at 17km, got a sudden charged in energy!!! Wohooo!!! Ran thru that stretch of bedok connector towards BR and Tampines. Saw 2 MF runner wondering around and told me JC lost his way and go towards TP. Aiyoh.... I hope he knows the way to get out from TP. We went by the same route many times already. He should know. Hmm..not suprised. I'm sure there are a lot out there having the same problem. Gave them the direction and seeing them slowly disappear from my view.

Reached Tampines Ave 9, legs are a bit heavy by now. Strangely, while running I'm tired, while walking legs is in pain. Anyway, just switched between the two. Just 2-3 km more, I'll hit my '3' digit!! JUST DO IT!! Bump into Burnz at Tampines PCN. Hmm...where's the rest..No idea. Told Burnz that I will probably stop at Pasir Ris once I hit 30km and take a cab back to start point. Pride is not important at this time as I'm happy and contented at this moment. Hitting 30k and still feeling good, althought tired for sure. I would prefer to slowly progress my mileage instead of jumping 20-30% at one go.

Making my way to start point, that's 12:45am. Wondering if JC have reached. I alighted at Changi Village and do a slow jog again back to Changi beach. Still got a bit of fuel in me :) Spotted JC talking to Renoh. Took off my fuel belt, gulp down some drinks prepared and catching up with the gang.

In conclusion, the run is really not bad. Running alone for most journey is not a problem to me because I prefer to OTOT my speed. 2 breakthrough:

- running alone at such odd hours (but I will not run alone in Coastal Road and Loyang when it is dark!! NEVER)
- hitting '3' in good form

Got a lift from Meteor back home. Shower and zzz... And guess what...the calves and feet are so numb and sng at this time. applied yoko yoko but didn't help much. The muscles were contracting on an off throughout till 6am before I can really sleep in peace.

Few things that I learn from this run:
- Never under estimate what our body (God's creation) can do. It can take you much further than you thought.
- S'pore is indeed a safe country. You can never do such thing in Mxxxxxxx

Mission accomplished

I brought along my usual running gear with me yesterday as Tuesday = CBD run. For some reason, I have a sudden urge to do a longer distance tonight. I then decided that I will skip CBD and go for my OTOT not-short-but-not-too-long run. Reached home, changed, snack on a cereal bar and off I go. It was a pretty good start and relaxing pace. Met Mr.Brokie on the way.

Maybe it's the carbo that I took 'unintentionally' in the afternoon? I seems to feel good throughout. Trust me, I hardly felt this way, feeling that i can go on and on and on. Bump into Best at Tampines connector doing his ninja training. After 1.5 hours, I'm back to Pasir Ris. Still have the urge to continue (I must be on drugs??), I continue to clocked 2.15hr and I'm back to my starting point. Suprisingly..... I'm feeling so great physically & mentally ! No pain, no discomfort. Just slightly exhausted but is indeed a good session.

Got home and did kind of a self review of why am I feeling so good at tonight's run...Hmmm...let's see....

- it's night time. No sun, cooling
- the carbo at lunch & banana at tea break
- no arm pouch with me.
- no water bottle in hand (replace with fuel belt)

Yet to give the above combination another try before I can conclude that it is effective on me....:) Till then.......

While I have started to pen down all items that I need to bring over for my upcoming business trip, the list gets longer and longer and to make it worst, there are quite a few items that I need to stock up. That would also mean....... the need to spent more $$$.

I started to do some shopping two weeks ago in fact and for whatsoever reason, although I have the list in hand, I ended up with empty handed when I get home. What is happening to me?!!? Must be getting old. Get kinda of fussy nowadays in buying stuff :(

Facebook

What's that?? Haha....I do know what's that but I MUST admit that I'm seriously NOT a facebook person.

I was asked again yesterday, whether I have a FB account. Yes, I do. So when I was told that Auntie Lisa added me in, I logged in to my acct (almost forgotten my password), I noticed that I have 30++ pending request.

So much stuff to check out, so many buttons to click, I switched off immediately. I think it's going to be addicted if I continue. So people, once again, I'm not a fans of FB :)

I recently came across a movie-like showing a group of sedentary non-runners who went thru a 9 month training program to prepare them for the Boston marathon. This group of non active ppl are struggling with their health problem. Heavy smokers, heart disease, HIV positive, obesity. You name it, they have it. Some wanna do it to beat depression, some wanted to make a turning in their health.

They started off with 1 mile in their 1st training and it's already a struggle for them. As I watch thru the 5 series from day 1 of the training till the final countdown of the marathon, I see how each of them struggle yet are determine to continue with the training for as long as their body and their doctors allowed.

It's pretty inspiring I would say and it's not only to running. Why on earth do we want to slack and give tonnes and tonnes of reason not to exercise yet there are others out there who went thru physical and emotional struggle and pain in order to keep a healthy lifestyle.

9 month of training, some encounter difficulties in the midst. Can they cross the finishing line? I shall leave the rest of the stories for you to explore:
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/marathon/program.html

Now, do you feel guilty?

cats & dogs

As you would agree, it's was extremely hot in the past few days. Everyday is hot but yet you see a bit of dark clouds lingering ard from noon till evening but didn't rain. Even if it does, it's only for that mere 5-10mins.

Today, suddenly.....it's pouring like cats & dogs!!! It's like 50m visibility from my office window right now. Hmmm...Probably due to the accumulation of the "rain dun want to rain" kind of weather last few days. So today, at one go...all the way.....

While I was writing this, suddenly I wondered. Why do we often hear people saying "Raining like cats and dogs". What has cats and dogs gotta do with raining.

Click here and there in google. This is what I found:

Pouring cats & dogs?
Where did that come from? Who started that saying

We have all heard the expression "it's raining cats and dogs." There are several theories about this rainfall saying. It is possible that the word cat is derived from the Greek word 'catadupe' meaning 'waterfall.' Or it could be raining 'cata doxas,' which is Latin for 'contrary to experience,' or an unusual fall of rain.

In Northern mythology the cat is supposed to have great influence on the weather, and English sailors still say the cat has a gale of wind in her tail when she is unusually frisky. Witches that rode upon the storms were said to assume the form of cats; and the stormy northwest wind is called the cat's nose in the Harz mountains even at the present day. The dog is a signal of wind, like the wolf. Both animals were attendants of Odin, the storm-god. In old German pictures the wind is figured as the "head of a dog or wolf," from which blasts issue. The cat therefore symbolizes the down-pouring of rain, and the dog the strong gusts of wind that accompany a rainstorm; and a rain of "cats and dogs" is a heavy rain with wind

Something new to learn today.....

Due to some official matters that I need to sort out recently, I went to take 2 sets of passport photographs. One with blue background, another with white. I can’t recall if it’s now a standard that they will print out 12 pics instead of 4? So ya, I was given 12 pics each and a softcopy of it. That gives me a total of 24 pics in all. I reckon that I will prob need 3 from the blue background and 4 from the white. Although the 24 pics did cost quite a big sum, I’m more than happy to pay and just wanted to get those official stuff sorted out asap.

