saxeu's blogcast

Perth like heaven 22 Feb to 03 March

2007-03-22T10:54:00.000+09:00

22 Feb was a special day, not so much because of my navigation flight but it was the day I was reunited with my wife. She came to visit me for a week plus. We haven't seen each other for 8 months since I left for my training. It was a pity that I couldn't pick her up at the airport when she arrived due to my navigation flight. After the flight, I was so eagered to meet her, catch up on the lost time and I called her up to find out she was safe and sound in Perth.

When I finally met her, I had this strange feeling as though I just left her not long ago like a day b4 she came and find me. That 8 months of separration had shink to just a day. And for the next few days when she was around, life seemed more normal to me as that of a married life. I get to spend time with her, have a hand to hold or shall I say, get dragged behind with her walking pace... do grocery shopping at big supermart. All these were so familiar to me.

Our holiday started with a day trip to the south. We went down to Busselton and Margaret River. Tasted some good wine and had some nice food. That was the longest trip I made so far in Perth and I was glad I had my usual passanger with me this time. The only shortfalll was that the car wasn't a mini.

The next few days was just sensational as we went to places and relaxed while spending time with each other. Celebrated our first anniversal and her birthday in Fremantle, an town full of history. I was glad she visited Hope Perth and got to know the people that I associate with. That made her less worried that I was still full on for God and had not backslided a single bit.

There is a saying that goes: 'All good things had to come to an end' and there no exception for this holiday we had together. Sadly, the time came that she had to leave me. I wished she could stay longer until I grew tire of her so I wouldn't feel so sad that she leaves... hee. After she left, life was back to normal, back to reality. All I could hope for in midst of my sadness was that I look forward to reuniting with her when I finish my course here...

All the best to Gavin...

2007-02-04T20:52:00.000+09:00

It was sad to learn another 116 hero had to go. His name: Gavin (aka mr incredible) and he happened to be my roommate for a brief period. Got to know him better then and found out he was nice fellow, always offering help to me when he saw I needed one. I applaused his courage to go thru the review and the waiting. Though I have been through that myself but it was different. I had it at the beginning of the course and he went through that in the mid stage. Having come that far and had to go through all the trials was not an easy thing. I didn't understand why things had to turn out this way but I knew God had a better plan in place for him. Hope that one day he would be able to see the wonderful works of God in his life. I regretted not sharing my faith more with him. I took for granted that he would make it through and I would have more time in that way. Perhaps God was teaching me a lesson of seizing the opportunity.

So Gavin, if you are reading this, this is for you: though you are not around, I will still be praying for you, for your career. I always hold on to this verse in the bible and I want to share it with you, Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. With that, go for your dreams if you are really sincere about becoming a pilot, let nobody or barriers stop you from becoming one. All the best to you...

God's wonder works again for my P-check

2007-02-02T18:31:00.000+09:00

Very thankful to God once again that my P-check 2nd attempt went well with MS. I thought I was not going to make it after failing to perform the Pilot Force Landing on the first attempt. MS, the well respected assistance chief instructor, same fellow that send me up for solo, was gracious enough to give me a second chance to perform my PFL and I did a good job the second time round.

Rejoining was my most feared area as I tended to fumble in such area. I had problem with my traffic awareness from the last p-check. This time round, it was runway 24 and I was a little more comfortable and confident of that circuit entry. It all went well apart from not slowing aircraft down sooner. Instructor was quite happy with my rejoining and my circuit. Though I misjudged the height for one glide approach, I was able to do a better glide approach-landing. I think God was with me throughout the flight and Holy Spirit guided me through. In the end, I passed though it was with minimal standard. At least I was given a chance to progress and continue to improve on my deficiency.

On the hindsight, I think God was amazing to let me go through the first attempt in which I failed and had to do 2 repeated sorties with my instructor. It was opportunity for me to learn more things as I see it now rather than remedial lessons I had to go through becoz I cannot fly the aircraft well. There was even one sortie which I was giving the opportunity to practice my rejoining exercise, something that was unconventional. With that, I appreciate more what were the things to look out during rejoining.

Hence, I knew God was all along with me. Though I failed the first time, I knew it was Him that made me go through it so that I could have more practices, ACFI stopped the assessment after my first bad landing was not so much that I was incompetent but he knew that I had lost my composure after the rejoining circuits and I couldn't bring out the best in me had I carry on with circuits. Hence I am thankful that I had such a good assessor that looked out for my welfare...

So all I can say after all that happened, I am glad I had God and MS...

Nice fireworks that ended up with fire...

2007-02-02T17:10:00.000+09:00

It was australia day, 26th Jan. I had a nerd party organised by my caregroup and it was not worth mentioning... All I can say is that I didn't win the best nerd award.. Thank God....

After the party, we headed down to mill point to enjoy the breezy night with fireworks colouring the sky. It was an event everyone was looking forward to. The unfortune thing was that, though it was windy, it was hot air blowing at our face... temperature was recorded at 33 degrees C. It was like hair dryer air blowing at our faces. The firework was a letdown as many said it was not as spectacular as previous years. However, what was impressive was the lightning works caught in the background while the fireworks were presented. It was amazing that God spiced up the firework show with traces of lightning. One interersting fact was that we couldn't tell whether the firework presentation had ended as the barge containing all the firework explosive caught fire and there were still small firework going off irregularly amidst the fire.

However, after all that had happened, I still think it was enjoyable watching some 20min of decent fireworks. The picture will tell you what I meant...

All that jazz with steve

2007-01-06T11:19:00.000+09:00

Thinking of starting my own podcast. Since I have the time at hand and podcasting is something easy to do. The only two problem I foresee is that I don't have such good voice like those of the newcaster and my fans (if I have any) will have to bear with my low and monotonus voice. The second problem is of a bigger one. See, I got this roommate that makes all the funny noises and play computer games all day long with the speaker blasted. So to have some peace in the room is pretty rare. Guess I can only wait for the rare occassion when he is not around to do my podcast.

Jazz is something I am always interested so I think it will be good to do a podcast on that. Some ideas that I have is that I will do a study of some famous jazz musicians and introduce them and their music. I can also include some movie recommendation related to jazz in the podcast. So for a start, I shall not be too ambitous and just do a modest podcast of the jazz songs that I like.. Watch out for the first podcast.. will definitely keep you guys posted.

Wrapping up the happenings of 2006

2007-01-01T16:30:00.000+09:00

Just want to note down the significant events that happened during 06. Really thankful that God has brought me thru 06 though there were moments of trying times as well as good moments.

25th Feb - This is the most significant day for gelene and me to remember for the rest of our lives. It was our wedding day. It was a once in a lifetime thing. Still remember the tekan session in the morn by the ladies, the mini convoy that bought us from places to places, the surprise worship session held in brother's place, the burkill hall outdoor matrimony and how I fumbled upon my marriage vow in mandarin, the dance we presented to our guest in which we lost our dance step after 2nd bar of the song but hardly anyone knew, the song desafinado I serenaded to my wife and the wonderful scarlet hotel we stayed after the wedding. It was certainly the most fun filled day of my life and the most exciting day ever...

