SpideY's MobLog Reloaded

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T10:52:00.003+08:00

Wishing All My Friends ...

Your Neighborhood Friend
SpideY (",)

Happy Lunar New Year

2012-01-23T00:00:00.004+08:00

My Friends & All of You Who are Chinese ...

Superman 2012 Trailer

2012-01-06T12:33:00.000+08:00

Spider-Man 2012 Trailer

2012-01-05T12:33:00.001+08:00

Christmas at the Malls

2011-12-04T16:06:00.008+08:00

Ngee Ann City, Orchard
Causeway Point, Woodlands

Causeway Point, Woodlands

My Umbrella

2011-11-25T10:24:00.005+08:00

Through thick and thin my umbrella stands
More faithful and reliable than the one
Who hires me and claims to be family and a friend
Who decides my livelihood, when it begins and ends

Who stands with me
When I am going through tough times?
Not my boss, nor my supervisor
But the one who cannot talk

The one who braves the storm to shelter me
Through showers of cats and dogs
Who never complains or seeks reward
But shields and protects me when I’m in need

Thank God for umbrellas!

Happy Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T00:00:00.001+08:00

Wishing All a Blessed Thanksgiving! (",)

A New Beginning

2011-11-15T09:45:00.004+08:00

A new chapter in my life is about to begin, with corporate shake-up setting me free from the agony I've been suffering over the last few months.

I’m thankful to God for every change in my life—good or bad—especially with Thanksgiving Day drawing near.

give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV)

Expensive Moon Cakes

2011-09-08T17:20:00.003+08:00

Poney Jade Restaurant
Cart/Kiosk @ IMM Building
SGD29.95 for two pieces

The Original Ex-Crown Prince Flaky
Teochew ‘Oor Nee’ Mooncake
with Single Egg Yolk

Spider-Man Movie Update

2011-08-02T18:07:00.000+08:00

This morning brings a slew of news from 'The Amazing Spider-Man,' including new images, intel on Peter Parker's web shooters, and some insight from Emma Stone and Mark Webb in video form.

Courtesy of Empire, check out a great interview package with Emma Stone, who dishes on Andrew Garfield's transformation into 17 year old Peter Parker, plus hear from producer Avi Arad and director Marc Webb:

Webb also spoke with the LA Times Hero Complex about the costume design and the decision to include Peter Parker's homemade web-shooters in the story. He explains that the web-shooters are device to 'dramatize Peter’s intellect,' adding:

“We paid attention to the question of ‘How would a kid make it?’ And obviously we took some license with it. We also wanted a design that would make the body longer and more lithe, more of an acrobat, someone incredibly agile, and the legs of the spider [symbol on the chest] were something we used to emphasize that. We made a bunch of different suits for different lighting conditions. I wanted something that worked in the night a little better. We paid attention to that and also made the webbing [on the costume] a little bit darker. With the costume and the web-shooters we wanted to emphasize that these are things that Peter Parker made and that he is special himself even if he feels like he’s an outsider.”

Read the full piece here.

Finally, Slashfilm debuted six high res images from the film, below. See a few great shots of the Spidey suit, plus Peter cozying up to Gwen, and some subway acrobatics:

When in a Hurry

2011-08-01T09:37:00.004+08:00

Avoid walking behind three categories of people when you are in a hurry.

1) Those with prams (baby carriages) or kids.

2) Those on electronic gadgets such as iPhones, gaming devices and others.

3) Those of a particular culture known for being oblivion to surroundings and like to stand in the middle of nowhere, on pedestrian walk paths, in supermarts, near entrance or exit areas inside trains, near escalators, and remain immovable even after hearing you say 'excuse me' umpteen times.

Heeding this advice can help you reduce your blood pressure, and reach your destination faster.

Bad Toilet Manners

2011-07-06T09:09:00.002+08:00

Yet again another encounter of bad toilet manners today. Here's a notice I've placed above the toilet bowl for the user.

Toilet Manners

2011-06-30T11:10:00.008+08:00

This is a regular sight in the toilets of office building at level three of The Synergy, International Business Park (IBP) @ Jurong East.

Welcome to Singapore!

Here's where the civilized and the not so civilized stay together!

Could it be the user has forgotten to clear his stuff after doing business?

Unfortunately, this is not the worst of sights! There are days where the bowls are overflowing with waste spilling off.

Totally disgusting!

Pushy Bosses

2011-06-28T17:36:00.006+08:00

Just when I thought switching from helpdesk support to corporate writing would eliminate the endless certification required in my career, my supervisor is now telling me to get certified for the same tests the helpdesk people are expected to take.

I have been in the information technology (IT) industry for more than 15 years with the first eight years in helpdesk technical support. As I grew sick of taking certification again and again, knowing there is no end to it, I decided to quit the line completely.

Now, although I am working in an IT corporation, I am merely a writer, and for the first five years, all was fine. With the recent transfer to write for HQ corporate marketing, however, my American supervisor based in Taiwan, with the backing of the fierce Taiwanese lady boss, is forcing me to get certified, constantly querying me on when I will sit for the test.

My supervisor made it clear that unless I get certified for several papers required by him, my year end assessment will be in jeopardy. My answer to his latest query is as follows …

Dear {supervisor}

In answer to your question, all I can say for now is [I'll take the test] when I am ready and prepared, if I get a chance to finish reading the wireless text, digest its content, commit it to memory, and put myself through some tests.

As of now, every time I get down to reading a chapter or two, I would be interrupted and tasked to do something else, so I can only get back to reading the text and jotting down some notes whenever time is available at hand.

Hope you can understand the difficulty.

Regards
{my name}

P.S. Writing takes time and requires extensive research, rethinking, redrafting and more.

Indonesian Fried Rice

2011-06-16T14:05:00.003+08:00

Restaurant Baystreet 21
2 Jurong East Street 21
#02-30 IMM Building
Singapore 609601

Nasi Goreng Istimewa w/ Satay

Handling a Hot-Tempered Boss

2011-06-15T17:44:00.009+08:00

If ... your boss [is the one throwing temper tantrum] and it happens often, you may want to look for a new job.

This is the advice given in an article on 'How to Deal with Adult's Temper Tantrum' by Ryn Gargulinsk at eHow.

Not too long ago, I wrote about facing my new lady boss who is hot-tempered, always breathing down the necks of her staff like fiery fire filled full with regular reprimands. If the tip and warning from the eHow article is the way to go, then it means I may have to look for a new job.

Thankfully, though, my boss has cooled down a little, especially after many staff resignations and with her now in the hospital for several weeks. That temporary cool-off temper of hers, however, is no guarantee.

Appended is the article at eHow in its entirety for your reading, just in case it gets archived at a later date.

How to Deal With an Adult's Temper Tantrum
by Ryn Gargulinski, eHow User

Adult's temper tantrums can be scary, worrisome ... or downright hilarious.

It's bad enough when a 3-year-old kicks and screams and turns red in the face when he doesn't get his way. It's even worse when this happens to an adult. An adult throwing a temper tantrum has to be one of the ugliest scenes you can witness, right behind roadkill. You can effectively deal with an adult's temper tantrum with a few steps-and a straight face.

