Entries from August 2008 ↓

So where did I stopped for Phase II~? Oh ya! So.. I went to practice choir with Elaine and Shuling! However, Shuling was rather busy with her sickbay (since she is a first-aider), I practiced with Elaine first by the corridors. I actually wanted to find the correct key for the first song we were suppose to perform that night, “Siyahamba”, an African song which means “We are marching in the light of God”. As I was trying, I messed up a couple of other keys. In the midst of helping me to search my key, Elaine got confused with her own keys as well (although she found it back after that XD). After that, Shu Ling was free to practice with us, so we went to practice with her in the Sick Bay~, where I met a new friend~ Wai Ken. OR something. Lolx. As we were practicing, Shu Ling lost her key as well. Luckily, she is Soprano, same as Elaine, so Elaine can help her! Hahaha =P So in the end, we decided to just practice the second song, “Seasons of Love”, which was much better~ ^^ After a couple of practices, we decided to rest abit while waiting for Huafu and gang to arrive. Meanwhile, we were just acting plain crazy in the sickbay XD

We posed with the scarf that she brought along to give her warmth~ hahah~ Honestly, the picture of me above, is one of my favourite picture of myself =P I actually look kinda cool… right? ^^ Do leave a comment regarding this ^^

Anyway, after about 10 minutes of waiting, Huafu and gang arrived, and we practiced and practiced until it was around 30 more minutes before our performance. We went back to the lower foyer and rest up abit. We even had a last round of practice at the Conference Hall for both songs to confirm all the keys and make sure we are all fine! And then we can rest until the time of performance came. Without my spectacles, I can’t really see faces of people far away~ so I saw this guy with the silhouette of Marcus at one of the far back seats of the Conference Hall showing me a thumbs-up. I went up and realized it IS Marcus and we had a little chat~ ^^ Thanks for your praise~ He kinda say our choir was cool and we woke him up with our singing. Hahaha~ =P And I spent the time till the performance chatting and camwhoring with him~ And this is the picture which I am the most satisfied with! ^^

Alrite! Before I head towards how did our choir do, lemme tell you a little bit of how the agenda was like. I missed the first part of the Concert so i didn’t know what happened, but I did watch a few performances such as the Belly Dancers, Manhand ( I think, that’s what it’s called) and also the artist Luo Yise, the original singer of the Chinese part of the song “Tomorrow’! =P Below are a few pictures of the performances I have mentioned! =D In case if u guys are wondering what the hiragana words on the Manhand picture meant, it means “something like that”…

My performance! From left to right, Bass: LengKeat, HuaFu, Tenor: Me, Marcus, Soprano: Elaine, Shu Ling, Alto: Renjeeta, Puveshin. Well, This was taken during the Siyahamba song, which is a slow song~ Slow, Sentimental and … slow. Well, that’s why we are standing so decently. We were moving quite…. alot during the second song, but I don’t have a picture of it, so~ hahaha =P My stomach was so empty it was totally filled with Butterflies! I was so freaking nervous before the performance ohkay! It was like ‘OMG OMG OMG’, I only sang once on stage before during my highschool time… this is worse than dancing I tell you. Once I got on stage, I was singing “Si-ya-haaaaam” and while we were dragging the key, I was like “OMG WAT’s THE NEXT WORD???” den luckily I remembered it last minute.. and as we have sung half of the song, i calmed down and I was basically looking around at the audience while I was performing! Everything was fine, as I was beginning to enjoy the performance ^^ Especially during Seasons of Love, cuz I was really like, you know, singing for the fun of singing. It was a good experience. It was my first time with a choir, so.. hahaha, I really enjoyed it! ^^