3-5 March - Went for a mini honeymoon at bintan over the weekend. Since I was doing my ground school training, can't afford to take long leave and go for proper honeymoon. So got to settle for a mini honey. After check-in at the resort, still remembered gelene doen't like the furishing and requested to change but the manager said that it was the best they had. We went there to enjoy massage and also had a sumptous dinner on the second night. Even got musician serenaded while we enjoyed our dinner. They could play all kinds of music and hounored my request and played quando quando quando... Though this was a mini honeymoon, we had lots of fun time. Can't wait for the real honeymoon to come...

Early May - Good news for my wife as she was accepted by UA to join them as a cabin crew.

27th May - This is the saddest day I have encountered so far. I haven't lost someone so close, my mother-in-law passed away after 3 months of struggle with lung cancer. It was all so sudden. It all started out with intense coughing and she was admitted to hospital for a medical checkout slightly earlier than her scheduled checkout and doctor found out that the cancerous cells had suddenlly spreaded much. Her health deteriorated from that day on. Though there was periodic recovery, she never got better to a stage of not using pure oxygen to breathe. I suppose God hands was at work and in control of the situation though the outcome was not what we desired. All we can say is that glory be to God as He had prepared a place for her, a place much better than on earth. I am sure I'll meet her one day in that special place.

2nd June - Shortly after mother-in-law passed away, gelene departed for Chicargo to undergo UA training. Another sad day for me as I saw her leaving into the custom area for check-in. It would be a long while before I can see her again as I won't be around when she came back. It was the first time that I felt I would be missing her badly.

6-8 June - ATPL exams... Within these 3 days, we had completed all the 7 subjects... Airlaw, Human Performance, Instruments, Radio aids, Met, Navigation and Met practical. It was an achievement for me to go thru such intense examination.

10-11 June - Attended Kawan Melaka Hope Singapore church camp. I gave a testimony on how God led me to go to the camp despite lots of difficuities. I thought initially I wasn't able to go as my passport was held by Singapore Flying College for the australia visa processing. Turned out that there were some adminstrative complication that deplayed the submission of the passports and the passports were all returned to us for that weekend and hence I could make it for camp. The camp was about friendship and I learned how to treasure my friends well.

6th July - Gelene came back from training and I am still not yet gone!!! I was so happy to see her again.
11th July - 2 phase of training in Jandakot Perth.
05th Oct - Cleared my 1st solo (sortie 109)
30th Nov - After 3 weeks of waiting, sponser replied with addition 5 hours
15th Dec - After all the struggles, finally cleared 2nd part of solo check (sortie 111)

A pink birthday celebration

2006-12-30T18:39:00.000+09:00

A few weeks back, our caregroup living waters combined with bathseda to give a surprise birthday celebration to sister pey bin. As she likes the colour pink, we decided we should all wear pink clothes or at least associate with pink for that day. I haven't got a pink clothes to wear over here so I became a little creative. Think you guys would know from the picture how creative or stupid I looked?? haha.. but I had lots of fun having ppl laughing and applauding my appearance. It was the pinkishest day I ever encounter...

Night safari in the college

2006-12-27T13:03:00.000+09:00

Not too sure what animal was this... maybe a wombat? hopefully not a rat. It was spotted just right outside my accomodation building. What was amazing was that it was not too bothered about me taking the photos. Looked cute to be kept as a pet. Hopefully I will be able to see this creature more often.

Singing session in Utopia...

2006-12-25T14:28:00.000+09:00

After the Christmas party organised by the church, few of us headed to utopia just for a simple dinnner celebration. What was intended to be small quiet event turned out to be a loud and rowdy event with lots of people singing in a packed room. Yes, unbelievable I went to a session of karoke and made my thoart suffered a little singing all the songs beyond my vocal range.

However, we didn't just stop at singing, there was dancing too. All kindof dance, latin, salsa, line dancing along with the ketchup song... wow... this is certainly a unforgettable event in perth... I think its good idea to stick to playing my saxophone.

Night safari nearby the college

2006-12-16T14:19:00.000+09:00

Yes indeed, australia is a land of kangeroo, perth jandakot included as well. The above picture was taken near the intersection of compass road and eagles road. This bunch of kangeroos was consistently sighted at the side of the road around 10pm to midnight when friends and I came back from dinner, caregroup... . They were seen lazing around and enjoying themselves perhaps over moon bathing. Its like a night safari drive thru for us.

The last hour, God's intervention came...

2006-12-15T02:40:00.000+09:00

Today is another important day to remember apart from 5th Oct and the aircraft this time was LTJ. Finally came the moment for me to do my solo after 5 hours of intense teaching from MS, the assistance chief instructor. He reminded me of Gandaff, old and wise. Coaching under him made my flying so much better. He was able to point out all the bad habits I had, the consistent mistake I made. He enlightened me the ease of flying with all my mistake corrected.

Yes, he set high standard for me to clear under him but he made sure that I learn well and progress to his standard. I really admired his patience and professionalism. Hope I would keep up the standard and not let him down. Thanks to him the 5 hours of teaching and that really made me a better pilot.

However, the greatest person that made thing turned out this way was God... Glory be unto Him. I heard from the sermon recently that God intervention is never early and never late. Never early so that to train us to be patient and continue to wait with faith. Never late for obvious reason. Once again, through this trial, my faith level was tested.. my patience and never give up attitude was toughened. I had come out stronger. I prasie God that I went through it with victory.

Thru this trial, I was once again humbled. I thought I knew everything about flying a circuit. However, these 5 hours of flight under wise old instructor taught me lots of aspect of flying I lacked. For example, listening out for radio call, looking out for traffic, follow through action after landing. I must say I learned so much more than the previous flights from other instructors. I want to thank God for bringing me through all these... Time had not been wasted because right now I am stronger than I use to be.

There's still hope

2006-11-30T17:26:00.000+08:00

Finally, the verdict is out. After 3 weeks of torturous waiting, the result of my review is out. I am given 5 more hours to prove my worth. Praise God firstly, becoz I know He listens to prayers and understands my heart fully. In fact, today, I watched the documentary on the flying operations of UA on 777 and I thought I will miss all these experiences if I were not given another chance.

I suppose the trial this time had taught me to appreciate having given the opportunity to fly. I haven't flown for 3 weeks and there were times when I pondered how nice if I could fly again. I suppose my very next flight, I will not take it for granted and would treasure every moment of the flight.

On a boarder overview about this trial, I suppose God wants me to learn to fully trust in Him and His timing. Surely there's a reason why my progress had not been smooth. Perhaps in going thru such trial, I will learn how to persevere to a greater degree. I will understand that flying is not merely about having fun and is not to be taken lightly. I shall put in extra effort during my training. Prob also, right now I am more appreciative of my employer who had shown me grace by giving me a second chance. So in future, I will do my job well and help contribute to the well being of my employer.