Instructions (Difficulty: Moderate)

Refrain from laughing. No matter how idiotic, silly or downright hilarious a raging adult may appear, laughing will only make it worse.
Keep calm and keep your distance. Never interfere with a raging adult unless they are coming at you with a stick. Then block the stick.
Remove yourself from the situation. If you can physically walk away, go for it. If not, mentally envision yourself wafting high above their outburst and watching it unfold below.
Help pick up the pieces. This step only applies if the person is a coworker or friend of yours. Once the person has calmed down, soothe their nerves and, if you feel they are up to it, even joke about their garish display of emotion.

Tips and Warnings

If this is a friend of yours and it happens often, you may want to suggest counseling.
If this is your boss and it happens often, you may want to look for a new job.
If this is a total stranger on the street and it happens often, you may want to walk down a different street.
Don't get sucked into their anger pit or a yelling match.

A TV Ad I Dislike

2011-06-09T09:07:00.004+08:00

An Irritating TV AD for Crying Out Loud ...

Dislike the song and the way the ad appears to insult the Chinese.

Wash Your Hands

2011-06-01T23:44:00.002+08:00

An interesting sign at the washing
basin in a lavatory of KTP Hospital

TV Series: Primeval

2011-05-27T09:08:00.006+08:00

Interesting Sci-Fi TV series on
Channel 5 every Thursday.
Synopsis
Professor Nick Cutter and his associates, a friend and colleague Stephen Hart, a student Connor Temple, a zookeeper Abby Maitland investigate the appearance of anomalies (called "earthquakes in time") that allow the passage to other times and places, and often-dangerous creatures from the distant past or future to threaten the lives of citizens.

The British government's Home Office, under the supervision of James Lester and Claudia Brown, becomes involved after a Gorgonopsid travels through one such anomaly and wreaks havoc in the Forest of Dean. Professor Cutter's wife, Helen Cutter, presumed dead for eight years, was revealed to have been traveling in time through the anomalies. Cutter was unable to convince her to help as she had changed much from the woman he had once known, and began to fall in love with another woman, Claudia.

Meanwhile Abby began to take care of a Coelurosauravus she named Rex after he was left behind in the present, and was attracted to Stephen, who didn't completely reciprocate her feelings, despite Connor's attempts to get with her.

Chinese Cuisine @ Mayim

2011-05-21T23:45:00.003+08:00

Mayim Chinese Cuisine Restaurant
930 Yishun Ave 2 #02-01/05
Northpoint
Singapore 769098

Congee with barley and mashed carrot

Steamed dumpling teochew style

Crispy beancurd skin roll with prawn and
Deep fried prawn dumpling with mayonnaise sauce

Steamed barbequed chicken bun

Healthy brown rice with carrot, celery, black
bean, black fungus, yam, peanut and red bean

Shanghai 'xiao long bao'

Steamed glutinous rice with chicken in lotus leaf

Mango and pomelo sago

Mini red bean paste pan cake with banana

Upcoming Movies

2011-05-17T17:24:00.004+08:00

Upcoming movies ...

X-men: First Class

Green Lantern

Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Captain America: The First Avenger

Cowboy and Aliens

Note to a Dental Specialist

2011-04-30T15:53:00.000+08:00

This note is just a feedback, so feel free to dispose of it after reading.

Not wanting to give this feedback in front of your colleagues or staff, here is just a heads up to let you know the inconvenience and agony your patients are going through.

I believe many of your patients, like me, face the same problem, but few would have enough courage to let you know the whole truth. My objective for this feedback is to enable you to understand your patients better, so please do not take this too hard or feel it is written to give offense.

You probably can understand the pain your patients are going through with minor slips such as sharp brace brackets and wire ends not snipped off. It costs much for patients like me to have to suffer excruciating pain with ulcers and not being able to eat well or even open mouth just to talk.

As you know, not all patients can immediately go back and see you to get the problem fixed right away and some may have to suffer the pain for days. Ad hoc visits to and from workplace can also cost much, and in my case, I have already spent an accumulated amount of more than a hundred dollars just paying for cab fares for non-scheduled visits. Such visits have also brought much inconvenience with too many excuses requesting for time off from work.

You will understand the frustration, pain and agony your patients are going through besides bearing unnecessary cost. As a standard practice and procedure in the future, therefore, can you without having to be reminded do the necessary checks and fix the necessary after each patient's visit?

Thank you for taking the time to read this note. Looking forward to making things better for the future, please accept my apologies should this feedback bring you any unhappiness or stress.

Happy Easter Day

2011-04-24T00:00:00.003+08:00

Wishing All ...

God bless you! (",)

Thor

2011-04-23T09:01:00.000+08:00

Synopsis
Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment present the epic adventure, "Thor," which spans the Marvel Universe from present day Earth to the realm of Asgard. At the center of the story is the mighty Thor (Chris Hemsworth), a powerful but arrogant warrior whose reckless actions reignite an ancient war. Thor is cast down to Earth by his father Odin (Anthony Hopkins) and is forced to live among humans. A beautiful, young scientist, Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), has a profound effect on Thor, as she ultimately becomes his first love. It's while here on Earth that Thor learns what it takes to be a true hero when the most dangerous villain of his world sends the darkest forces of Asgard to invade Earth.

Official Site: thor.marvel.com
Singapore Release Date: 28th April 2011, Thursday
Running Time: 130 minutes
Ratings: G
Genre: Action | Adventure | Drama
Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Anthony Hopkins, Kat Dennings, Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman
Crew: Director (Kenneth Branagh), Producer (Kevin Feige), Writers (Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, Jack Kirby), Screenplay (Ashley Edward Miller, Zack Stentz, Don PayneJ. Michael Straczynski, Mark Protosevich), Music (Patrick Doyle), Cinematography (Haris Zambarloukos) and Editing (Paul Rubell)

The Ultimate Winner

2011-04-22T21:58:00.004+08:00

Synopsis
Since young, Shi Tian Cai (Li Nanxing) was known among his peers to be the junior gambling king thanks to his gambling addict of a father. Years later, Tian Cai gets married to Zhi Hui who is about to give birth. All this while Tian Cai have been supporting his family through gambling, but with a kid now on board, things just got tougher. Without hesitation Tian Cai dabbles with the high-stake circles and with his talent and reputation manages to make a huge windfall. Tian Cai’s much sought after talent in the gambling circle generates envy from Taiwanese tycoon Li Guan Jun, and each step that Tian Cai takes brings him closer to his nemesis.

Official Site: facebook.com/theultimatewinnermovie
Singapore Release Date: 14th April 2011, Thursday
Running Time: 100 minutes
Ratings: G
Genre: Drama
Cast: Phyllis Quek, Li Nanxing, Rebecca Lim, Dai Yang Tian
Crew: Director (Li Nanxing)

Academic Writing Services

2011-04-08T08:33:00.005+08:00

As a writer in the business of providing writing services, I frequently get requests by people who are willing to pay me to write their academic theses and assignments for them, which I of course refused. The reason is obvious—it is not only ethically wrong to cheat, but also against my professional principles.

The fact that it took me years of hard work studying part-time before I received my degree makes me abhor anyone who cheats or take a shortcut to get his or her certificate, diploma or degree. The value and worth of achieving one's own by one's own effort and knowledge is paramount to any future success. I have learned much through serious study, not pay someone else to write for me. In the real world, there is no way for anyone to be useful to the society if that someone paves the way to success through dishonesty.

While my belief is never to take up any paid academic writing assignments requests, I recently found out there are those who do the exact opposite and seize this as an opportunity for earning money. In fact, some even advertise to encourage students to pay them to write their essays and theses! An example of this is EssayProvider.com.

