Lately there is a great deal of gay activism on the social networks in regards to marriage equality and I have an inkling we are at the precipice of a paradigm-shift in the minds of the people of the world. In my opinion, we now have the critical mass to create a chain reaction that will not cease till there is full equality on the planet (or at least in the developed world). This is 2013 and I think the anti-gay camp is evolved enough by now to rise above those few weak and tired arguments against denying us the rights that we deserve.
I remember when I first came out and fully accepted my sexual identity, I went into a phase of getting into online debates with these naysayers. That was about ten years ago but the arguments on both sides have not changed. We are still in the same spot fighting the same fight and we are going to continue to fight. Hence this is a good time to let you in on how I felt then (and now) about this. Here is an excerpt of one of these lengthy responses I made to those homophobes back in 2004 (the preceding paragraphs were about the biological side of the debate ie. genetics and homosexuality in the animal kingdom):
"The opponents of homosexuality have always used a distorted upbringing in one's life as the reason for homosexuality and in my opinion, that is just plain wrong. Believe it or not, back in my home country (Singapore), there is a clause in the media censorship board that says that the media is only allowed to introduce homosexuality if it is portrayed in a bad light. What end up on the TV screens are psychopathic homosexuals with a sordid history of sexual abuse by someone of the same sex, homosexuals without positive same-sex role models during their adolescent years, etc. I am really sick and tired of that to be honest because it is just not true. Many gay people I know come from perfectly normal families.
As for the moral argument, we all know that moral values are dichotomised into secular and non-secular ones but the many voices we hear against homosexuality are usually from the Christians. That irks me a lot for many reasons. Christians have been going against everything that is not Bible-approved ranging from contraception to the theory of evolution. What irritates me is their opportunistic behaviour, taking any chance to jump on the loud religious bandwagon and cooling down after a while when they realise that what they say have close to zero impact. Recently, the issue of gay marriages has been a hot one and we see Christians sparing no chances of voicing out their moralistic concerns. But what happened to pre-marital sex? If I am not wrong, I believe that is as wrong as homosexuality but we don't see Christians holding placards outside broadcast stations every time a scene of pre-marital sex is shown on air right? This is because they know that there's nothing they can do about that anymore and thus the double standard.
What makes the religious argument topple like a house of cards is the simple fact that not everyone has the same religion and so there is no single religious yardstick to measure standards of morality. In the eyes of Christians, Muslims and Buddhists for instance are but as wrong as homosexuals, drug addicts, rapists and murderers so do we really have to waste our time listening to their incessant chanting? It's time they get down their biblical high horses and give their due respect to people of other faith and creed.
Although the above is not as simple to argue on a non-secular platform, the debate for homosexuality actually stems from the same spine. Different people have different moral values and that's that. Although some things like genocide and terrorism are unmistakably wrong, this is when the legal system kicks in and rule against such crimes. Morals and legal sanctions shouldn't and mustn't be confused as two hand-in-hand concepts though they do overlap. The difference is that the latter is black-and-white while the former is grey. Laws undoubtedly serve their useful purpose in society but beyond the penal code is a world of grey and judgements cannot be passed as simply. Homosexuality belongs in this realm of grey alongside euthanasia, abortion or even cannibalism (as long as it is consensual and the one being eaten is not killed by the person eating him/her). The debate will be interminable and that's what makes it grey. I steadfastly stand in my camp because at the end of the day, no one can dictate how and who a person loves. Who is to say one's love is wrong?
Finally we come to the numbers game but we have to ask ourselves is everything always a clear-cut case of "majority wins"? Proponents of this time-worn adage have long used it to partly, if not wholly justify the slavery of Blacks, discrimination against women and the marginalisation of the handicapped. But each of these acts of oppression have been gradually driven to extinction as the world is becoming more rational and compassionate. So why not extend this warm feeling to homosexuality now since by way of historic trends, homosexuality will inevitably become a non-issue in the future? Why not make its realisation sooner? Many countries are slowly getting there (Netherlands, Belgium, the state of Massachusetts and several states in Canada legalize gay marriages) but the majority is still deep-rooted in the quagmire of prejudice and ignorance. Homosexuals deserve the same rights as everyone else even if they are the minority since we are but as normal as Blacks, women and the handicapped.
I always believe that a country's progress in the race to better humanity can be gauged reliably by its acceptance of homosexuals, which I term "the final frontier". In millions of years to come, if aliens were to reach and reside on our planet, they will no doubt face the same problems of being the minority and "the final frontier" (I think I have been dwelling in too much science-fiction). What I want to say is -- give us a god-damn f***ing break already."
As you can see, I had a pretty strong stance and conviction in my words back then. Although I am much mellower now, the activist in me is still very much alive. As we all step onto this non-stop freight train to marriage equality, let's take a moment to celebrate how far we have come along and use this positive energy to gear us up for the final legs of this battle. I always tell people that I see the legalisation of gay marriage in Australia in three years' time. I have not felt more confident about that than I do now.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Musical journey (33)
As if being trapped in an apartment with no Internet is not dire a situation enough, I had to lose my smartphone by leaving it in a cab. You will think that cab drivers in Australia are more honest and will return lost properties right? You are so wrong. I had no such luck given that the driver was Asian (South Asian to be more exact). Since I already have the next phone I want to buy in mind, I have gotten myself a cheap-arse replacement model to tide me till I get the new one (it will be released first in UK next month). Fortunately I could retain my old number but alas I have lost all my contacts. I must remember to back them up in the future. The important photos and media in the phone have been backed up but I have still lost some that I have not. Better luck next time!
Anyway I knew I would be living like a hermit in Brisbane so I prepared my musical post in advance during my last trip back to Melbourne so I can share it more easily. Now that I am at my friend's place (with Internet!), I can finally post this.
This month's musical journey deals with bad relationships with amazing sex. Though a simple concept, it is not one that many people would experience, including myself. Sometimes writing is also about letting your imagination run wild and conjuring up scenarios and fantasies that are far away. In this song, your lover has cheated on you and you know that as you can see all the signs be it a change in his behaviour or his incessant excuses and lies. However you still stay with him for just one more night of passion. And this becomes a vicious cycle as you ask for that night of wild love-making over and over again whilst being stuck in a doomed relationship that is going nowhere.
I will be back in Melbourne for Easter and that is the time when I will make my next post. In the meantime, enjoy this month's musical offering. I remember when I had the chance to let the famous Singapore-based song-writer twins (李伟菘/李偲菘) listen to this song, they both felt that it was great and had really good selling potential. One of them even knew who the song could be sold to. It is just too bad shortly after that meeting, I relocated to Australia and that plan to sell this song got lost and forgotten. Maybe it is time to set that plan back in motion once again...