Putting all these trials behind with valuable lessons learnt, its time for me to move on. Just as what the bible says, there's a time for everything. Now's the time for me to pick up where I left off in flying. With God's grace, I will make it through, for God, for my wife and family, for my late mother in law, for my caregroups both here and back in Singapore, for the heros of 116, Seng Chye, James and Ashvin especially whom unfortunately had to leave us, for my employer who gave me a second chance, and for all those who have faith in me and supported me all these times...

Another hero of 116

2006-11-27T12:24:00.000+08:00

It was 25 Nov 2006. It was a joyous occassion to celebrate our course 116's one year anniversary. Wow... it has been a year and I had hardly noticed. Time seemed to be passing really slowly maybe becoz of the fact that I was not progressing well with my flying. Anyway, we had bbq at mill point and enjoyed wonderful playing of frisebe and volleyball.

On the other hand, it was a solemn affair to bid farewell to Ashvin, another 116 hero who parted us the next day. He was brillant in everything he did, he was physically fit, smart and did very well in the ATPL exams. Friends liked mingling around with him. In fact he was our course leader and I have the privilege to be his roommate. It was really shocking such a talent like him got to go.

Anyway... I'll like to wish him all the best as he embarks on his new career... I am sure in time, he will find true passion with his new career. So to Ashvin, if you are reading this, to me you will always be remembered as a fine hero from 116, take care till we meet again.

Black and white skin

2006-11-27T11:51:00.000+08:00

Wow, it has been a week and my skin still has the black and white feature. Thanks to the red bull air race where I cycled down to the venue to witness the event. So just to give you an idea how strong the sun is here in australia and the effects... Thinking back, didn't know the tan will last that long. I should have used such effect to tatoo some pattern onto my skin.. like the checker flag.. haha

The Bible: idiot's guide edition

2006-11-19T23:38:00.000+08:00

Guess this might come as a surprise, being a christian all my life, I haven't really fully read the bible completely. Maybe due to the unexciting stories that will bore anyone to sleep.. esp the books of the prophet... or maybe its just me, can't keep awake when it comes to reading. But just a few days back I went to the library and caught sight of this book: Idiot's guide to Bible. First thought that came to mind: it is written for those who are not sincere with the christian faith but just want some head knowledge about the Bible. Curiousity got the better of me and I decided to flip some pages to check my assumption was valid.

Turned out that I was fascinated by its content. I think I might be the someone who needs more head knoledge about the bible. So I borrowed it. This book puts the bible in a more interesting perspective and is easier to read... at least I don't fall asleep. It was definitely not a substitute for the bible but good for supplimental reading. Ironically, after reading this book, I was more compelled to read the bible...

Guess I am still an idiot when it comes to reading the Bible..

Redbull air race: Perth

2006-11-19T22:34:00.000+08:00

This was probably one of the exciting days, if not the only exciting day for me in perth. The reason being: redbull airrace, the formula one in the sky. I only knew about this redbul airrace recently. Though the airrace was fairly a new concept, I was all excited about it and looking forward for the race.

Guess you must be surprise why there are not pictures or videos of the airrace shown on my blog... reason being: the silly old steven forgotten to put in the camera batt which was left in the recharger. He only knew it halfway thru the journey while cycling to the venue.

About the race, it was cool. The first time I ever witnessed the aircraft flew so close and so fast... what was even more impressive was the tight turns the aircraft maneuvered to make the circuit patterns flying throught the 'air gates'. The aircraft could be closely observed as it zoom past the crowd and it was sensational. The action definitely brought more thrill than those seen in the airshow, brought airshow entertainment to a higher dimension.

Though I didn't capture the experience on photo of the race day, but the least I could do is to put up so photo that I took on friday during the practice day... the airgates, the aircraft hanger and many more... enjoy..

Crosswind landing on a 380

2006-11-17T11:19:00.000+08:00

Above is a video of A380 landing on iceland with a crosswind gusting at about 40kts... Just look at the crabbing the gigantic craft got to perform in order to counter the cross wind.. magnificant landing...

Redbull aircraft video

2006-11-16T18:03:00.000+08:00

As promised on my earlier post, here is the video... Sorry the video might turn out blur at some part.. I recorded it with my nikon digicam.. guess only good at taking photo's and not videos.. Anyway, hope you guys will enjoy..

Cheers

Red Bull aircraft preview

2006-11-15T14:43:00.000+08:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to see some redbull aircraft in action... Good thing 'youtube' is back online and available so I can post some video clips of the stunts performed... but for now.. just enjoy the picture. Was thrilled just by seeing how the aerobatics maneuvers were executed. Told my wife I wanted to become a stunt pilot, her replied to that was 'tolong tolong'

When the youtube is available for upload, will put my recorded clip for you guys to see... but for now, just enjoy the picture.

Flash back to the happy times

2006-11-14T13:22:00.000+08:00

This was me close to 8 months back. Just look at my face giving an radiant smile, I was never happier coz that was the most important day of my life: the day I got married. That day seemed to be like I was in heaven, worries free, stress free, just pure joy and euphoria. Though not all the programme went well.. like I fumbled with my marriage vow and the dance wasn't all that good, but all that never deterred me from being joyful. I believe next time in heaven, I will experience the same happiness as on my wedding day, if not happier... Thank God for letting me have that sort of feeling down here on earth...

Email to Daniel after my first hour with SI

2006-11-13T11:31:00.000+08:00

Below is a excerpt of my email to my ex colleague telling him of my flight progress after my first hour with SI. During that time, my spirit was high, motivation was up becoz I had a good 1st hour with my SI. Though I didn't make my solo with him for the subsequent flight, I thought it was good to put down my thoughts here back then.. so here it goes...

"Thanks for your encouragement.. Yeah... I was once
discouraged... thinking to myself why my progress is
not smooth at all.. firstly, I got a instructor who is
not good at teaching and doesn't clear his student for
solo that easily. I had a change of instructor and the
new instructor no doubt is better at teaching and
correcting mistake, he was temperamental. I cleared my
first solo under him but had problems with my second.

Now I am under review with a senior instructor and I
had my first flight with him today... not too bad and
I think he is much better instructor than my previous
two.. Some ray of hope I sensed... hopefully I will be
able to clear my solo.

Anyway... on the hingsight, thinking about all these
things that had happened.. I can only say that God is
teaching me to trust in Him and have patience... I
also see the importance of the serious aspect of
flying. Its not a play thing.. not like driving my
mini doing all the funny things.. Probably something
God wanted me to understand before I move on to my
next phase of training...

I suppose at the rate I am going, I will prob be the
last from my course to finish but I am ok.. if that's
how God wants me to go thru in order for me to be a
good pilot, I will gladly take it..."

