GCM - Part 2

And so, the run started. Am indeed glad and thankful that the weather is good though a bit windy for the 1st 5km. At least I'm seeing some blue sky, just a slight drizzle. Other than that, it was perfectly fine. Soon, we're at Surfers Paradise. A route which I enjoyed the most. Enjoying the breeze, running along the beach....it's heavenly!

What really amazed me was everyone is running fast!!! That is like a "by default speed". The first u-turn point was around 13km mark. I reckon that at the speed that I'm running, there should be quite a lot of runners around me if I were to run in SG. But what I'm seeing is, the majority comes from 3hr-3.30hr!! Even the Japanese ah-mmph and ah-pek is faster than me!! Haiz...I decided not to look at the people around me. I should just look at the sea, the building the people who's cheering.

1st half of the route done and we're passing by the start point again before we proceed to run along side some residential area. 32km mark, things started to turn a bit ugly. Apart from the sore muscles which is expected, there's pain at the top of my right feet. Never encounter such pain before. Started to do a bit of walk/run. Making thing worst....I'm feeling hungry!! haah.... Sports drink is diluted. Finished 2 packet of power gel, no food given!! Aiyoh...got to tahan a bit liao.

Feet is getting more and more painful but the run has to go on. All the ah-mmph and ah-pek is long gone way in front :( At 39km, though feet is in pain, I was mentally boosted again when someone overtook me whom I reckon that he is no younger than 70 years old, running with his grandaugther, bearing a photo at the back of his shirt with a word written "I run in memory of xxxx". The granddaughter having the same saying "I run in memory of my grandma". I can see that he's in pain, he' struggling. But he was power-walking. I was still running together with them till 41km. The marshall and all the spectators was giving us all a thumbs-up at this time with 1km to go. No matter how painful, I'll have to run till the finish. Hearing more and more cheering as I slowly make my way to the finished line......

It is done!!! Chip time of 5:37. I am on cloud-9, happy, satisfied.....runners will know...the feeling is simply amazing :) Met up with JC and proceed to the coach pickup and guess what. With those sore muscle and painful feet, we waited for almost an hour for the pickup!! Reached the hotel, check on the damage - no abrasion, no blister but ended up with a red and swollen feet... BUT it is still a good and enjoyable race after all....:)

So people, for those who's considering GCM, here's some facts for you to consider:

- route is not flat like roti prata. There are a bit of short, mild humps here and there but should not do you any damage
- Sports drink is diluted. You can prepare your own drink and place it at designated water station
- Cooling weather. Not too cold, not too hot

VERDICT: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED RACE

Field Report - GCM 2008 - Part 1

Sad to say......I'm finally back to reality.....The reality of having to work, sitting in conference call, attending to 'hard-to-please' customers.....the list goes on...But that being said, that one week of break truly gives me a boost mentally and no doubt, I'm fully recharged to look forward to these "realities".

Too much to report on the 8 days trip but here it goes:

Pre- Race
Jul 4 - Checking in at Paradise Resort hotel, we proceed to the race pack collection at Southport, located approximately 3km from our hotel. Took the public bus, super expensive. $2.70 per person for a 10min ride. Collection was a breeze. No hassle at all. Spotted lots and lots of Japanese, all age, all size. We walked ard the expo and was tempted by JC to get the GCM limited edition Asics 2130. Within 10mins, both of us was succumb to the temptation. $$$ damaged done within a few minutes.

Jul 5 - Woke up at 6am as per plan to do a 6km run to 'test' out the weather condition. What a disappointment! It was raining, gloomy and windy outside. We waited and waited till 8am. The weather didn't get any better. I know someone will say there's no bad weather, only weak mind. But but but...it's only 1 day to race day, we decided not to take risk. Proceed to brekkie. The rest of the day are spent with my sis, bro-in law and nephew who also flew in from Perth to join us for the 2nd half of the holiday.