[多一次缠绵]
词 / 曲 : 锦泉
吻我的脸， 在烟花还未枯萎前
带我飞跃那条心碎的抛物线
别再拖延， 用寂寞来拉长时间
要分裂， 就快一点
他来之前， 你已经开始在蜕变
像只蝴蝶躲进它遗弃的蛹里面
就别再辩， 责任你也该负一点
爱情表面原来那么肤浅
搪塞藉口那么直接
还要我代你说抱歉
一句承诺那么敷衍
还换来一场梦魇
爱情的路没有终点
走到尽头又是原点
爱你虽然没有明天
只要今夜有多一次缠绵
不再新鲜， 你那一张傻笑的脸
你的谎言， 留下来再把他欺骗
给我时间， 在某年某月某一天
回头一瞥， 我会笑我那么可怜
[One More Night of Passion]
Kiss my face before the fireworks vanish
Take me on a journey along the trajectory of heartbreak
Don't delay the inevitable by extending time with loneliness
If you want to split up, you better hurry up
I can see your metamorphosis even before he came
Just like a butterfly crawling back into the cocoon it once abandoned
Please don't argue and shoulder at least a little responsibility
I never realised on the surface of love, things could be so superficial
With excuses so direct, I cannot help but apologise on your behalf
With promises so patronising, all I get in the end are nightmares
The road to love has no end
As you start from the beginning when you are at the finishing line
There is no future in loving you
But I still need one more night of passion with you
Your smiling face is no longer appealing
And you can leave all your lies for him
Give me some time for I am sure at some point in the unknown future
I will look back and laugh at how pitiful I once was
Anyway I knew I would be living like a hermit in Brisbane so I prepared my musical post in advance during my last trip back to Melbourne so I can share it more easily. Now that I am at my friend's place (with Internet!), I can finally post this.
This month's musical journey deals with bad relationships with amazing sex. Though a simple concept, it is not one that many people would experience, including myself. Sometimes writing is also about letting your imagination run wild and conjuring up scenarios and fantasies that are far away. In this song, your lover has cheated on you and you know that as you can see all the signs be it a change in his behaviour or his incessant excuses and lies. However you still stay with him for just one more night of passion. And this becomes a vicious cycle as you ask for that night of wild love-making over and over again whilst being stuck in a doomed relationship that is going nowhere.
I will be back in Melbourne for Easter and that is the time when I will make my next post. In the meantime, enjoy this month's musical offering. I remember when I had the chance to let the famous Singapore-based song-writer twins (李伟菘/李偲菘) listen to this song, they both felt that it was great and had really good selling potential. One of them even knew who the song could be sold to. It is just too bad shortly after that meeting, I relocated to Australia and that plan to sell this song got lost and forgotten. Maybe it is time to set that plan back in motion once again...
[多一次缠绵]
词 / 曲 : 锦泉
吻我的脸， 在烟花还未枯萎前
带我飞跃那条心碎的抛物线
别再拖延， 用寂寞来拉长时间
要分裂， 就快一点
他来之前， 你已经开始在蜕变
像只蝴蝶躲进它遗弃的蛹里面
就别再辩， 责任你也该负一点
爱情表面原来那么肤浅
搪塞藉口那么直接
还要我代你说抱歉
一句承诺那么敷衍
还换来一场梦魇
爱情的路没有终点
走到尽头又是原点
爱你虽然没有明天
只要今夜有多一次缠绵
不再新鲜， 你那一张傻笑的脸
你的谎言， 留下来再把他欺骗
给我时间， 在某年某月某一天
回头一瞥， 我会笑我那么可怜
[One More Night of Passion]
Kiss my face before the fireworks vanish
Take me on a journey along the trajectory of heartbreak
Don't delay the inevitable by extending time with loneliness
If you want to split up, you better hurry up
I can see your metamorphosis even before he came
Just like a butterfly crawling back into the cocoon it once abandoned
Please don't argue and shoulder at least a little responsibility
I never realised on the surface of love, things could be so superficial
With excuses so direct, I cannot help but apologise on your behalf
With promises so patronising, all I get in the end are nightmares
The road to love has no end
As you start from the beginning when you are at the finishing line
There is no future in loving you
But I still need one more night of passion with you
Your smiling face is no longer appealing
And you can leave all your lies for him
Give me some time for I am sure at some point in the unknown future
I will look back and laugh at how pitiful I once was
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Musical journey (32)
Hello from sunny Brisbane!!!
Although things are a little slow-moving here, this small city does have its charm. Because of the warm weather, I can walk around topless all the time, even in the CBD. Plus I recently discovered this wonderful pool with an artificial beach right in the city (Southbank). I was not prepared for swimming then so I did not go for a dip but I am so going to do it the next time I am there. And there are SO many hot muscular guys here, much more than Melbourne and Sydney! They all wear so little in this temperature! Yummy!
Also the Botanical Gardens is such a good place for a jog and it is much better than the (small) one in Melbourne. However there is no internet in my Spring Hill service apartment (not that I can use it without a computer or laptop). Luckily I can go to a friend's pad in the city to use his. Although my place is near the office and not too far from the city, it is unfortunately on top of a hill and so it takes a bit of climbing every time I have to return home (be it from work, from a day out in the city or from my grocery-run at the nearest supermarket). On the one hand, it is good exercise but on the other, it causes much stickiness in this humid weather which I am still getting used to. That being said, the unit I am living in is big enough for me and it comes with all the essentials. Maybe it is too big, which accentuates the loneliness without my boo...
Well that is a brief update from me, a little more than a week into living in this new state and city. I will provide more updates (eg. new friends, work, social activities and so on) as the days go by. I will now go back to talking about my music.
Some of you might be aware that I was planning to busk in Melbourne right in the city centre. Alas my guitarist has found a new job in a woop-woop part of New Zealand which means that our plans are now down the drain (my going to Brisbane does not help a single bit too). However I am still determined to do that one day. Unlike being a pop star, you do not need to know the right people, have the right looks and be at the right age to busk. It is true performance art without all the fakery and hence there is no expiry date for such an ambition. So I will continue to look for the chance to showcase my musical talent and jump at the chance to do so whenever that opportunity surfaces.
And one of such opportunities came about during my trip back home last year when I crashed my friend's pub gig, something that has happened on many occasions. This time, I did a Jason Mraz cover. It is one of those songs that is written right from the heart with an emotional story and it really appeals to me. This song-writer is one of the most brilliant out there and if I can just be half as good as him, I would be very happy with myself.