James

2006-11-13T01:13:00.000+08:00

This class photo was taken to commemorate the departure of James. Though he is no longer with us, his spirit of never giving up shall always remain in our thoughts. Still rem during lumut days, he had the fighting spirit and made it up the rocks after many tries. I would have given up climbing if I was in his shoes...

To my friend James, all the best in whatever that is to come next.. and rem.. the best is yet to be..

John Forrest Adventure

2006-11-13T00:13:00.000+08:00

Happened on the 11 Nov. 20 plus of us took on the adventure of walking the heritage trail in John Forrest National Park. What was thought to be an easy trail turned out to be a challenging one. At one point we almost lost our way and the dark was nearing. We had to 'cross' streams and climb steep 'mountain' in order to get back to where we came from. By the time we reached the car park, it was twillight.

We reward ourselves with a sumptous dinner at Little Caesar restaurant which served great pizza.. and we celebrated Victor's birthday... First time tried the dessert pizzas.. really cool.

Tennis tournament

2006-11-11T14:09:00.000+08:00

No no, its not the real tennis tournament I have won but the arcade version found in the website: www.arcadecabin.com/play/tennis_ace.html. During my free time.. (which is almost all the time), I have been playing arcade on my mac.. This particular tennis_ace game is quite interesting.. it consist of playing against 3 opponent, the first is the easiest... the second a little bit tougher but the third is like virtually unbeatable...

I have been playing all night continuously but can't find a way pass her. Finally yesterday was the breakthrough... I finally managed to out rally her. The last ball was a wide return and I just needed to watch the ball bounce beyond the line to know I have finally overcome her power...

It was the first time I saw the gold cup so I better take a photo of it.. its not easy to come by you know.. Cheers to my improved tennis skill..

Red Bull aircraft

2006-11-11T13:33:00.000+08:00

Today I have the privilege to view the red bull aircraft used for the air race which will be happening here in perth on the 18th Nov. Notice that the structure of the aircraft was tubular covered with fabric in order to have the aircraft as light. The wings were made of carbon fibre material.. those of the F1 cars... This aircraft can go up to a maximum of 230 kts.. that's closing to half the speed of sound...wow..

Hear from the engineers assembling the aircraft, these machine can take up a load of 25G...cool.. and the stunt pilot probably can pull up to 12G during the race.. How cool are these race pilots..

Meanwhile.. I think I will be satisfied being a spectacle wathcing the amazing race on the 18th...

Best flight ever

2006-11-09T01:50:00.000+08:00

Today finally came the flight that I am waiting for so anxiously: my review flight that is. This flight was special as it determines whether I stay or I leave, make it or break it. Before the flight, I was asking God what was instored for me and down came this verse: Romans 15:13, May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Having being an engineer, I am better at interpreting equations.. hence: trusting God + filled with Holy Spirit = Hope, and give rise to Joy and Peace.

Hence with that verse, I had the peace in my heart. I must say God is almighty. I had the most enjoyable, fun, without stress, steady and smooth flight throughout my flying duration. BZX was the aircraft I flew in and I did my best to land the aircraft smoothly. Never had I landed so smoothly 6 times in a row. Performed my flapless and glide approach well. God provided me with such good weather and I did my best with no thoughts of 'what if' after the flight.

With this, I can truely see that God is in control of this situation I am in and I fully trust something good is going to come out of it and no matter what the outcome is, God has got a great plan ahead for me. At this point, there's still lots of uncertainty, but what I am certain is that great and promising plan lies ahead of me.

New look and a new name

2006-10-29T15:02:00.000+08:00

Hi,

Just to let you know for all you faithful fans that tune in to this blog that I am still alive and kicking and likewise this blog will cont to exist... Just revamp this blog. Hope the makeover of this blog is good and will cont to entertain my fans... Cheers

2006-10-14T10:48:00.000+08:00

Activities done so far,

Surfed Web, watched serial drama: Triumph in the sky, Good Luck, Engines, Lovers in Paris, Initial D (watched halfway on the network) movies and dvds, played tennis, basketball, cycled to city, airport, played guitar, composed two jingles on garageband, played computer game:diablo II, read book: Budget Carriers (not yet finished, lost interest), went to all the big shopping malls, Garden City, Carousel... went to cottoloe beach and played volley ball, went out to listen to jazz, going to church, attending caregroup, took photograph of interesting paranomic views. ran to a nearby highground to watch aircraft takeoff and land... Oh mine.. I am running out of things to do here... must find something to do that doesn't cost much... and I have like... another 6 months to go?? How I wish I can accelerate this part of my life..

2006-10-14T10:05:00.000+08:00

Yileen's Birthday,

It was on a monday that our caregroup: the living waters, celebrated Yileen's birthday. It was great to enjoy a great meal at a chinese restaurant and catching up with caregroup members. It was her...th birthday, shan't reveal her age as age are secret esp when it comes to ladies... but u can tell by the candles on the cake right.. hee. Had tasted an interesting dish I had never tried in my life.. yam pasted duck... yam yam... Anyway, Happy Birthday to Yileen...

2006-10-10T14:16:00.000+08:00

Mooncake Festive Celebration,

I thought it will do justice to all if I hold a mini celebration of mid autumn festival since my wife brought me mooncake and some lantens and candles to play with. It was a perfect night to celebrate as there was little wind and wasn't too cold. We had a great time just chill under the star and the bright full moon (as seen on the picture). I actually thought of carrying the lanten and walking around the compound but I think we were a little too old for that kind of game.

And finally the lanten dimmed as the last drop of candle wax burned away... And no, all the paper lantens were still intact and not destroyed by the fire caused by the toppled candle within as we usually witnessed. Hence, I shall reuse the lantens for hmm.. Christmas?? Maybe just using the red and green ones.. hee

2006-10-10T13:52:00.001+08:00

Visit to Araluen park and Canning Dam,

A sunny day and it would have been a waste if we don't go out to breathe some fresh air. So here we are, simon, bong, godwin and me made our way to araluen park located east of perth. Guess the flowers were still blooming so we didn't get to see too many. Above picture is just one of the few impressive one we caught sight of. And the mini, I am a great fan of mini since I own a mini myself and I didn't know a mini can be put to so many good uses, not just a vehicle, can become a flower pot as well..

Finally, before the day turned dark, we made our way to canning dam. Its was impressive to see such a great concrete wall. Guess it will be more magnificient to see when the floodgate opens and water gushing down. Guess will have to wait for a long time for that to happen since the water level on the other side was so low... oh dear, must conserve water...