Jul 6 - Race day. Proceed to the coach pickup at the bus stop right outside the hotel at 5.10am, where we've paid for $5 per person return journey. It was cold!!! Quickly put on the gloves and waited. Slowly I see the crowd is building up at the bus stop. Slowly I see coach after coach passing by us with full loads of runners without stopping to pick us up. One by one, the coach drove pass us without stopping. It's 5.50am and we are still waiting at the bus stop with lots of runners getting a bit impatient by now. Die.....What to do now. Race start at 6.50am. Situation doesn't look optimistic at all. I decided to get back to the hotel and call my bro-in-law to send us to the start point. Wise choice indeed. Main road was close, bro drop us at the back of the main street and as soon as we alight, it was abt 6.20am by now, we ran to the baggage tent. That's probably abt 500m zig zag here and there. I'm getting a bit panic as we're running out of time. The baggage deposit is long queue. Try to act blur and cut queue, boh pian. Proceed to toilet and we're 2 mins left to start time. Jump in to the start line and within 2 min the max I reckon, the race started!! Considering if we were to wait for the coach, we would have been late!!!!

TBC......

In 12 hours time, I will be heading to T3 boarding SQ flight to a lively city Down Under. All sorts of mix feeling. I’m longing for this holiday and are hoping that I can really stay out of work 100% for the next 1 week. At the same time, also feeling excited, anxious, worried and a little bit scary thinking about the event this Sunday. I hope…..I hope I’ll at least be able to bring back that piece of flat metal , adding that to my collection :)

Thank u all guys and gals for the best wishes!!

Random shot during WC's wedding....Tskkk...tskkk.tskk.......Whoever come out with this idea......Aiyoh...dunno what to say......Don't you dare to offend them... :)

Poor guy are force to eat this specially made curry chic wrap in pampers...**GROSSS**

I broke my record in yesterday’s CBD Run. It was the usual Esplanade – CQ – Zouk – Outram route. I was happily running along trying to keep a view of the front group (as usual I only managed to do that for the 1st half) and suddenly, for unknown reason I fell down!!! What is happening?!?!? It was along Singapore river, there’s no hunk, no 6Ps, nothing! I fell on the left side, do some stunt and landed flat face up the sky. Stoned for a while, took a couple of seconds but couldn’t recall what was I thinking or looking at that time. Si Hui slightly in front of me say she heard some sound from behind, turned back and ask if I’m ok. Soon, Laser, Bee and Ronnie appear, surrounding me. I was still sitting on the floor at that time, trying to recompose myself. Told them I’m ok and we move on slowly from there. Hmm…any damage? Minor abrasion on the left arm and orh-cheh at the thigh. I can still continue to run, how serious can it be :) Ya… first time falling down ever since I started running……..
The front pack has disappear by this time, leaving a few of us pacing each other till the end point. Good in a sense, I don't have a chance to chase them until my lung burst. ha.....

I recently realized that there are more and more people reading this blog without me knowing!! Hmm…Gotta be really careful of the content in this blog :)

Anyway, I was in conversation with someone recently about running form. Why and where do I get the forms at times? When it comes, I felt as if I can go on running forever and the feeling is so great inside out. Why on the other hand that at times, no matter how much I try to squeeze it out, it just didn’t appear. No matter how hard I try and lift up that pair of heavy legs, it never work.

Is it the diet? The lifestyle? The mentality? Something that we can control?? I still haven’t gotten any answers to that yet because only 2 out of 10 runs I’ll get those “VERY GOOD” form…haha… Meaning…I have to do a few more hundreds of run to analyze what’s the pattern b4/during/after the “VERY GOOD” run…LOL!!!

I have always wanted to explore this part of SG, after more than a week of bad day at work, yesterday I make an attempt to die-die must join the gang for my 'virgin' NUS run. Route for the day:

NUS -> Pasir Panjang Rd -> Haw Par Villa -> South Bouna Vista Rd -> Kent Ridge Park -> Sci Park 1 -> Sci Park 2 -> Prince George Park -> NUH -> NUS
Distance: 12km

Was told that this is NUS certified route. It's not an easy one. I know this route is full of slopes just dun exactly know what kind of slope will greet me. As usual I stayed at the back pack as long as I can sight where the front pack is going to, I'll be fine. The first slope that greeted me is Vigilante drive. Passed by this area a few times on car. I know how steep it is...just never expect it to be steeper than Kg Bahru slope. I crawl up.......:( That's just the appetizer. Throughout the run, I have lost count of how many slopes I've conquered. Doesn't matter....what doesn't kill will make me stronger...... Xiao Di is so encouraging and keep me moving up those gruesome slope. I would have submitted to my own mental weakness if he's not with me.......

