2009 Year in Review

Well its the end of another year and its time to stock take again. The year began like any other year, not much of a difference, but by the second quarter we had really good news that my missus was expecting our first child and not one but a set of twins ! We were overjoyed. We were even further blessed by the fact that soon they told us that we would be expecting a boy and a girl ! Now that can only be God’s gift. We were thrilled, most of the other half of the year was spent in preparation of the arrival.

Mid year was also when I changed my job and after 6 months on the job it was going well. I guess it might be something that suits me more. Last quarter saw me going for a Tonsillectomy where I had my tonsils removed after all these years. Did not want to really see it go but I guess did nto really have any choice as it was just not going down with 3 rounds of antibiotic treatment. My running also picked up as I went for longer runs slowly graduating from 10K to 15K to the half marathon which I completed in 2hrs 28mins. It felt good the only thing that spoilt it all was no photo of me again similar to last years run.

So most of the year was spent in preparation for the arrival of the babies, first they surprised us with the pregnancy then that there were 2 of them and then it was boy and girl. Finally they gave us the ultimate surprise and Christmas Present – they arrived on 20th Dec 2009. (they were originally expected on first or 2nd week of Jan 2010) The 2 little ones were full of surprises. It was a really panic rush on the 20th as we were both not expecting them I thought I had at least after Christmas to prepare for their arrival. But they really are the two sweetest gifts that God could ever give to us and we thank him for answering our prays.

So that was the year I guess 2009 will be remember most for the year of the babies. But what about my New Years Resolution it’s time to have a look at them.

1) Complete 4 XBox games :- well in the end I only managed to complete 1. I was tied down with the other things this year and the baby took most of my time.

2) Complete Comic Book Cataloguing :- I have managed to finish getting all the info down on paper and sorted out my comics and stuff into boxes, but now still need to key them into the system that is all.

3) Complete my Mighty Muggs Star Wars collection :- I finally found the last piece that I needed at the Comic and Toy fair this year and my collection is complete.

4) Run a Half Marathon under 3hrs :- I did that on 6th Dec at the Standard Chartered Marathon where I did the half marathon in 2 hrs 28 mins.

5) Keep fit and loose some weight :- The beginning of the year I actually gained about 2 to 3 kilos but then it slowly stop and only after my operation to remove my tonsils did I loose some weight (due to not being able to eat) I did managed to keep it down and overall at the end of the year I lost 1 kilo from the beginning of this year. Well that’s a start.

Well I guess you can say I definitely completed (3) and (4), for (5) yep I did loose some weight but not my ideal weight lost, need to bring it down a little further to healthy levels but it was an achievement. (2) I would say partial 50% and finally (1) was the only one I was not able to get anywhere only 25% done. So all in not a bad year at least better than last year where I did only 1. For this year I completed 3 and the other 2 were partial. So tomorrow a new set of resolutions will begin, now I have to starting thinking of some … in the mean time …

HAPPY

NEW

YEAR

Running 2009 – year in review

Well decided to do a write up of my running year for 2009. In all this year I signed up for 6 runs, but I had to skip the Passion Run as I was sick on that day and was not feeling well. The other runs I signed up for was the Army Half Marathon/Sheares Bridge run (10k), Nike Run (10K), Yellow Ribbon run (10K), REAL Run (15K) and the StandChart Marathon (Half Marathon). I have to admit this year the great thing was the use of disposable timing chips, all the runs I participated used them except for Nike which used a disposable D-Tag, with the chips you actually could keep them and I collected the 4 that I had.

 

Every run had a slightly different feel to it and each carried its own memories for me. She Army run I guess was the only one which feature the Sheares Bridge, it probably would be better if I had gone for the Half Marathon instead of the 10K. Well next year will definately go for the Half Marathon.

There were 2 runs which had the most innovative starts – The Yellow Ribbon run and the Nike Run. For the Yellow Ribbon run the start had these 2 dummy Prison gates and we had to run through them. But I guess the Nike run beats them all when you run UNDER a band they built the stage right across the running track, not only that the countdown was done by the rock band themselves.Now how cool was that. But the Yellow Ribbon run takes the cake for the most unusual ending point – within Changi Prison itself. Now that is the first time I have ever gotten to see what was behind those barb wire/fence up area.

For terrain it has to be the REAL run since it incoporates a multitude of running surfaces, from bush to road to track to beach to an airplane runway. I really like this run and it was the first time I tried the 15K route. I really enjoyed myself on this one.