2006-10-07T12:56:00.000+08:00

Meeting with Pastor Lawrence and Sis Pat,

Last wed, so glad to have meet up with pastor Lawrence and sis Pat. Familar faces from Singapore made me feel that I have never left home. Caught up with them... shared with them my conditions here and my church involvement and they shared with me things happening back at Hope Singapore. So glad they brought me some bulletins so I can keep up with what's happening back in Hope Singapore. Thru the conversation, I got to know them abit better, not so much of a church leader figure but more causal and friend like. I also noticed how loving they are to each other and understood what gel said about them being role model for married couple to follow. Later that evening, they brought me to king's park... Wow, I have stayed here for almost 3 months and I needed tour guides from Singapore to bring me around the park. Hopefully I'll be able to go to church and meet them another time before they head back to Singapore.

2006-10-06T14:32:00.000+08:00

So far to date, i have made three cycling trips and covered a total distance of 150km. Unbelievable... Have never cycled so much in my life. The first trip was with Godwin and unfortunately when I asked him to ride with me, I have forgotten that he was much too fit for me. As a consequent, most of the time I was trying to catch up with him. The only time I met up with him was when he waited up for me and he paced me so that I don't get too far behind. We cycled a total of 50km for that journey cycling to the city via roe highway and back via kiwnana... I was so glad that I survived the journey and I learned a valuable lesson: make sure you know the person's fitness level before you ask him out for a ride.

The next trip, I found a more suitable cyclying buddy in terms of fitness... this buddy is simon... we went to the city and back using kiwnana freeway. And the journey is shorter and more managable. It was great to cycle at a pace I was comfortable and to be back before sunset. I had a great time fellowshiping with him at the same time keeping fit...

And the final trip I made was to Perth Airport. It was the longest ride I have ever done with this bike.. a total of close to 60km and within 4 hrs. it wasn't fun riding near the airport area as there were alot of trucks on the road and there was no dedicated bike track. It was dangerous to cycle out on the road as the vehicle came by very close. Guess I shan ride to the airport anymore. Nevertheless, that wouldn't stop me from making more bike trips around perth..

2006-10-06T13:17:00.000+08:00

Joruney through 109, the solo check sortie:

26/08 - sortie 109, just a practice flight. Instructor had no intention to clear me solo

30/08 - sortie 109A, the circuit pattern flew had improved but instructor had no intention to clear me for solo. I just treat it as a good practice for my upcoming solo. My mood was high and I knew probably the next sortie I will clear.

31/08 - sortie 109B, the weather conditions were not favourable for solo, max crosswind 22 at one stage during landing. Instructor joking asked whether I wanted to do solo.

02/09 - sortie 109C, was expecting to clear this time, the weather conditions were perfect. However, instructor deemed I was not really for solo as I did some silly mistakes, i.e heels not on the floor during takeoff.. and the controlling was rough during flare...

09/09 - sortie 109D, was down to my last hour with instructor. was pretty sure I could nail it this time. However, i did a dangerous maneuver during touch and go that got my instructor angry. I increased the power too fast that aircraft skidded left and almost going off the runway. No solo for me, just wasn't my day.

13/09 - sortie 109E, my instructor managed to extend another hour for me. Thought I should be thru this time coz it was my birthday and I reckoned God had reserved this special day for me to clear. I made a minor error of not maintaing my heading during takeoff. I thought my instructor would still send me for solo despite of that. In the end, I didn't make it for solo. i was truely devestated. It was my lowest moment.

16/09 - sortie 109F, I had a change of instructor. This instructor was even tougher then the previous. My circuit was disatrous according to his standards. I knew I had a mountain to climb.

17/09 - sortie 109G, Second flight with my new instructor and I had no apparent improvement. What made matter worse, I realised how inadequate I was in terms of my aircraft knowledge. I really had to be serious with my work if I wanted to succeed as a piilot.

20/09 - sortie 109H, finally, some improvements as we discussed it over the debrief. First time I did glide approach. It was actually quite fun.

28/09 - sortie 109I, Instructor tested on my 'Engine Failure After T/O' drills and glide approach technique. I didn't perform up to his standard. But he didn't fault me on that becoz he knew I haven't got enough practice. He told me my standards were good enough to go on solo. i was sensing peace and hope.

29/09 -sortie 109J, i was that close to clearing... if not becoz of the traffic my instructor felt it was dangerous to fly. We witnessed the aircraft in front of us did a 60 degree AOB in the direction opposite the runway during the final approach followed by a 180 turn towards the runway.

29/09 - sortie 109K, on the same day, I gave it another try. But the wind picked up and I was landing at conditions of max crosswind 12kts. It was too difficult for me to handle.

05/10 - sortie 109L, the sequence was simply, we did two touch and go and he cleared my for solo. I was anticipating this moment to come. I did one circuit in which I think Ianded well but a little to the left. Hence that ends the chapter of sortie 109... Something interesting to note, the aircraft I cleared my solo was BZJ (pic on top)... the same aircraft that had an incident year a ago. Hope this is the turning point for the aircraft as well...

2006-09-22T13:29:00.000+08:00

Interesting pictures:

You guys must be thinking these pictures are taken in the modeling room, showing the layout of the some city development...
Well, the truth is, these pictures are taken real. The things seen aren't models, they are real. Cool huh.. Its all about digital photo editing. I guess the trick here is to blur out the areas that shows depth so as to 'miniaturized' the things shown in the picture. It's the art work of Olivo Barbieri. More stuff can be found on the following website:

http://mightyillusions.blogspot.com/2006/07/model-world-by-olivo-barbieri.html

2006-09-22T12:11:00.000+08:00

Prediction of F1 street circuit:

The above picture is my personal prediction of the proposed street circuit of Singapore F1 if its ever going to happen. Yes, everyone can tell that I am so bored to even bother to do this... But I had great fun in speculating what the street circuit is going to be...

Lets go into the details of the track: The start/finish line should be position at the raffles road where the pit stop will be set up at the left side. Following after the main straight is a slight right turn and later a sharp left hander into esplanade drive. The circuit will go onto the esplanade bridge and a sharp right hander onto the Anderson bridge. Following on, a series of left right hander will bring the circuit to the straight alongside the old parliment house.

Thereafter, a 90 degrees right and left hander will bring circuit to nicoll highway. The circuit shall continue along nicoll highway to a point where a sharp hairpin to the right will be made. Circuit continues along republic boulevard ave and a 90 degrees right will bring the circuit back to the main straight...

The circuit is calculated to be 4.8 km and a total of 17 turns.. quite a decent amount..

2006-09-15T17:29:00.000+08:00

Lowest moment so far:

Yesterday was my lowest, downest, bottomest, (if there is such a word) moment so far of my time spent here. I was preparing for my flight in the late morning for my 2pm flight. Feeling confident that I will clear this time round, I went over to the ops room just to find that I was denied extension of time with my instructor. I was required to change instructor.

Feeling wasn't that bad when I learned that my new instructor was a nice guy, take good care of his student, an instructor that cadets wanted to learned under. Got a later news that I had to swap with another fellow course mate becoz he didn't make it as well and needed an instructor change. And the new instructor I was given, heard of stories that he terrorise the student...