So we earned quite some applause and also people screaming “Encore” but, im sorry T.T We can’t encore cuz we got nothing else to sing.. hahaha! =P Thanks to all of your support!!! =P But after that, we were like high five and high ten-ing each other. It was a performance well done! ^^ So happy lah~~~ =P After that, I went to play Big 2 (Chor Dai Di) with Edward, Mei Hwei, Irene and Yuen (take turns laaa =P) and when I came out of the Conference Hall again, Luo Yise was on the stage and she sang some songs. Yee Ling then decided to make a Birthday Gimmick for all those born in the month of August! (Since it was August during the event =P). Thus, she set up a Box and say she wanna play a game with the people. She prepares a box which contains all papers with the name of the months written on it, and she will have Yise to randomly draw out one. (Actually, all the papers in the box are August XD), I gave Yee Ling the idea of the Gimmick actually. Haha, so we had everybody present there to sing Happy Birthday song for us! Well, in case you have forgotten, I am an August-Baby, too. =P The concert then ended~.

The committees and Group leaders and Volunteers had a meeting and discuss about some things before we were dismissed to freely roam around (except for interrupting the sleepers) or sleep. I actually decided not to sleep, cuz I scared I cannot wake up in time as I was really exhausted due to the running around during the day! So I borrowed the cards from Irene and play Big 2 with Alex, Zhen Ning and Sam/Irene/MeiHwei, etc. I don’t even remember who played with me. LOLX =P

Me on the left, Sam on the right, Alex in the bright yellow, and Zhen Ning right beside me~ =P

At around 12am, I cannot take it anymore. I went to my sleeping bag, had a little conversation with Eu Veng (which Marcus eavedropped in his sleep, damn cool kan?) and then doze off. I preset my alarm to ring at 5.45am, and at 6am. I woke up at 5.45am, den nap till 6am, den lie there from 6am till 7am, which I think i did fall asleep and got back awake in intervals, because Marcus say I snored. And Sam say Marcus snored. Oh WELL! =P Oh, lemme explain, Marcus was sleeping on my left, and Sam on his left. Evo was sleeping towards my back, while Gorgan was sleeping on his right, and Alex on Gorgan’s right. ZhenNing was sleeping facing Sam. We were all sleeing ON THE STAGE. XD

This is all about Phase III~ =P Enjoy the post while I prepare for Phase IV. =P

Alright Guys and Gurls! I’m back with Phase II~! After the opening ceremony was done, the “Shoeless Gimmick” was introduced! The participants, committees and volunteers are all required to remove their shoes and walk around, completing tasks and other things, BAREFOOTED, for about 6 hours. I think it was kind of creative, the purpose of this gimmick was so that we can experience what the children living in poverty experience while undergoing much pain, heat, coldness and injuries while walking around barefooted in their country. We were only experiencing a small portion of what they experienced. But… the marble floor was really cold, so cold till I skip-hopped the journey whenever I’m on the marble floor… *brrrr*

In case some of you may be wondering how are we going to go to the toilet. The answer is this:

About 6-8 pairs of these big orange-colored Megapower slippers were prepared in each of the toilets (for both genders) so that they can use it while going to the toilet. It was kinda cool lah! Cuz I was actually enjoying walking barefooted… mwahahaha XP

So, the Gimmick begins and the participants were then given 30 minutes to have a break, going to the toilets or just mingle around. I brought my members to the luggage room cuz they’ve got things to put into the bag, and also I gotta show them where are the water dispensers. After that, we (the English Campers) gathered back at the Theatrette for a session of “lectures” with Marcus and Rudy about poverty and many other things, and also a minor briefing about the First Famine Activity - Poverty.

Alright. If you people are wondering why on Mother-Gaia’s-Beloved-Planet (Earth) do I have multiple pictures of Marcus, I was actually just trying to capture his candid pictures and tease him in my blog. But it turns out that all the pictures were not “teasable”, so I gave up and promote him instead. He was really good, ya know~ all emotional and serious when he was talking about the children in the poor countries, how they live, and that $1 REALLY can make a difference in their lives. It could have made me cried, if I wasn’t so tired cuz I didn’t have enough sleep last night (and it wasn’t even my fault to begin with…). I didn’t take pictures of Rudy because he was the second speaker and I was too lazy to grab my handphone again and take pictures of him. I was BLOODY tired, I tell you. You can ask anyone, I wasn’t complaining about hunger, I kept complaining that I was tired…. XD