Reached start point - exhausted - thirsty. Went to NUS guild house shower (also my first time there) and proceed to makan....As usual...this is good run, good company, good food :)

Despite a real bad week last week, there’s always something to be thankful of. That I finally managed to set aside all things, going to church on Saturday and rest….. In addition, to some other stuff that I need to prepare at home before Sunday and so mentally and physically exhausted that I ‘fly kite’ for 2 events that I’m supposed to be present on Sat. SGRunners 3rd Anniversary gathering in the afternoon and helping out in WC aka Yzong aka OrangeTee & Alice’s wedding decoration in the evening.

Was supposed to clock at 2.5 hours on Sunday morning before I proceed to WC’s wedding, I hear thunder and lightning at 530am. My alarm rang, it was still pouring out there. 7am…the weather didn’t get any better. 8am, still raining. It’s not possible anymore….It’s about time to do my usual chores and prepare to leave home for the wedding. Agreed to be at church by 12pm to go thru the songs with Linus.

Arrived at church. Went thru all songs with Linus. We didn’t practice that much but Linus is very impromptu as we all know :) Discussed on a few ways to “Chup sung” in the event that we have finished playing the songs and the bride is still not on stage yet. Oh well…… the ceremony went well, our playing went well, bible boy and flower girl also drawing a lot of attention….... I like it.

“When God Made You” sang by JC as soon as WC & Alice is up on stage. Trying to test out my new toy capturing that moment, here is a re-cap



Lyrics of the songs…..well…..if it actually make a man shed tears...WC tears to be precise, what do you think. Too bad, I am not in a position to go near WC to capture his “red-eye” trying to tahan that moment of touched! But he admitted when myself and JC confronted him after the ceremony..hehhe.......

Waiting for more photos to be ready……

Extracted from the wonderwoman's blog:

"Funny how every client will think that they are our ONLY client and we must dedicate all our time, effort and energy to them and only them"

That is sooooooo true....I'm having a real bad time, upset, angry, pissed off the entire week because of the existence of such client.

It was a tough week at work..... so much so that I need to get my mind off for a couple of minutes before I proceed with those sickening stuff again....

Was literally swallowing my lunch instead of slowly enjoying the food. Felt even worst when:

a) having to pull one of my staff back from a 3 days Microsoft course back to work to help out the rest of the workload
b) negotiated from a 1 day to 1/2 leave for one of the staff to spent some time with his kid before school start next year.

Family is important, staff welfare is also important. But sometimes, it's just not within control..... Saturday, saturday.....where are you....

Bump.....

Sooooo busy since last week incl weekend....This week is nothing better. To list a few:

- have extremely high profile customer to deal with. Not one but a few.
- need to sit in conference call one after another
- need to train for upcoming event
- need to practice those songs for this Sunday's wedding
- need to exercise
- need to have enough sleep

many many more........

Have been coughing my lungs out in the past 2 days. Never like this kinda chinese medicine. Taste awful smell awful... But suddenly, mum's message occurred in my mind. Drink Woods or Pi Pa Gao when you get caught by cough...

And so, I bought this.

Never tried this in my entire life. Almost wanted to puke when I smell it. Like a small kid, I hold my breath with a big glass of water and a small piece of chocolate next to me. Quickly gulp down a tablespoon, finished up the big glass of water and quickly eat that piece of chocolate. Can still feel that minty feeling in my throat but that's ok since the throat have been giving me discomfort. I slept well thereafter.

Repeat the same process again in the morning and I'm to the road of recovery!!! YAY!!!! It works!!!!!!

Strange things does happens at times.......