Blue background matters sorted out, now the white. I was told that it is not good enough. ICA rejected and ask me go take again!!! Sianz x 100. What am I going to do with all these pics. Waste money again!!!! And worst still…. I was considered as well dressed and look good for the previous one. Now, with no preparation at all that I’m requested to take again, I did look quite terrible!! Oh no!!! That pale looking face with 2 panda eyes and pale lips..wah…… where’s my lipstick??? It’s in the office!!! $&#*@^$#^$&*%@..Haiz... Bo pian… heck lah. Surely it didn’t turn out as good as the one that I have. Sad…sad…sad….

~~~~~~~~
On a side note, is this a good year to tie the knot?? I just received another verbal bombing this afternoon. That totaled up to 4 this year!! I’m broke!!!

chow-tar-ed

If there's one thing that I can't live without it today....it's gonna be the air-con. Staying in the office with air-condition from day till almost sundown Mon-Fri, little did I know how strong is the heat out there.

So why am I so stressed over things that's happening today.... It goes like this........................

Wed: Approach by Sundown organizer to help out in the familiarization run #3 today. Task given = sweeper. Have to come back the last, if not the last few at least. I didn't have much thought abt it and due to KL marathon, there wasn't much sgrunners ard and sensing some desparation from organizer, I agreed but voice out that I will not be doing the entire 34km, prob ard +-28.

Thurs & Fri: Started to get worried. It's gonna be my longest distance ever. Why do I agree to sweep in the first place. I MUST BE ON DRUGS!!! Grumbling to myself and JC almost everyday, I can't wait for it to over.

Sat: Received a PM from organizer. Wah..sound so official. LAGI stress! Couldn't sleep at night. Having a slight gastric.

Sun: Woke up pretty fresh, leave home to BR start point. Run flag off around 6:45am having Raven together with me as sweeper. It was a pretty big group. More than 50 I reckon.

The Run:
Not a suprised to me, majority of them are not familiar with the route, hence the existence of such familiarization run. It's my home ground and I have no problem at all giving the direction to all that are unclear. I covered the front group of the back pack while Raven is covering the rear of the back pack. Weather was fine and all is good.

With some break here and there waiting to ensure that Raven & the backgroup are within my sight and running on the right track, I reach CV approx after 2 hrs. Cfred was already patrolling around with his bike. The rest proceed to to Changi Beach while I waited for some of the last pack to U-Turn. BAD CHOICE!!!! Real bad choice.

It was quite a long break at CV for me & before I knew it, the sun is up in full force. IT IS HOT!! If I knew it, I would have make my way back sooner. Once Philip sms me that the last pack is at u-turn pt, I made my way back with 2 lady. Sensing that one of them is not too alright (back pain & hitting the wall), I call Philip to get them to pick her up at the bus stop and have cfred to keep her company until they come while I proceed back with one of the lady.

Once out Loyang toward Pasir Ris, I am seriously badly affected by the sun. It's burning hot on my skin. I can feel the heat on my arms and calves. I reckon that I've not been training under such weather, usually finishing my long run b4 10am, this is really zapping up my energy. Legs are still so fresh, yet......:( If not the visor that I have, I think I would have fainted...haha...

Towards Tampines Ave 9, I saw another lady going back and forth with the map. Hmm..I think she's lost. Gave her the direction while I'm still slowly struggling back. Reaching Tamp Ave 10, there's prob another 2km to go. That 2km will probably take forever to reach. I rested a while at the bus stop. 2 young man came along with one of them is also running on very low fuel. I told them only +-2km to go if not can choose to take a bus then run another 800m or so. They agreed to take the bus. I am also seriously...hmm...not on low fuel...but really hate the thoughts of going that 1+km plus of pavement with no shelter and with the heat burning on to my already semi-burnt skin. Ok. I decided to take bus with them. Alighted and shortly we are at BR, a few more hundreds meter to end point. And again, it takes forever. My goodness...the wind in BR is warm! My ice cold water has turn into hot water. I think if I were to carry an egg with me at the start, it would have been cook by now. Just nice to eat it at end point :) I was slightly in front of the 2 guy when one of them ran to me and say they are going off as his friend is not well. I acknowledge and make my own solo way to end pt. By the time I reach... most of them have dismissed with only 2 more ladies and raven behind.

Ripley and gang was there and all I need was that ice cold drink. Had 6 glasses of it before they disposed all off to the longkang..haha...actually..I think I can take a few more glasses....haha...
Anyway, the sweeper role itself was not as stressful as I thought. It's probably the starting part where ppl are not familiar. Mostly will know their way back and it's pretty an OTOT kind of run. Apart from the heat.... I think it was a pretty good and well organized run :)

DIE DIE !!!!

Why am I putting myself in such stressful position!!!! Is this the outcome of "whack first and think later??"

**What never kills you will make you stronger**** I shall be repeating this to myself for 5 hours if not more come Sunday....Wish me luck!

Thou shall not be influenced

***"stole" this from someone's blog****


What: The inaugural Sundown Marathon 2008
Where: Changi Village
Distance: 84km & 42km
Time: 8pm & 11:59pm

I have been having a little bit of peer pressure here and there lately to sign up for this event. The route itself, is no alien to me since it is my training ground. If I do it, it's gonna be my virgin mara..haha... Apart from having to run such a long distance, it's also going to be a challenge for me to stay awake since the 42km is starting at midnight. For those who know me well, u know what I mean. My eyelid will shut off, my nose will be block when my biological clock strike. Apart from that, I'll also have to listen to my knee and PF in the next few LSD session to see if it's giving me any serious problem....The list goes on and on..... :) So.... am I up to it? Will I just "whack and think abt it later"? Hmm...let's see.... I'll DEFINITELY be there. To either support, volunteer or run or pacing JC a portion of his 84km. So ya....you WILL see me at Sundown :)

Easter for the crazy one...

In view of a long weekend, there's at least 2 groups of 'crazy' one that I knew off who did something extraordinary to challenge themselves physically and mentally.

The first 'not-so-crazy' group that is not from the other 2 groups and I happen to join this gang, we met at 630am at ECP C4. Non-runners are probably classifying us as crazy still. Waking up at 5am on a public hol to go for a run!!! Siao!! There's only 5 of us this morn and it's my pleasure having 4 gentlemen running with me...hehe.... Probably due to the bike session they had before the run, the pace for today is just nice for me. Not too fast for me to catch up and we stayed together almost 80% throughout the entire run of ard 20k.

Now the other 2 groups. The first, meeting at ECP B1 yesterday night at 1030 to start their 45km run, themed as "Prata Run". The intention to stop at various prata shop for a quick bite and replenish their fuel, hence the theme of the run. Organized by SGrunners, this is the first time JC joined the gang. Finishing their run at 5am, I got an sms from him = "teruk"..haha... This man..... go tell ppl his nick is "ST"!!!! :( If ever the real ST can do that kind of endurance run.........hmmm...I wonder whether "ST" will appear in the Prata Run forum later......:P

The second group also did a 40+km run since yesterday night and link up with us at ECP, happen to be their end point. I looked at fennel. She is such a tough and strong lady. Her backpack is soooo heavy!!! And she has been running with that througout the last 7+ hours!

Salute these ppl for the endurance and willpower to complete man!!! JIA YOU JIA YOU!!!

It was such a warm weather today. The moment I step out at 6.30am, I can feel the heat around me. No wind at all. Proceed as per plan, I board the train to Kembangan and start my long journey towards ECP. The distance from Kembangan to ECP is approx 2.3km. 3 times throughout this 2.3k, my knee is giving me some signal...bad one..:( I dunno what is runners knee but the pain is a short sharp pain on the knee cap. Came suddenly but disappear pretty fast. Like the bones are rubbing one another?? Hmm...pain enough to stop me from running. Anyway, I kind of ignore it and move on....

It's hot, real hot and the knee pain come and goes... U-turn somewhere along the garden and back to Kembangan. Not really an enjoyable run today...

~~~~
On a separate note, saw a recipe on home-made portebello burger... I love mushrooms. Can't wait to try it. So I snapped a pack of this gigantic mushroom from NTUC with all necessary ingredient. Portebello mushrooms coated with cheese, teriyaki sauce, tomato and mini hamburger bun....... grill for 5 mins...Simply delicious!!!!!!!!!

Quote from LT "Whack first, think later".........

I did something today..... it shall be review when time is right :)

The need to satisfy the urge

In such a cooling weather, I head out for Vietnames food with a colleague. Hot clear soups..yummy! Once the body kind of warmed up I suddenly have the urge to go for Oreo Mcflurry. It has been ages since I had a Mcflurry. I think I only had it like once if not less. Contemplating whether we shd be having yummy yogurt or mac ice cream, I opt for Oreo :) Shiok and taste nice. It's a bit unusual cuz I'm never an ice cream fans. hmm...why do I suddenly have the urge...nevermind...

Back to office, this is what I found!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Calories in Oreo McFlurryDesserts/Shakes - (12 fl oz cup)Manufactured by McDonald's

%$#&$ How many hours must I clocked out there now!

This kind of weather, it's best to hibernate at home...

What am I doing here.......

Time to go?

My beloved partner who have been with me in the last couple of years...at least 3-4 years I reckon, is prompting me in the past few days that it's time for him to go. He need to rest after all this years. I gave him some chance, hoping that he will recover. Yet, it seems that his performance is deteriorating.

Hmmm....IT show ends tomorrow. I got to decide fast whether I wanna to replace him.......