I am appalled by such practices! Although writing academic assignments for requestors can earn much, it questions the integrity of the achiever. It is no wonder some potential employers doubt the credibility of potential employees when they read résumés that state academic achievement through part-time courses. Such a practice can cause significant damage to many who have really studied, of whom I was one of them.

If you are a student seeking help for assignment writing or an academic writing service provider, I pray that you would quit such unethical practices. Students who need help should seek friends or others, share information and come up with their own ideas, not pay someone else to write for them. Academic writing service providers should consider other writing services rather than just writing ‘on behalf’ of students.

May we all agree to join hands to walk the straight path in building our own integrity and credibility!

Spidey's Web Shooters

2011-04-07T08:33:00.004+08:00

Web-Covered Trees

2011-04-06T11:15:00.004+08:00

Webbings covering the trees! Is this the work of Spider-Man?

According to the news from wired.co.uk on March 30, 2011, the web covered trees is the result of spiders fleeing from the unprecedented flooding in Pakistan during the latter half of 2010 which disrupted the lives of 20 million people.

With more than a fifth of the country submerged, millions of spiders climbed into trees to escape the rising floodwater. As the water has taken so long to recede, the trees quickly became covered in a coocoon of spiderwebs. The result is an eerie, alien panorama, with any vegetation covered in a thick mass of webbing.

The unusual phenomenon, however, is a blessing in disguise. The UK's department for international development reports that areas where the spiders have scaled the trees have seen a far fewer malaria-spreading mosquitos than might be expected, given the prevalance of stagnant, standing water.

Read more ...

Spidey @ Edge of Time

2011-04-05T10:01:00.002+08:00

Spider-Man: Edge of Time

Pasta and Pizza

2011-04-03T15:54:00.001+08:00

Pastamania
930 Yishun Avenue 2 #03-01/02
Northpoint Shopping Centre
Singapore 769098

Chicken Bolognese
Waffle Potato with Drink
Pizza Supreme

New Laptop

2011-04-02T17:43:00.001+08:00

Sony VAIO 'C' Series VPCCB15FQ
With the demise of my previous laptop, here's the new one in the works for readiness.

Onboard the Bus

2011-04-01T09:41:00.004+08:00

The back of the shuttle bus was empty but the front was crowded. Stuck at the entrance, I had no choice but to relentlessly push my way to the back saying out loud "excuse me, excuse me."

The culprit was a guy with an oversized backpack probably housing a laptop and other stuff standing half way in the middle of bus at the exit door. A few passengers and I have to stare at him while I continue to say "excuse me" and added "I am going to the back" before the guy took down his bag to let the passengers move to the rear.

As a constant practitioner wishing to encourage and push people to put into practice acts of social etiquette, I sometimes find it really difficult to forbear such inconsiderate acts.

May all of us, especially those carrying backpacks, always remember we are not alone in our own world and pay attention to the needs of others!

Watching While Waiting

2011-03-30T09:26:00.004+08:00

Watching this TVB series on DVD in the meantime
while waiting to get a new laptop which
went dead a few days ago

Signboard

2011-03-29T13:31:00.008+08:00

Unless the advertiser is manufacturing living water, I don't think it knows what it is talking about.

Signboard above a closed wooden door
of a corporation at TradeHub 21,
20 Boon Lay Way #01-167

Coins or No Coins

2011-03-25T09:17:00.004+08:00

I was rushing to catch a shuttle bus this morning. A woman behind me seem in a hurry, so I let her board the bus first as I was still trying to get my coins ready for the bus fare. On boarding the bus, the woman started digging for coins from her bag, leaving me no choice but to queue behind her as I could not drop my coins in the box with her blocking.

The driver signaled me to bypass the lady, so I got to the side to drop the coins, but because of the awkward position, dropped my coins on the floor. Both of us—the woman and I—ended up apologizing for the delay to all the people behind us who were waiting to board. I then picked up my coins and dropped them into the box while the woman continued to dig.

This is kind of people we encounter every day, people who cannot wait to be first and have no regard for the interest of others. But as for me, I live by a code of conduct following the biblical verse that states:

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. (Philippians 2:3-4 NAS)

Here’s a penny for your thoughts. When you are not ready, will you wait and not rush to get ahead of others?

Fabulous JP Western Lunch

2011-03-19T16:38:00.006+08:00

Eatzi Gourmet
SAFRA Yishun Country Club (JP Pepperdine Group)
60 Yishun Ave 4 #01-V2 Singapore 769027

Eatzi Sampler Platter (for two)
Combination of Onion Rings, Spring Rolls, Calamari Rings,
Chicken Pockets and Chicken Drumlets/Wings

Grilled Fillet of Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce

Fresh Lobster Bisque

Dessert n Tea

Happy St Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T00:00:00.004+08:00

Wishing All a Blessed and ...

Let's GO GREEN today!

World Invasion — Battle: Los Angeles

2011-03-15T09:35:00.010+08:00

Release Date: March 17, 2011
Running Time: 116 minutes
Ratings: G
Genre: Action Sci-Fi Thriller
Cast: Bridget Moynahan, Ramon Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Michael Pena, Aaron Eckhart.
Crew: Director (Jonathan Liebesman), Producer (Jeffrey Chernov, Neal H. Moritz, Ori Marmur), Writers (Christopher Bertolini), Music (Brian Tyler), Cinematography (Lukas Ettli) and Editing (Christian Wagner)
Official Site: http://www.battlela.com

Synopsis: For years, there have been documented cases of UFO sightings around the world – Buenos Aires, Seoul, France, Germany, China. But in 2011, what were once just sightings will become a terrifying reality when Earth is attacked by unknown forces. As people everywhere watch the world’s great cities fall, Los Angeles becomes the last stand for mankind in a battle no one expected. It’s up to a Marine staff sergeant (Aaron Eckhart) and his new platoon to draw a line in the sand as they take on an enemy unlike any they’ve ever encountered before.

Road Accident

2011-03-13T15:14:00.004+08:00

A road accident at junction of Sembawang Way and Admiralty Drive just minutes ago. I think an AC-bus is involved as well.

Cool Animation

2011-03-11T17:11:00.005+08:00

My Sea Water Aquarium

Cool Animation from Sevenoak Art.

Hope you like it! (",)

Facing the Boss

2011-02-24T09:24:00.004+08:00

I woke up this morning feeling a little depressed over my job situation. I have been having such moods frequently of late ever since the team I was working in was absorbed into another department headed by a lady boss using top-down management style.

The lady boss is a practitioner of every aspect of what we typically learned from management studies in using negative motivational tactics to get staff working in fear following a hierarchical structure. Her personality and disposition is generally fierce, and she constantly breathes down the necks of her staff every weekly department meeting. Words from her are like fire—hot and fiery, and like storm—cold and harsh, filled full with regular reprimands. The way her staff is handled is similar to the way elementary school teachers treat the kids. It is as if every of the staff owes her a living, and any difference in opinions finds trouble for oneself. Few are willing to put their jobs on the line to practice the freedom of speech.

Such is the depressive moods I faced these days, which similar feelings have once faded from my past many years ago. No such negative feelings existed when I began working in this corporation some six years ago. Things have been fairly well with everyone doing their part as a team, working with each other to resolve issues rather than being driven from top-down. When I woke up this morning, however, the first thing that came to mind was the urgent need to calm down and seek God. I knew in my heart there was a verse that express well how I felt and therefore desperately searched for the Bible verse to calm myself and cry out to God. I knew I was already late for work, but felt the need to read the verse I was seeking to express myself, and eventually found it.

Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him For the help of His presence. (Psalm 42:5 NAS)

I then read the entire Psalm 42 and realized the cry in verse 5 ended with the same starting words in verse 11, but with a different ending.

Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. (Psalm 42:11)

In my desperation I cried out to God. Yes, I shall call upon the Lord and seek His face in my time of difficulty.

Spanish n Portugese Delicacies

2011-02-21T17:55:00.008+08:00

Chicken Drumsticks

Barbeque Pork

Spanish Paella

Mussels

Portugese Tarts

HappY Lunar NeW YeaR 2011!

2011-02-03T00:00:00.005+08:00

Happy holidays, everyone!
Wishing all of you a Prosperous
and Happy Chinese New Year!

I'll be away from Singapore,
returning February 17, 2011

Pre-CNY Seafood Lunch

2011-01-25T13:46:00.001+08:00

Long Beach Seafood Restaurant
Jurong East St 21
Level 3 IMM Building

Chinese New Year
Prosperity Lunch
Salad Prawns, Ngoh Hiong,
Chicken Cubes and Jellyfish

Gift for New Born

2011-01-24T12:13:00.003+08:00

Disney's Gold Pendant Gift with
Plush Toy by Poh Heng Jewellery

T-Shirt Collectable

2011-01-23T00:10:00.004+08:00

One of my favorite T-shirts ...

Atlantis Submarines @ Oahu, Hawaii

Faith and Livelihood

2011-01-18T16:50:00.005+08:00

Many people seem to think if a person is of a particular faith, he or she should do or not do certain things. This is like telling someone to live lives separate from the crowd if one believes in a faith that requires holiness. Such thinking, in my opinion, is unrealistic and very much mistaken because one cannot live a double life or live a life with an alter-ego identity in the real world.

As a former journalist, I used to have to cover entertainment news of and mix around with people in the entertainment circle—people who spend more time at the clubs than in the offices. Even after I have moved to writing more serious stuff, I continue to keep in contact with these people I know from the so-called 'unholy' side of the world. I also maintain a blog and a Facebook profile where I write about and promote entertainment stuff—including things that are primarily focused on women’s interest—as well as keep abreast of what's happening in the entertainment circle.

Recently, while writing on my other blog about things pertaining to my belief and faith, one of the readers, who knew about my entertainment blog and Facebook profile, send me and email. In it, she told me the things I wrote in my entertainment blog and posted at my Facebook profile do not reflect well of my testimony as a believer of the faith. This feedback upset me a little, and in wanting to please and not hurt anyone in the same faith, I did a thorough cleanup to remove some information and pictures of commercial value from my entertainment blog and Facebook profile. Some days after that, seeing no value in continuing with the Facebook profile, I terminated the account.

Now, my entertainment blog contains only stuff like movies’ synopsis, pictures of food dishes and the likes, minus anything specific pertaining to women’s apparels, fashion goods or other similar stuff. Long before this, my blog was a place of happenings where pictures of night spots and entertainment world, beauties and models, along with related advertisements stood out as information and what men and women want.

With the demise of the less serious stuff from the entertainment world and in its aftermath, my thoughts at times wonder whether I have made the right decision. Should one believing in God not live life as the bridge between the real and spiritual worlds? Can one really separate between living a holy life and living a life of commercial worth? How is anyone going to survive by living among the good with no earthly value instead of making a living mixing around with people that provides the bread and butter?

In a sermon I heard years ago, a speaker said if we are so holy to the point of living our lives (ascended) above ground, we are of no earthly worth to human life. I tend to concur on this frame of thinking. If we are not worth much in this world, then we are of little value in bridging the gap to bring people to the spiritual world. Life before death and after is just a thin line between the two and if we have no livelihood in this world, we need not hope to draw people to desire the other.

May all of us realize that life is not one that can be separated between the real and the spiritual world. Both the real and spiritual intertwine to form one life—that which is physical or eternal. We ought therefore to live our lives wisely and not be deceived by people who believe in living life separated one from the other, between the holy and the worldly. The correct way for us to live is to be in the world, yet not of this world, to be among the crowd and unbelievers, yet not going along to participate in sin. Beyond that, believers and unbelievers can live harmoniously to do things together and establish our earthly worth along with the spiritual.

Season of the Witch

2011-01-13T18:25:00.003+08:00

Release Date: January 7, 2011
Studio: Relativity Media
Director: Dominic Sena
Screenwriter: Bragi Schut
Starring: Nicolas Cage, Ron Perlman, Stephen Campbell Moore, Robert Sheehan, Claire Foy, Ulrich Thomsen, Stephen Graham, Christopher Lee
Genre: Action, Adventure, Supernatural
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for thematic elements, violence and disturbing content)
Official Website: SeasonoftheWitchmovie.com
Review: 5/10 rating
DVD Review: Not Available
DVD: Not Available
Movie Poster: View here
Production Stills: View here

Plot Summary: Oscar winner Nicolas Cage ("National Treasure," "Ghost Rider") and Ron Perlman ("Hellboy," "Hellboy II: The Golden Army," "Sons of Anarchy") star in this supernatural action adventure about a heroic Crusader and his closest friend who return home after decades of fierce fighting, only to find their world destroyed by the Plague. The church elders, convinced that a girl accused of being a witch is responsible for the devastation, command the two to transport the strange girl to a remote monastery where monks will perform an ancient ritual to rid the land of her curse. They embark on a harrowing, action-filled journey that will test their strength and courage as they discover the girl's dark secret and find themselves battling a terrifyingly powerful force that will determine the fate of the world.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T00:00:00.002+08:00

Wishing all my Blog Followers and Friends
a Blessed and Fruitful 2011! (",)

Déli Lunch Today

2010-12-30T13:45:00.006+08:00

Délifrance
2 Jurong East St 21
IMM Building
Singapore

Chicken mayonnaise croissant sandwich
with Twinings' English breakfast tea

Post-Christmas Lunch

2010-12-26T17:11:00.005+08:00

Thai Express
930 Yishun Avenue 2
#02-55/56/57
Northpoint Shopping Centre
Singapore 769098
Green curry chicken set with fried breaded
appetizer and tapioca dessert
Tom yam set with fried beancurd appetizer and tapioca dessert

Christmas Lunch Today

2010-12-25T16:59:00.004+08:00

Rendezvous Restaurant
(formerly at Rendezvous Hotel)
The Central #02-72/73,
6 Eu Tong Sen Street,
Singapore 059817
Nasi Padang Christmas lunch with korma chicken,
fried chicken, begedil fried potato and sayur lodeh

Christmas @ Orchard

2010-12-24T23:43:00.012+08:00

Mandarin Orchard Singapore

Paragon

Lucky Plaza

Tangs

Hostile Work Environment

2010-12-18T08:32:00.002+08:00

Ever since the department I worked in was dissolved after a hostile takeover by another, I have had a hard time adapting to the new top-down management style of my new boss.

Just yesterday, I had an intellectual argument with my new department head (stationed at another country) about the importance of the media when writing press releases and news feature story in an email copied to my new supervisor as well. After several to and fro email correspondences, I decided it should end, so I thanked her and signed off.

