Tomorrow, It will be 14 Days!

The sunbirds have been diligently incubating their eggs.  Male and female take turn in incubating the eggs.  It is easy to tell the difference as there is a bigger and thicker beak and a thinner one.  I can only see the beak as the birds build the nest with the entrance looking against the wall.

So far, the eggs have not hatched.  I hope they hatched by Chinese New Year.  Then all my relatives get a chance to have a close up view of the nest.

Weight is Climbing!!!

My weight keep going up.  I am not exercising enough.  Eating to much as well.  Sometimes, it goes down quickly.  I know it is the msg in the food I consumed.  MSG cause me to feel very thirsty and I will drink lots and wake up in the middle of night to pee.  By morning, I will have lost 1kg!!.  This mean I drank more than what my body really needs and has to expel  the liquid through the night instead of in the morning.

Battery Discharged, So No Flying

I brought my plane to AMK Central.  Unfortunately, the battery lost it charge and I could not fly.  So I will have to charge it fully before leaving the house.  I took the battery out this morning but did not get to fly until about 6 pm.  By then, the charges are gone.

AMK Central

There is a big field at AMK Central.  Kids always go there to play frisbees.  I will try to fly my model plane there as well.  Hopefully, it gives me a good flight.  It had crash several times and is not in a good shape but I have repaired it.  So I am hopeful...

Planting Potatoes

We bought a bag of small potatoes but did not cook it.  The eyes had sprouted.  I am planting them and see if I can grow the potatoes.  My brinjal did grow and flower but no fruits yet.  According to the YouTube, potatoes are easy to grow.  I hope they will grow like the Japanese sweet potatoes.

The biggest challenge I have now is snails.  They keep eating up my seedlings.  So I planted seeds several time but they were all gone after sprouting.  I hope the potatoes leaves are not tasty to them.

All is Well!

I am so happy to see the sunbird in the nest.  This means it is incubating the eggs in the nest.  I managed to get a picture although it is not so clear.  The bird's head and beak can be seen peeping out of the nest.

Sunbirds are Not Around!

The sunbirds are not flying around.  I am a little worried that they might have abandon the nest.  The rain is very heavy.  But seems like it is quite protected by the leaves of the sweet potato.  When I listen carefully, there seems to have some chirping.  I hope they are incubating the eggs.

Seems like every nest has 2 chicks and one chick will kill the other chick to get all the food.  It is the survival of the fittest.

Lunch with Classmates

Midview City - Taste of Thailand.  We had 7 for lunch. The doctor is buying.  It is great time to talk and share stories.  We love the company and the chance to talk and air our views.

We sat around the table and had extremely long lunch from noon to 3:30.  The doctor go back to work at 2.  We continue our sharing session.  It is good to have a regular session just doing nothing other than good food and good company.

Front Tooth Repair

My front tooth chipped and I had it repaired two days ago.  However, the repair only lasted a few hours.  I called right away and my dentist has left for US.  I had to go to his replacement.  She is quite thorough.  So I hope it will last this time.

After the tooth repair, it is almost 5pm and the ERP to return home will be expensive.  So I go to Orchard to past time.  Lucky Plaza has per entry charge after 5pm on weekdays.  The charges will be less than the ERP.   So I had dinner in Paragon and then kill some time before leaving at 8pm.

CTE was very heavy in traffic.  Everyone else is doing the same to avoid ERP.  It is slow going.

Lunch at J8

The J8 foodcourt meepok was very good according to my wife.  So I decided to try it today.  It is a little pricey at $5.50 per bowl.  Taste is quite good but the portion could be a little more for the price.

We had our lunch rather late, almost 1pm.  There were lots of students.  Pierce Secondary, Catholic High and many Rafflesians dressed in their black Team Raffles T Shirt.  Actually, the school ends at 1215pm according to my wife.  This is why there are plenty of students having their meals out with their friends.  B3 was busy and stayed in school.  

The busy life of parents mean many kids eat out all the time.  I see the group dynamics are quite good.  They are bonding over a meal.

Very Exciting Time for Us!

Last week, after we returned from our holiday in KL, B1 notices a bird trying to build a nest.  It started with a vertical strand of what looked like dead leaf.  Over time, the nest is taking shape.  We are very excited looking out for the birds (a pair) to come and go.  Bit by bit the nest grows.  It is so satisfying to see them building a home in front of our eyes.  Below are the pictures I have taken.

New Year Goodies

The supermarkets and hawker centers are selling the new year goodies.  Plenty of brands with range of cookies from Almond to Peanuts.  Love letters of different kind.  It is quite nice to feel the festive air with the CNY music blaring out of the PA system.

I am getting into mood.

Power Suppliers

The market has been open for AMK and Punggol.  I have switched to iSwitch.  Immediately, I regret the switch as we walk out to the main concourse, Tuas Power offers the same billing and no admin charges.  iSwitch has admin charges of $5 per month.  The breaking clause is 30% per month on the balance of the contract. 

It is not so good.

Learning Programming

I am learning how to program for some time now.  It was extremely challenging in the beginning.  Now I am getting the hang of it.  And I can get the examples on the book working by copying the programs from the internet. However, when I type directly sometimes they do not work and it can be frustrating as I check and could not find where I go wrong.

Copying is easy but it is hard to remember as I just copied the program and it works!  When I type and it sometimes works and sometimes don't.  As I get proficient, it is quite easy to troubleshoot or rather debug in programming terminology.  However, this morning I had trouble with one example as I type in and check time and time again it refuses to work but when I copy from the website it works.  I think I am missing the next command.

I am very happy that I am making progress but I am still unable to write any original program yet.

Best New Year!

We followed a friend to KL for a short holiday.  It is good value when we drive and book the hotel way ahead.  Still had we had in Dec instead of October, we could have save $50 as the exchange rate for Ringgit has dropped.  The meals are great value.  The usual resturant fare is about have the price of back home.  Sushi Tei is almost one third as the price in ringgit is similar to the menu price in Sindollar.

There are plenty of choices.  B1 and B3 had a great time exploring on their own.  B3 tried out their bubble tea and other snacks.  I gave him some pocket money for him to buy whatever he likes.  He also managed to get his jeans and hoodie.  He is at the age to desire "style" of the teen.

I had a relaxing time resting.  I also enjoys the breakfast time alone.  Reminds me of working.  I missed those days.

The great highlight of this trip is the fireworks!  I was sleeping in my room when there was a great explosion.  I woke up with a shock and on the living room, my wife and boys were jumping up and down screaming wow! wow! WOW!  I hurried over and start taking video.  It is an amazing sight.  The explosions were right outside our windows.  Seems a little dangerous.  The smell of gunpowder was so strong.

We were lucky to get the rooms with direct view.  We had been here before but only see it from the reflection of another building.

Beautiful Morning

The sky is clear azure blue.  Sun is bright but air is cool.  Quiet morning except for alarm that keeps ringing.  One of neighbours must have left the room and the alarm keeps ringing non-stop!