After they did the briefing, we group leaders received some of the essential items that we need to hand to our participants and command them to move out. Lemme explain a little bit on the Activity “Poverty” - The Game of Life. I split my group up into 2 sub-teams (5 members each), each representing a family. They are suppose to role play one of the 5 family members each (Father, Mother, Sister#1, Sister#2, Brother). The roles of each family have different background, qualifications and capabilities in earning money/spending money. For example, a father with only a form 5 qualification may be able to work as a janitor but maybe not a banker, etc. So what the participants have to do, is to break some codes that I have given to them, so that they know which stations they are suppose to go to.

The picture above shows an example of a station, if i’m not wrong, it is a supermarket. This is where the “mothers” have to figure out what to buy and how much to spend. The goal of the game, is to be able to earn more than the expenses, WHILE making sure you got all the essentials in your life, such as a shelter, foods, clothes, tools, transportation etc. In other words, it is a game of BUDGETING. It was fun looking at the participants running around looking for stations and also role-playing with great “commitment”. After the families are able to gather all the essentials and earn more than enough, we group leaders will present them an emergency, such as Sister#1 broke her leg, burned her skin or Sister#2 got into an accident. The family members, upon searching the medical cost of the emergency, will realize that they have not enough income to cover the expenses anymore, and do not have enough time/enough manpower to work for money/for more than 2 jobs at the same time. The game then ended after 45 minutes, followed by a debrief of the purpose of the game by a World Vision volunteer - Silvia.

An extra note: One of the families of my group was so cute! They got all the prices of the expenses and all, but I realize, they don’t have any income…. XD But they did make super efforts in playing lo! I salute all my group members! Group 2 RAWKS! =P

In short, the Game of Life, is for us to realize, how hard it is for the families living in poverty have to struggle each and everyday to make ends meet. They may be working 1 or 2 jobs at the same time, and the mother have to spend wisely on the essentials, and also the children, who may have to work occasionally to help the family. Once presented with an emergency, they will have to struggle more or in the other extreme, give up. We are lucky to have been born who we are, and not like those poor little children who have to suffer ever since they are born. It kinda makes me feel contented, that I have a family and I am born healthy.

After that, we sang the theme song for this year’s Famine, which is the same song for last year’s - “Tomorrow”, or in mandarin “明天孩有希望”.

On Stage are:

Elaine, Winnie, (dunno), Selena, Yee Ling (with camera) and Rudy~

Really sorry.. I can’t make out who that is cuz he/she was blocked by Selena~ =P

After the debriefing session, we have another break and we group leaders are suppose to get each of our group members 2 bottles of water. But, my group members were all so nice lah~ they all say dunnid cuz they got one bottle already, refill can already~ then it saved my energy to carry the bottles =P (actually they also lazy to carry so many bottles =P). During the whole break I was sitting near a water dispenser with Zhen Ning, both of us was exclaiming how tired it was. Hahaha~ but really it was an enjoyable experience =P I will get to that in later phases =P

The break ended in 30 minutes, and we were all back in Theatrette for Famine Activity 2 - “Aid”. However, due to the heavy downpour that don’t seem like it is going to stop in 5 minutes, we are unable to carry out the second famine activity. However, the Program Director - Wan Rou requested the participants to make shoes out of Cardboards and Rafia Strings (which was the first part of the original Famine Activity 2). However, the extra thing here is, they have to make the shoe, get a “model” to wear it, and catwalk (as if you are in a fashion show) with it!