All I need now is calm in my heart, and I'm not asking for more. In a few days time, my current new supervisor will be leaving the organization and her position will be replaced by another. My prayer is that everything will turn out fine, but for now, it's wait and see.

Thrilling Ride at Disney World

2010-12-17T09:05:00.002+08:00

The sign states ‘WARNING! Tower of Terror is a free-fall type attraction with sudden high-speed ascents and drops through darkness,’ but I did not heed the advice and went ahead with the ride. The consequence was a once in a lifetime experience—a scare of my life—even though to some people it may be fun. That was years ago when I visited the theme park at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida.

The Tower of Terror is an attraction at the theme park, a thrill ride featuring a visit to a 199 feet tall fictional Hollywood Tower Hotel adapted from the television series ‘The Twilight Zone.’ Upon entering the elevator and going up to the 13th story, a free-fall drop sequence takes place in the dark—with all the guests in it! This drop sequence has changed over the years from one to two drops to a pre-programmed multiple drop sequence, and today randomized drops.

Pre-Christmas Sales

2010-12-05T23:40:00.005+08:00

Pre-Christmas Sales @ Causeway Point

Asian Set Lunch

2010-11-28T14:47:00.005+08:00

Just Acia
#B1-17 Dhoby Ghaut MRT station
Set lunch with free-flow drinks and ice-cream

Fried chicken with rice and miso soup

Teriyaki chicken with rice and miso soup

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T00:00:00.002+08:00

"in everything, give thanks"

Christmas Decor in the Office

2010-11-19T13:31:00.007+08:00

Christmas Decorations @ My Office's Workdesk

Thai Delicacies

2010-10-31T15:41:00.007+08:00

Thai Express
Northpoint Shopping Centre #02-55/56/57
Singapore

Prawn omelette with rice

Green chicken curry rice set
with seafood toast appetizer and tapioca with coconut milk topping

Crispy pancake with chicken and prawn appetizer

Red ruby with coconut ice cream dessert

Sweet gluttonous rice and fresh mango with coconut milk topping

Toilet Manners

2010-10-25T09:55:00.005+08:00

Having seen the worst of human behaviors and the things within a flooded toilet bowl, it's only fitting that all office toilets should have the following sign ...

Here's another way of putting across the same message politely ...

This is found in a toilet of TheStrategy@IBP.

Train is Coming ...

2010-10-20T10:12:00.004+08:00

Many people I know are getting very irritated by the constantly repeating chant at MRT station:

Train is coming … train is coming … start queuing! Love your ride!

Here’s a suggestion for a change of words:

Life is challenging … life is challenging … enjoy it! Love your life!

Narnia: Voyage of Dawn Treader

2010-10-17T13:50:00.004+08:00

Release Date: December 10, 2010 (3D/2D theaters)
Studio: Fox Walden
Director: Michael Apted
Screenwriter: Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely, Richard LaGravenese, Michael Petroni
Starring: Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, Ben Barnes, Will Poulter, Gary Sweet, Bruce Spence, Arthur Angel, Shane Rangi, Liam Neeson
Genre: Adventure, Family, Fantasy
MPAA Rating: Not Available
Official Website: Narnia.com
Review: Not Available
DVD Review: Not Available
DVD: Not Available
Movie Poster: View here
Production Stills: View here

Plot Summary: This time around – Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their pesky cousin Eustace Scrubb – find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to a fantastic Narnian ship headed for the very edges of the world.

Joining forces once again with their royal friend Prince Caspian and the warrior mouse Reepicheep, they are whisked away on a mysterious mission to the Lone Islands, and beyond. On this bewitching voyage that will test their hearts and spirits, the trio will face magical Dufflepuds, sinister slave traders, roaring dragons and enchanted merfolk. Only an entirely uncharted journey to Aslan's Country – a voyage of destiny and transformation for each of those aboard the Dawn Treader – can save Narnia, and all the astonishing creatures in it, from an unfathomable fate.

Breakfast @ Wendy's

2010-10-16T17:39:00.002+08:00

Breakfast @ Wendy's
next to Northpoint
Yishun

Help Needed: Dogs and Cats Shelter

2010-10-07T13:52:00.014+08:00

As some of you may have read in the papers, a kind lady by the name of Mdm Yap has spent 3 million dollars in the past 6 years to maintain the shelter by herself. However, due to the high expenses, she has been owing the landlord rental for a couple of months.

Another animal shelter, Mdm Wong's Shelter, is willing to take over Mdm Yap's Shelter to provide love for these animals. However, this is a long-term commitment that requires lots of manpower and financial assistance. The following is a rough breakdown of the monthly expenses:

Food: S$2,000
Manpower: S$2,000
Utilities: S$1,000
Rental: S$3,500-S$4,000
Medical: S$1,000*
Shampoo, misc, etc: S$500
Total: S$10,000-S$10,500

*Not including vet visits, hospitalisation fees

Mdm Wong's Shelter is currently facing financial difficulties as well with the possibility of closure if not enough funds are raised by end October 2010. This means some 30 dogs and 60 cats are facing the danger of being put to sleep, getting killed or abused.

A colleague of mine who has been a volunteer there for the past two Sundays, said some of the cats and dogs are strays while some of them are abandoned. Nevertheless, they are always very friendly and loving towards every volunteer. Some will jump up, grab her waist and look at her with loving eyes, and some will run and hide with fears in their eyes.

If you are interested to find out more, you can read the news and visit the following sites:

The Straits Times

Blog

Facebook

You can also email to mdmwongshelter@hotmail.com. Thank you for your support.

World Animal Day - Oct 10, 2010

2010-10-06T12:25:00.006+08:00

Volunteers needed for this Sunday's World Animal Day event.

Event Name: PAWS AT THE BEACH
Where: East Coast Park, Area D1 – Dalbergia Green
Date: 10 October (Sunday)
Time: 10.30am-6pm
Buses: 16, 31, 36, 55, 76, 135, 155, 196 and 853 to Marine Parade Road
Service 401 to East Coast Park Service Road available on Sunday.
Parking: Car Park D1

For ore information, click here.

Webinar

2010-10-01T13:32:00.005+08:00

First time I attended a webinar (web-based seminar) yesterday (9-10pm Singapore time; 9-10am USA EDT time).

I get to look at what's presented onscreen, hear the presenter's voice, ask questions and speak out. Interesting and interactive.

High Class Chicken Rice Lunch Today

2010-09-24T15:45:00.003+08:00

Chicken Rice

Chatterbox
Mandarin Orchard
Singapore

Western Lunch Today

2010-09-23T13:27:00.003+08:00

Fish and Chips

Viva Vox Cafe
3A International Business Park #01-10
Icon @ IBP, Singapore

HappY Mid-Autumn Festival!

2010-09-22T10:33:00.005+08:00

Wishing All a Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! (",)

Legend of the Fist: The Return of Chen Zhen

2010-09-13T13:24:00.002+08:00

Release Date: September 23, 2010
Studio: Media Asia
Director: Andrew Lau
Screenwriter: Andrew Lau, Gordon Chan
Starring: Donnie Yen, Anthony Wong, Huang Bo, Shu Qi
Genre: Martial Arts
MPAA Rating: Not Available

Plot Summary: In 1920s China, the nation is divided by in-fighting as Japan becomes the most powerful force in Asia, taking over Northern Shanghai. In this city torn by international conflict, local nightclub "Casablanca" becomes a hotbed of spies, English officials, mobsters, and the Japanese military- all looking to gain control of the country, with little regard for its citizens.