I love the peace of my estate.  The sunbirds will come and feast on the nectar of the flowers.  B3 is still sleeping in his room.  I am at my work desk reading and doing computer stuff.  I will work on my programming skills.

It is nice warm feeling and a good start for the day.

Beef Noodles in Serangoon Gardens

There is a noodle stall in Serangoon Gardens that sells beef noodles.  I did not know as the stall sells mainly fishball or mincemeat noodles.  It is through the old classmates chatgroup that I found out about this stall.  I tried it for lunch today.  The taste is different from other beef noodle stall.  The beef is stewed rather than boiled.  It comes in chunks rather than sliced.  Taste is pretty good.  My big complain is it has too much msg.  I felt so thirsty after the meal.

For $5 a bowl, it is quite good value.  There is a small serving for $4.

Merry Merry Christmas

I wish all my readers Merry Christmas.  It is a very busy day in AMK Hub as we could not get a carpark and has to abandon going there.

Our Christmas lunch is Chicken Rice at Boon Tong Kee.  For dinner, we ate at AMK Ave 6 Hawker Center after visiting my uncle-in-law at the AMK Community Hospital.  He is recovering from a hip operation which join the femur to the ball joint as it had fractured.

Christmas is time for family and time for giving.  B3 did not join us for dinner as he was not well and sleeping.  B3 has been doing dance video for the past two days.  Waking up early and out all day in the sun is taking a toll on his body.

I love Christmas although we do not do the tree and presents as the kids have all grown.  However, we had such good time while they were growing up and very excited putting out the cookies and milk for Santa Claus.

Kinokuniya 20% Sales

MPH used to have the Book Bang in October.  It gave only 10% discount.  I used to go to the main store right beside the National Library and spent lots of fun time exploring books.  Kino 20% year end and Christmas Sale attracts lots of shoppers too.

Crowds throng the main store in Ngee Ann City.  I had a good time exploring new books.  The queue is pretty long.  Books are expensive now that I am retired.  So, I just window shop.  It is quite fun to be in the crowd.

Two Chefs Sin Ming

The Zichar stall in Commonwealth started by 2 young chefs has a new branch in Sin Ming.  The young chefs are no longer young.  Now, one partner is in Sin Ming and he is a middle age man.  The food is still pretty good.  The price is alright.  So it is quite good value and popular.  Commonwealth usually has a long queue.  Sin Ming is much better.  Getting a table is easy.  The wait is not as long about 20 mins before the food arrives.

Tonight's dinner was claypot curry fishhead and egg foo yong.  My complain with the fish is there are plenty of scales left and I have to keep spitting them out.  Egg fuyong is quite good.  We ordered medium which is sufficient for 3 at $9.

The food has a dose of msg and I feels thirsty after dinner.

Fishing is my relaxation

I enjoys cycling to Punggol Point and do some light fishing.  The water is much cleaner today.  I caught a number of mullets.  There is another fish which is quite interesting.  It keeps squeaking when it was out of water.  I thought it was dead by the time I got to it.  But it was still kicking or rather flipping albeit weakly.  My net is big and I am not good at taking out the fishes quickly.  Mullets are fine as they are quite sturdy and can be out of water for some time.  Other fishes do dies by the time I take them out.

My arowana is eating again.  So it is good to catch fishes to feed it.

Evening Out:)

My wife was busy packing up her sewing area.  She just bought a Baby Lock which is a new machine for sewing seams for making T-shirts.  After spending the day organising her work area, she wants to go to Plaza Singapura to relax and look for any items that may help make her latest toy works better.

We left about 6pm.  There is a huge line to the car park in Plaza Sin.  So we change venue to Bugis+ instead and have dinner there. 

It is drizzling when we drove out and the sky was grey.  Reminds me of weather in Canada.  Actually, winter as it is usually dark and cold.  I feels pangs of homesick for Canada.  I wants to go back there to live.  I think B2 will miss the country when he come back.

Wifey is happy with our outing even though it is just about 2 hours.  We walkabout and share tonkatsu with fried noodle dinner at the foodcourt.  The meal cost $9 and we share.  The taste is just average as the meat is cold.  Noodles although warm is not freshly cooked.  I don't think I will eat that again.

Busy Sunday in Chong Pang

B3 is going to do his CIP or community involvement program in Yishun Community Hospital.  So we go to Chong Pang for lunch.  The carpark was absolutely full.  Long line of cars waiting for other cars to leave.  So we go to carpark across the street.  The R2E2 mangoes are in season.  I bought 3 large size for $10.  Jackfruit is at $6.50 per kg.  It is slightly higher price than the $6/kg in AMK hawker center that has the beef noodles.  We bought one kg anyway.

The place was extremely crowded and buzzing with activities.  We have roast meat for lunch and then go to Gin Thye to buy some traditional peanut candy and almond cookies.  I love the traditional type of tidbits.  Bad of teeth but full of memories of growing up.

Almond Juice

I have to go to Robinson Road to sign my transfer for Jurong Cement to Holcim.  Jurong Cement majority shares were bought by Holcim and no longer traded in the stock exchange.  So I have to change to the physical share certificate.

So, lunch at Chinatown is convenient.  Since I was there, I went to buy the Almond Juice.  Almond Juice is excellent for cough.  It was out of stock for some time.  This time they are back!

I was very happy but the price has gone up to $14.50.  When we first bought it, it was $8.  Now as we keep recommending to our friends and family, the demand has gone up and consequently the price as well.

Another Week of Prevena

I was at NTFH to change dressings.  The wound has improved!  However, still need another week of Prevena or suction wound drainage.  I hope my wound will heal up quickly so that I can live more normally.  My surgeon says it will take about 9 months for the bone to fuse.  Until then, I am not allowed to have normal activities that required twisting the body or bending forward.

I am glad that there is improvement.  Seems like it is no longer as deep as before according to the nurse.  Things are looking up.

A Thousand Apologies, S!

Dear S,

Thank you for visiting my blog and sharing on the NDE book.  My apologies for thinking it is my good friend, Boh Tong as he usually leaves comments for me as encouragement.

I am gratified to get your valuable comment.  I have read a little about Anita Moorjani and watched her on YouTube.  It is indeed an interesting journey for her and I am glad to learn from her.

The NDEs I read about are usually researchers who interviews the people who experienced NDEs.  The first hand account is a refreshing change from my usual read on this subject.

Thank you so much for dropping by my blog and leaving your comments.

Booklover

Anita Moorjani

My good friend Boh Tong introduces this author, Anita Moorjani after I mentioned about reading a book on NDE or near death experience.  Anita had NDE due to cancer.  She came back and was relieve of cancer in a week!!!  She was told of the reason for her cancer.  She did not love herself.  Once she is back from other side, she recovered quickly.  She has videos on the internet and a TEDx talk.