Anyway, I just hope that with this new instructor, I will be able to progress much better. Maybe its a good thing afterall. I know God is in control of every situation no matter how difficult we see it to be...

2006-09-13T22:26:00.000+08:00

Weds 13 Sept 2006

A uneventful day I should say.. not to mention about my solo check... but at the end of the day, I should say I am touched by the brothers and sisters in Christ that send me b'day greetings from Hope Perth and Hope Singapore. Though I missed caregroup becoz there was no vehicle, all was not lost... In the end, the caregroup celebrated my b'day by calling me on the phone and singing me a b'day song over the phone..they even got me a cake and I needed to appoint someone to blow the candles and cut the cake on my behalf... wow.. I am really touched.. No longer am I feeling self pity for going thru a lonely b'day... Actually, I feel great. though I am alone, but ironically, I have got friends celebrating for me in proxy.. Now I see that in the family of Christ, distance doesnt matter.

2006-09-04T19:13:00.000+08:00

Pilot soar to the sky, only to land safely back to the earth:

Just wanted to write down a few thoughts I had after flight. I guess all pilots enjoy flying. Not so sure how many will agree with me that it is more enjoyable after a touchdown, a safe landing and back on ground. I remembered joking with my friends that I belonged to the sky when I took on the job being a pilot. Guess I should make a correction. I still belong to the earth, just that I like to get airborne often. I believe every pilot’s next thought is to land safely once they are airborne. The feeling of being lifted up is great but being there of too long makes you worried a little. However, there’s never a greater feeling of landing safely and knowing that you are standing on your feet again…

2006-09-04T12:31:00.000+08:00

Good Luck..

This is the next serial drama I watched. Good thing its only 10 episodes. This drama talks about life as a co-pilot in which all the cadets are interested to know. A very inspirational drama and the scenes in the drama are close to real life opeartions of a airliner..

The drama used ANA as the airliner which is a real airline as opposed to Solar airlines used in the HK drama. Hence the cockpit shown inside the scenes is real.. A good drama to catch for those who are interested in becoming a commercial pilot...

Lover in Paris

2006-09-04T01:56:00.000+08:00


Hoang Anh Tuan http://sweetdream.2ya.com http://12a3ltv.2ya.com

This is just a short clip I found in google video of the guy singing to taeyong... beautiful song and meaningful lyrics.

2006-09-04T01:15:00.000+08:00

Just to record the number of serial drama I watched over the past month..he first one I watched was a korean drama which I chanced upon in youtube website.

Apparently, some fan uploaded the whole series.. yes.. the full 20 episodes onto the website so people like me can make full use of it and enjoy the drama. The title is called 'lovers in paris'. Storyline is about this jovial lady, a sanguine character met with a CEO of a established car maker company... He was successful in business but knows nothing about having fun, being adventurous and carefree.. Taeyong, the lady taught him how to. Its a beautiful love comedy... the best part of the drama was the ending. Initially the ending made no sense, but after reading the reviews and watching it again, I think the ending was artistic. Not the usual type: 'and they lived happily everafter...'

For those who like romantic comedy, this one will sure be your favourable..

2006-09-04T01:02:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Once again.. sorry for the long interval for those who are tuning in to this blog. The blogger decided to have a long break.. or rather, he is just being himself: LAZY.. Actually, the slow network here played a part for me to stop blogging.. so not completely my fault... Haha, as usual, I am trying to redirect the blame to something else..

Anyway, I shall be discipline and start blogging regular as my schedule allows.. So for those who visit this blog.. please continue to do so as I blog down interesting stuff from down under..

Stay tune..

2006-08-28T12:42:00.000+08:00

Trip to Hope Perth:

Praise God that I was not scheduled a flight on Sunday so I can finally join them for service. I have not been going to church for 2 weeks as a result of flights on Sunday … hence I was spiritually malnourished.

Felt a sense of belonging even though I knew no one there. The people were as usual, friendly and approachable. I was the subject to some as they were expecting me two weeks back, they were preempted of my arrival. Felt really good to be welcomed…

The service was similar to that of Hope Singapore. Even the songs we sang were that of the songs we sang in Hope Singapore. The only significant difference was the size of the church. I guess the hundred odd people congregation gave me the warm family feeling as oppose to the thousand size church that gave me the grand feeling. Had this thought that Hope Singapore was once like that: a hundred odd size congregation and thru God’s grace, numbers were added and it grew to a size of a few thousands congregation. I am sure one day Hope Perth will have a size of a thousand…

Lastly, I met Allan (in picture), the one who used to join EN2, the funky caregroup that have since been disbanded.. Good to see him again.. Seems like he found his home here in perth as he got a nice job here working as a terrirory manager.

2006-08-07T17:13:00.000+08:00

This is just a short intro clip of me and my coursemates watching a game of football australian rules or better known as footy. Remember when I first came to australia for my undergrad study, I came across footy. But back then, it didn't impress me much. Just thought it was a game that was rough and messy. Player just kicked the ball aimlessly and hopefully will get the ball into the goal post...

However, my impression was corrected yesterday when I had an experience to watch a game of footy Frementla vs Hawthorns. Understand the scoring system and the rules better. But still, we were not patient enough to sustain watching the match till the end. Hey, at least my group did better than the rest, we left at the 3rd quarter of the match.

Anyway, the highlight of the day was not watching footy but was what happened before that. My coursemates and I did some wonderful job as voulenteers for the children starlight foundation:- collecting donations from the spectators before the show. It was heartening to see how the australians were active in making donations. Aussie, keep this spirit of giving alive...

2006-08-04T17:28:00.000+08:00

Hey.. sorry for the delay in posting.. just had some trouble in putting some pictures on. lets see if the problem still exist..
Oh great... now I can continue with blogging..

Last sunday was the first time I went to church... Faith community church... marcus and ee ching brought me there.. it reminded me so much of Australian for Christ Fellowship (ACF) few years back where I was serving in that church.. Most of the members are from asia..

The pastor was from Full Gospel Assembly... he gave a good sermon on overcoming the storms.. I shall want to go back to church again to listen to sermons and unite with God's people..

After service, we went to Frementle to have lunch. Fish and Chips was what I had... fish was fresh... Saw lots of ppl at the park playing with their kids.. then I understand what is family life all about. I wish Singapore could have nice weather were we can enjoy outdoors activity.

2006-07-30T18:36:00.000+08:00

Today was a special day to remember... In the evening, I went to a Christmas funciton. Yes, you see the right word: Christmas. Basically it was an outreach event to the residence of brownie towers, a residential apartment. The church Yvonne was in organised a Christmas celebration for the residence for them to experience Christmas in winter. And of course, what would the Christmas celebration be without christmas jingles. Hence I was there to play the sax and hopefully it brought them more joy with the music we played.

The pastor delivered a simple message that I thought it was meaningful. He said that Christmas need not be celebrated only at the end of the year... It could be celebrated everyday becoz the essence of Christmas is the birth of Christ and His presence and we know that His presence is always there 24/7. Hence Christmas celebration need not be confined to Dec period...