Into this den of intrigue enters Chen Zhen (Donnie Yen), who has returned to China after fighting alongside the Allied forces in Europe, bringing some dark secrets from his past along with him. During the day, he's known as "Ku" and appears to be just another wealthy playboy. But at night, he takes to the street as a masked warrior, determined to subvert the Japanese invasion while becoming entangled with the sultry Kiki (Played by Shu Qi), who has a dangerous secret of her own. When his past catches up to him, Zhen is faced with near impossible odds- but his skills are formidable, and he's up to the challenge.

Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps

2010-09-12T21:49:00.004+08:00

Release Date: September 24, 2010
Studio: 20th Century Fox
Director: Oliver Stone
Screenwriter: Oliver Stone, Allan Loeb
Starring: Michael Douglas, Shia LaBeouf, Josh Brolin, Frank Langella, Carey Mulligan, Susan Sarandon, Vanessa Ferlito, Charlie Sheen
Genre: Drama
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for brief strong language and thematic elements)
Official Website: WallStreetMoneyNeverSleeps.com
Review: Not Available
DVD Review: Not Available
DVD: Not Available
Movie Poster: View here
Production Stills: View here

Plot Summary: Shia LaBeouf stars with Michael Douglas, who'll reprise his Gordon Gekko role. Langella will play Lewis Zabel, an old-time broker who mentors LaBeouf's character, a young Wall Street broker.

When Gekko comes out of prison, he essentially has to redefine himself, redefine his character, he's looking for that second chance.

LaBeouf portrays Jake Moore, who is the fiancé of Gekko's daughter, played by Carey Mulligan; Josh Brolin as the head of an investment bank; and Susan Sarandon as Jake's mother. Charlie Sheen who played the central role of Bud Fox, a young trader, in the original, will make a cameo in the sequel.

Dim Sum Lunch Today

2010-09-04T23:59:00.008+08:00

Got to taste one of the best dim sum I've ever eaten today.

Old Hong Kong Kitchen
10 Sinaran Drive #02-80
Square 2 @ Novena
Singapore 307506
Web: oldhongkong.com.sg

Fragrant Rose Tea

Chee Cheong Fun with Prawns

Fried Beancurd Roll with Shrimps

Steamed Sponge Cake

Hard Rock Cafe

2010-09-03T23:46:00.004+08:00

I am an ardent collector of Hard Rock Cafe merchandize around the world—watches, key chains, t-shirts—but not in my own country!

Passed by HRC @ Orchard today.

Friends Club Upcoming Event (Sep 8, 2010)

2010-08-26T09:39:00.001+08:00

More information ...

Fee or Free?

2010-08-22T08:41:00.002+08:00

It used to be said a job is no longer a job if we are doing what we like doing. Hypothetically, this also means when what we like doing becomes a job, it is no longer a pleasure doing what we like doing.

Life as a writer is very much the same. I used to write for leisure on topics of my own interest, and I enjoyed every minute and second while I was doing it. However, when the day came for me to make a living out of what I like best, writing became more of a pressure than pleasure. Deadlines now come as part and parcel of life and rushing is a norm. Inspiration and creative thinking no longer come easy as before, and hard work seems always the order of the day. All these often boil down to one question—am I writing for free or for a fee? When I write for a fee, expectations are always tagged with the price, and this is seldom fun. When I write for free, it is usually done with pleasure and there is no pressure.

Many, like me, enjoy writing for pleasure. Pleasure alone however is not enough to keep me and my family living happily ever after. In the real world, if I hope to survive, I need to be paid for what I write. What I write however is not up to me to decide, and depends on the demand required by the respective publications. If a publication wants me to write on topics such as lifestyle, like what’s hot what’s not, nightlife favorite spots, latest in the fashion and entertainment world, I’ll just have to go along and mix around with the people famed for such lifestyles, whether I like it or not.

Life as a writer is not all a bed of roses. It is also not all just about doing what we like best because every rose has its thorns. In order for me to make a living, it matters whether I am writing for free or for a fee. If I wish to survive, I will have to go with what’s in demand, what make news and what people want to read. I am no saint though I very much want to live my life free from the entanglements of this world. Eventually, however, the question remains the same. In what way can I survive? Should I follow the instructions of my editor and write what’s in demand—which bears consequences of mixing with the wrong crowd—or do I keep myself clean and lost credibility in the industry?

If you are in my position and you are a writer working for a publisher, which path would you take? Would you maintain your dignity to stay clear from mixing around with the wrong company or would you simply do what is demanded of the job and leave the rest to taking a step at a time?

Lunch Today @ Central

2010-08-21T19:00:00.006+08:00

Kopi Roti Central
6 Eu Tong Sen Street #B1-26
The Central Mall
Singapore 59817

Prawn Noodles

Laksa

Men's Shoes

2010-08-21T18:01:00.004+08:00

Hush Puppies - The Body Shoe

Bought this pair of shoes from Hush Puppies today.

About the Shoe (according to Hush Puppies)
Proven by experts in biomechanics, this unique design enhances natural walking motion, making your stride smoother and more balanced. The BioBevel is perfectly placed in the heel and toe to encourage the foot to follow the most natural and efficient motion. High-tech materials typically found in athetic shoes keep your feet cool, dry and comfortable.

Japanese Buffet Lunch Today

2010-08-20T14:39:00.005+08:00

Kuishi Bo Japanese Buffet Restaurant
1 Jurong West Central 2
Jurong Point #B1-47/51

Japanese Food Street
Singapore 648886

New Japanese Restaurant @ IMM

2010-08-13T13:46:00.005+08:00

New AOBA / BOTEJYU

Japanese Restaurant @ IMM

Japanese Gourmet Town - BOTEJYU
IMM Building#01-31/32
Singapore 609601

Wanna try it with me?
I'm available on weekdays lunchtime.

TVB Series - Growing Through Life 摘星之旅

2010-08-11T08:54:00.006+08:00

Starring: 刘松仁 Damian Lau, 林峰 Raymond Lam, 黄宗泽 Bosco Wong, 叶童 Cecilia Yip, 赵子琪 Zhao Ziqi, 梁靖琪 Toby Leung, 林嘉华 Dominic Lam, 吕有慧 Lui Yau Wai

Cuisine Lunch Today

2010-08-07T18:53:00.008+08:00

My Mum's Cuisine
238 Thomson Road #02-76/77
Novena Square
Singapore 307683
Seafood Hor Fun with squid, prawns, fish cake and vegetables
Sambal Prawn Omelette

Chendol dessert

Nurse Night @ SupperClub ~ August 7, 2010

2010-08-05T18:12:00.009+08:00

Socialdeal Launch Party @ Supperclub - Nurse Night (7 August 2010)

Join us to celebrate our launch in the most elegant club in Singapore. The upscale club is regarded to be the most trendy, offering the glitz of Singapore's night scene. Supperclub, without a doubt, is the unprecedented lifestyle party destination.

Avatar (Special Edition) Returing to Theaters

2010-08-05T09:32:00.003+08:00

20th Century Fox has announced that James Cameron's Avatar will be re-released into Digital 3D and IMAX 3D theaters on August 27 with over 8 minutes of never before seen footage!

"Since - and largely as of result of - Avatar's release last December, the number of available digital 3D screens has exploded, and moviegoers who missed experiencing the film in 3D, as well as fans that want to return to Pandora again, will now have that opportunity," the studio said.