This month's musical journey brought to you by me, "Love for a Child".
Boo... I will be back tomorrow night to hug and kiss you again. I miss you so much!
Although things are a little slow-moving here, this small city does have its charm. Because of the warm weather, I can walk around topless all the time, even in the CBD. Plus I recently discovered this wonderful pool with an artificial beach right in the city (Southbank). I was not prepared for swimming then so I did not go for a dip but I am so going to do it the next time I am there. And there are SO many hot muscular guys here, much more than Melbourne and Sydney! They all wear so little in this temperature! Yummy!
Also the Botanical Gardens is such a good place for a jog and it is much better than the (small) one in Melbourne. However there is no internet in my Spring Hill service apartment (not that I can use it without a computer or laptop). Luckily I can go to a friend's pad in the city to use his. Although my place is near the office and not too far from the city, it is unfortunately on top of a hill and so it takes a bit of climbing every time I have to return home (be it from work, from a day out in the city or from my grocery-run at the nearest supermarket). On the one hand, it is good exercise but on the other, it causes much stickiness in this humid weather which I am still getting used to. That being said, the unit I am living in is big enough for me and it comes with all the essentials. Maybe it is too big, which accentuates the loneliness without my boo...
Well that is a brief update from me, a little more than a week into living in this new state and city. I will provide more updates (eg. new friends, work, social activities and so on) as the days go by. I will now go back to talking about my music.
Some of you might be aware that I was planning to busk in Melbourne right in the city centre. Alas my guitarist has found a new job in a woop-woop part of New Zealand which means that our plans are now down the drain (my going to Brisbane does not help a single bit too). However I am still determined to do that one day. Unlike being a pop star, you do not need to know the right people, have the right looks and be at the right age to busk. It is true performance art without all the fakery and hence there is no expiry date for such an ambition. So I will continue to look for the chance to showcase my musical talent and jump at the chance to do so whenever that opportunity surfaces.
And one of such opportunities came about during my trip back home last year when I crashed my friend's pub gig, something that has happened on many occasions. This time, I did a Jason Mraz cover. It is one of those songs that is written right from the heart with an emotional story and it really appeals to me. This song-writer is one of the most brilliant out there and if I can just be half as good as him, I would be very happy with myself.
This month's musical journey brought to you by me, "Love for a Child".
Boo... I will be back tomorrow night to hug and kiss you again. I miss you so much!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Getting hot in the dunes (2)
The Brisbane assignment was on then off and now it is finally back on and for real. The Client is either very generous or very desperate as they have offered me with a very good deal to make sure that I go and help them complete the work. Paid serviced apartment, tax-free allowance for every day of interstate travel and three trips back to Melbourne. It is my first ever business trip and it was so exciting to see the air tickets in my inbox. Alas there is no computer and internet available in the serviced apartment and so I will be much more detached to social media during this period.
But my agenda today is to share the second part of the series at the Cronulla sand dunes and beach (first part here). So without further ado on the eve of my departure for this 2.5-month Brisbane work assignment, I present... me!
Now that I will be in perpetually-warm Brisbane, I really hope I get to do at least one shoot before I leave. This city needs to see me in all my glory!
But my agenda today is to share the second part of the series at the Cronulla sand dunes and beach (first part here). So without further ado on the eve of my departure for this 2.5-month Brisbane work assignment, I present... me!
Now that I will be in perpetually-warm Brisbane, I really hope I get to do at least one shoot before I leave. This city needs to see me in all my glory!
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Getting hot in the dunes (1)
I always like to do shoots in the open and in places that people won't expect to find hot naked men. An example of such a place would be a sand dune. When I was still living in Sydney, I had a great one at the sand dunes in Cronulla, just minutes from where I used to work. There was a bit of trekking to do in the soft sand but it was well worth it. The shoot then continued at a more remote section of the Cronulla beach after a little more trekking. I am really happy with the results and if I were still living in Sydney, I would work with this photographer over and over again.
He thinks that I am a better subject than a lot of the other so-called professional models that he has shot before (not in terms of looks and physique). He finds that I pose better, am able to be more natural, take directions more easily and have a better work ethic. A lot of professional models are either very insecure with their bodies despite being really hot (ie. not natural in nude shoots) or they have a poor attitude (ie. acting like a diva). As a model who does it as a hobby, I do not face the same pressure and scrutiny as professionals. In many ways, I think I am in a far better position because when I suck, I can always use the same excuse. "I am not a professional model!"
But this shoot certainly doesn't suck and like always I am going to let you be the judge. This is part one of the series so keep your eyes peeled for the next installment. Happy Chinese New Year!
He thinks that I am a better subject than a lot of the other so-called professional models that he has shot before (not in terms of looks and physique). He finds that I pose better, am able to be more natural, take directions more easily and have a better work ethic. A lot of professional models are either very insecure with their bodies despite being really hot (ie. not natural in nude shoots) or they have a poor attitude (ie. acting like a diva). As a model who does it as a hobby, I do not face the same pressure and scrutiny as professionals. In many ways, I think I am in a far better position because when I suck, I can always use the same excuse. "I am not a professional model!"
But this shoot certainly doesn't suck and like always I am going to let you be the judge. This is part one of the series so keep your eyes peeled for the next installment. Happy Chinese New Year!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Musical journey (31)
The last song I posted dealt with the theme of long-distance relationships, something that I am very familiar with. Seeing that there is still a potential that I will be working in Brisbane for a short-term project, I might very well be in that predicament. I hope that flood waters will not be a problem then!
Anyway this month’s musical journey was written when Ision and I were still in that phase where the ocean posed as a physical barrier. I like to describe being in Ision’s embrace as being home because it is just so comfortable to hug him. Although home at that time was in Singapore, that ability to be totally comfortable and at ease when I am with him simply meant that I have found somewhere new to belong, a new home.
Perhaps the greatest thing about song-writing is that you can capture all your emotions at the time of writing and freeze them in a neat little package to be savoured over and over again like a fine wine that never runs out. In my opinion, it is the perfect way to store one’s memories, be it good or bad ones and it does it way much better than a photograph. Of course, to be able to do that, you would have to write well both lyrically and musically. Have a listen to "Home" and tell me whether or not I have done a good job.