We’ve got a lot of cute products from the activity! Such as the “glamarous” shoes which ties onto ur leg! (First picture) and he was like touching himself while catwalking/posing…. and we also have the cardboard face Joker! He was funny~ yeah, there are people who added “shirts”, “masks” and “tiaras” as extra accessories~! There was one who made a robot suit, one group which made a pair of shoes which comes with a shirt, and one group which made shoes inspired by “DoTA”’s Boots of Travel and Power Thread. Those who play DoTA will know what they are =P. My group made a pair of high-heel shoes for a guy to wear. *shrug* Hilarious la the whole “Fashion Show”! =P

The purpose for “Aid” was to allow us to know how hard it would be or it could be even if we try to help the poor people. But every effort counts The original activity for Aid, actually help us to understand that in the process of aiding those living in poverty, it is very hard to reach out to all of them, but with every effort we make, or even a slight awareness raise in the community, we CAN make a difference in their lives. Even though the full message isn’t able to be successfully portrayed, through shoe-making, it is also a form of aid not only to the others, but also to ourselves. In the process of helping others, we should not neglect ourselves as well. If we go down, nobody else is left to help them. This, is what I learned additionally, from the activity. In addition, it also build up alot of teamwork and interdependence among the group members. In terms of “AID”, it is important to work with each other, the more committed individuals, the stronger the group becomes. I see it when my group members and I were contributing ideas on how to make the shoe and also working on making the shoe. I was glad my group members were able to interact in harmony with each other! ^^

Moving on, I only get to enjoy half of the show, because I was so worried about my Choir Performance coming up on the same night, I had to pass my work of that night to Adeline, and have her take care of my group’s final briefing of the day (of where to sleep, what time to gather and where to meet and etc), and go with Elaine to find Shu Ling for practice while waiting for Hua Fu, Renjeeta, Leng Keat, Marcus and Puveshini to arrive! So, THANKS ADELINE! You totally saved my night. =P

And there you have it! This is Phase II~! So do enjoy the post, drop by my chatbox, comment on my entries and check on my archives~ while I prepare Phase III for you all! ^^

Till then, Adios! =D

As with the others, when I first heard of “Mamma Mia”, the first thing that came to my mind was the ABBA song, “Mamma mia, here we go again~…” When I was young, I actually don’t enjoy listening to english songs, but Mamma Mia actually caught my attention cuz its really kinda addictive XD The Movie, looking at its name, definitely would have the song (Duh~) and well, I most probably get to listen to it! Hehehe, ABBA rawks =P

Mamma Mia is a musical movie, (like high school musical =P), and I love Musicals =P One thing I look forward to in the movie is the singing and the dancing and the wonderful music thing! =P I love musical stuffs… though I cannot play instrument =P But I’m into choir/singing and dancing ^^

Look at the people in the picture! =P I think it is going to be a wonderful show! =P The storyline is really cool and cute too! Interesting little people =P I really wanna know who is her real father , and that makes it the third thing I look forward to in the movie ^^ Through Singing, Acting and Dancing, the story unfolds in the Musical Movie “Mamma Mia” ^^ =D

It was a hectic day. But I woke up peacefully at my bed at 5.00am to prepare myself for the big day.

In case some of you were asking, “why so early?” I use about an hour to prepare myself (such as brushing my teeth, washing my face, using the toilet, clean myself, change into clothes, etc). And I prefer leaving for my destination an hour earlier (as I need to reach HELP by 7am) if the event’s important!

So at around 6.30am I reached HELP and I saw Gorgan! I spot the camera on his waist! So I did what I do best — Camwhoring.

First, I took a picture of myself~

Then I took a picture of us!

After that, at around 8.00am, we (group leaders) were given our briefing by Mia (english camp) and Swee Boon (chinese camp) and prepare ourselves for the arrival of the participants. We were randomly given numbers to indicate which group we lead and I (luckily) got Number 2! Cuz the group’s box is right in front of the stage, so it was pretty happening! =P

Before that, there was some delay due to the security guard locking the Conference Hall’s door and our equipments that was prepared earlier cannot be taken out by 7am. Thus the briefing was delayed by an hour.

As I was proceeding towards my box, I saw Eu Veng! He was sitting with his brother, Eu Gene (which was in my group) somewhere near my box! That was when one though came to my mind, “My god, Eu Veng and his brother look so alike!“ Well, he was disagreeing it like nobody’s business, but hey, I’m not the only one who said that =P Anyway, we never miss a chance to take a picture together!