Fruitful weekend

It was a good weekend so to say..both mentally and physically. Mentally good because I get to rest or rather...I managed to get a lot of sleeps. Not that I didn't have enough sleep, but I'm always deprived of sleeps..haha.. Also met up a bunch of old friends from KL happen to be in SG this week.

Physically is also feeling good, all thanks to the Too's for a good run on Sunday at MR. Especially Joanna and Hoho. If not because of her, 1st, I would have lost my way. 2nd, I would have stop and walk. Having her within my sight at the front really pushes me to work harder so that she don't need to wait too long for me as I requested her to give me the direction whenever there is any junction ahead. She pre-empt me that for a first timer to go up that slope (was it UPR slope or seletar) is a bit tough. Hoho also asked me to conserve some energy just before we head off to air-con road. I acknowledge and slowly steadily make my way while the 2 is about 50m in front of me. Nice view at the reservoir and golf course really.... Why on earth have I not been to this place after stayingin SG for > 10 years!!! Ok..so after exiting the trail, I'm warmly welcomed by the slopes. Still feeling ok. It's just the beginning. The fun is yet to come. To air-con road and turn left to the 'gate'. Wah....slopes and slopes... The guys were way in front and I can see them coming back to my direction while I'm steadily making my way up those slopes. First Terence, LT and Burnz...all giving me a "JIA YOU". Haha... Sometimes it's nice to run in groups :) Next hoho appears telling me that I'm reaching the top soon...Jia You again! Joanna waited for me at the gate. We rested a few seconds and make our way back. Ya...going thru the same slopes again... Sigh..can't remember how many slopes have I climbed. Doesn't matter. All I know is I'll have a stronger leg and a better stamina after this session...ahaha

Throughout the entire run, Joanna brought me to various routes that I've never been before. Well, that is their usual 20km route. Part of it is the same as MR ultra but the rest, it's new to me. Glad that I completed the entire journey with no injury. Though exhausted but it's ok. Not a problem at all. Feel super shiok and good inside. Spent close to 3 hours incl water/toilet break.

Came back around 10.15am spotted the guys showering in public with the pail..etc...haha..(with their tights on of course) and Fennel washing her hair. Joanna quickly grab her camera to snap. I suggested to post it in our "Photo of the month" forum..LOL!!!Time to feast at Whampoa!!!! Went home zzzzz again for 2 hours...:)

Re-visit Mt.Faber

It was a huge turnout yesterday evening at CBD run. Today's menu is up Mt.Faber from Tg.Pagar plus 2 loops at the top.

Listening to all the fun stuff that they gang had in Tokyo, it kinds of make ppl very gian now. Joanna even told me that she may not be taking part in SCM anymore. Will probably do more oversea run. Then....LT also say the same...Hmmh!!! Win already loh... All dun run in SCM, but must go and support me lah... But then, please keep me in the radar for any upcoming overseas run ok.

The run itself was good, oh well...I mean..I felt good. Not that I can run fast but I'm feeling physically good. Mind,body,leg,hand are all in sync. Probably just the minor hiccups (actually it's expected) while surging up Kg Bahru slope. That &%^$%#% steep slope...never easy to conquer. Weak mind maybe... I can't stand that lactic acid on my thigh...but when I started to walk up a little, my calves starts to scream... Walk or run also tiring..Argh...might as well run and tahan a bit lah. The more I tahan, the more it'll get better next time. I'm sure. More pump class will probably help.

I decided to do 1 loop instead. Ya, slack....relac....Completed the 1st loop and take a short walk break. Somehow, after the walk break, things starts to charge up. I felt even better than when we first started. Make my way back to TP, dunno if I'm slow or fast...but it's a shiok pace. Reach TP, gulp down 2 cups of 100-pluz and tq fennel for Mr.bean drink. Tummy felt bloated and full with all the h20.

Day after day, week after week. Little did I realized that it's been another week. I haven't been updating the blog for a week.

It was indeed a very busy week, at work, at home. At work, busy interviewing candidate, going thru new SOP with staff, working on training budget...etc.

CBD run on Tues is a little patethic but regardless we still go for a short one at Marina South.

On Wed mum & dad is supposed to touch down in S'pore and depart to Perth on the same day. Cutting the story short, their flight from KL-SG was delayed for close to 3 hours, they ended up missing the SG-Perth flight. All because of THIS BUDGET AIR!!!! Luckily they are not the only victims. A total of 9 of them, was given a night free at the hotel with 3 meals included. So I'm like rushing from office to airport, to hotel together with them. All 9 were scheduled to depart the next day. Some wanted to make sure that they get the seats, went as early as 4 hours before departure. Mum & Dad reach around 1pm. And guess what...all 9 could not check in until 3+pm until everyone is checked-in. That was because these 9 passengers are all on wait-list. You could have imagine the commotion at the airport. When I finally received the call from dad, they are already in the hotel AGAIN. But this time round, a higher-class hotel. Ya, you got it right. They couldn't board the plane and was schedule to fly the next day. How bad can it be. 2 days of delay. That being said, mum and dad doesn't seem to mind at all because of the nice hotel and 3 meals inclusive. The two day stay in hotel and the 6 meals, is about the same price as the ticket that we bought...To them, it's another holiday destination. Else, everytime when they are in S'pore, they will be staying at my place. So for 2 consecutive day, I'm like rushing from office to hotel to home...etc.

Come Friday.... I'm glad.... Finish work on time...get home and I dozed off at 8.30pm till next day 7.30am!!! hahaha..... Such a pig.... Sat night was steamboard at Dan's place. Can't rmbr when was the last time I had steamboat. With only slightly more than 10 of us, I guess the crowd is just nice. Not too big, just nice to be able to chit-chat with everyone.

Sun morning, the sleepy one woke up late again, didn't managed to pump in my LSD. But come 5pm, I put on my gear and off I went to PR park. Slightly more than 1hour, it started to drizzle and I sense that it's going to pour anytime. Did like a 2km tempo back home as the rain starts to get heavier.... Overall was good...but not as intense and long as I want it to be....Anyway, doesn't matter....Now....getting ready for another busy week....Sianz x 100

A little messed up but it's ok

My intention is to do a 2.5-3hrs run on Sunday, regardless of distance. Probably an effect of Saturday's makan session (excuse again!), I woke up late, at 7am. Well, I was awake a 6am but it's just too tempting to lie on bed and snooze in. Wash up and have a quick brekkie, board the train to Kembangan. It all happen as per plan without any delay (besides waking up late). Oh well, I reckon that today's run will be shorten, given that I start late and I need to be home at certain hours for the next 'event'.

Do my usual route from Kembangan - Siglap Park connector - ECP. Saw some familiar faces as expected. As I was running towards Bedok Jetty, I saw ppl with bib number running towards my direction. There's race today?? Was my first reaction. Trying to get a glimpse of what's written on the bib. It's NUS-Bi!!! Oh ya... the SGrunners gang must be there. I got a little bit excited as I've not taken part nor witness a bi event before. I'm sure I can spot some of the gang in there. I continue to run towards the where the crowd is, and before I knew it, I'm right in front of the transition area!! haha.... I didn't realized it's restricted. Nobody stop me leh.... Prata pointed Sotong and Roonz to me and I went in. When Roonz ask me how did I get myself into the transition, I'm like, just walk in from there loh...hahaha Nice seeing Jodan, Aerosolcan too. Stop for 10-15mins in that area to kepo before I continue with my mini LSD. On the way back, was running a little bit out of time, so didn't stop to cheer for the guys on their running leg.

Considered this as DNF LSD, firstly because I started late, secondly I was busy kepo-ing at the bi, thus running out of time. Excuses, excuses and more excuses :)

CNY Review

For some reason, I'm not as excited as I am during my younger days when CNY approach. Oh no!!!! Is this what we call MID LIFE CRISIS??!??!?!

CNY is all about firecrackers, lantern, angpow, new dresses...during my younger days. Now that I and all other siblings have grown up, besides angpow, all I get is "When is your turn to give ang pow??? -_- That's the problem when you are the only one left and qualified to receive ang pow among the other siblings. LEAVE ME ALONE!!! When time comes, it will come. The red bomb will come to you even if you don't ask....