[Home]
In your eyes I see my future
In your soul my anchor
And my heart you've conquered
In your arms lies my world
And the strength for us to brave through stormy weather
When I fall you'll pick me up from the floor
And carry me on your shoulder
When I'm lost you'll take me back to your embrace
And I'll be home, take me home
I've been searching all my life
And now I've found my one and my all
To be with through gladness
For me to drown his sadness
Baby you're my happiness
I'm the moon, you're the sun
There's no way that I can shine
Without you by my side
When you kiss me, nothing else matters
'Cos I'll be home, take me home
I've been searching all my life
And now I've found my one and my all
Why do you love me so
I really want to know
But there's one more doubt that needs to go
Can you tell me where do you hide your wings and keep your halo
I've been searching all my life
And now I've found my one and my all
I want the world to know
How much I love you so
Baby you're where I call
My home
Anyway this month’s musical journey was written when Ision and I were still in that phase where the ocean posed as a physical barrier. I like to describe being in Ision’s embrace as being home because it is just so comfortable to hug him. Although home at that time was in Singapore, that ability to be totally comfortable and at ease when I am with him simply meant that I have found somewhere new to belong, a new home.
Perhaps the greatest thing about song-writing is that you can capture all your emotions at the time of writing and freeze them in a neat little package to be savoured over and over again like a fine wine that never runs out. In my opinion, it is the perfect way to store one’s memories, be it good or bad ones and it does it way much better than a photograph. Of course, to be able to do that, you would have to write well both lyrically and musically. Have a listen to "Home" and tell me whether or not I have done a good job.
[Home]
In your eyes I see my future
In your soul my anchor
And my heart you've conquered
In your arms lies my world
And the strength for us to brave through stormy weather
When I fall you'll pick me up from the floor
And carry me on your shoulder
When I'm lost you'll take me back to your embrace
And I'll be home, take me home
I've been searching all my life
And now I've found my one and my all
To be with through gladness
For me to drown his sadness
Baby you're my happiness
I'm the moon, you're the sun
There's no way that I can shine
Without you by my side
When you kiss me, nothing else matters
'Cos I'll be home, take me home
I've been searching all my life
And now I've found my one and my all
Why do you love me so
I really want to know
But there's one more doubt that needs to go
Can you tell me where do you hide your wings and keep your halo
I've been searching all my life
And now I've found my one and my all
I want the world to know
How much I love you so
Baby you're where I call
My home
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Time for Facebook updates
This is the golden age of social networking and like what I mentioned in this post, Facebook status updates are an excellent way of offering insights to a person's psyche as well as the going-ons in one's life. But first a brief report of my recent happenings.
Work woes regarding my performance disputes with my ex-boss has faded away mainly because of my continuous excellent work ethic now fully-recognised by my new boss. However more work troubles came in the form of future security (especially around my ever-changing start date of that cursed temporary placement in the Brisbane office), job applications (endless submissions of my CV) and interviews (or lack thereof). I recently lost the opportunity to work in one of my dream companies (Shell) and as depressing as it is, once you view failure as a form of certainty, you can then move on to greater things.
Mum also came and left (her first trip to Melbourne), causing my 1-kg weight gain with her ultra-yummy food over the three weeks of her stay. I have lots of pictures to prove how delicious her cooking is (too many to blog I think) and how it is the perfect remedy for home-sickness. I just hope that the withdrawal symptoms (food-wise and Mum-wise) I am currently experiencing will subside soon. For me, the happiest thing that happened during her visit is to see her still healthy and strong after her various medical procedures. It always saddens me to think that it takes a plane ride and eight hours to be able to see her.... why can't the people you love be always by your side?
I also recently joined a nudist group in Melbourne (finally!) and come next weekend, I will be heading to this nudist getaway (NudeManFest) as part of this year's Midsumma Festival and I am SO looking forward to making more naturist friends in Melbourne. I have also expanded my Asian circle, all thanks to my Malaysian work colleagues, one of who seem to know everyone else Malaysian in Melbourne. On the social front, I think I am at quite a comfortable place now a.k.a. the sweet spot ie. not too busy that you miss out on alone time and not too boring that you become a city hermit.
New challenges and experiences also mean that it is easy to neglect other things that are equally important to you. For me that is song-writing and photo shoots. I have only done two proper shoots in Melbourne for the entire 2012, can you believe it? Not many new musical compositions too. Maybe this means that I am gradually getting over these hobbies, which could very well be the inevitable natural evolution of things. I should also really concentrate on getting my repertoire firmed up for my virginal busking session in the city (my guitarist friend and I have started on something but the holiday season has put a halt to its further development).
In this fresh new year, the uncertainties of the last quarter of 2012 will continue to plague me and might even see Ision and I relocating to Brisbane (because of work in my industry drying up in Victoria). When one door closes, another one will open. Though cliche, it is true and if viewed with the right attitude, it can give you ceaseless renewing strength in the face of this ever-changing world.
Well that is the end of my report. Here are my Facebook status highlights for the past month.
"Port Campbell weekend road trip starts 2.30pm today. It's been ages since my last!!!"
"Busy preparing for my interview at Shell tomorrow. I can't wait for this thing to be over. Wish me luck!"
"My holidays can finally start after this stressful interview! Last day at work tomorrow and Mum arrives 4 days later. I will be in the Brisbane office when I receive the yay-or-nay call from Shell in the 2nd week of January. The ball is in their court now. Phew!"
"Someone at Shell thought I was interviewing for a job fresh out of uni! Do I really look that young?"
"Holidays are sometimes supposed to be a time to rest and relax and to do nothing, not a mad rush to see and do things. That is what I will be doing exactly from now for 2 whole weeks. Yay for me!"
"Looks like my start date in Brisbane has been delayed for a week. I think that's good as this means that my mum can stay in Melbourne (a much more interesting city) for one more week."
"Ho ho ho. It always feels nice when you find your pictures uploaded by others on "Hotbods" (Trevvy) and the like."
" 'Sex nymph who is as smooth and hard as marble'. Those are pretty great compliments!"
"Why are so many people obsessed with their ancestry? Family tree fanatics and ancestry.com fans, why do you want the unchangeable past to affect how you think and what you do today and in the future?"
"Morning gym in 10 minutes. Then spring cleaning today in preparation of mummy's arrival tomorrow. Followed by Christmas Eve potluck at friend's tonight. Sinking my teeth into a turducken for the first time! Merry Christmas everyone!"
"A Mum-cooked dinner in more than a year's time. Blissful bliss...."
"Christmas present (Xbox Kinect) bought by myself for myself, post-Christmas. Finally I am a complete gamer!"
"Gotta test out my new Fable Kinect game later today. So excited!"
"Yummy iced coffee with cacao made with love by my boo, after a morning of shopping with mummy.
"My only Christmas present in 2012 arrived in the mail today, from mother-in-law."
"After first day of Fable Kinect, the verdict: casting bolt with your right hand so frequently can really make it a little sore."
"Why does Grindr still continue to monopolize the market when it is so bloody buggy???!"