Anyway, to end of, I like to say that I was happy to see the 'half' reunion of my jazz band members.. the picture shows of me, ee ching, my pianist and yvonne, my singer. I'll like to leave you with this solo I played during the function.. hope u guys will enjoy..

2006-07-27T17:05:00.002+08:00

Can't believe I finished the 40 episode of Triumph in the Sky drama serial in a couple of days... Thought I can kill some time by watching the show slowly to fight boredom.. In the end, I watch it in 5 days... I didnt know I am so effiecient in doing things...

I was be impressed by how real the story is about the training of the cadet pilots, since I am in that phase now. I'm even more impressed that the show even mentioned also about cabin crew training in which my wife when thru and the many good ethics that can be learned. However, having said all these, I m not impressed that the show emphasised so much on the topic of fate. Guess this is a chinese culture that all chinese identifys strongly with. But being a christian, my belief is that God gave us a life of freedom, we are free to choice what we want in our lives... But of course on the other hand, we seek His will first.

Another thing I am not impressed is that the cadet's were given aerobatic training... these guys are training to be a commercial pilots and not fighter pilots. Why is there a need for them to learn to fly aerobatic... Maybe the passenger planes can do aerobatic stunts all along and I didn't know.. hmmm...

2006-07-25T15:26:00.000+08:00

Today is my second flight.. but before that, I saw a very big rainbow.. reminded me of my holiday with gelene, my lovely wife in NZ. I'm sure if she's here, she will love the sight... So the video is a dedication to my wife. Though she cannot see it for herself, hopefully the video will bring the same effect I have experienced to her..

2006-07-25T00:32:00.000+08:00

Finally did my first flight... long awaited.. checked in here on the 11th July.. 24th July then got my hands on the Cessna 172R control. So sensational to flight again after the last one in seletar.. since Jan?? Anyway, my impression of the 172 compared with the 152 is that it is a tougher aircraft... hence need more force to handle the aircraft well.. but once properly trimmed.. the aircraft will behave well... nicely balance and very stable...

Just wanted to say that God is really wonderful and gracious in letting me fly... I thought the weather was bad enough to kill off any hope of flying. Even when I got over to the ops room was to carry out my duty as a typist though I am scheduled to fly at 1600. In the end, my instructor decided to go ahead with the flight though the weather didn't improve and the time was 20mins past my schedule flight time... God really like to play tricks on us.. so expect the unexpected..

OK.. what is even better now is that I will be flying tomorrow... so I better get some good rest..

2006-07-22T12:39:00.000+08:00

Finally flew for the first time though not as the pilot but as a passenger on the back seat after almost two weeks staying here. Finally got to see the surroundings of the area. Have some 'nice' features like lakes that were dried up, power lines, factories with tall chimneys.. probably that's the tallest 'building' u can find around here.. But seriously, the coastal area is beautiful. One day I must head down to the beach.. I'm sure it will be so much better than those I've seen in melbourne..

What wasn't pleasant in the flight was the instructor tried to show Afiz, the trainee, what the C172 could do... so I had a little roller coaster ride at the back seat which included a 2G windup turn maneuver. The instructor kept checking on me whether I was ok and of course, being the tough pilot which I foresee myself to be, I gave him a thumbs up signal... Good thing the roller coaster ride was confined to the minimal and most of the flight was straight and level..

So now, at least I crossed the milestone of going up into the sky.. now I am just waiting for my turn to pilot the aircraft. I know that day will come and is very soon...

2006-07-21T00:20:00.000+08:00

I can't believe it.. Yet again, my third attempt to perform my madien flight was unsuccessful.. thanks to the cold front development at perth area as observed in the picture... From the picture, you can see the patches of clouds over perth area. And those clouds were responsible for bringing thunderstorm, max crosswind and etc... For the last two days the weather was perfect to fly.. even this morning... only when I was about to fly, these clouds decided to come in and hamper my first flight...

Well, I guess for now, I shall relax a bit and not be too hopeful and expectant of my first flight.. then only it will come... hopefully.. did I just become hopeful again???

2006-07-19T20:16:00.000+08:00

For those who like to see aircraft land and takeoff.. this video clip should be of interest to you. Just unfortunately my low end digi camera cannot capture high resolution... Anyway, that was the first time I witness two aircraft of the same type landing at the same time.. how cold is that... the aircraft according to my instructor is called nan chang.. enjoy..

2006-07-19T12:13:00.000+08:00

OK, I'm going to add a bit of spice to my blog.. since now technology so advance.. can put video, podcast, live recording on the net.. so why not made good use of it.. This is the first video I have uploaded.. took me so long to just upload this.. but have fun and enjoy the tour of my room...

2006-07-18T20:16:00.000+08:00

Wow, its has been almost a week while I last post my blog. Guess I'm back to my lazy self.. Anyway, the picture is me on the C172 ready to pax along with my friend who was doing his first flight. My flight was cancelled on the 14th July due to the weather. Can't believe today my flight had to be cancelled the second time due to my instructor on MC.. What I thought things going on my favor e.g. I am the second person for my planned first sortie, is turing out to be the opposite, e.g. i am like going to be the last few doing the first flight as more of my course mate did their first flight.

Feeling was like i've given up working hard and going to be slacker then ever... It's actually quite hard to sustain the excitment when things are going so slowly...

Well, I'm sure the excitment will come back again just prior to my next flight. Today I went out with a few guys out to garden city to do some shopping. Since I was the only one that knows the area a little better that the rest, I volunteered as the navigator. Being the navigator, I felt burden of responsibility on me and fear the worst might happened: getting lost and spoilt the whole event.

Yes, as usual, I brought the guys for a little touring about the neighbourhood before we finally reached our destination. Funny thing was that the driver asked if I was lost and figuring out where we were and I replied, 'that was like a few minutes ago'...
Lesson learn, sound out at the slightest hint of being lost, and not to repeat that in my flight training...

2006-07-11T23:40:00.000+08:00

Its thursday and I am not yet gone... that means I'll get to see my wife.. It's really God's grace once again. Situation is not as bad as how it has pictured to be initially. It had been five weeks without seeing my wife and God had seen me thru during this period. Can't imagine what would had happen if I were to go before she came back.

During the time when she was not around, I only began to feel her absence gradually. Prob most after my exams when all my attention on my studies were no longer needed. Thru this, I realised that the true feelings of affection can be somewhat suppressed by keeping oneself busy. That applies to being passionate with God and the danger here is that such passion is so easily compromised when one is filled with activities. That's why we are always encouraged to be still and know that He is God...

2006-07-11T22:14:00.000+08:00

That's Jacob in the picture. My cool guitarist still got the blues and playing it well. It was on a wed evening that I decided to have another jam with my band before I head off for aus. It was so great to jam with musicians that one is familiar with. No stress and pressure. Maybe a bad thing that comes out of it is some wrong notes played since there's no pressure to play properly.. But I know that's a bad habit and certainly not condone in good musicianship. I shall kick that habit away...