I will always try to siam whenever I 'smell' that such questions is going to pop up anytime soon when I see my relative. That's probably one of the reason why I don't like visiting during CNY. But then, I only see them like once a year and it's only for 2-3 hours the most. Argh..... just leave with it. Even if you are married, the next CNY they will probably ask "When are you going to have kids". When you have kids, they ask when are you going to have a 2nd one. And it goes on and on and on..........

CBD Valentine Day's Run

It's my 2nd CBD Valentine's day run eversince joining the crazy gang a year ago. Last year, not long after running with the group, Valentine's day run was on the menu. I received some gift from the guys. And my reaction was like...."wah...I'm impressed with this groups. Got pressies somemore". Funny how a bunch of "I do not know you" people, come together and run, eventually become buddies, good friends......and some even become couple, life partner..:)

This year, myself and Roonz are being arrowed to get something for the guys. Hey Roonz.... we finally can blog over our adventure at Artwork...haha. Both of us brainstorm a while over msn of what should we be getting. After a day or two if I remember correctly, Roonz came out with the idea of a medal. I didn't give a second thought at all and agree immediately.

We then started our adventure at ArtWork. I am totally clueless what is ArtWork, where is it, what do they sell. Once I'm there, I'm like wah-ing here and there. Sooooooo suah gu!! Roonz started to show me all the cool stuff they have. Cutting the story short, we bought some of the materials needed for the medal. Few days later, I showed Roonz a sample design. How the design came about..... only me and Roonz know...hehe.... I kind of enjoyed the process of finalizing the product. Seeing the end product........ I simply love it!! Not forgetting the gals, LT & Tiwazz also prepared something for us. A handmade V Day card.

Ok, so much about the gift. On the run itself, something is just not right for me. Throughout the run, I was feeling pretty alright although there's sng-ness on my quads. The after effect of Monday's pump class. The strange thing is..... after 20mins into it, I'm still not perspiring as much I would have expect. In fact, I felt that I'm puting in some efforts in the run. Half an hour and I'm still dry. Tried to speed to see if I can get those sweat out but in vain. I even felt a little but giddy for a few seconds at the traffic light. Hmmm......am I dehydrated? is it the weather or it's just me.... Haiz......nevermind lah.... Sometimes it's just not always about run and run and run. I usually enjoyed the company and the laughter after the run...:)

Thanks all for the company & games and gifts!! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!!!

Mix Emotion

There's a bit of mix emotion in the office today, well...in particular me..... I don't feel good at all. At times things are just so out of control and you just have to leave with it.

It make things even harder when you can't reveal anything to anyone because the time is not right yet. And it's even harder when you need to pretend as if you doesn't know anything.

The time is to come and it's going to be over real soon....haiz....can't wait for it to over. My heart is getting 'heavier' minute after minutes.....

Recee #1

This is my 1st time doing a solo LSD on a Sunday morning. I have always wanted to try out this route but always dropped off half way thru.

Kembangan -> Changi Beach
On a cozy Sunday morning, I took the 7am train to Kembangan and started off my solo journey. Thru Siglap park connector right till the tennis court at ECP, approx 2.5km. I didn’t bother to look at all the distance marking but have done a mapping before that. The whole journey is approximately 20.2km. A beautiful Sunday morning indeed. Cloudy and windy. Not many runners as I would have expect. There are more cyclist instead. As I run along, I passes by all the landmark that everyone mentioned about in forum and all along I have no clue where is it. The Sailing club, the golf course, safra resort….etc. Finally, I know where are all these places

Having the MP3 really makes the task easier, at least it draws my attention away. Saw some familiar faces, safra TM runners. The journey was pretty satisfying. There was no pressure and it was an LSD, so the pace is pretty comfortable for me. Finally come to the end of ECP, I saw some runners going thru a small lane. Followed them closely and saw the sign board “Changi Beach Park”. Ok. I’m at the right path. Just go along the way. Wah…… It was soooo ulu like the Chinese saying “Bird also dun lay eggs here”. Ya… the surrounding wasn’t well developed and it was pretty desserted. For a second, I’m wondering if it’s safe for a lady to do a solo run here. Hmm….definitely not when it is dark. That stretch was about 1.5km? Not long after, I finally came to the main road….. the 7.7km demoralizing coastal road. Haha…..it’s not as demoralizing as I thought. The good weather probably plays a part. The sky started to turn a little dark and it’s getting more and more windy. 400m more to go before I reach Changi Beach. And it started to pour!!!!!!!!!! I quickly ran to the near by shelter which is just big enough to fit me in. Looking at raindrops listening to MP3....felt kind of peaceful actually...haha....20mins past, the rain stops...I continued my journey but it was down to a strolling pace.... It was still windy and chilly. Oh well..... regardless, I'm glad to have completed this solo journey...

Strolling along BQ/CQ

Yesterday was a self-explore OTOT run along S’pore river. It has been a zero mileage in the pass 1 week. So I didn’t expect much out of myself, but am all charge up and go.

The CNY festive deco is up along Esplanade bridge and I can sense that it’s going to be pretty happening real soon. Must go there to kepo a bit next week :)

Cruising slowly along S’pore river as usual but this time round, it’s probably still bright, the sun hasn’t set yet and in addition that I’m on my own, I’m not on a fast or even tempo pace. I happen to look literally almost everything in my surrounding. From people, to buildings, to statues…etc. All along when running with CBD gang, firstly it’s already dark, secondly, I’m all focusing on keeping my pace well so that I’m not too far away from the front pack. And it’s all about just me and the path in front of me. Little did I know, that there are soooo many nice, Porsche apartment along BQ/CQ. I was under the impression that all BQ/CQ have, are just restaurants, pubs. Apartment have never come across my mind. Keeping a slow pace all the way till Zouk, I decided to u-turn. On the way back, I came across another nice apartment and it just caught my attention from far. Looking at it from a distance, it’s as if I’ve come to a small little town in a western country. I decided to detour into that small little town to take a peek what’s inside. There’re Porsche restaurant with all the ang mohs around and there are high class shops, music schools, clinics…etc It’s like a mini hdb estate but in a Porsche style. Trying to get my sense of direction right. I stroll along the surrounding. It’s along Muhammad Sultan road and the other side of it is facing the river. I looked up. Wah!!! The balcony…..so huge!! More than half the size of a bedroom! That is ROBERTSON WALK. Now then I know. Always heard about Robertson xxx. So this is where Robertson xxx is….. So suah gu!

Slowly make my way back to Suntec PF. Spotted Meteor and JamesSoh the min I step in. The two were glueing their eyes on the TV while working out. Stand right next to both to kepo for a while before I head off for shower.....

Random Thoughts

Since last Tuesday CBD 2nd year anniversary run, I have been spending many many hours on bed. Yes, I'm sick!! I thought by doing a short run to sweat it out, I would feel better after that. But I am so so so wrong! It got worst. And in addition to that, I pig out on sinful food after the run, eat almost everything that sick people should not be eating. I started to suffer while on my way home.

The next day is on MC, lying on the bed almost the entire day. Medication is damn drowsy...Wake up - eat bf - eat medicine -sleep - wake up- eat lunch - eat medicine - sleep. That goes on until the next morning where I get off bed, go to work, knock off, eat medicine and sleep at 9pm until......Friday. That flu and cough lasts thru the weekend. Was so tempted to go Sundown familiarization run on Sunday but was advice by Jodan to drop that idea. Better guai guai stay at home and make sure I"m fully recovered first. So..... it has been zero mileage for the past 1 week. Finally today, still a bit of block nose, I finally felt 'normal'. YAY!!

First impression

For those who is out there looking for a better, brighter future career path, needless to say........let me tell you that giving a good first impression is VERY important.

I was scanning thru a stack of resume this morning and as expected, I am seeing all sorts of different resume. Some are ok, some are so-so, so are...cannot make it.

And for your own sake, if you were to put in your photos in there, pleeaaassseeeeee please make sure you look good and professional in it. Don't anyhow put ok. If you don't have a good one, then either go take one or don't put at all. Just when I was shortlisting the candidate, there are more than 1, at least a few that looks ah beng to me!! They looks like loanshark!!! Goodness!!! What's in their mind when they put such photo in it. I immediately lost interest in looking at the content of the resume.