"Will my blog amass 40,000 hits before the end of 2012? I am at 39,471 now."
"The most beautiful sight on earth. Someone you love beyond words preparing a meal for you. Love is filling my one room apartment up right now."
"Jay Chou's albums are getting more and more disappointing..."
"Is Love Actually Sucks 《愛很爛》 the first non-porn Asian movie with full-on uncensored sex (gay and straight), erections, oral, penetrations, and all?"
"OK, I saw the promotional video of "The Life of Pi" and I am sold. Going to watch it with my mum."
"The cutest president award goes to.... Mexico! Can you show me a cuter one? (current presidents only)"
"I have never seen Flinders Street station so packed before. It was weird walking down the closed-to-traffic Swanston Street after the fireworks. Felt like Oxford Street post-Mardi Gras x 40%."
"Luckily my mum likes shopping, otherwise I would have run out of city sights to show her."
"Scorching 41ºC day in Melbourne. It's such a shame there are no nudist groups organising activities here -- the weather is PERFECT for some nudist fun today. I tried looking for these groups but could not find any. Rod Sydney, where in Melbourne are people the likes of you?"
"Shit! Gaining weight from Mum's yummy cooking. Need to be more disciplined before I lose my abs!"
"Have been feeling quite unsettled these few weeks and is somewhat affecting my mood. That's mainly because without knowing my Shell interview outcome (I am supposed to know next week), my next 2 - 3 months might or might not be based in Brisbane (which will involve troublesome logistics). Also partly because of mum being here (ie. normal schedule totally out the window). Can't help but feel this way when things are again in flux."
"With the government of Singapore against one gay man, anyone in the right frame of mind would concede defeat regardless of the truth. I'd be really surprised if a well-respected blogger like Alex who never fails to thoroughly research his subjects would actually falter in this instance." "I want to eat less rice so as not to lose any more of my leanness. Then mum cooks chicken rice. ARRGGGGHH!"
"I don't understand the huge fuss over this issue (Lance Armstrong’s doping case). Steroid-use in professional bodybuilding is such an open secret. Why can't it be the same for cycling? I suspect in this case it's because a lot of athletes out there with sour grapes who got caught want him to go down as well, which explains all the dobbing and coverage."
"I am supposed to start work in Brisbane next Monday and I have still not received any details regarding accommodation, flights, terms and conditions. And the project secretary in Brisbane is still on holidays and will be back next Monday. Brisbane office = epic fail."
"My blog has just garnered more than 40,000 hits!"
"No work for me to do tomorrow at the office. Another sick day is in sight ready to be chucked in."
"This is fucked up to the nth degree. My Brisbane job is delayed yet again and I was only informed of this today when I am supposed to start on Monday next week. From now on, as long as an air ticket doesn't land in my inbox, the fat lady hasn't started singing yet, and I am not going to get mentally-prepared for the move. UUURRGGHH!"
"Now that I will still be in Melbourne for a couple more weeks at least, I will be going to this (NudeManFest). Wanna join me?"
"Maybe Aussies are not racists. It's just McDonalds' marketing team knowing what sells (and it is not Asians). For me, that's my experience with DNA magazine all over again when they said they know what sells and Asian models don't. What do you reckon?"
"Lately I have been quite addicted to this ultra-popular Taiwanese variety show called 《康熙來了》. I stayed up till 3.30am watching it last night!"
"Mum's last night with me... she's making bo bo cha cha for our horror movie night at home, just like the good old days. I will miss this... and her."
"Midsumma opens tomorrow. I still remember a year ago when I was at the opening for the first time, fresh-faced, ready to take on Melbourne. Now I am an oldie considering moving away from Melbourne. What happened?"
"The apartment feels empty without mum..."
Work woes regarding my performance disputes with my ex-boss has faded away mainly because of my continuous excellent work ethic now fully-recognised by my new boss. However more work troubles came in the form of future security (especially around my ever-changing start date of that cursed temporary placement in the Brisbane office), job applications (endless submissions of my CV) and interviews (or lack thereof). I recently lost the opportunity to work in one of my dream companies (Shell) and as depressing as it is, once you view failure as a form of certainty, you can then move on to greater things.
Mum also came and left (her first trip to Melbourne), causing my 1-kg weight gain with her ultra-yummy food over the three weeks of her stay. I have lots of pictures to prove how delicious her cooking is (too many to blog I think) and how it is the perfect remedy for home-sickness. I just hope that the withdrawal symptoms (food-wise and Mum-wise) I am currently experiencing will subside soon. For me, the happiest thing that happened during her visit is to see her still healthy and strong after her various medical procedures. It always saddens me to think that it takes a plane ride and eight hours to be able to see her.... why can't the people you love be always by your side?
I also recently joined a nudist group in Melbourne (finally!) and come next weekend, I will be heading to this nudist getaway (NudeManFest) as part of this year's Midsumma Festival and I am SO looking forward to making more naturist friends in Melbourne. I have also expanded my Asian circle, all thanks to my Malaysian work colleagues, one of who seem to know everyone else Malaysian in Melbourne. On the social front, I think I am at quite a comfortable place now a.k.a. the sweet spot ie. not too busy that you miss out on alone time and not too boring that you become a city hermit.
New challenges and experiences also mean that it is easy to neglect other things that are equally important to you. For me that is song-writing and photo shoots. I have only done two proper shoots in Melbourne for the entire 2012, can you believe it? Not many new musical compositions too. Maybe this means that I am gradually getting over these hobbies, which could very well be the inevitable natural evolution of things. I should also really concentrate on getting my repertoire firmed up for my virginal busking session in the city (my guitarist friend and I have started on something but the holiday season has put a halt to its further development).
In this fresh new year, the uncertainties of the last quarter of 2012 will continue to plague me and might even see Ision and I relocating to Brisbane (because of work in my industry drying up in Victoria). When one door closes, another one will open. Though cliche, it is true and if viewed with the right attitude, it can give you ceaseless renewing strength in the face of this ever-changing world.
Well that is the end of my report. Here are my Facebook status highlights for the past month.
"Port Campbell weekend road trip starts 2.30pm today. It's been ages since my last!!!"
"Busy preparing for my interview at Shell tomorrow. I can't wait for this thing to be over. Wish me luck!"
"My holidays can finally start after this stressful interview! Last day at work tomorrow and Mum arrives 4 days later. I will be in the Brisbane office when I receive the yay-or-nay call from Shell in the 2nd week of January. The ball is in their court now. Phew!"
"Someone at Shell thought I was interviewing for a job fresh out of uni! Do I really look that young?"