Honestly, I don’t remember when did I take this picture but oh well! =P

After my funky met up with Eu Veng, I proceed towards my meal (one more breakfast before my Famine begins) and that was when I met Marcus. YESSS, Marcus Tan Eng Soon. =P I just HAVE to spell out ur full name lah =P Anyway, Eu Veng, Marcus and I just had some chit-chat roundabout and Evo decided to snap a picture of me and Marcus~

That was my food, fried beehoon, fried rice and some vegetarian Char Siew

I really didn’t like the Vegetarian Char Siew, cuz it tasted totally weird… But I’m picky when it comes to food anyway *shrugs*

As time goes closer to 9.30am and 10.00am, the participants began gushing in. Late comers as usual. We were suppose to have a “global” ice breaking session with the Emcees at 10 am (when the official Famine starts) but, due to the late arrival of most participants, there was no choice but to skip the icebreaking and head straight for the Opening Ceremony, which was scheduled at 11am. But all is well, by 9.45am, I already had 9 group members! The last one came late, but all is well. Towards the beginning of the opening ceremony, I have all 10 of my group members and we were sorta-kinda already got some interactions going on!

Just to name them, my group members were:

Eu Gene (Evo’s bro), Yong, YY, Wei Han, Elaine, Vivian, Dalvinder, No El, Meng Fai and Jessica.

If I am not wrong, this should be in the correct order of their arrival to my group! =P

The first group picture taken, everyone was happy and energetic =P

So we were all prepared for the opening ceremony after most of the participants have arrived. The emcees for the opening were Marcus and Richard.

The Emcees for the Opening Ceremony

Marcus was in-charged of the English Speech while Richard was in-charged of the Chinese Speech.

Before that, we had a drum performance by some drummers of all-kind of drums. I forgot their group name, sorry T.T, but they were good. After that, there was a few speeches here and there by Tan Yee Ling, camp leader of the English Camp and Chu Chee Lian, camp leader of the Chinese Camp. Finally, Dr. Goh Chee Leong was to give a speech as well as to officiate the event. The opening ceremony was pretty well done in fact! There was those party-sticks were it will combusts the confetti and party-papers out when twisted. Quite “strong” opening ceremony compared to many others I have seen. =)

This is the end of Phase I. Due to certain circumstances, I didn’t take much pictures and I took alot of pictures from Eu Veng and some from Gorgan! So thanks Eu Veng and Gorgan! =P

Then, we shall await for Phase II after I have done compiling ^^

Attention!

There will be a Charity Event that is coming up this Friday (29th August 2008).

It is cheaper than it usually should be and it is just too damn cool!

You guys should come and join, too! I’m guessing this should be cool! ^^

Night Rhythm & MardiGras proudly presents to you local live bands and dance performances which features Kujo, Enrai, Charms All Stars Cheerleaders, Hip-Hop, Capoeira & Latin.

Showcases local bands and dance performers perform their best at MardiGras, 1 Utama Shopping Centre. The bands will be performing a mix of old school rock and contemporary rock music such as death metal, grunge and power pop and also in addition of dance performances in the hope of raising financial aid for The Gospel of Salvation Mission Society (GOSM) Precious Children Home.

Should you have any inquiry, please feel free to contact Wilson (012-2988298) or Genji (012-9726620)

Date: 29th of August 2008, Friday

Door Opens : 6pm till 10pm

Venue: MardiGras, 1 Utama Shopping Centre

Ticket Price: RM35 (Prepaid & Door) inclusive of one house pour.

People, please please come by to support me and the charity home like seriously, how often do you do
charity while you buy the ticket to donate to the charity and also
you get enjoy the performance the whole nite and at the same time
enjoy a mug of beer for free?

eh dont just sit infront of the computer screen !! come by this friday to support !!

your moral support and attendance is much much appreciated

If you wondering how much does it cost to open bottle at MardiGras? It is RM500 nett for 2 bottles of Black Label !!