Next, what's up with this people of not knowing how to properly align their statement. In one complete sentence, there is more than 1 font, different font size...:( Aiyoh.... why so un-pro. I thought this are basic skills? It makes it difficult to read u know.... And it looks so untidy..

So people out there, please put some effort in creating a good resume. It does help hor..... Uhm....I hope I'm not asking too much.... It's all for your own good :)

air borne germs

There must be some viruses flying around in the air this couple of days.

A few whom I know off, is falling sick, one after another. That includes me.

It started yesterday when I suddenly felt giddy and start coughing. Decided to skip gym and went home. This morning was ok until after lunch, the headache is back, the running nose and the muscle ache (WITHOUT ANY EXERCISE)...haiz......

Tonight I will take it slow and easy..... Time to slack...maybe even DNS..haha

For some reason, I choose to walk down the stairs this morning on the way to work.

On my way down, this cute little adorable cat was lying nicely on the staircase. As soon as he/she saw me, it start ‘meowing’ as if he/she knew me.

I stopped for a while to take a look but didn’t give much thought and proceed down the stair case. To my surprise, he/she followed me!! I stopped again and it started to rub its head against my leg, from one leg to another. I tried to move away taking 1-2 steps further. He/she follows again and continue rubbing the head on my leg. Aiyoh…. My heart soften, almost melted :) Pets are lovely at times...when it doesn't pee all over the place and when they dun destroy any of your assets by scratching your furniture or biting up your shoe. And the way he/she look at me, as if he/she wanted to talk to me. Haiz….too bad…I would love to but I simply can’t bring it home.

Paging paging for “Tiga” owner…… Tiga need a companion or not?? Hehehehe…..

Bloody......

What a day.......

I took a brand new blade at my office stationery compartment, wanted to cut off some super hard casing.