"Holidays are sometimes supposed to be a time to rest and relax and to do nothing, not a mad rush to see and do things. That is what I will be doing exactly from now for 2 whole weeks. Yay for me!"
"Looks like my start date in Brisbane has been delayed for a week. I think that's good as this means that my mum can stay in Melbourne (a much more interesting city) for one more week."
"Ho ho ho. It always feels nice when you find your pictures uploaded by others on "Hotbods" (Trevvy) and the like."
" 'Sex nymph who is as smooth and hard as marble'. Those are pretty great compliments!"
"Why are so many people obsessed with their ancestry? Family tree fanatics and ancestry.com fans, why do you want the unchangeable past to affect how you think and what you do today and in the future?"
"Morning gym in 10 minutes. Then spring cleaning today in preparation of mummy's arrival tomorrow. Followed by Christmas Eve potluck at friend's tonight. Sinking my teeth into a turducken for the first time! Merry Christmas everyone!"
"A Mum-cooked dinner in more than a year's time. Blissful bliss...."
"Christmas present (Xbox Kinect) bought by myself for myself, post-Christmas. Finally I am a complete gamer!"
"Gotta test out my new Fable Kinect game later today. So excited!"
"Yummy iced coffee with cacao made with love by my boo, after a morning of shopping with mummy.
"My only Christmas present in 2012 arrived in the mail today, from mother-in-law."
"After first day of Fable Kinect, the verdict: casting bolt with your right hand so frequently can really make it a little sore."
"Why does Grindr still continue to monopolize the market when it is so bloody buggy???!"
"Will my blog amass 40,000 hits before the end of 2012? I am at 39,471 now."
"The most beautiful sight on earth. Someone you love beyond words preparing a meal for you. Love is filling my one room apartment up right now."
"Jay Chou's albums are getting more and more disappointing..."
"Is Love Actually Sucks 《愛很爛》 the first non-porn Asian movie with full-on uncensored sex (gay and straight), erections, oral, penetrations, and all?"
"OK, I saw the promotional video of "The Life of Pi" and I am sold. Going to watch it with my mum."
"The cutest president award goes to.... Mexico! Can you show me a cuter one? (current presidents only)"
"I have never seen Flinders Street station so packed before. It was weird walking down the closed-to-traffic Swanston Street after the fireworks. Felt like Oxford Street post-Mardi Gras x 40%."
"Luckily my mum likes shopping, otherwise I would have run out of city sights to show her."
"Scorching 41ºC day in Melbourne. It's such a shame there are no nudist groups organising activities here -- the weather is PERFECT for some nudist fun today. I tried looking for these groups but could not find any. Rod Sydney, where in Melbourne are people the likes of you?"
"Shit! Gaining weight from Mum's yummy cooking. Need to be more disciplined before I lose my abs!"
"Have been feeling quite unsettled these few weeks and is somewhat affecting my mood. That's mainly because without knowing my Shell interview outcome (I am supposed to know next week), my next 2 - 3 months might or might not be based in Brisbane (which will involve troublesome logistics). Also partly because of mum being here (ie. normal schedule totally out the window). Can't help but feel this way when things are again in flux."
"With the government of Singapore against one gay man, anyone in the right frame of mind would concede defeat regardless of the truth. I'd be really surprised if a well-respected blogger like Alex who never fails to thoroughly research his subjects would actually falter in this instance." "I want to eat less rice so as not to lose any more of my leanness. Then mum cooks chicken rice. ARRGGGGHH!"
"I don't understand the huge fuss over this issue (Lance Armstrong’s doping case). Steroid-use in professional bodybuilding is such an open secret. Why can't it be the same for cycling? I suspect in this case it's because a lot of athletes out there with sour grapes who got caught want him to go down as well, which explains all the dobbing and coverage."
"I am supposed to start work in Brisbane next Monday and I have still not received any details regarding accommodation, flights, terms and conditions. And the project secretary in Brisbane is still on holidays and will be back next Monday. Brisbane office = epic fail."
"My blog has just garnered more than 40,000 hits!"
"No work for me to do tomorrow at the office. Another sick day is in sight ready to be chucked in."
"This is fucked up to the nth degree. My Brisbane job is delayed yet again and I was only informed of this today when I am supposed to start on Monday next week. From now on, as long as an air ticket doesn't land in my inbox, the fat lady hasn't started singing yet, and I am not going to get mentally-prepared for the move. UUURRGGHH!"
"Now that I will still be in Melbourne for a couple more weeks at least, I will be going to this (NudeManFest). Wanna join me?"
"Maybe Aussies are not racists. It's just McDonalds' marketing team knowing what sells (and it is not Asians). For me, that's my experience with DNA magazine all over again when they said they know what sells and Asian models don't. What do you reckon?"
"Lately I have been quite addicted to this ultra-popular Taiwanese variety show called 《康熙來了》. I stayed up till 3.30am watching it last night!"
"Mum's last night with me... she's making bo bo cha cha for our horror movie night at home, just like the good old days. I will miss this... and her."
"Midsumma opens tomorrow. I still remember a year ago when I was at the opening for the first time, fresh-faced, ready to take on Melbourne. Now I am an oldie considering moving away from Melbourne. What happened?"
"The apartment feels empty without mum..."
Monday, December 31, 2012
Musical journey (30)
A friend recently celebrated the official end of a four-year long-distance relationship when his girlfriend moved in with him. Looking back at my own that lasted for more than seven years, I know the joy and pain of a love separated by time and distance. Mostly pain. That was why I used to write a lot about how the laws of time and space play us all as fools and how love surrenders to geography despite its strength and power we all want to believe it holds. Fortunately towards the end of my phase of writing songs of this subject, another one of my long-distance romance had a happy ending.
However the musical journey I am guiding you through this month does not have a conclusion worth celebrating with the irony of it happening on New Year's Eve. This is the longest song I have written to date as it tells a complete love story from how it started to how it tragically ends. I find that the only way to fit the entire tale into a four-or-so minute piece is to include bits of rap in the song. And that was how it became one of my hip-hop (ish) creations, which is a musical-writing style that is growing on me. When I wrote the lyrics, I meant it to sound bitter but tone aside, it does contain a good piece of cautionary advice. Long-distance relationships will never work out if there is no concrete plan of either party relocating as human beings are wired for physical intimacy, not love based solely on a cerebral level.
I am quite satisfied with this composition and it brings me great pleasure every time I listen to it. That is why I know I need to start investing more time to write again. Hopefully with my upcoming temporary Brisbane job placement in the new year, I will have lots of time for my music since there will not be much to do in yawn-inducing Brisbane. But for now, have a listen to my newest offering. Just don't let the melancholy of it spoil your New Year celebrations.