The year ended with the season ending Standard Charted Singapore Marathon. It was the furthest that I have ever run in a long time as I entered for the Half Marathon. Again I enjoyed this run. It seems the longer distances I enjoy more than the shorter 10K runs, I am not sure why although it could be due to the slower start or it’s just me always taking a long time to warm up and I only get into the rhythm at the 6/7 km stage. But whatever it is 2009 saw a few first including the Visit to the Prison, running under a Band and doing a Half Marathon.

So what will 2010 bring ? Goal will be to complete the full marathon at then end of 2010 (the Stand Chart event) but along the way I plan to do the REAL run again and the Army Half Marathon hope they will run across the Marina Barrage again. I have already signed up for the Addidas Sunsdown Half Marathon and likely to sign up for another event before that. Of course hopefully more Racing Chips to Collect ha ha ….

Christmas Surprise

Boy has it been a very surprising week, it all began on Saturday the 19th of December. We had our family Christmas get together, there was a Church get together 2 days ago. Our families came over and we had the Christmas Tree up with lights, presents and lots of food. We forgo the turkey in favour of chicken, honey baked ham, curry, noodles, german sausages, otah, salad, cakes, ice cream and a couple of other dishes. The charades was hilarious and everyone went home happy and in the Christmas mood.

The night was like any other night, we cleaned up after the party, watched a little bit of TV and went to bed. At around 2.15am the missus woke up and exclaimed ‘oh no, I think my water broke’! The missus was expecting our twins and they were not due till early or mid Jan 2010. We soon realised that her water had broke. Me being the super unprepared husband panicked a little, all I could think of was to get her to the hospital. I called the hospital emergency line and they told us to come in to A&E. So I bundled the missus into the car and off we went to the hospital. Took about 20 to 25 minutes to get there.

We arrived at the A&E at 3am and the attendant on duty calmly wheeled the missus up to the delivery floor where a couple of nurses were on standby for our arrival. The missus was placed in the delivery ward and a round of questions was asked to ascertain what was going on. The missus was having some contraction. Her doctor was called and the doctor told the nurses to administer an injection and to monitor for an hour. It was about 4am now and I asked the Nurse what was going to happen next. She said they will just monitor and then they will see how it goes, it sometimes takes a couple of hours or even 12 hrs or more she said. Boy was I a sucker for that. So I asked if I could go back and get the night bag since we had rushed out and had not really packed. They said it was ok as long as I kept my handphone on, nothing to worry about they said. Boy was I in for a surprised.

So I headed back home, had a quick shower and was packing my bag when my handphone rang, it was about 5am. It was the hospital and they said that it was time for the delivery, the doctors are on their way in and they asked if I could return to the hospital. So I said ok will be there in half an hour. They said, if I could make it there in 10 minutes and they will wait for me. I said ok ok can can will be there in 10 minutes. So I grabbed the only bag I had ready which was my camera bag and got into the car, time check 5am, arrived at hospital, parked car – time check 5.08am. I made it in 8 minutes, there was not much traffic at 5am in the morning and the lights were really in my favour. But as I got out of the car, there was a slight smell of burnt rubber, guess I accelerated and braked a little hard along the way.

 

I was with my missus when they started to roll her to the delivery room as it was an emergency c-sec I was nto allowed in. It was 5.15am. The doctor arrived at 5.20 and she spoke to me before she went into the operating room. The paediatrician came at 5.25am or so. soon everyone was in the room. I waited outside. Got time then to SMS the family on more happenings. My sis drop by at around 5.55am and at 6am the doors opened and out came a nurse with the 2 cutest little bundles of joy. The twins have arrived. They were being wheeled to the Neonatal ICU center. The paediatrician came out and spoke to me told me to follow the babies up first and half hour later my missus would be ready to come out of the operating room.

 

I went up to check on the twins, managed to say hi to them, but as they were in ICU I did not really want to stay too long in case I got in the way of the nurses. Met up with the missus after she came out of her sedation, told her the twins were find and here’s the first look at them. Nigel and Natalie, the Lord’s little Angels.

 

It was the Night After the Party

It was the Night after the Party, when all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring, not even my spouse.
The plates were all washed and kept my dear,
In hopes that our babies will soon be here.

When out of the blue there arose a shout,
I sprang out of bed to ask "What it's about?"
"It's burst, it's burst" exclaimed my wife,
What a shock I got, a real shock of my life.