I ended up cutting thru my skirt and my thigh!!! It bleeds.....and bleeds...... and bleeds.....Ouch!!!!

~~~My kar very sng, very sng very sng.....Dunno how to go climb mountain tonight~~~~

Crazy community

Another bunch of crazy gang, the TYA.

No, we're not toasting anyone. Just looking at one particular object hanging on the wall -_-

Double Celebration Run

Yesterday at CBD was the most happening run I’ve ever had. It was given a theme called the “Double Celebration Run”. What celebration?

Two couples at CBD are going to venture into the “not available” category in Jan and here we are, a bunch of runners with crazy ideas come together as a tradition in Sgrunners to hold a wedding run.

Orange Tee aka WC join in the fun today after months of absence. 15min b4 run starts at 7pm, some volunteers are already here, helping the bride and groom to dress up like this…………

IMD & Yee Hua, Shut & wifey not ard

We insisted that some of the brothers should also be wearing the same hats. The best is yet to come. Not only wearing the hat, the tie, and the “Just Married” tag, both IMD & Shut (the 2 groom) have a few empty cans tied in a long string around their waste. That is tekaning and good enough to attract a lot of attention from the public. As soon as they run, pulling those cans on their back….haha…. so fun…you know what’s going to happen...

Tigger gathered everyone to brief the route that we are running, from tanjong pagar white house to Esplanade and back. I thought that was the usual route that we always run but man…..I’m wrong!!!!!!!!
There was a lot of detour between TP and Esplanade. Instead of the S’pore Symphony orchestra side, we ran along where DBS building is. It was 7+, a lot of Shenton Way workers around. People must be wondering what’s up with this bunch of runners and where are those noises coming from. We detour to Lau Pa Sat as I started to observe how the curious drivers and pedestrian and tourists reacted.

I chatted with Yankee, Chengnai and WC along the way and we are wondering if we'll make it in the news tomorrow or anyone caught us on camera and upload to Stomp..hahaha

My jaw almost dropped when the I saw the front runners (happen to be one of the planner for the day) entering Raffles Place MRT!!!!!!!! Wah…The orrganizer very evil leh…….but I like. As long as I'm not the victim. Hahaha….You could have imagine that Raffles MRT underground is so crowded at that time. Having those cans drag up and down the staircase and echos from it…hahaha…… we got lots of attention from the public. That’s not the end of it. We ‘camp’ right in the middle of the underground and have IMD & Shut to recite a love poem to their wifey LOUD LOUD!!

Running along Shenton Way, right in front of office building

So crowded in Raffles underpass, cannot run

Curious passers by at Raffles Link while IMD is reciting his love poem

Took another group pics again before we start another more tekaning session at Esplanade. It took quite a while for IMD to start off his incomplete "Yue Liang tai piao wo de xin", followed by Shut.

After Esplanade, it's back to TP again for more laughter and chit-chatting. Food is good, company is great. And with lots of laughter and bonding, we end with a crazy post again before we start to feast.

Hunting down the city

I have been looking for you high and low throughout the entire city. Suntec, Marina, Raffles City, Raffles Place, Bugis but you are no where to be found……..

THIS….is none other than KONNYAKU JELLY

I was given the honor by LT together with Joanna and Bala to buy some jellies to CBD Wedding Run. After several discussion with LT, we decided that jellies will be a “good to have” snacks after a run. So there I go, started to hunt for konnyaku jelly all over the place. At shops around the area, online, phone call..etc. Ordering would need at least 1 week in advance. So after work, I started my “hunting for konnyaku jelly” trip to Bugis, Raffles Link…etc. Saw muffin at Raffles and thought that will be my backup plan if konnyaku jelly is still no where to be found. After the hunting trip, I gave up and decided to go for the muffin and let the other two kaki know abt the arrangement unless they know the whereabouts of konnyaku.

Come Tuesday morning, it was all abt exchanging sms with Bala of where to get, who to get...etc...etc... and I got hold of LT asap and told him abt the muffins. Lol and behold!!! He said Ronnie is buying muffins!!! Oh no….. what should I do now? What else can we get for the night? Ok, sms and email again. The next idea…..Fruits! Ok, easy to eat fruits. To cut the story short, I met Joanna at Carrefour after work and start to shop for the fruits before making our way down to CBD meeting point…….

So, the moral of the story is….. I should learn how to make some yummilicious desserts. Konnyaku jelly will be the first in the list. Fellow CBD and TYA gang will be my guinea pig…heehehee..

Coming up………exciting, fun and attention catching CBD run………..TO BE CONTINUE…..

1st Northen Run

It was my 1st Northen run with the "Northeners" and also consider as my 1st official run in 2008.

Time: 7am

Venue: Yishun Mrt

Distance: Approx 15km

Alarm rang at 5:15am, feeling pretty fresh and no need to drag myself up from bed since I slept realllllll early yesterday.hehehe... Took the first bus at 6:25am, reaching Yishun at 6:53am. The gang are all punctual. Needless to say, the run is termed "Northern Run", meant for runners that stays in the North to get together for a run. And your truly me, who is staying in the extreme East, decided to join the gang this morning. What's in my mind man???!?!But let me tell you that having Bus 39 really brightens up my day...hhaahaha....There is no more hassle for me to travel from East to North. Wohoo!!!

With the 6 of us (James, Eliza, Jodan, Eugene & Supcon), we start with James & Supcon leading in front. I'm totally an alien to the North, so I'll just follow along wherever they go.

It was indeed a interesting route (at least to me) as I have not been to this part of S'pore before. All I know was right after passing Chong Pang, we were down to a very long stretch along Sembawang Road then hit Woodland Road or something. And we are in no where. All I see is greenary surrounding me. James say this area is very "oxygenated". From Woodland Rd, ran for 2-3km towards SLE direction and we cut thru a very intersting road again that is only meant for pedestrian. James called it "Runway road". That joins up to "Champion Way" (hmmm...I kind of like the name of it and was looking for the road sign for this) which eventually bring me to the front of the Singapore Sports School. Maybe it's some phycological thingie or whatever, passing by the SSS kind of kick in some adrenalin high in me and I kind of feeling real good in that stretch. haha... But we kind of slowed down a little to take a look at the surrounding of the SSS, especially me being so suaku. Took a quick pics using my lousy phone camera.

At the end of Champion way, we are out to Woodland Ave xx. Then I realized, this is where Albert is staying. His condo is just right in front. Next we hit Republic JC. There onwards, I'm just following the group as we are now back to HDB areas and I have no idea where am I. It was getting a little bit hot at this hour and back to Sembawang Road again how come it feels longer than we first started?? The mind is playing tricks again. Once we hit the junction, it was a cool down 300m walk towards Chong Pang and started our long waited brekkie. YAY!!!

Totally enjoyed the run, wouldn't mind doing it again :) I should be back again for Northern run..:)

GoodBye 2007

It seems to be rather traditional to recall what we have done in the last 1 year and what we should or wanted to achive in 2008.

I was browing thru my 2007 resolution in SGrunner's blog as well as the one I posted on my blog.

1) Be able to make running as part of my lifestyle - Achived and to be maintain in the years to come
2) Have the guts to run a half mara - Achieved. Not 1 but 2. YAY!!
3) Be able reduce some body fat - Hmm... not 100% achieved but more to come

Needless to say, 2007 is indeed a good year and full of God's blessings (in no particular order).

1) I am blessed to have a good boss and colleague to work with. There is no conflict of working together with the team at all throughout the entire year.
2) I am blessed to get to know a bunch of good kakis from SGrunners. These bunch of ppl helps me to push beyond limit and is part of my source of encouragement to do 2 HM in 2007
3) I am blessed that I am still healthy and improved my fitness level
4) I am blessed to have a loving family
5) I am blessed to have a good bunch of friends in church who treated each other like their own families

So any resolution in 2008? Sure do...but mostly are meant to be broken?? hehee

- Improve my fitness to the next level. That includes running longer distance, improve and strengthen core muscles, swim & cycle more regularly
- Take a 2-3 weeks vacation. The last one was way back in 2004. Die die must aim for this.
- Continue to have a good working relation with the team
- Improve my management & communication skills at work
- Able to continue to dedicate my whatever talent to God & learn to be thankful in all circumstances
- Spent more time with friends and family, instead of going idle at home most of the time
- Treat others as how I would like to be treated

God never promise that life will be good but from all trials and tribulations that we encounter in our everyday life, we will come out shining like gold and become a stronger person.

Cheers to all my blog reader...

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HAVE A GOOD YEAR AHEAD!!!!

Longest ever......

MR Ultramarathon 2007

It was never in my intention at all to complete yesterday's MR ultra of 5 x 10.8km. Min 5 laps between 7am - 7pm. Some target to go beyond 5. But somehow, just a few days before the actual day, I felt a sudden urge and are motivated to complete the 5 loops. I was feeling good mentally and decided to give it a try, subject to body condition with lots of lots and reasoning :

1) I am not familiar with the terrain in MR
2) I have not trained under such terrain before
3) I've never run longer than 23km before

Nevertheless, 2 loops is the min, best to go for 3 loops, excellent if I can push for 5 loops. I will decide to go for the next loop at the end of each loops. No pressure at all.

Reached MR at 6:40am yesterday and get to see all the excitement that everyone has. Here's what happen throughout the run.

1st lap: Ran with Tiwazz. The day before, over MSN, we have agreed to run together as his pace is very comfortable to me. It was a good one but there's some downhill slope that I couldn't land properly. Hit my toe hard on several times. But it's ok. Next, just before reaching golf course, I trip on a huge rock/stone whatever you call it. So hard that I almost push the gal in front of me. Luckily managed to balance in time without falling BUT dunno how I ended a pull on my butt and upper thigh muscle. It's an almost immediate cramp on my butt and upper thigh. Jialat... I walk for a while and ask Tiwazz to move ahead. I tried jog slowly, luckily the pain faded off after 5 mins and managed to catch up with Tiwazz again. Have not run this 10.8km route before and my goodness..so many slopes!! Being just the 1st lap, everything went well. Reached the start point in 1.30hr

2nd lap: Started off with Tiwazz again. It was smooth sailing until we are about to exit Lornie Road. While trying to balance myself on the downslope on those rocky terrain, I sprained my ankle. Started to give me some slight discomfort, I have to run/walk all the way. Tiwazz is already way infront, like 200m infront of me. I thought the pain will fade away just like the 1st incident I have in the 1st loop. Reached the 2nd water point, took a powergel and slowly make my way to the end point. Rested a while, chatted with FD and had a choc bar. Feeling the pain on the ankle is getting more painful, I'm in doubt if I should go for the 3rd. Tiwazz keep jio-ing me. I hesitated a while but decided to give it a try. Can walk the entire loop I really can't run.