Am I feeling the after effect of Sundown only 5 days later? The lack of sleep, the energy zapped out during the 6+ hours. I think I'm only feeling the effect on Friday? I was sooooooo deprived of sleeps on Friday at work, went home and slept for 12 hours till Sat morning. I took a 3 hours of afternoon nap on the same day, went to bed as early as 10pm and slept another 10 hours till Sunday morning :) Woke up having sore throat and jelly legs (by sleeping???)...Whatzzz up man!!! Still feeling so lethargic the entire day, I dozed off again while lazing around!!!!!

Decided that I should get out and do some walking at least, if not run, thinking that it could be lag of exercise in the past few days. Reluctantly changed and drag myself out and off I went to the park. Feeling is like.....'dragging a cow up the tree'. Slowly trying to cover that 1 hour walk/jog around....haiz.....just not the day...

CBD Post Sundown

It was a 8+km therapy run for me yesterday. Having a little tightness at the back of my knee at the start of the run, Yankee assure me that it will go away after 10mins. True enough, it disappear. Slowly and steadily, the rest of the sore muscles are also loosen up. Recovery Run......that's what it's all about.

Can't be bother to chase after the front group, recovery still run so fast!! Haiz..... Left a few of us at the back, mostly those who did Sundown to run slowly in recovery mode.... It was short & sweet overall. Plenty of time to chit chat and makan after run :)

Sudden thoughts

All happen in 1 week, I killed 2 snails while running.......-_- Sorry snail......

After more than 6 hours completing a 42km journey with fun,pain,sweat and exhaustion....... I'm a happy owner of this:

The Sun is Down.....

I'm sure everyone taking part in the inaugural SD Marathon yesterday, would have their own story to tell. One that they will remain a memory to them forever...


The same goes for me. I knew I wasn't that well prepared for this but would really want to do it, to see how my body feels and react going at such distance before the actual Big Day. I was still on medication till Wed and was praying hard for a recovery. Thank God, I'm feeling good physically and mentally on Saturday. All ready to go. Thanks to all the well wishes and encouragement....


I was feeling so good at the start of the race, both physically and mentally, enjoying every single bit of it. As soon as I exit from Coastal Rd, I saw some expected familiar face, over taking me one by one. Yankee, tao, Terence, Piglet..... Started to feel a bit exhausted after the u-turn pt, I started to slow down a little and seeing Tiwazz and Charlotte at the support table...their ice-stick is heaven sent. At one point, I even have the urge to u-turn back and take another 2 stick. One on each hand..haha...



Spotted JC at the other side after I u-turn. I estimated to him before the race that he should be able to catch up with me around my 25-30km mark. Slowly make my way to exit ECP, expecting him to catch up anytime soon. Came to the 2nd Sgrunners support station, looks like a mini-party. Am really touched to see such volunteers in providing their 100% to runners. Next, entering in Bedok Reservoir, the toe and the feet is giving some bad signals by this time. This is one stretch that I hated the most. The pebbles, the sand and the darkness. Lost your focus and you'll get yourselves injured anytime. Felt so irriated by the sand going into my shoe, I quickly get a spot by the side, sit down and sort out those sands. BAD CHOICE!!!! It was dark, I didn't realized what's by the curb. Sorted out the sands and realized there's tonnes of black ants. Got bitten by them on the leg, hand...Eeewwww!!!! Got me a little panic and spent 1-2 mins to get rid of all these black ants on my body.


Just at the right place, water station before exiting BR, JC caught up. Walk for a while before he speed up while I am already started to struggle a little by this time. 12km to go, walk and jog slowly. At 36km, it started to pour. Heavily!! It may not be a bad thing because of such heavy rain, I've probably forget abt the pain at my feet and started to speed up. It's just 4km to go. So near yet to far. The signboard shows 400m to go.. I didn't bother to sprint or even run... Speed walking in pain yet enjoying the surrounding. At 100m, someone called out from behind!! It's LT!!! Haha...happy to see him and make our way to finish line. He ask whether I want to run or just walk to finish. I say there's a lot of spectator in front, die die must finish in good posture... And so....we ran side by side towards the finish line. Sigh....never have i expect, that my first marathon will complete together with him woh...!!! LOL!!!!