Happy 2013!
[除夕夜]
/ 词 / 曲 ： 锦泉 /
荧光屏上显示的个人资料
端详后寄出电邮希望你能快收到
长途恋情不可靠我可知道
但数百万个画素的你我抵挡不了
第一次听到你问的一声好
太平洋在一瞬间突然变得好渺小
右耳贴着听筒我心已知晓
这一世的寻找终于出现在这一秒
天亮时唱着你爱的催眠曲
只想让你做个美梦睡个好觉
在我合上双眼临睡前
希望能感觉不到
你下班时回家途中的那份疲劳
被时差分隔着的两个世界
我眼看不见 你手握不到
这一切虽然不重要
还是渴望看日落时
能呼吸一样的空气
能有你在我怀抱
记事本除夕夜鲜红的记号
是我们半年爱情结晶的最佳代表
为了让你惊喜事先没说好
轻吻你那双唇是我一生中最需要
浑身喜悦的颤抖把你门敲
一个陌生脸孔是我唯一能够看到
"是谁" 那把声音怎么也错认不了
眼前那半裸的你我万万也没想到
长厢厮守 那一句诺言 你可撒得好
爱情怎可能比 一时之快值得少
从前我们每公里 距离如今像把刀
一万六千个伤痕 在心里放肆燃烧
眼泪 在眼角打算 今夜无理取闹
烟花 空中盛放 今夜对我嘲笑
若这全是错 愿能从今永远记牢
再强的爱也会在时空差距 前倾倒
眼泪 在眼角打算 今夜无理取闹
烟花 在空中盛放 今夜对我嘲笑
悉尼的气候依然那么酷燥
纽约的空气中雪霜将会在深夜飘
城市霓虹的妆渐渐被卸掉
澳航六点的班机起飞得比往常早
[New Year's Eve]
Details splashed out on the screen
A thorough read, a message sent and then the anticipation
Despite knowing the perils of a long-distance relationship
I simply could not resist those several megapixels of you
Then I heard your voice, greeting me for the first time
The Pacific Ocean seemed miniscule all of a sudden
With the phone pressed against my right ear, I knew
The one I have been looking for all my life has appeared in that very second
Singing a lullaby for you at daybreak so that you can have sweet dreams
Hoping to not feel your fatigue as you head home from work before I go to bed
The time difference splitting two worlds apart
My eyes could not see and my hands unable to feel
Though insignificant, I still wished when we next watch the sunset
You would be in my arms, breathing the same air
A red mark against New Year's Eve on my organiser
That was the end product of half a year of love
I meant it as a surprise and so I kept it from you
The greatest desire in my life–to kiss your lips
With my body trembling with joy I knocked on your door
A stranger's face was all I could see
"Who's there?", it was the voice that I got to know so well
And so unexpectedly there in front of me, you, half-naked
"We'll always be together", a promise you lied so well
How could love be less worthy than a moment of pleasure
Every kilometre we used to be apart stabbing me like knives
Sixteen thousand scars in my heart, burning wildly away
Tears have decided to wreak havoc in the corner of my eyes tonight
Along with the fireworks, mocking me from the sky
If this were all a mistake, let this be a lesson that I will never forget
Even the strongest love will crumble in the face of distance and time
The weather in Sydney, still so hot and dry
Fluttering snowflakes will fill the air in New York City tonight
Neon lights that made up the city hours ago slowly fading away
The 6 a.m. Qantas flight departed a little earlier today
However the musical journey I am guiding you through this month does not have a conclusion worth celebrating with the irony of it happening on New Year's Eve. This is the longest song I have written to date as it tells a complete love story from how it started to how it tragically ends. I find that the only way to fit the entire tale into a four-or-so minute piece is to include bits of rap in the song. And that was how it became one of my hip-hop (ish) creations, which is a musical-writing style that is growing on me. When I wrote the lyrics, I meant it to sound bitter but tone aside, it does contain a good piece of cautionary advice. Long-distance relationships will never work out if there is no concrete plan of either party relocating as human beings are wired for physical intimacy, not love based solely on a cerebral level.
I am quite satisfied with this composition and it brings me great pleasure every time I listen to it. That is why I know I need to start investing more time to write again. Hopefully with my upcoming temporary Brisbane job placement in the new year, I will have lots of time for my music since there will not be much to do in yawn-inducing Brisbane. But for now, have a listen to my newest offering. Just don't let the melancholy of it spoil your New Year celebrations.
Happy 2013!
[除夕夜]
/ 词 / 曲 ： 锦泉 /
荧光屏上显示的个人资料
端详后寄出电邮希望你能快收到
长途恋情不可靠我可知道
但数百万个画素的你我抵挡不了
第一次听到你问的一声好
太平洋在一瞬间突然变得好渺小
右耳贴着听筒我心已知晓
这一世的寻找终于出现在这一秒
天亮时唱着你爱的催眠曲
只想让你做个美梦睡个好觉
在我合上双眼临睡前
希望能感觉不到
你下班时回家途中的那份疲劳
被时差分隔着的两个世界
我眼看不见 你手握不到
这一切虽然不重要
还是渴望看日落时
能呼吸一样的空气
能有你在我怀抱
记事本除夕夜鲜红的记号
是我们半年爱情结晶的最佳代表
为了让你惊喜事先没说好
轻吻你那双唇是我一生中最需要
浑身喜悦的颤抖把你门敲
一个陌生脸孔是我唯一能够看到
"是谁" 那把声音怎么也错认不了
眼前那半裸的你我万万也没想到
长厢厮守 那一句诺言 你可撒得好
爱情怎可能比 一时之快值得少
从前我们每公里 距离如今像把刀
一万六千个伤痕 在心里放肆燃烧
眼泪 在眼角打算 今夜无理取闹
烟花 空中盛放 今夜对我嘲笑
若这全是错 愿能从今永远记牢
再强的爱也会在时空差距 前倾倒
眼泪 在眼角打算 今夜无理取闹
烟花 在空中盛放 今夜对我嘲笑
悉尼的气候依然那么酷燥
纽约的空气中雪霜将会在深夜飘
城市霓虹的妆渐渐被卸掉
澳航六点的班机起飞得比往常早
[New Year's Eve]
Details splashed out on the screen
A thorough read, a message sent and then the anticipation
Despite knowing the perils of a long-distance relationship
I simply could not resist those several megapixels of you
Then I heard your voice, greeting me for the first time
The Pacific Ocean seemed miniscule all of a sudden
With the phone pressed against my right ear, I knew
The one I have been looking for all my life has appeared in that very second
Singing a lullaby for you at daybreak so that you can have sweet dreams
Hoping to not feel your fatigue as you head home from work before I go to bed
The time difference splitting two worlds apart
My eyes could not see and my hands unable to feel
Though insignificant, I still wished when we next watch the sunset
You would be in my arms, breathing the same air
A red mark against New Year's Eve on my organiser
That was the end product of half a year of love
I meant it as a surprise and so I kept it from you
The greatest desire in my life–to kiss your lips
With my body trembling with joy I knocked on your door
A stranger's face was all I could see
"Who's there?", it was the voice that I got to know so well
And so unexpectedly there in front of me, you, half-naked
"We'll always be together", a promise you lied so well
How could love be less worthy than a moment of pleasure
Every kilometre we used to be apart stabbing me like knives
Sixteen thousand scars in my heart, burning wildly away
Tears have decided to wreak havoc in the corner of my eyes tonight
Along with the fireworks, mocking me from the sky
If this were all a mistake, let this be a lesson that I will never forget
Even the strongest love will crumble in the face of distance and time
The weather in Sydney, still so hot and dry
Fluttering snowflakes will fill the air in New York City tonight
Neon lights that made up the city hours ago slowly fading away
The 6 a.m. Qantas flight departed a little earlier today
Monday, December 17, 2012
A fashion experiment