3rd lap: It was the most painful and torturing and longest 10km that I've ever done in my life. Just when I started the 3rd lap, I'm already feeling that the ankle is acting up in pain. It's not even into the trail yet. I asked Tiwazz to go ahead and I'll follow him from behind. Should I u-turn back? or should I continue? Maybe it'll get better later? The same thoughts is in me in the first 2km. I decided to take the risk. I continue to walk and try to run slowly. It lasted for a little while but the pain is getting serious as I doesn't seem to be able to bend my feet during landing. If not I'll have to run or walk on the inner side of the foot. I am trying all sorts of method to run/walk in order to speed up. Helps a little but doesn't last long. Then.... my planter faciitis act up!! On the same feet! So my right feet is basically out of function at this point. There's like 6km more to go and I'm walking like a snail. Even the tourist taking pics of monkeys are faster than me. I sat at the Ranger station, took off my shoe and do some massaging, seeing all runners passing by still in high spirit. Sigh..... so demoralized. I'll have to rely on my left leg to do all the climbing of slopes and draw more strength from there. But as expected loh...the left knee will also be screeming in exhausion..haha..Serve me right... Along the way, Jodan catch up with me. Chatted a while and he passed me his EZlink card. Told him I don't think I need it but just in case, I took it from him. It was really a mental torture and it's so tiring to walk a 10km. It's taking forever and ever and ever to reach. I tried a couple of time to run but serve me right again, that same spot on the ankle got a slight sprain again. So it's double attack. I made my slow slow way towards the 2nd water point and catch up with Jodan. Took a long break with him at the bus stop. I decided to slowwwwllyyy walk back with him to start point. Maybe just 20m after walking, I decided to u-turn back and take a bus. Just about 3 bus stop away. Totally not a good way to end the 3rd loop but I think this 3rd lap is already a total failure. So it doesn't really matter haha.. A bit demoralised already. Weak mind? Maybe. Why do I want to risk for more injury and may not able to run for the next month or so, worth it not?
Anyway, I alighted 1 bus stop earlier so there's still a bit of a walking to do before I reach the end point.

I guess each of us have different goals in mind. Some wanted to push hard enough to earn the MRUltramarathon finisher title no matter how much pain they are bearing. But to me, there's no hero here. I am very conservative. We know our body best. There will be peer pressure to push us along but they wouldn't know the agony you are having right now. Some commented that with 5-6 hours left to go, I can easily walk to complete the 5 loops. Yes I agree. But that will be 100% walking in SLOW speed and in pain. It has totally defeated the purpose to taking part in Ultra. Even without a sprained ankle, I don't think I will adapt a run 2 round, walk 3 round method. I hope to be able to run as much as my body can take.

So in a way, I'm not totally disapointed (hmm...maybe a little lah) that I did not complete the 5 loops. At least, I've achieved my 2 loops min, 3 loops will be best expectation :) A little pity that JC is not able to participate in this run, as I'm sure he will be one of those who will push to the maximum throughout the 12 hours. Anyway, safety comes first. Stayed through until 530pm and it was pretty enjoyable to catch up and chit chat with all sgrunners and witnessing all the runners finishing lap after lap. It is heart warming to see the them coming in to the finishing line, though exhausted and some are in pain. I'm happy to share their joy :)

Enough is enough

As expected, it was a week of feasting and feasting and more feasting. At a glance,

Friday 21st – Knock off sharp at 5pm, quickly went for a swim before heading to church for practice
Sat 22nd – 50th anniversary celebration in church. It was a full day program from morn till night. Haven’t been having such full day activities for ages. Felt super exhausted at the end of the day. Special lunch catered. Dinner at Sakae Sushi
Sun 23rd – Met with SGrunners kaki for laksa at Yishun. Lady boss have been craving for laksa ever since SCSM. But guess what…. Laksa stall is not open yet!!!!! Walk over to another coffee shop for the “not so good” laksa and dim sum. Head off to WC housewarming. Eat again!!
Mon 24th – Church 50th anniversary dinner. Eat again!!

Feasting is ok BUT the worst part is….input is more than output = Pui liao!! Did a couple of short run but definitely not able to get rid of all those calories consumed!! And I missed the 3-hill-run that I have been looking forward to, organized by “someone”. ***Double madness****

I NEED A DICIPLINARY TEACHER!!!

Christmas run

I have been having a stressful week or rather in the last 2 weeks and things may going to get worst before it becomes better. I was comtemplating whether to go for CBD with the theme of Christmas Run this week. Not because I am lazy to run. I seriously need that run but I'm not in a mood of socializing and chit chatting. All I'm thinking is work and work...and more work.

Nevertheless, it comes to a point where I've had enough. I need to take a break and get away from my computer screen. "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today.", I reminded myself.

So off I go and head off to CBD. Somehow, as soon as I change to running attire, do a quick wash up, the emotion changed. I felt at ease, I felt relax. Seeing the familiar faces, exchanging "hi" here and there, I'm back to old selves!!! No more stress and starts to socialize.

The menu is up to Mount Faber to visit the Chritmas tree (which is not lighted up unfortunately) and 1 loop of 1.3km, then back TP. Should be around 11-12km. I am pacing myself throughout at a relaxing pace, no speed up at all. Just don't bother abt speed at this time.

Am glad that I make it to the run and pull myself away from the stressful environment. Able to sleep well and get ready for a new day after a good workout :)

Just brighten the day

This is very similar to the one I took while I was in Alaska way back in 2004. Just when thing looks a little bit gloomy, once again I'm being reminded by the rainbow I'm seeing right now in front of my office desk, just how God has blessed me throughout ups and down, stress and happiness. For two weeks in a row, I'm seeing a beautiful full arch rainbow at the perfect time when I'm feeling tense up at work.

Eruption....

I felt like I'm going to explode anytime soon. Not because of anger. But there's too much stuff inside that I need to release and talk it out loud! But different topic has different target audience and different audience have different comfort level to me. So…… ignore me if you see me mumbling to myself.......

HY

HOT YOGA......

Hmm...I'm not a yoga person but I decided to give this a try yesterday. After 1.5 hrs of pumping on weight training & a light cardio, I head off to the HY studio. Not knowing what to expect as it is my first time trying, I went to the back of the studio and prepare my mat.

It wasn't as hot as I thought. Instructor came and the fun begin. Oh dear...I haven't been doing or rather have not done such extent of stretching in my entire life leh. Some of the movement is really not easy but instructor is kind enough to give us an easier option. Still....I find it difficult. Yeah...I admit. My muscles are all pretty tight. I can feel that, the doctor said the same too. Which is why I decided to give yoga a try.

The session ended in an hour. I'm EXHAUSTED!!! Chop Chop go shower. This morning, as expected, I'm bearing the pain in my butt, abs, thigh and arms :) Everything got to go slow motion a bit loh

I still prefer the adrenalin rush that I get from a good cardio workout as compare to low intensity workout. I might still want to give it another shot... Shall see :)

Back in action

After more than a week of slackness = 0 mileage since SCM, I'm back to CBD run today. Was deparately looking forward as legs are starting to get itchi, stomach felt a bit bloated.

It was dark clouds all over but suprisingly a huge turnout today. As soon as we started on the way along Maxwell, I felt weird. Hmm.... as if my two legs and hand are not in sync. Felt like I've forgotten how to run. Maybe I'm just not warm up yet I thought. It gets slighter better towards Esplanade and all the way to the top of Fort Canning. Still felt a bit weird, shoulder and back are aching but bearable. Trainer say do 1 loop at the top of FC, relac pace. Ok, I tag along the crowd. Half way thru, I can really feel that my engine is dying. Dunno why....hmmm...actually I know why lah. Anyway.... I got to change gear already, from moderately relax to super slow pace. Halfway thru on the way back, was stopped by a group of Indian tourist. "Where is the Merlion?" "Sorry?" I responded. "Where is the merlion?" "The merlion? It's just right across the traffic light there". Good I thought. Give me a few seconds to rest my leg before continuing my slow slow run back to TP again. By the time I reach....all are back there cooling down already.. Oh well..... not really a good run for me but good to sweat it all out.

It was a short relax run but I ended up feeling tired as if I've done an interval run. Took MRT home and while walking back from the station, this guy (can't be bothered to find out was it insurance, credit card...etc) rep trying to start a conversation with me. I wonder whether they are trained to do PR? He was just tagging along slightly behind me and I didn't have any eye contact with him at all. For all a sudden he started off asking "eh? you came back from basketball? or badminton?" Haiz..young man...I think my face is clearly stated that I'm tired and can't wait to reach home. Stop bothering me. Sorry to be blunt but I just give him a "NO" and off I go.

Dec = Holiday Season

Almost half a month gone for Dec. It is always known as a month of festive, feasting, holiday, shopping, pressies, bonus and Christmas

Sad to say, none of these applies to me. At least it is not NOW. It is still as busy as it is, so much so that I've decided to stay away from it for a while and update my blog. I dun understand why. Seems like those people out there are still doing server migration, rolling out new project at this time? Oh plz.... it's really not fun to do such stuff in Dec.

Xia Yue liao

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It's raining like no tomorrow since this afternoon.
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Shivering in the office. How I wish I could be lying on bed with a warm blanket around....nice...:)

SCM over...what now?

Woke up at 3am as per planned. It is indeed important to feel good about the race. There's some inner strength that give you the mental and physical strength to push thru the journey. Somehow, I didn't have the "feeling good" as what I have during AHM. And my lower pack is aching when I try to bend forward. Doesn't matter, just go and see how it work out.


Didn't see any familiar faces before the race. I proceed to the toilet as usual and deposit my bag. Off I went to the starting point.


1 - 6km - Was at a comfortable place. Reached 5km in 32mins. Still doing good

6-12km - Exited Marina South at about 10km and towards Esplanade bridge. There were a huge crowded cheering alongside the road which definitely spur up the energy in you. Hmmm..Runspiration DOES HELP :)

12-16km - Checkpoint at 15km at 1:45hr. Which means that I have 45 mins to complete the remaining 6km if I want to meet the 2.30hr. Hmm...normal days no problem. But at this stage, fatigue already set in, the sun is getting hotter. Argh...I'll try my best