Collected our medals, Finisher Tee and my bag, say a few hi to a few faces, I proceed to go to CP2 to meet JC. Spotted him from a distance. Aiyoh...he looks like he's in pain too! His first reaction to me...he's not going to do it again...haha..let's see if he still say the same after recovery. Regardless, he did well.


It's painful, it's not easy (at least for me) to complete the distance. But ask if it's worth sacrificing my sleep and going thru this, I'll still give a Yes :) Despite all this, it is still an enjoyable run for me. Happy to own a 42k finisher medal and are qualified to wear my own 42k Finisher tee, but that's just a small bit of it. More importantly, I feel stronger from inside out than before. I realized how I am being blessed that I am feeling 100% fresh throughout the run. Not sleepy at all and mentally going strong. These 2 are never my friend so I'm really caught by suprised that it didn't attack me at all. The pain in the leg is just an indication that my mileage is not enough and that is exactly why I want to do this marathon. To see how I feel going at such distance.


Till the next race.....rest well, eat well, train well :)

It's pouring....heavily at Pasir Ris now. Looks like it's going to be wet. Hmm...I dun like that. While on my way back from church just now, I saw some distance marker placed by the road side along Bedok and Tampines. Saying that I'm not anxious...it's a lie. I am indeed getting anxious. I even get anxious in the last fam run. What's more this is now getting real. The Sundown Marathon.

Essential items checked:
- Bib securely pinned to tee
- Body glide for abrasion prone area
- Plaster for blister prone area
- Mp3 player
- tissue paper & cash for emergency
- GU gel needed when body fuel went low

Let my first longest run be a dedication to God from above, for it is way to thank Him for giving me a good pair of legs.....

I shall go take some much needed rest now.....:)

Everyone seems to be talking abt Sundown this couple of days. And for some reason, those that I know are either sick, going to fall sick, having ITB, PF, kena flu, got burned out….at this time. I am no exception, still sneezing my way and consistently loading myself with Vit-C everyday. And for all a sudden, PF started to come back and haunt me again since last week. I’m eager to know what’s the outcome will be. Will it be a DNS… I’m eager to know, if ever I reach the starting line, how long will it take for fatigue and pain to greet me along the way. Regardless, I’m not too pressurized by this event. All I want is just to take this opportunity to push up the mileage before the real BIG day. If I can make it there come 31st May 12am having thousands of runners accompany me for my longest LSD, that will be perfect. Otherwise, it’s just too bad.

For those taking part……relax, rest and eat well….:)

Two weeks ago I got a suprise sms from someone I do not know. She introduced herself and explained how she go about getting my contact. It was indeed a suprised!!! I was asked to be interviewed!! By someone from SPH....wuahahahahah......

Oh well...I know what is it about but I wasn't sure what sort of questions will I be asked. It took me one whole night to think about whether I should accept the offer. The next day, I reply her sms giving her my email, thought of giving it a shot. Not long after, there came the email...

***Faint**** scratching my head how to answer. That's not about it. I need to submit a copy of my photo, fullname, occupation, age...etc!!!! -_- oh no!! Will all this be published???!!!!! And so, I thought of backing out from the interview, hoping that I will be 'forgotten' by her. 3 days after the deadline given, I got an sms again. As expected asking me if I've send over all the answers. I looked at those questions again, do a bit of reflection, slowly and steadily I managed to squeeze some juice from my brain...... Looking thru my whole "My Pictures" folder, I search thru high and low for a "not-too-bad" photos. JC commented if I want to go take a studio photos!! ahaha... Finally I found one..not a fantastic one but not a bad one either lah...

And so...I click on "send". What is the interview about, will it be published somewhere sometime?? Let's see :)

Loading myself with loads and loads of Vit C now. There's flu bug flying around these day. I can feel that it's coming.... Throat itchi, running nose...... argh.....!!!!

Try carrying a bucket of water and walk around and see how it feels. It's even worst when u run with it. That's exactly how I feel climbing up to MF at yesterday's run. The going up was not as bad. In fact, I felt that my quads are feeling stronger this time.