The book I was reading earlier is The Transformative Power of Near-Death Experiences by Penny Sartori.

The first book on NDE is by Raymond Moody - Life After Life.  When it was first published there were lots of publicity.  Raymond is a doctor and he is daring to write about something that the medical community is afraid to go public on for fear of being laughed at or ostracised.

Start of the Weekend

I woke up at 3am and tried to go back to sleep but was unable to.  So at half past 3, I decided to get up.  I noticed dining table light was left on, so check on B1's room and found he has not returned home yet.  I called and he is trying to get a taxi home even though I offered to go to pick him.  He has to wait with his friend.  He called me after a few mins as the taxi refuses to pick them and asked me to pick him up.

I went to UE Square, his friend has left.  We returned home at about half past 4 and he went to bed after showering.  He has to go to work when he wakes up.

As for me, the sky has turned light and the sun has risen casting light on the HDB blocks that block my paranomic views just a few years back.

The rain that started at about 3am has also stopped.  It is the start of a beautiful day and weekend...

I Wonder

I am reading a book on NDE or near death experience.  People who went through NDE do change their perspective and priority.  Gone are the material pursuits.  Mostly helping other people became a priority. 

I wonder about this.  I wonder if I can help others.  I wonder how can I conduct my life in a better way.  I wonder if I am wasting my life by not helping others more.

There are so many ways we can help others.  Considerate for others, spread love instead of hate, tolerant for others who are different.  Living a green manner, using less of Mother Earth resources, donating or buying tissue papers.

I wonder what my karma is.  If I can do more good and gain more "merit" in the Buddhist concept. 

I strongly believe I will continue once I left my physical body.  I wonder how my grade will be if I go to the Hall of Memories and have to grade my current life.  I went through some hard period.  However, I don't think that helps in my karma.  Maybe my world vision adoption of so kids may help.  Maybe not as that may be "buying good karma" as I am only using money.  Somehow, I believe good karma can only be acquired using my free will and time to help others.

Ng Teng Fong Hospital

My experience in Ng Teng Fong is quite positive so far.  Except for the suture that is not healing well, the service I get there is so much better than other hospitals - private or restructured.  I put it as new and workload is not as heavy.  It could also be I enjoys talking to the nurses and doctors and they are open to small talks.  The 3 big malls - IMM, Jem and Westgate have plenty of choice for food and discount stores.  So it is a good place to past time as well.

Lightning at 3am and Rain at 4

I was woken up by the lightning flashes.  The sky was merciful.  Plenty of lightning but no thunder to break the silence of the night.  I got up and make my usual hot drink.  This time is it Assam tea.  During dinner last night at the Malaysia Boleh foodcourt, my neighbouring table had 2 teh O.  They looked so good.  I have to drink teh O this morning.  Most time I make filtered coffee.

Rain started at 4 and stopped maybe half an hour ago. Or about half past 5.  The surrounding is quiet except for sounds of dizzle pattering on the floor.  I like the quiet peace early in the morning.

Toyota Prius 3rd Generation, 9 years old

My trusty Prius is 9 years old.  My wife wants to trade it for a new Prius+.  I like to renew the COE for another 10 years.  She is always worried about driving old car.  We actually went to test drive a few times.  Finally, she decided to go for the repair as we have to reset hybrid system again last night.  Unfortunately, Borneo Motors has company function and service is not working this morning.

Finally, my utimate boss decides to repair instead of buying a new car.   I have also ordered other parts as there are wear and tear.

My thinking is to use the car for as long as possible as it is greener than replacing new car.  New cars used up the Earth's resources.  Plus the Prius has been a good car and well maintained by Borneo its whole life.

I hope I can use my car for another 10 years and not meet with major repairs.

2 Sutures have Inflammation

I was at Physio again yesterday morning.  She advise me to see the doctor as she notice my wound is leaking fluid.  She say 2 sutures are not good and I need to see the doctor again.  The doctor prescribed strong antibiotics as it may be my body reacting to the sutures.  I will have to see him again next week to check on the wound.

I am glad this Physiotherapist who is Senior asked me to go.  I cannot drop in to see the doctor.  The reception insist the Physio to call my doctor before the appointment is accepted.  It is the system.  I do not like it as it seems like they are making it difficult for patient to do followup if they are experiencing any unusual symptoms.

Nov 15, Start of Right Hip Pain

I am making sure I keep a record of the changes in Pain as I recover from my spine surgery.  It is Nov 15 that the pain and discomfort started and now it is giving regular pain.

I cycled on 19th Nov morning.  I just want to be sure if my spine X-ray shows up as abnormal, I need to know if all these incidents have any relationship.

I will be going for Physiotherapy again tomorrow.  Let's see if there is an exercise I can do to help reduce the pain.  Right now, I have to do balancing exercise as my core muscles are weak and need strengthening.

KefenTech, the Wonder Plaster

I am right having pain in my right hip.  To make it bearable, I am using KefenTech which is prescribed by the surgeon.  This plaster is quite effective in reducing the pain sensation.  It is a good analgesic or pain killer.

I am using 2 or 3 pieces each day to reduce the localised pain.  I do not know about the long term effects but it definitely make it more comfortable for me to go about my life.

IMM

I am getting to know IMM, Westgate and Jem well.  Parking at IMM is quite reasonable as first 2 hours are free.  Today, we try out Orange Lantern, Vietnamese Resturant.  I loved Vietnamese food.  But this resturant's food is on average.  So I am not going back again.  Vietnamese Rolls in ION is far better.  Next time I may try the Thai food recommended by Sketcher retail manager.  The place seems well patronise. 

Right Hip is Sore

Since 3 days ago, my right hip is becoming more and more sore.  It is now giving me dull pain constantly.  I think it is the scar tissue forming and tightening on the nerve.  I hope it will go away with physiotherapy. 

The pain is distracting me as I go about my day whether it is walking or driving.  I hope I do not painkillers to suppress this discomfort.

The Earlier You Retire, the Longer You Live!

Everyday is the same when you are not working.  There is a Boeing actuarial study that found the earlier you retire, the longer you live.  I did a Google search on retirement age vs lifespan.  Many studies since then found it may be other factors other than the retirement age.  For example, one study the type of job, another look at the income or wealth.  So the link of longevity to retirement age may not be so simple.

As for me, it is not living long that is important.  It is the quality of life.  The mobility and ability to do one's desire.  There is no point in living long if the quality of life suffers.  Best is to have a fulfilling life and ends well.

Spinal Ops Recovery

It is just after two weeks from my spinal operations to fuse L4 and L5.  The post op pain was intense.  Morphine helps but also makes me drowsy.  I have only PCA for 2 days.  After which it was oral opiate.  I had an episode of cold turkey when I sweat profusely and feels so unwell throughout.  My doctor says it is the side effects of Tramadol.  So I stop taking Tramadol.