My regular drummer, amos and my keyboardist, ee ching. I must say they have greatly improved their skills. Maybe they engaged more in listening and playing jazz. Oh dear, looks like I am lagging behind... If I don't practice harder, I am certainly going to find myself out of the band. Worse even, I am going for my flight training and prob dont have the time to practice. Guess to do the least is to listen more to Jazz... Like what I am doing now while writing this post.

Anyway, back to the jamming. It was certainly great doing the 'never go wrong' numbers eg. Fly me to the moon, So nice, Blue bosa. Hence if I am really out of touch, these are the songs I can fall back on.. haha..

2006-07-04T18:37:00.000+08:00

Today I did something unbelievable: I went on a cycling trip by myself. Ride along the singapore river all the way to kallang and ended up at mac donalds and thereby sending out this blog.

Some discoveries I made along the way. Found out that the city center has got some nice heritage trails for tourist.. probably for locals as well who don't bother to know about Singapore history like myself.. Found out also that now its an offences to ride when passing thru the underpass and in Clark Quay.

Oh, first time witnessed the 'landing' of the duck tour boat... quite interesting with all the water slashing all over the land. Anyway, guess I had a great workout. Now its dark and I need to get back.. probably will hit nightfall by the time I get back home.. better hurry...

2006-07-04T15:02:00.000+08:00

It was on sunday that I had the honor to be treated by my caregroup members at a restaurant called Giraffe. It was so heartwarming to have them celebrate my farewell and wishing me all the best for my next stage of training. And especially so when rachel turned out as we haven't seen her for a while. It was unfortunate that my wife was not around to join us for the occasion.
Anyway, the serving of the food was huge. I had back baby ribs and it was so tender and sweet. The ambient was nice and cozy, sophticalted at the same time. I am certainly going back there again. Perhaps to have a lazy evening there with my wife enjoying the view (of the cars travelling along orchard road).

And of course, we had a fun time taking pics on my mac book with effects some more. Thus the pic shows the members in my caregroup. NG9B4... Not in the picture was Rachel as she came late, YK came back but said he had a headache, what's new... and my wife gelene who was still training in Chicago...

2006-07-04T14:15:00.000+08:00

I know this may come a bit late but I want to include it on my blog before I completely forget this portion of my life in seletar.

It has been a solid 6 months spend in a land of traquility such as seletar and many things happened during this period. As a cadet pilot, we are supposed to spend our time here after classes so there will be minimal distraction from the outside world. The place we stayed is at 1 oval road. Nice house located at the circle intersection of the road. There were 7 of us in the house, those on the pic from left to right: Bong, myself and Godwin.

Life as a cadet during this stage had been both fun as well as stressful. Fun when we celebrated Bong's b'day. As we got the biggest house in our course, almost the whole course came over to have a drinking session. And of course the person who drank the most was none other than the b'day boy himself. He ended up puking and laughing. Stressful when our exams were drawing nearer and the 7 of us were on a debate of the right version of the answers to some ambigious questions...

Remembered during revision period, my leisure activity would be watching the channel 5 news with my news buddy chris. That was the time when we put our thoughts away from the lectures and enjoy some bit of interesting stuff such as news... How exciting yeah?? After the news, chris would go back to his room to cont studying diligently while I go back to my room to cont surfing the web diligently too.

The house has got a big 'garden' full of grass. That's where I parked my little white dot. I enjoyed washing my car there especially with the water hose. During our stay, we realised we had a mango tree at the backyard. Managed to pick some and tasted them but they turned out to be sour...

Finally, I will like to come back again, not because I have to repeat the course.. but to stay here as a resident. Maybe somewhere near... I just love the peaceful nature of the place and the sound of the aircraft taking off from time to time...

2006-07-02T20:58:00.000+08:00

Posted my last post like very long time back.. Oh dear, that means I haven't been using my macbook much. Will try to post more regularly.. Prob make it a daily activity, if not every other day activity if that standard is not too ambitous for a novice blogger like me.

Wasted the whole of Friday lazying around at home. I noticed that comfort zone can do so much damage to spending your time fruitfully. When I am out, I catch up with friends, do sports which is good for the body, run some errands with my little white dot (my mini cooper) and time is well spent. On the other hand, if I stay at home, I just fix myself to the computer and play games, sleep on the bed and waste my time away...

Anyway, I cycled to my bike mechanic to get my mountain bike tuned in time for my next mountain biking session. Finally met up with Zac after the last time which was when I bought the bike from him, that was 3 years ago. Shows how much I 'treasure' my bike. What was even better was I learned that normally for bike enthusists, they changed their chains every year for optimal performance. For me, it never even occured to me that the chains should be changed. No wonder I got all the gear slipping problem the last time round when I ride.

It was late in the afternoon and the mechanic had quite alot of things to do, I decided to get my bike fixed another day. Actually, the real reason was that I wanted to avoid the service fee. Heard from my friend a decent fees is about 70... Wow, I can service it myself and save the 70 heehee.. cheapskate right..

As usual, I was late for the Fire Conference and my caregroup leader had to come out to usher me in. Met up with Wei Ping (my ex's uni friend) and his girlfriend Christina. Good to see them still so on fire and attend such conference. The speaker Reinhard Bonnke encouraged the Christians with the verse of the parable of the talents (Matt 25:14-30). What struck me most was that we should use our talents, even if there's a risk of losing it, e.g. mission that we embarked on turns out unsucessful. At least we can say that we tried. God will honour our actions.

After the conference, KC me and henri decided to hang out somewhere to watch World Cup quarter finals: Germany vs Argentina. Ended up watching at some coffeeshop which we can't make up the ball at all for the first half. We rushed to Robertson Walk where the screen was much bigger. Good thing was that the exciting part of the match was in the second half. Unforunately we missed the witnessing of the first goal. But it was ok.. I am a supporter of Germany. Hope they will win the World Cup since they are the host.

2006-06-28T23:25:00.000+08:00

Just got my macbook and have been busy exploring the power of mac. Yes indeed, user friendliness is the feature of mac. I have much to learn about the shortcuts, secrets of using mac machines and I have all the time to do that in Jandakot.

Well, just some background how I finally come to get my mac. I was comtemplating whether to get a laptop or just bring my desktop over which many thought it was a troublesome option. Finally yielded to the idea when I saw so many of coursemates getting laptops. Didn't exactly followed my coursemate in getting a laptop but a macbook becoz it looks so much more cool.

I realised that my mac could also be a means to blogging with style and so I started blogging which in the past I thought it was a total waste of time. This could also serve to tell you my life in Jandakot esp for my dear wife Gel.

So for you guys out there who knows me and want to stay in touch, just logon to this channel. Hope my macbook will tell you my story.