By the time I reachd the top, I can feel my tummy exploding. I didn't eat much, it must be the teh-c cum H20 that I took before the run. Argh...felt so shitty!!!! Waited for the 2 gals and slowly make my way back. Trying hard to switch my thoughts away from the bloated tummy.

Oh.... got a peep on the Nike+ Sportband from James. Cool stuff, value for money. Has exactly what I want and what I dun want from a Polar watch. But....I'm still not going to get it..haha.... at least not at this time :)

Today is the 3rd day after I came back from LA. Yet, my body clock is still in a mess. I woke up at 3am in the last two days and couldn't get back to sleep. Came to work at 6 in the morning and I'll be switch off by 3pm. Today is no difference. It's a total mess and affecting my training plan...:(

Having almost the entire afternoon before I head off to the airport, i took the hotel shuttle to Irvine Spectrum Center, an outdoor shopping just 1km away from the hotel. I was there last night for a while and I'm back there again today.

Lots of shops around there, not forgetting the usual Macy, Nordstrom and Target. This particular store that caught my interest since I yesterday, the store name is called "Finish Line". I spotted it from far and the name itself is good enough to caught my attention.

Went straight to it......there is really something that I have been looking for even since I touched down in California. North Face!!! Although it didn't have as much choices as per the website given that this is not a North Face store, I think I've spent close to an hour looking at those items and of course..trying out on 5 pairs of trail shoe. Cool!!! Guess how much is Rucky Chucky? USD109 :) in comparison to...SGD$22x?? Oh well...I didn't go for the North face even after trying all 5 pairs. The Fire Road version seems to be among the best. Ok..dun ask me to elaborate the responsiveness or whatever cheem terms ppl used in analyzing a shoe. I know none of it. It just give me a better overall feel and comfort. The rest of the NF are probably too hard for me on a normal surface. Anyway....guess what I got in the end.....Salomon!!!! I was contemplating the Salomon and NF Fire Road for a while and in the end, I decided to take..........

TBC...................

Still sorting out the pics. Didn't take as much as I wanted to. But MandalayBay at Vegas, is one of the best hotel I've ever stayed.

Man-made wave pool and beach


The company is kind enough to rent two cabanas facing the man-made beach and wave pool for the whole day with unlimited ordering of food/drinks throughout.

One of the pool at MandalayBay. Notice those smaller cabanas at the end of it.

See those cabanas at the left side. There are TV, sofa, fridge..etc..Cozy enough to laze around the whole day

YAY!!!! I'll be back HOME SWEET HOME soon.....Just a couple more hours I'm glad.

I seriously need to do some detox once I get back. Just 2 days is enough for me. I felt like my life have been shorten to a few years all because of the environment that I'm at in the last 2 days. The ang moh really amazed me. It didn't come at a suprise why they have the highest rate of obesity related illness and all sorts of other illnesses. Drinking beer/alcohol more than any other thing else on a daily basis..... 2-3 packets of cigarettes a day (that's my lao pan)....I'm glad the community around me back home is far from reaching this.

No wonder VP told me that I'll see a different side of everyone when we get to Vegas for the outing after the meeting. How true was that. Almost (thank God it's not all) directors/managers turn into drinkers, smokers, gambler...who knows what else. Oh well, at least I have 10% that are on the same frequency as I do. We went shopping instead.

Am glad.....it's coming to an end...Till next year :)

I was at this factory outlet mall called Carlsbag Outlet the whole afternoon. Shopaholic will definitely go crazy visiting this place. Branded/non-branded, they are all at factory price. Polo/Lacoste/Coach/Guess.....many many more. And mine you, they are all genuine stuff, not fake.

Guess what I saw. Kayano 14 selling at $USD129. I reacted as it I found a gold bar. Quickly grab my size and try on it. Cool....In the end....I didn't bought it...haha.... Feeling guilty to keep buying running shoe yet mileage is not as high as others...haha..IF ONLY I didn't get the kayano 13 2 weeks before I leave for LA. Anyway....I managed to find some other cool stuff. A coach bag for SGD$xx. Yeah!! a 2-digit SGD dollar for a coach bag after 40% discount on top of the factory price :)

Time to get ready for some serious stuff at work tomorrow...........:(

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..:)