Today, I am not taking any painkillers anymore.  Not even paracetamol or commonly known as Panadol.  Only issue is during driving.  I can feel the pressure of the metal pressing into my flesh.

I am starting to feel more normal and very glad for it!

Flash Floods and Clear Water in the Pond!

We are getting flash floods during downpour this afternoon.  It is almost a regular occurence with heavy rainfalls.  My outdoor pond is getting refresh with fresh rainwater.  So now, it is clear.  I am very happy with the outcome.  The filter from China cost about one-fifth the price of my Laguna filter but it did not work.  Maybe I did not put in the parts required properly.  The Laguna filter has more sponge.  So it works well.

I am happy to see the bottom of my pond.  It is relaxing to see the fishes swimming about.

B1 Back from Shanghai

B1 went for business trip in Shanghai.  He was quite excited and he extended for the weekend.  He find the trip tiring and the workload very demanding as the entertainment part drinking and karaoke is exhausting.

It is good experience and hopefully he will do more business trips.

Lazing is Easy

I am lazing around.  It is so easy with internet and Youtube.  I can watched videos all day long.  Nowadays even watched Youtube before sleeping instead of reading.  However, my Kobo allows me to pass time reading while queuing and waiting to order my food.  I am trying the programming and made so progress.  However, it is easy to go the way the water flow.  It still take efforts to figure out how the programming works.  Every time I accomplished a little learning, I reward myself with videos.  Unfortunately, the videos are addictive.  So my progress is slow to say the least.

Recovering from Post Ops

I am back at home recovering from post ops.  Check out on Saturday after the drain was removed.  I actually removed it myself!  I sat on a chair and wanted to go toilet.  So I took out the detachable table in front of my chair and walk out to place it on a safe place.  As I walked out, I feel pain on my back.  I thought it was backache.  I pressed hard at the sore area to reduce the pain and realised my drainage tube is no longer attached to me!!!

Anyway, it was fine as there is no "active" bleeding.  I was then discharged.  At home, my wound is still bleeding inside, so there is a big bulge at the surgical site.  But it did not too big a problem.

Yesterday, I went to Golden Mile Hawker Center for Yong Tau Fu lunch.  The youg tao fu is quite good and worth the wait.  2 bowls cost $11.

Much Accomplished Today!

First, our artificial grass is completed.  It now look nice and flat.  No need to cut grass or pull weeds anymore.  Hurray!  Hurray!

Then I have my Malaysian friend who brought the spare parts for my filter and I fixed it up immediately.  So my filter is working again.

We vacuumed and mopped the whole house to clean up after the workers leave.  So now it is nice and clean to walk on instead of sand and dust.

I also caught some fishes for my arowana. 

Everything is fine and ready for my ops tomorrow.

Artificial Grass

The roof garden is hard to maintain.  Birds bring their food and also poo onto the soil.  So weeds keep growing.  Finally, we decide to switch to artificial grass so that it requires less maintanence.  It is a lot of work to clear the grass and remove a layer of sand.  After that a layer of drainage and some wool coth.  Then the grass is lay on top.  Hopefully, it will work well.

No 1 Nasi Lemak

No. 1 Nasi Lemak in Adams Road is my favorite.  The auntie's queue is not so long anymore.  I realised she does not cook mutton anymore.  This is the 2nd or 3rd time I tried and she says she does not have any mutton.  I think this is the reason why I do not see long queue at her stall unlike before.  The nasi lemak stall beside her still does brisk business.  This stall is where Sultan of Brunei like the food. 

I think if I go Adam Road Hawker center again, I may have to switch to mee rebus or something else.

Chicken Rice with Schoolmates

Someone posted his fav breakfast, kway chap in Holland Road Hawker Center.  I commented that the Claypot Rice is good there.  Another friend said since you are so familiar with the place we go there for meal.  Another chimed in When?  I was basically appointed.  I said if I were to go there, I will do the Chicken Rice first.  Sin Kee Chicken Rice from Margaret Drive.
So on Wednesday, we went there for lunch.  The queue was mighty long.  6 of us and we had a great time talking about old classmates.

Then we post the pictures to the group chat.  It was great time.

Nice and Cool

The rain came after 1 week of dry weather.  I was getting worried that the monsoon season is changing.  It is still early in the rainy season.  But unlike before the rains are much heavier.  I also remember there are times it will rain all day for 3 continuous days during the monsoon season.

Today is nice and cool.  So much more comfortable.

Tiger Woods Spine Surgery

The news about Tiger Woods winning his tournament after his back surgery makes me feel brave to go for the spine surgery which can improve my backache.  My L4 and L5 have shifted and is pressing on the nerves.  I have been doing exercises and it does work for a while.  Unfortunately, I do not have to discipline to keep up with it especially since I have muscle aches which means I take rest for a couple of days to recover.  However, I forget to go back to the exercises once I stopped.  It is poor discipline.  The other issue is I have seen the x-rays and MRI and maybe is convince that it is nearly impossible to fix by exercise.

So I decided to bite the bullet and go for the surgery.  The surgeon explained that it will take him all day.  This sounds scary.  It means I will be on GA or general anesthesia for all day.  Even after one hour of GA, the effects takes as long as one week to clear up.  I had that experience as the body will take time to clear them off the system.

I think with the surgery which will take 6 months to recover will improve my ability to exercise properly and throw my cast net better.

Tiger Woods had anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF).  I will have a more complex with 2 vertebra hold together by screws and wire.  The implant alone cost $15,000.  It take about 4 weeks to be relieve of pain from the surgery and 6 weeks of no twisting or lifting of heavy weights.

The Good Earth

I had read this book several times in the past.  It is a good story by an American.  She won the Pulitzer Prize and Nobel Prize for Literature for this book.  It is interesting read.

I did not know it is a trilogy!  I just finished reading the 2nd and 3rd book.  A House Divided and Sons.  A House Divided is on the 2nd Generation of Wang Lung.  Sons focuses on Yuan the son of Wang Lung's Third Son.

It is excellent story telling.  The story tells about the change in China.  From warlords and poor farmers to revolution and new revolution.  In Sons, it moved to big cities and studying in foreign country, presumably US.  Change to more western education and the tension between old and new.

Last Day of Exam 2moro

B3 will have his last paper tomorrow.  He is working much harder for his common test also known as promotion test.  This is the same as year end examinations and will determine if you get promoted to J2. 

He seems to be better prepared this time with no CCA to distract him.

5 Mullets

Finally, I managed to catch 5 mullets!  Larger size mullets.  One is fairly good size.  This time I will try eating them.

When I first cast the net, I thought I caught only one as the rest disappeared.  When I pulled up the net, I noticed the rest.  It is nice to finally catch something that I can cook.

Hot Weather Last 3 Days

It was extremely hot and I was out fishing at noon as that was the high tide time.  There are still people cycling and running along the PCN.  What is more surprising is that women are running in the hot sun!