It is photo shoot time again and in this "issue", I am going to share with you the results of a little fashion-shoot experiment I did a while back in a touristy part of Singapore. As you know I always like the attention when I do shoots in public but that shoot was a little different as it was done with another guy. Obviously I would prefer to do it with someone of a similar build so that we could expose more flesh and make it sexier (and in the process attract more attention). But as I have said, this was just an experiment and I was willing to have a go at it regardless. However this is not to say that the shoot was done improperly (by the same guy who did this). It was executed with proper lighting equipment as well as a make-up assistant (which was quite uncommon for me). The shoot took place around dusk so we could capture both the day and night scenes around the Esplanade. I thought it went pretty well but you have a look and tell me what you feel. Do you think I am good enough to be a fashion model?
Saturday, November 24, 2012
A short breather (part 2)
OK, I will not let my work woes prevent me from life outside of the office and so I will continue blogging. I need to reinforce the idea that it is only a job and it is not worth it...
Well, here is the second installment (first one here) of the highlights of my nine-day trip to Singapore/KL last month.
Well, here is the second installment (first one here) of the highlights of my nine-day trip to Singapore/KL last month.
The food I had during this trip back was not very impressive mainly because
it was such a short stay. A notable exception was something I had at
the Gardens—the most expensive xiao long bao I have eaten, at close to
$13 a pop. It
was filled with goose liver and came in a broth of shark's bone
cartilage. The strange things we put in our mouths.
Though I like fine-dining, hawker fare is what I really go for whenever I
make the trip back home. And Indian rojak is a dish that is quickly
disappearing on the island. It took me quite a while to hunt it down but
it was worth the effort. This is something you will NEVER find in
Australia.
I can't help but take this picture. And my bibi is such a good sport too!
A sobering reminder that regardless of how much Singapore progresses, the
island can never escape its nanny-state image, at least not for a long
time. Here are the latest samples of the uniquely-Singapore signs and
national campaigns. The bottom left picture is a classic WTF example.
My trip also included a short stay in KL, which also has its own fair
share of WTF signs and rules. The sign in the top picture was on the
door to a restaurant. I think the middle icon meant to tell people not
to bring outside food in but still I had a chuckle. The guard in the
bottom picture seemed to be there solely to prevent people from treading
on the tiny patch of carpet grass. Ision knew firsthand what it feels like
to be shooed away by a grass-guard.
The famous Petaling Street night market. It was so disappointingly
small! As with all night markets, more than 75% of the stalls seemed to be selling
the same thing. And in case you are wondering how can one further ruin
an already bad LV-fake? I have just the right picture for you.
A remake of the classic popiah (my favourite food in the world) wrapped
in egg as well as in lettuce! And who could pass off an opportunity to
savour the famous So Kee BBQ pork? Ision considers it a sacrilege when I
remove the fatty bits. I think many would too.
This is truly a dessert you can only find in Southeast Asia. Creamed
durian flesh coated with chocolate with the apt title "Durian Bomb". I thought the two flavours wouldn't
go well with each other but I was wrong. If only Ision knows how to
appreciate this prickly fruit.
The top picture features a really small section in a large supermarket. I
have a friend who swears by all things pork and I think he would die if
he were living in Malaysia. As for the 14 ringgit pack of snacks in the
bottom picture, that same bag costs only $2.99 here. Talk about the cost of importing a product! Note: the current exchange rate is 1AUD = 3.2MYR.
I hope this trend doesn't spread. To me, buying expensive clothes for
someone who will only grow out of them in a matter of months is crazy.
For that matter, having kids in itself is crazy but that is a separate
issue. By the way I have never come across sections in department stores dedicated
to designer clothes for kids, this is the first time.
My spoils from my rounds at the shops. I am quite happy with my buys
especially the almost knee-length asymmetrical cardigan I got from
H&M (third piece from the left—I have been wearing that a lot), a brand that is not
available in Australia. It is so hopeless here when it comes to popular foreign labels like H&M, Zara and Topshop.
One of my main reasons for going back home is to spend time with my mum and come Christmas, she is coming over to stay with me for at least a month (yay!). With this one less reason to go back home in the short term, I am not sure when I will next drop by Singapore/KL. Also, there is quite a good variety of Southeast Asian food here in Melbourne city (albeit nothing truly Singaporean) so my food craving doesn't ever get so strong to make me want to go back often (unlike my time living in Sydney). Plus the weather there really gets to me now and I never fail to get heat rashes every time I travel to that region.
But you never know... Jobs in my industry are drying up fast in Melbourne and so I have to consider new locations in my current job applications. My department has just announced that 12 people will be axed before the Christmas break and the current 55-strong team will shrink to 15 by May 2013. All that doom and gloom is predictable in this economic climate but on top of that, I am fighting to not get unfairly dismissed so that I can have my retrenchment package. I am NOT going to let the company get away with denying me my package so easily by just citing petty examples to justify poor work performance. And if I do get fired in the end, I am going to lodge a complaint with Fair Work Australia. Yes, it will get messy and that is why I desperately hope that I do not have to cross that bridge.
Right now for job locations, I am looking mostly at Brisbane (where all the new positions are, not counting Perth) but will not rule out Singapore (and countries even further away) if the job pays well. In the mean time I will continue to enjoy the good spring weather here in Melbourne and hope that the work situation does not deteriorate and further affect my health and well-being.
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