The Oscar and Golden Globe winning epic is the highest grossing film of all time, taking in over $2.7 billion in worldwide box office.

The Expendables

2010-08-04T18:18:00.005+08:00

Release Date: August 13, 2010
Studio: Lionsgate
Director: Sylvester Stallone
Screenwriter: David Callaham, Sylvester Stallone
Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Eric Roberts, Randy Couture, Steve Austin, David Zayas, Giselle Itie, Charisma Carpenter, Gary Daniels, Terry Crews, Mickey Rourke
Genre: Action, Thriller
MPAA Rating: R (for strong action and bloody violence throughout, and for some language)
Official Website: Expendablesthemovie.com
Review: Not Available
DVD Review: Not Available
DVD: Not Available
Movie Poster: One-Sheet Legends Art Poster Outdoor Art 1 Outdoor Art 2
Production Stills: View here

Plot Summary: Expendable: capable of being sacrificed in order to accomplish a military objective.

"The Expendables" is a hard-hitting action/thriller about a group of mercenaries hired to infiltrate a South American country and overthrow its ruthless dictator. Once the mission begins, the men realize things aren’t quite as they appear, finding themselves caught in a dangerous web of deceit and betrayal. With their mission thwarted and an innocent life in danger, the men struggle with an even tougher challenge – one that threatens to destroy this band of brothers.

Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone) is a man with nothing to lose. Fearless and void of emotion, he is the leader, the sage and the strategist of this tight-knit band of men who live on the fringe. His only attachment is to his pickup truck, his seaplane and his team of loyal modern-day warriors. His is a true cynic who describes what he does as "removing those hard to get at stains." The team behind him is made up of Lee Christmas (Jason Statham), former SAS and a savant with anything that has a blade; Yin Yang (Jet Li), a master at close-quarter combat; Hale Caesar (Terry Crews), who has known Barney for ten years and is a long-barrel weapons specialist; Toll Road (Randy Couture), a skilled demolitions expert and considered the intellect of the group; and Gunnar Jensen (Dolph Lundgren), a combat veteran and an expert in precision sniping who struggles with his own demons.

When the mysterious Church offers Barney a job no one else would take, Barney and his team embark on what appears to be a routine mission: overthrow General Gaza (David Zayas), the murderous dictator of the small island country of Vilena and end the years of death and destruction inflicted on its people. On a reconnaissance mission to Vilena, Barney and Christmas meet their contact Sandra (Giselle Itie), a local freedom-fighter with a dark secret. They also come to learn who their true enemy is: rogue ex-CIA operative James Monroe (Eric Roberts) and his henchman Paine (Steve Austin). When things go terribly wrong, Barney and Christmas are forced to leave Sandra behind, essentially giving her a death sentence. Haunted by this failure, Barney convinces the team to return to Vilena to rescue the hostage and finish the job he started. And to perhaps save a soul: his own.

Herbal Soup Lunch Today

2010-08-04T13:22:00.002+08:00

Stew Soup
Food Court @ TradeHub21

Herbal Chicken Soup with rice

My Travel Collectibles

2010-08-02T22:56:00.002+08:00

Check out my Travel Collectibles
Click on image to access photo album

Curry Fish Head Lunch Today

2010-07-31T23:22:00.005+08:00

Ocean Curry Fish Head @ Amoy
181 Telok Ayer Street
Singapore 068529

Curry Fish Head

Shrimp Paste Chicken

West meets East Lunch Today

2010-07-30T13:44:00.005+08:00

Golden Rooster Rice & Pasta Express Western

Fried Fish with fragrant (chicken) rice,
salad and soup @ 31 IBP (Creative) #07-00

Salt ... the Movie

2010-07-29T08:52:00.004+08:00

Release Date: July 23, 2010
Studio: Columbia Pictures (Sony)
Director: Phillip Noyce
Screenwriter: Kurt Wimmer
Starring: Angelina Jolie, Liev Schreiber, Chiwetel Ejiofor
Genre: Action, Thriller
MPAA Rating: PG-13 (for intense sequences of violence and action)
Official Website: WhoisSalt.com
Review: 6.5/10 rating
DVD Review: Not Available
DVD: Not Available
Movie Poster: View here
Production Stills: View here

Plot Summary: As a CIA officer, Evelyn Salt (Jolie) swore an oath to duty, honor and country. Her loyalty will be tested when a defector accuses her of being a Russian spy. Salt goes on the run, using all her skills and years of experience as a covert operative to elude capture. Salt's efforts to prove her innocence only serve to cast doubt on her motives, as the hunt to uncover the truth behind her identity continues and the question remains: "Who Is Salt?"

Western Lunch Today

2010-07-27T14:35:00.003+08:00

Fish and Chips

Harry's @ IBP
1A International Business Park #01-01
Singapore 609933

The Last Airbender

2010-07-25T23:05:00.001+08:00

Release Date: July 1, 2010 / August 5, 2010 (3D/2D theaters)
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Screenwriter: M. Night Shyamalan
Starring: Noah Ringer, Nicola Peltz, Jackson Rathbone, Dev Patel, Jessica Jade Andres, Aasif Mandvi, Shaun Toub, Cliff Curtis, Keong Sim
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
MPAA Rating: PG (for fantasy action violence)
Official Website: TheLastAirbendermovie.com
Review: 5.5/10 rating
DVD Review: Not Available
DVD: Not Available
Movie Poster: One-Sheet 1 One-Sheet 2 Poster 2 Banner 1 Banner 2 Poster
Production Stills: View here

Plot Summary: Air, Water, Earth, Fire. Four nations tied by destiny when the Fire Nation launches a brutal war against the others. A century has passed with no hope in sight to change the path of this destruction. Caught between combat and courage, Aang (Noah Ringer) discovers he is the lone Avatar with the power to manipulate all four elements. Aang teams with Katara (Nicola Peltz), a Waterbender, and her brother, Sokka (Jackson Rathbone), to restore balance to their war-torn world.

Based on the hugely successful Nickelodeon animated TV series, the live-action feature film "The Last Airbender" is the opening chapter in Aang's struggle to survive.

Grid Girls 2010 Audition

2010-07-22T18:22:00.001+08:00

SingTel F1 Grid Girls 2010 Audition @ Zouk!

Guide to Hawker Food

2010-07-22T13:34:00.003+08:00

Wanna know what hawker food is nice ? Check out the CEOs' Hawker Guide by The Business Times and Knight Frank. Let the chief executive officers (CEOs) recommend you the real stuff of what's good hawker food in Singapore!

CEOs' Hawker Guide @ 4Shared
CEOs' Hawker Guide @ Scribd.

Tongue, Taste and Struggles

2010-07-22T08:22:00.000+08:00

Many of us have been taught that the human tongue may be divided into various sections when mapped according to areas of taste receptors. The tip of the tongue is the section for tasting sweet, the sides for sour and salty, and the back for bitter. Some studies however suggest that this mapping may be wrong because there is at the least a fifth basic taste.