16-21km - Leg did felt a bit heavy, muscle a bit tight but not to the extend that I need to stop yet. But I make an attempt to walk a few seconds at each water break. Just happen that I saw a guy with a tube of heatrub and nobody was there. I got some from him and apply on both thigh and calf. First time trying the heat rub. Dunno whether that will help. Nevermind lah. But after a while, did feel some sensation on both legs and give some turbo charge..hehe

The last return leg at Esplanade bridge again, it was hot, I was tired. I pull down my visor and concentrate on each steps forward. I usually don't look in front while running as that would demoralized me to see that I still have a long journey to go. Anyway, that's just me. haha

Entering into City Hall, we were merged with the 10km runners towards the finishing point. Can't really speed up much here as it was pretty jam up after the merging. Tried my best to find some empty spots and increase my speed a little toward finish line.


Time checked....I think it's no more than 2mins improvement from AHM...hahahah... Anyway, given the amount of effort I put in the training, I can't be expecting a good PB. Moreover, something is not right this time. I don't feel good, I don't feel the runner's high, I don't feel positive about the race. Anyway, I'm glad I did it and fulfilled one of my 2007 resolution :)

So what's next? 42.195? Hmmm... I need to build a solid foundation on 21km before deciding. Just like how I can do a 10km without much fatigue now. We shall see......

Oh... JC got his PB of 3:39:4x. Wanted to pace him at Esplanade but there wasn't enough time for me by the time I reach the finish line and make my way there. So better stay put at the finish line to wait for him. Spotted him like 50m away before finishing line. This man...so funny...cry again when he got his PB. Aiyoh!!

Post race group photos with sgrunners

12 more hours

Just finished packing all the stuff for tomorrow.

- Pin bib to tee
- secured championchip to shoe
- put aside stuff that needs tomorrow morning
- pack all other into the deposit bag

Dunno if it's the anxiety. I felt that both my legs are pretty heavy, weak and a bit numb. Aiyah..dun care lah. I just need to sleep early, apply some yoko yoko and it "should" be fine.

Till then........

Instinct or six sense

Do you believe in instinct? Or some called it…six sense? And many would agree that a women’s six sense is more accurate than man?
I would want to agree that it can be true, be it man or women, to some extent maybe not 100% but yes, those instinct can be true.

I was just looking thru Reuben’s blog and today’s article at asia1.com. Both Reuben, the team coach as well as some other dragon boat team mates actually have a bad feeling the day before the incident. And the mom, also had some weird feeling weeks before the incident.

There wasn’t any significant event that I can recall where my instinct is revealing to me how true it could be but those feelings are strong. How about you? If you are really sensing that something is not right, perhaps something is going to happen on this Sunday’s run, would you still be at the starting line? I don’t know either. You won’t know until it happen but then when it happen, it’s gonna be too late. Fellow readers, feel free to drop in your comments to share :)

Counting down

Ok ok....with less than 2 days to go, I need to get everything prepared and list out to avoid any "forgot this", "forgot that" thingie.

On Sat evening :-

1) secure championchip to the shoe
2) pin bib no. to the tee
3) prepare a disposable bottle of sports drink to sip while on the way to start point
4) pack slippers, t-shirt, towel to bag
5) bring along 1 packet of powergel in case needed
6) set alarm to ring at 3am

On Sun morning:-

1) eat light breakfast
2) do 15mins stretches
3) Tape up blister/abrasion prone aread

Will add more when I can think of more items....

In memory...

Was at Reuben’s wake yesterday night. It actually surprised me to see how strong the mother is and she was the one who comfort and cheer up the congregation instead. She does look stronger than the dad. But I’m sure, it’s equally painful for all.

Nevertheless, upon hearing all the stories from his mom, knowing how God is in control of everything, although sad but I felt comforted, I felt at peace. It is encouraging to know that the family is still strong in their faith despite this tragic incident.

CBD showtime

It was a big big turn out yesterday at CBD. That’s probably the biggest turnout I’ve seen since joining the CBD run. About 60 of us. The pedestrian along Maxwell road must be wondering what race are we having…haha.. All geared up ready for the big day. Didn’t get to know everyone. By the time cooled down, change, everyone is slowly dispersing.

Together with the pacer team again, we surge towards Marina South following the actual route for this Sun but in reverse order. Everyone was briefed to ensure that they are running according to their marathon pace and not to chiong so fast.

Somehow, I am in good form today. I don’t understand why. I don’t know what’s the secret of being in “good form”. It just came naturally. I have no intention to follow any of the pacer but just go according to my own pace that I will be using this Sunday. I started with small steps but slightly higher cadence at the start, together with Jodan. Slowly, the engine got warm up. Was joined by Cobalt and DO. Cobalt was already sweating profusely just 10mins after we start and I haven’t got a single drop yet. He said this is nothing…later he will have his own swimming pool. Haha.. Not long after, I found myself to be following closely with the 4hr pacer. All the way after the steamboat area. I was running at a pace that is slightly faster than my norm. Don’t ask me what’s the pace. I dunno. As long as I’m comfortable, I don’t care much. About to exit Marina South, I think the 4hr is getting faster as I was pretty sure that my pace was quite consistent. Not too long after that, 4hr pacer is getting slightly further away from me and I’m all on my own…wohooo!!! I found myself in the middle of the 4hr and 4.30 group. Still can hear the conversation from the 4.30 group behind me.

Nevermind lah…Just run and right after the tunnel at the exit I was joined by Cfred (4.30 pacer) and some others at the traffic light. That’s like slightly around 1km to go. Still feeling good and all the way to White House. Overall, it was a good run. I managed to speed up a little than my usual pace and maintain throughout the 10km. Sweat like nobody business…hahaha…I like. Chatted with a few before leaving for the night.


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After a good workout, went home and obviously a good shower will be ideal right??? Guess what……… I saw a freaking creature in my room right after I step in and on the lights!! COCKCROACH!!!!!!! Wah piang…Such a big one. Cannot scream, no one at home. What to do?? I got to do the job myself loh. Quickly go grab one magazine, fold it up and……”PIACK!!!” Smack and smack… Smack 1 time that creature was like running interval but a bit injured already. Smack another time. Lie flat…..Not moving….Bye Bye….. Go storeroom, grab the broom and off to the bin…J Job Done. Proceed with normal routine, shower and sleep as if nothing happen…J

Feeling weird

It was kind of a weird feeling that I have now. I’m supposed to be feeling excited of the upcoming run this Sunday and getting myself prepared physically and mentally.

Somehow the news that came to all of us on Saturday during worship service changes everything. I wasn’t really digest with the news at that time (that the dragon rower are missing) which is probably why I don’t feel that much affected.

Now that the entire Singapore is talking about it, headlines on papers. The truth is out. Hmmm…..not too sure how should I described. I personally do not know Reuben that well. In fact it was only in early Oct that I get to know him in the concert and chatted with him a couple of times. But that ‘relationship’ alone, is enough for me to ponder about this tragic incident. I am not very much emotionally affected but somehow, I’m just feeling a bit disturbed and it has been wondering in my mind in the last few days. Seeing his family especially his mum on TV, really melted my heart. My sincere condolences to the family. Tomorrow will be going to his wake and will be playing a special music for him with OneHeart ministry. I couldn’t imagine how the atmosphere is going to be and whether we all can control our emotion. But I’m prepared for the worst.

D-Day Coming

I can feel that everyone is getting excited yet a little anxious and stress out. The month and month of hard training, sacrificing your sleep waking up in the wee hours like 4am doing lsd (Long Slow Distance) is simply ridiculous you would say or crazy or siao. At least for non-runners :) Not forgetting the interval/speed/staircase/hill training that causes both your legs screaming for mercy.

10 more days and you will reap what you sow. Worth it or not, you decide. Some people are so stress by beating their PB, some are just worried if they could ever cross that finishing line and not ended up DNF or DNS. As for me, I’m kind of relax..haha. Obviously I cannot compare with the full distance runner and more over this is my 2nd time doing a half marathon. To the full marathoners, this is really a kacang puteh. Oh well, a half marathon is achievable with a little effort but if you’re talking about achieving PB, then it’s a different story. To me, I just want to relax and enjoy the run. Having a PB is not that important but will be a bonus if I’m able to finish in less than 2:32hr..hehe

Many many month ago, I simply do not understand why people loves running so much. To an extend that if they don’t run, they feel grumpy, they feel uneasy, they feel that something is missing. On the contrary, running gives them a time to reflect, to find peace, to de-stress, to lose weight….and it goes on and on. It is part of their life. Just like you need air every day. In a few month time, it will be my 1st anniversary joining SGrunners. An indication of the time where I officially take up running seriously. Uh…officially as in I do hill training, speed training and all sort of stuff lah rather than just a normal jogger with no target. Probably I’m being influenced by all the siao people in SGrunners. I’ve probably gotten some bugs from them and becoming one of the siao one. Although not to the extend of siao-ness yet, I have started to believe why running can be so addicted. Hard to explain. You really have to try it to experience. I guess the runner’s high that you get at the end of the run, you may not be able to get it from any other form of cardio exercise. Why people still choose and insist on running even though at times it brought them pain and even bleed………. To be continue………

Snooze

It has been ages since my last entry.

More to come. Stay tune!

Good deal

I was at the Shape Carnival this afternoon at Marina Square to collect my race pack for this Sunday’s shape run.

Somehow, something really caught my attention. The 2 years subscription of Shape magazine comes with real good freebies. Subscribing for two year entitle me to choose 3 items out of the 9 I think plus 4 free issues. Since I have been reading Shape ever since it’s debut issue for every month in the past 2 years without fail, I thought this is a real good deal.

Here’s what I have chose for the freebies:

- $60 crocs voucher – Can get a nice pair of slippers
- $50 Aibi voucher – Wanted to get a gym ball
- AND THIS!!!! $100 running lab voucher for all running shoes!!!

I have been eyeing on a pair of running shoes in Running Lab for quite some time and this is really a good deal. Yeah..I know there are always a “too good to be true”. But trust me, this is real. I’ve read the condition of the voucher again and again. And yes, I can go Running Lab, show them the voucher, select my shoe and I get a $100 discount! Yay!!!!