I have not caught any big fishes yet.  So will have to keep trying my luck!

Sunburned!!

Since my arowana lost its appetite, I do not need to catch small fishes anymore.  So I go to the jetty during high tide and wait for school of fishes to swim by.  But my skills are no good and the fishes always managed to escape.  

High tide is at noon these few days.  I wait in the hot sun and is totally sunburned at the back of my neck, my hands and legs.  I wore a long sleeve t-shirt and shorts.  So my thighs and feet are totally toasted.

No Skill

I bought a new cast net as my old one was destroyed by fishermen on the night shift when it go caught by the bolt that hold the long rectangular bumper.  The bumper was loose.  Once it was catches my net, there was no way until low tide.

With my new net, I was hoping to catch bigger fishes.  During high tide, I can see the school of fishes.  However, every time I throw they escape.  My aim was not good enough, the net did not open wide enough.  So it is very disappointing.  I need plenty of luck to catch the fishes.

Start of A New Week

Monday!  B1 has gone off to work.  B3 will go to school later.  School starts later on Monday.  Really makes sense as the students and teachers need to recover from the weekend activities.

I had to send my car for repairs later as a Private Hire Driver hit me from behind.  It is start of a busy week!

NS Registration

B3 went for his NS registration this morning.  Now it is quite inconvenient.  The carpark policy has changed.  No visitor cars are allowed.  We have to park outside and walk to the main entrance and change pass.

CMPB used to be by itself.  Now it has a number of new huge building housing the different defence organisation.  It is like a huge monster.  All probably to support our defence systems and maybe also sell weapons to other countries.

B3 is Up Early

I was up at 5am and shortly thereafter, B3 was up.  However, he cooked his breakfast and take his time to eat and watch his Youtube.  He has plans to study for his exams.  It takes him some time to get in the mood.  He also take breaks to watch more Youtube.  With the internet, it is really easy to get distracted.

During my school days, all I can do is take a nap or read some fiction or totally unrelated non-fiction.  Today, I am watching Youtube the moment I get up in the morning.  The technology advances has dumb me down.

KFC

Ci Yuan hawker centre has a new Korean Fried Chicken stall.  It must be a franchise as there are several branches.  Waker Chicken has a number of reviews on the internet.  I have not tried other menu.  Half a chicken cost $14 and one chicken $27.  It is very addictive.  I have become a regular.  The chicken is crispy and sauce is not overpowering.  My boys like it especially B3. 

The chicken does not come with any side dish.  Just chicken!  So no fries or veg.  It is quite unhealthy but I keep going back.  B3 will always eat some even though he has had his regular meal.

Soy Sauce is our favorite.  The sweet and spicy or buttermilk is not bad too.  The owner is a Korean.

Good Day

I have a very productive day!  I sat at my home office for long time.  I am glad also that practising Python is not so frustrating as before. 

Early in the morning, I clear up some old plants and re-potted two plants.  At night, I collected some coffee grind and tea leaves for fertilising my plants.

I did not exercise as my back is not so good shape yesterday.  Today is a huge improvement.

What a wonderful day to be pain-free and gets lot of work done!

Crazy Rich Asians

Youtube has lots of videos on Crazy Rich Asians.  I just finished reading the book.  It is hard to put down the book once I started reading it!  I was reading it even while driving at traffic stops where the lights take a long time to change to my favour.

I was talking to B2 about it and he told me he watched the movie the day after he landed in Toronto.  The prologue is captivating is an understatement.  In the dialogues, there are lots of our local lingos.  Alamak! Kan nee nah! making it very easy to identify.  It is funny and also heart tugging at times.

I just started book 2 last night.  The hook is very good.  It makes me wants to continue to read it.

Perpetual Crowd

Every time I go out, there are lots of people no matter what time of the day.  It is stressful to walk as there is a constant need to watch out to avoid knocking in other pedestrians.  Only early in the morning like 7 to 8 it is more manageable.  By 10am there are just a sea of people at all time.  The food is quite expensive.  However, unlike our hawker food, it comes with real meat rather than processed MSG laden flavored flour like our fishballs, fishcakes, ngoh hiang, that garnished our carbo.

I love the beef, roast goose and the egg tarts.  The standard and quality are much higher.  The HK milk tea is good too, better than our teh si.

Although it is only one week, I am glad to be back home as the crowd at all times can be exhausting.

B2 Going Back to Toronto

B2 is going back to Toronto tomorrow.  He has been back for a couple of months now and school will be starting soon.

We will send him partway tomorrow and then have a short holiday in Hong Kong.  Looking forward to Cantonese food!  The beef is good and the Roast Duck.  Yummy!  Here I come!

Yishun Chong Pang

This morning, we have to go to Khoo Teck Puat to get my invoice.  So, we ate at Chong Pang hawker center.  The bak chor mee is still quite good.  Same owner and cook.  There is a new plant shop.  The Indian guy there is quite enterprising and do good business.  We bought a Fu Kwei plant from him for $28.  He asked for $38 and we wanted $25 but finally settle for $28.  We also bought two plants from an old lady.  She called it Fa Chai flower.  Anyway, she is so old and still doing business there everyday.

It is nice to visit the old town.  A lot of the hawkers had changed since I first lived there 20 years ago. 

Python

The heat is on!  So I have to water my plants a few times a day.  I am not fishing as often.  When I go, I bring along two water bottles instead of one usually.  Even the water in my fish pond dries up.  I feel lethargic in the afternoon.  Nap is welcoming instead of cycling for exercise.

I am now practising more programming using the free Python programs and free books or tutorial on Youtube.  I am still a novice and need to put in more time to get more conversant.  I am glad finally I am making progress compared to when I first started out.  I had blogged about the difficulty when I first start out. 

It is more than a year.  I am not conscientious in practicing.  Hence I did not progress as quickly.  However, now I am getting the hang of it and it is becoming more fun than frustration.

National Day Fireworks Rehearsal

I was working at my office when I hear explosions.  At first, I thought it sounds like gunshots.  Then the flood of popping sounds continue and I realised it is the fireworks.  This is the first time I heard it.  Usually there were rehearsal on Saturdays but this time I don't think the fireworks were used until this evening.

Good Sunday Morning

I have not been writing much even though I am at my desk. My favorite book site is gone.  So I am lucky I managed to download some books that I liked.  It is a very good site and easy to use.  Unfortunately, some authors complained and the site has to be shutdown.  I was having trouble and then googled to find out why.  Then I saw the disappointments of others who had known the shutdown earlier.  It is also known as the Napster of books.

Anyway, I am glad to bring my books around and read while queuing instead of surfing the net.  There are so many interesting reads.  I find that it is harder to finish the books as my mind is trained to read small bits of information by the web.

I do not like the PDF format in Kobo.  It is hard to navigate as the screen become touchy.  So the size keeps changing and when it does that the page just changed a few times in size and if it is big, it is hard to move the page so that I can read continuously. 