In a health news archive from The New York Times, it was reported that besides the four basic tastes of sweet, sour, salty and bitter, there is a fifth flavor—savory. Savory can be detected in miso, soy sauce and other Asian foods, particularly those that contain monosodium glutamate. Scientists suspect there are receptors for other flavors as well and that receptors for basic tastes are not localized according to sections but spread throughout the tongue. What this means essentially is that receptors for different tastes are not confined to certain parts of the tongue. According to OneLook Dictionary, 'savory' means something “pleasing to the sense of taste” or “morally respectable or inoffensive,” and ‘savor’ refers to “flavor, taste of something” or as “derive or receive pleasure from; get enjoyment from; take pleasure in.” Cambridge Dictionary defines ‘savor’ as “to enjoy food or an experience slowly, in order to enjoy it as much as possible.”

We know what it is like to taste and savor the food of our delight, and we know what it is to desire food that whets our appetite. Not everyone however gets to experience such luxury, especially the ones who are in want or poverty. Depending on our ability and circumstances, each of us can derive satisfaction and pleasure from tasting different flavors. Some of us however may get to taste or experience less of the sweet and more of the sour, salty or bitter. More often than not, many of us experience multiple ‘flavors’ of different situations at the same time, and these are seldom confined only to an area in our lives. We may taste and enjoy an aspect of our lives, yet be struggling or suffering in other areas at the same time. Like the different flavors we taste using our tongues, our lives often face differing experiences at different time.

Whether we are presently experiencing the sweetness of a good life or facing the bitterness, sourness and saltiness amidst a multitude of difficulties, however, let us stand firm, remain calm and take things in stride. Like the way we savor and taste good food, let us also savor and taste the good times we have slowly, to enjoy it as much as possible by dwelling our minds on things joyful and happy. Beyond that, let us also derive and receive pleasure in the things we do, for this is good, respectable and inoffensive, pleasing to the sense of taste and comfort for our soul. Remember the good times, how blessed we have been, and look forward to something better for the future. Even if we are low on cash, at least look for satisfaction within lesser stress. Don't forget, after the rain comes the rainbow and after the struggles come great promises.

Let's not give up, but trust to see better times even while amid the worst of situations. Draw pleasure in the things we do and especially the things we like to do. Map out the path to see what can help bridge the gap to the dreams we dreamed and work towards it with the help of God.

What Men and Women Want

2010-07-21T08:13:00.008+08:00

What do women want?
According to a survey by the Singapore Development Unit (SDU) of 200 single women, over 80% of the women expected the following of men:

- Pay for dates
- Escort them home
- Take initiative in celebrating special occasions like birthdays
- Dress up for special occasions

Nearly a quarter expected men to carry their bags for them, and half consider gentlemanly gestures like opening doors necessary.

What do men want?
A poll of what 85 men expected of their ladies was carried out by Straits Times Urban news supplement revealed the following:

- 78% ranked looks as an important feature they look out for in their date
- A girlfriend must not stop the man from socialising with his girl friends
- A girlfriend must also enjoy going out with his male friends

What some are saying on their blogs:
- This is Jenna’s Space ”We aren’t expecting very much, but it will be so good if Singapore men are a bit more caring and sensitive.
- SgForums ”Do SG Women expect too much?”
- Steph’s Blog Read this humorous love story by NTU undergraduate Stephanie. She has a modest collection of meaningful stories on love and relationships, some base on true accounts. Check them out using ther ‘Stories by me’ tag.

Where to find books on love and relationships? Check out DDC 306.7 and 646.77 in the General collection of libraries.

Source:
1. Mak Mun San, ”Love me, spoil me”, Straits Times, 24 Feb 08, Factiva, 9 Mar 08, www.factiva.com
2. Tee, Karen, Qianhua, Yeo, Straits Times Urban, “Urban man: Their ideal woman”, 6 March 2008, pg 6-7.

Posted by Ang Mei Jun,
Librarian, Adult & Young People’s Services
Source URL: http://blogs.nlb.gov.sg/ask/adults/408

SpideY: What do you think? Do you agree with the survey? Let me know what you really want, the things you like and the topics you want to know.

Venison Lunch Today

2010-07-20T13:16:00.004+08:00

Mei Wei Kitchen
Coffee shop @
Blk 282A Toh Guan Road

Venison Hor Fun with
spring onion and ginger

Wanna Meetup?

2010-07-19T09:54:00.004+08:00

Some interesting Meetup Groups in Singapore ...

The Singapore Vegetarian Meetup Group

The Singapore Tennis Meetup Group

The Singapore Writers Meetup Group

The Singapore Expat Meetup

The Singapore Shuffle - Jogging/Hiking Meetup

Singapore Digital Photography Meetup Group

Women's Chill Out Kakis

The Singapore Movie Fans (and Food Lovers') Meetup Group

Singapore Travel Meetup Group

SFC - Singapore Friends Club

Feel free to check it out!

Friends Club Meetup

2010-07-18T09:11:00.004+08:00

AFTERWORK DRINKS (FREE BEER 7.00P,M-8.00PM) -STEROLOUNGE-MARINA SQUARE

Location
Stereolounge
Pan Pacific Hotel
7 Raffles Blouevard, Marina Square
Singapore 65 6337 0800

Date: 21/07/10
Day : Wed
Time : 7.00pm -9.00pm. You can stay late if you want
Venue: Sterolab, Pan Pacific Singapore,
7, Raffles Boulevard, Marina Square, 3 minutes walk from Promenade MRT

The event is not organised by me and I am only Event co-ordinator for the event.

FREE BEER from 7pm-8pm

All standard drinks (including draught beers and wines) during Happy Hour at Stereolounge are only S$5++ each so you can come early as it starts from 5pm and goes on till 9pm

Music by DJs Edward, Stephen Day, Joe Ng, Natalie Pixiedub and Tommy AK!

Have a nice day

Francis
Founder and Organiser
Singapore Friends Club (SFC)

Green Lantern

2010-07-17T22:37:00.003+08:00

Release Date: June 17, 2011
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Director: Martin Campbell
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, Peter Sarsgaard, Tim Robbins, Mark Strong, Taika Waititi, Temuera Morrison, Angela Bassett, Jay O. Sanders and Jon Tenney
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi
MPAA Rating: TBA
Official Website: TBA
DVD Review: Not Available
DVD: Not Available
Movie Poster: Not Available
Production Stills: View here

Plot Summary: In a universe as vast as it is mysterious, a small but powerful force has existed for centuries. Protectors of peace and justice, they are called the Green Lantern Corps. A brotherhood of warriors sworn to keep intergalactic order, each Green Lantern wears a ring that grants him superpowers. But when a new enemy called Parallax threatens to destroy the balance of power in the Universe, their fate and the fate of Earth lie in the hands of their newest recruit, the first human ever selected: Hal Jordan.

Hal (Ryan Reynolds) is a gifted and cocky test pilot, but the Green Lanterns have little respect for humans, who have never harnessed the infinite powers of the ring before. But Hal is clearly the missing piece to the puzzle, and along with his determination and willpower, he has one thing no member of the Corps has ever had: humanity. With the encouragement of fellow pilot and childhood sweetheart Carol Ferris (Blake Lively), if Hal can quickly master his new powers and find the courage to overcome his fears, he may prove to be not only the key to defeating Parallaxhe will become the greatest Green Lantern of all.

Based on the popular DC Super Hero "Green Lantern" stars Ryan Reynolds in the title role as the newest member of the Green Lantern Corps. Each Green Lantern wears a ring that grants him superpowers, but when a new enemy threatens to destroy the balance of power in the Universe, their fate, and the fate of Earth, lies in the hands of their newest recruit, the first human ever selected: Hal Jordan.