EPUB is a better format for Kobo.  The other thing is it is in eInk and therefore no color.  So all the colour pictures do not look good especially the pixels are quite big compared to a tablet.  The weight of ebook is so light and easy to hold for long time.  It get tiring to hold a tablet for long.

Overall, Kobo is very convenient to bring around and make reading convenient!

Rain is not Heavy This Morning

My prediction of the heavy rain causing flash floods is totally out to lunch!!  Rain did come but it was quite light even though the clouds look menacing.  I also noticed no lightning or thunder.  Just rain and then it is over.My plants are well watered and they are happy.

Looked likes it going to POUR!

Very heavy rain cloud gathering  The clouds are dark and low.  So we may get flash floods on this Monday morning. 

The climate change formerly known as global warming is giving us heavier rain.  However, we are still better than in Japan where record temperature and record rain cause death and destruction.

Our floods caused inconvenience.  It is also because our buildings are made of concrete.  They can withstand more stress.  We are also flat and no landslides.  However, we can get sinkholes as I saw one at Punggol construction site.

Busy Day

I am going about town today.  Mostly waiting for my Mrs to do her stuff.  We went to Bugis Junction and she went to her meeting while I waited for her.  Then she decided to go to People's Park with her baby sister.  I was waiting there for her as well.  Finally, we went to pick up B3 from his tuition.  Even then, we have to detour to buy dinner home.

The weather is very hot and humid.  I am glad to be home where I can laze at the poolside and cool off.

Boh Tong's 2nd Life Blocked

My dear friend's popular blog is blocked again.  Maybe he is updating from Japan and the Google analytics and algorithms is finding it funny as it is from a different location.

I always had problem whenever I travel even though I used the same computer.  Sometimes, Google sends security questions to enable access, sometimes it is the great wall of China.  If it is the great wall, nothing can be done unless you use VPN.

So BT, please take note.

Sleepy Head

Nowadays, I feel sleepy in the afternoon.  Maybe I am having sleep apnea and not getting restful sleep.  My weight is up again.  I need to exercise to reduce my weight.  Or I should snack and eat less.  I am enjoying my food too much.

The days are passing fast.  Soon, B2 will be going back to Toronto.  I am also going to HongKong for a short trip.  Will enjoy my beef soup!

Jade

I like the wet market that has roving vendors.  This morning, there is a China lady who sells jade.  I quite like her pieces and some of them looked nice to me.  Finally, I bought one piece from her.  She wanted $280 and I negotiate down to $200.  I am her first customer.  I like the piece because it is translucent.  She called it Relaxed Sitting Kuan Yin.  Kuan Yin is my favorite goddess as she is the Goddess of Mercy.  So I thought I will get it as it is wearable since it is quite flat. 

There is another piece which I was quite interested in.  She says it is a Pee Yao and holding on to wealth.  Purple in color with yellow stripe.  The purple is quite light.  I did not want to buy 2 pieces, so I gave up on that piece.

What Lazy Sunday

I have an easy day.  Just send B3 to AMK station for his tuition and then pick him up at Old Cath High School.  After that we go to Chinatown for lunch.  We had zhichar.  Claypot Tofu, Prawn Paste Chicken and Pork Rib King.  With 3 bowls of rice, the total come to $37. 

After lunch, we walked around the Pearl Center a bit and then come home.  B1 fell asleep on the sofa in the living room.  I also feel sleepy and go to the bedroom to have a nap.  I felt so much more awake after my nap. 

No dinner as I ate the snacks bought at Pearl Center.  The end of a lazy Sunday.  Tomorrow, the start of a school week.  So it back to routine again.

Uno, The Western Food Shop

Last evening, we went to pick up B3 after he finishes his CCA.  Since everyone is at home, we get B1 and B2 to follow so that we can go for dinner together.  I drove to Toa Payoh Lorong 5 and thought we can eat there as the older boys said they are not hungry.  So I can eat my dinner and they watch.  Although there are carpark lots right at the entrance, it was a far walk, so I try out to see if we can get lucky.  Unfortunately, all the lots are taken, so we moved on.  B1 suggested to go opposite blocks of flat as I did say I like to eat Westen food. 

There is only one coffee shop at the row of shops.  It was very busy.  The price was quite high.  The person in front of me pays $58 for 3 set dinners with additional order of chicken wings.  I order Ribeye Steak, $15, Chicken Chop, $7, an order of french fries $3 and two deep fried chicken wings $3.  Total bill $28.  I thought the Ribeye was average.  This may be because I usually buys higher quality cut and grill myself.  The ribeye was tough even though it is cooked medium.  The chicken chop is better.  Overall, it is average value.  But it is very popular.  I think the beef steak is at good prices as it is cooked resturant style meaning the steak is sizzling and put on a iron plate with the shape of bull.  The mashed potato is a roll up ball and deep fried.

We have to wait for long time for our food but it is fine as we were just talking and enjoying our time as a family.

B1 and Mummy is Back from Guangzhou

This afternoon, we went to airport to pick up B1 and mummy.  They returned home from Guangzhou.  They enjoyed the trip.  They visited ancestral hometown and had meals with all the different relatives.  They also had a good time shopping for leather and good resturants.  Overall it is a great trip for them.

My Eldest Niece and My Eldest Sister

Yesterday, my eldest sister came to pick me up to eat the Soi 19 Wanton Mee.  She came together with her eldest girl and eldest granddaughter.  Actually, she has only one grandchild with the 2nd on the way.

After the meal, the party of 3 came to my house for visit.  I was worried about my grandniece as we do not have toys suitable for her age anymore and she may find our home boring.  She is very happy to play with the big ball that I use for my back exercise.  She also like to climb up the stairs.  I am glad she is occupied and had fun in my home.

Home Alone

This week, I am basically home alone during the day.  No adventure like the movie, no snow, no nincompoops try to break in, no adventure.  Just plain me.  It is a little lonesome. First time in my life, I washed the front door and now understand why my wife want to repaint it.  The spots cannot be removed!!  I go to the poolside for a while to relax.  Somehow, I cannot stay as long when I am alone at home.

Yesterday afternoon, I found my cousin and it was great to catch up.  Today, I called my sister but she is busy with her granddaughter.

I downloaded Anaconda, Python 3 programming language to my new computer.  I hope to work on coding again. 

I also have to go the beach road to buy a new cast net.  My old one was catch in a metal stud and the night fishermen forced it up, tearing and destroying the net totally.

In a way, this reminds me of many times when I am travelling - all alone with the TV on and waiting to get to my next appointment.  I am always happy to spend time walking around the hotels I stayed even though it has not changed much.  The key is I go there a couple a years.  So there is a need to refresh my memories.  However, at home, the places are here everyday.  So the attraction is not so great.

What do I want to do?

I am thinking of my purpose in retirement.  I am still busy with my garden, cycling and fishing.  Also supporting the kids in their activities.  I spend more time reading and watching tv.

What will make me happy?  Is the pursuit of happiness empty?  Can I do more projects i.e. build something?  Or should I explore other interest to develop?  What is life about?  Will the world come to an end?  What is the meaning of it all?  Can pursuit of philosophy or religion help?

Water Pump Repaired

This morning, I decided to fix up my water pump.  It took me a some time to troubleshoot.  I first fix a plug and plug in, the pump spin and the UV light is turn on, albeit weakly.  Since the pump is still working, I decided to fix it up to the saltwater tank again.  It stopped pumping water after a few seconds.  I tried the 2nd time, same problem.  So I used the tap to force water into the inlet and it was occluded.  So I have to take out the swivel mechanism and found it is clear.  The water hose was also clear.  I reassemble the whole system and this time it works like a charm!  I am so happy.

B3 in "Musical"

Raffles Institution Street Dance has a muscial cum dance performance for tonight, tomorrow night and Sunday night.  B3 has been rehearsing and practicing hard.  I am exhausted waiting for him every night.  I have to go tonight to wait for him.

The good thing is 3 nights left.  He is enjoying himself doing performances.  I am so proud of him!

Whiteflies

My sweet potato plants are infested with white flies.  I sprayed with baking soda solution and it does not seems to work.  I sprayed vinegar and a lot of my leaves are dying.  I have to figure out a better solution.  So I may have to find glue or vaseline on a yellow surface. 

Best News Ever!

All the "Wild Boars" are extracted out of the cave and under medical observation.  The rescue team done great work!  It is a showcase of International cooperation.  So many countries and medical personnel with caving expertise.  As the last rescuer left the cave, the rescue part is over and now it is recovery for the boys.

This is great where everyone is saved.  Unfortunately, one diver died in this operation. 

Everyone involved is a big hero.

Waking Up Early in the Morning

It is only half past 3 when I wake up.  I could not sleep, so decide to blog.  It is the pain in the wound causing me to wake up.  Although it is not throbbing, it is enough to disturb me as it is quite uncomfortable. 

Remembering years ago when I first had my wisdom tooth taken out, the dentist gave 7 days MC.  Later, I think it became 4 days.  It is still a traumatic procedure although it is quite simple to remove as the roots are all fused together.  However, I believe the big gaping hole will take sometime to clog up well and for the gum to repair itself.

Wisdom Tooth Out!

Originally, I set my dental appointment for tomorrow.  B1 has his lunch appointment cancelled.  So I shift it to today.  The dentist want to X-ray first before he proceed.  Then go ahead to extract it out.  The root is fused together.  So it is easy job.  But it is so expensive as it is a wisdom tooth.

I am glad it is out and now need not worry about toothache.  The tooth was cracked and hence a steel band was put around it.  This cause food to be trapped and make it easy for this tooth to decay.  I am glad I took it out before it cause me problem.

Wisdom Tooth

My wisdom tooth had crack a few years ago.  I tried to get a crown but most of the dentists I consulted tell me to extract.  So I booked my appointment to take it out on Wed but now thinking I should take it out even earlier.  It is starting to be sensitive and I should removed it before it become infected or inflamed.

Beautiful Morning

It is past 7am, I am up to download The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Zander and her new book Pathway to Possibility.  I bought her latest book from Kino at $17.95 last October and now it is available for free.  I am glad to support the author.  I also find it is much easier to read with a physical book.  However, the e-reader has the advantage of convenience.  Now, I bring it along wherever I go and read snippets when I have spare time.

I can check out 309 books anytime.  No bulk, no taking one book and then another.  All available at the touch of my fingers!  However, it is no so easy to skim through the books which physical form is so much easier and give better impression of what the book is about.  Enough on books.

While I type, plenty of birds chirping and singing.  There at least 5 different types of birds I can differentiate.  Common mynahs, parrots and the others I do not know their names.   I enjoys the sounds of the birds, it is nature brought to me.  The greening by Nparks help bring more birds here.  When I first moved in more than 10 years ago, there are not so many types of birds, mostly common mynahs, sparrows and pigeons.  Now I can see doves, woodpecks, parrots and a big bird which may be a kite but I am not sure.

Then at Punggol Point, the bird watchers will photograph the Bee Eater.  Now, it is going to be different as the Bee Eater nesting site is developed by the Outward Bound School.

All My Boys are Out

It is a Saturday, and all my boys have programs.  Baby has CCA, B1 and B2 go out with their friends leaving me and my wife at home.  We are just passing time watching youtube, or reading and now blogging.

At least we are still having a lot of meals together.  Soon B2 will have to leave for Canada.  Then we will be missing one boy for a few months.

Meanwhile, my garden is doing well.  I need to find a way to clear the white spots. It is attacking my sweet potato leaves.  The pandans are growing well and B3 uses the fresh basil leaves to make his paste. 

$60 to Fix Leaking Mixer

We have a bathtub that we never use.  The hot water end leaks.  My wife notices and we have to get a plumber in to fix the leak as I have no idea how to dismantle the mixer.  When the plumber comes in to remove the mixer, it is actually quite simple.  Simple but not easy.  Need strength to push the cover and then a big spanner to loosen the nut.  He just replaced the washers and it is good as new.

Now I know why my water and heating bill has gone up.

Printing Photos

We had taken family pictures when B1 had his commencement.  He has a friend who is good with photography.  He brought all his lights, camera and fixtures.  We had our photos taken.  After that he gave us a file for all our photos.  We had paid him for his services.  Now, that is almost a year ago.  B1 will soon be called to the Bar.  We have not done anything even though we had intended to print the photos.

Today, we decided to print.  So The Wife check out the internet.  She has tried several photoshops and did not like the photos as they fade after a while.  I remembered my schoolmate who own a photo shop.  Actually, he owns a chain of shops.  So I went to his shop in City Square to print the photos.  He says he uses old technology and the colour will not fade for 100 years!

We went and he gave me 50% discount for those he prints himself i.e. using the machine in the shop.  For those he outsource, he gave me 20%.  The Wife is very happy with the results.

The pictures have vibrant colours and very sharp.  We also print on that is 24" by 36", the largest available.  That is our most expensive piece.  In total, we spent just over $100 for all our photos.  We are pleased to get a good deal and high quality pictures.

Visiting 2 Classmates

My Art classmate is working in Queensway Shopping Center.  Since I have to send my wife there for her work, I drop by to visit her.  The shop is at level 3.  It is a bookshop with toys and games.  So it is like a regular gift cum bookshop.  The theme is Christian and some business.

I am afraid of retail knowing the long hours.  Also it is time for me to take a break and "retire" properly.  She keep asking me to attend courses.  She loves the leadership course she is currently taking.  Her trainer has the same name as me and worked in a MNC.  He went for plenty of coaching and training during his career in American companies.  I went through similar programs as well.

She is very excited as she is now using the tools for leadership training.  The learning styles, communication styles developed by American psychologists.  I am very happy for her.  She is very encouraging.

We have a lot of similar experience!  Her son is a lawyer but now working in IT.  My son is just starting out as a lawyer.  Her son's girlfriend broke up with him and so did my boy's girlfriend.  Seems like boys' hearts are broken by girls.

I also visited my Baking classmates.  They have a shop in Alexandra Center.  The carpark there is free for 3 hours if you buy something at the shops.  I was there and a few old ladies were curious and I offered them the free samples!  I also tell them the benefits of the bread which has low GI and how it is very difficult to get these type of bread from regular breadshop - rye and sourdough.

My wife loves the Cranberry and Walnut bread.  So we bought one loaf for $12.  This time my classmates give us free Spinach Bread and a bottle of kueh bangkit!  My wife is embarassed and try to reject the free gifts.  I, only the other hand is very happy and says very loudly I will keep coming back!  I have no problem accepting free gift or samples as I have to give out plenty of samples for my work.

Latest Count... 209 Books

This morning, I continue to transfers the books I downloaded to my Kobo.  Now I have 209 books.  It is so much more convenient to read.  Also no need to borrow from the library and pay fines if you forget to return in time.

The only problem is picture books are not readily available in the internet.  Books like gardening or landscaping which I also like and get inspired in order to work on my garden.

E Books

E-books are available for free.  I bought a lot of books from Kinokuniya.  Now I hold most of my books in my personal library in my Kobo e-reader.  It is really nice to that it is so easy to carry around and read wherever and whenever.  Only problem is I do not get the thrill of the physical book, cracking the spine, smelling the paper and feeling the texture of the newsprint.

I have now about 150 books in my Kobo.  The reader is not bad in EPub format.  And really slow in PDF format.  So it takes getting used to especially changing the font size and shifting the page around in PDF and putting up with the screen blinking and then displaying which can take a couple of seconds.  A couple of seconds does not seems much but when compared to instanteous with the flip of a page or multiple pages, it is eternity.

Temples in CBD

There are 4 or 5 temples in Telok Ayer.  We went there to pray on Saturday afternoon.  This afternoon, we make another round trip offering our prayers to all the temples again.  We are lucky to strike 4D to defray the cost of the accident even though it is very minor.

Car Accident

I was involved in an accident on Friday evening.  I release my brake and my car moved forward and hit the other car while we are waiting to get out of the main road.  This guy drives a KIA.  Anyway, I thought we just report the accident since it is just a touch.  However, my brother-in-law suggested to do private settlement.  I tried with him this morning and he declined.  So I guess just let it be.

The good thing about this accident is I bought 4D and the other car number popped up 3rd prize.  2nd prize is the same numbers but in different order.  I bought iBet and won a little bit of money.  I hope it is enough to compensate for the increased in my insurance premium.

Instruction Set of Quirkbot

I am stumped by the challenge of understanding the instruction set.  Going by trial and errors is taking lots of time and progressing slowly if any at all.  I am trying out varying instruction so that I can do running lights but so far no joy.  There is no time delay or trigger in the instruction set.  So I am still trying out to work out what instruction I can use.  Man, this is a huge challenge!

Fans of Boh Tong

My blogger friend is in Japan.  He has been updating his blogs regularly and has interesting stories about his adventure in Japan.

He talks about his daily life and the nice delicious and reasonably priced food.  He also gives glimpse of healthcare system which is important for everyone wherever you are.

This link to his blog is at the top of my fun places to go on the right column of this blog.

Quirkbot

I went for an introductory class in Quirkbot last evening.  It is interesting and challenging although it is designed for kids above 8.  I guess I am a new kid above 8:)

The Quirkbot keep hanging in my system.  I have to reset my computer as well.  So it is not so easy to use with my Windows laptop.  I am also trying to figure out the instruction set.  It is not intuitive for me anymore.  I will spend more time figuring it out and make some projects.  Right now, I am still trying to figure out how to make the lights go around and it is not easy!!

New Life

I am reading Boh Tong's blog.  He is now 3 months old in Japan and beginning to like living there.  I completely understand the feeling.  Initially, it is strange and everything is quite different even though it is nice.  There is this discomfort over the newness.  Over time, life gets into a routine and there are new hobby e.g. vegetable gardening(tomatoes), walks that is very comfortable...no sweats!, work on the house, etc, etc.  Then it is a real pleasure to experience different lifestyle.

I remember I had a hard time adjusting to life in Canada the first time.  The cold is frigid and goes straight into the bones.  Then the long days and enjoyable walks in the evening which is still very bright as the sun sets at 8 pm or later.  The neighbours or their kids will always say hi as it is their custom.  We can always talk to the kids we met during our walkabout and they will answer.  Whereas here, the kids look at you suspiciously or if it is a girl, she will hurry away or scream for her parents.

When we went back the 2nd time, it is so much easier.  We know the system and just ease into the life there easily.  Buy our car, get the insurance, go for weekend trips, fishing, farmer's markets, Home Depot or Canadian to maintain our home...  It is quite comfortable.

The only problem living in Toronto is snow storm and having to go to office.  If we ever go back now, this will not be an issue as I will not be working.

It will be nice to live there during summer and fall and escape back to Singapore in winter.  The only problem is airfare is so much more expensive than anywhere in Asia.

3 Weeks!!!

I have not been blogging for 3 weeks.  My blogger friend, Boh Tong has been checking on me.  I am no so conscientious in updating my blog as I stopped working and no longer needs to be in my home office everyday.

What have I been doing the last 3 weeks.  Well, first as you know my kim bak lor or Asian Seabass was kept in the freezer as the pump was leaking electricity.  I changed all the wiring which takes me two days as it did not work every time I re-wire.  So, I thought I have to buy a new pump.  This pump is expensive as it is integrated with a large filter.  So I googled and one guy experienced the same issue.  He changed to a new pump and the issue did not go away.  Since he is an electrical engineer, he did some research and found a solution.  Earth the water.  So I did as he suggested and hey presto! it works!. 

Since I no longer have to feed my Asian Seabass, I stopped cycling as well.  However, my garden needs maintenance.  I have to clear my plants.  I also acquired a banana plant from my physiotherapist.  The banana plant is growing.  So I am happy.

Since B2 brought back the Kobo ereader, I have downloaded lots of books for free.  I am reading a lot.  It is my old hobby.  I reduced my TV time a lot as well due to reading.  Unfortunately, I still watch Youtube a lot on my phone.

We had friends over for dinner one evening.  I spend two or three days preparing and cooking.  I cooked ranch beans and baked chicken.

It is mango season and they are cheap and plentiful.  I prepares dried mangoes for the family.  It is hard to keep up as the mangoes rarely last more than 2 days.

Today, I started cycling and fishing again.  So I will be back to exercising more regularly.