I knew in a moment that it must be the babes,
All ready to come into the world of late.
Now Nigel ! Now Natalie ! you have to wait,
While Daddy and Mummy get out of bed.

And then in an instance the water came,
Down unto the floor and into the drain.
I bundled the missus into the van,
Away to the hospital as fast as I can.

Calm down dear sir the nurses said,
It'll be a while before we operate.
But the little babies had other ideas,
To miss Christmas was one of their fears.

"It's time, It's time" I was told,
Soon the babies will reach their goal.
Mummy was wheeled into the room,
While Daddy sat outside looking gloom.

It's 6am and the doors flew open,
Out came the babies wrapped in cotton.
The new born babies were a joy to hold,
A parents joy it was to behold.

Not one but two special ones to lift,
Nigel and Natalie were heavens great gifts.
Mummy is well, and Daddy smiles bright,
A Blessed Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night.

Drama

A little drama happened near our place last night. About 10pm.the sound of sirens filled the air. Me being a little curious poke my head out the window and saw a fire truck at the opposite block of HDB flats. A Red Rhino was also pulling up the flashing blue and red lights making it look a little like a Christmas Party down by the road side. Spotted a couple of fireman running around (ya they were running not walking and although the flats were not near, I could actually here them shouting something to one another. I told the missus “hey something’s going on over there, maybe fire”. A police patrol car then arrived on scene. It was soon followed by another patrol car and I could just vaguely make out that blue and white police tape being strung up.

The missus at this time was a little excited and asked me to go investigate. So off I went down to be like one of the many ‘Kay Pohs’ There was already a crowd gathering. Soon a third patrol car joined in and then came the arrival of one of those big Fire Engines, you know the kind with a ladder attached. Looks like a fire or something was happening in one of the flats since a few firemen were wearing those oxygen tanks on their backs and the fire hose were laid out, the hydrants were open and the pumps were working. But I could not see any smoke or anything in any of the flats. The Ladder Truck shone its spotlight up to the 3rd floor window but can’t really see anything happening from where I was standing (with the other KPOs, in flip flops and pyjama's) I stood there for about 10 mins and then I guess it was over as the firemen started packing their things. Not sure what happen, but I could see a lady talking to a Police Officer and the Fire Chief or whatever they are called those Firemen in white helmets.

I tried walking round the block but could not really see anything and so I went back reported to the missus that it was probably a fire or something but could not really tell. Anyways the missus was watching one of those Chinese Drama Serials on TV and had become less interested in what was happening downstairs. I think she’ll probably stay and watch her drama serials than evacuate a burning building.

No Pics AGAIN !!!

I don’t believe it !! 2 years in a row and no official picture of me running the SCSM !!

Heres’ what I got when I search under the photo section.

And this was last years 2008 run where I did the 10K

Every other person I know of that ran the race got a photo I even (well being a little KPO) checked it out and the minimum was 1 at least with the max being a friend of mine who ran the Full Marathon having 12 shots !! That’s right 12 shots and what do I get ….. a big fat ZERO. NIL, KOSONG, ZI TAN.

Well at least the consolation was I had a friend around to get pictures of me. And they did put up the video of the finishing and this time I could actually spot myself in the video. Whereas last year I could not see myself. Did managed to get a video grab of me finishing the race. That’s me there in the center in blue with white trimmings on the side (not the guy in white or the guy with the headband). Running in my sexy Nike shorts.

SCSM 2009 (Half Marathon)

Pre-Run Prep

I had signed up for the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon 2009 (SCSM) -- the Half 21.1K distance -- quite early this year within the first week or so once registration opened. I had set a target to complete it within 3 hrs which seemed a fair and achievable target. I had scheduled a few built up runs to this like the Nike 10K and the 15K REAL run. It was good preparation but I had my tonsil removal operation 1 month before this run (just directly after the REAL run) and was out of action for 2 weeks. On top of that just as I was recovering from the op, I sprained my right ankle while ironing clothes (don't ask) another week of rest, which left only 1 week before the big race. It would be my longest run in over 15 years I think the longest run I ever did was a 3/4 marathon when they had those long long long long ago. (still got my finisher's mug lying around somewhere -- they gave mugs instead of medals in the old days …) So collected the race pack (very fast and simple love it) and for this year the missus and me decided to check into a hotel so that it was easier to get to the event. Night before I did my normal pre-run ritual of laying out my gear and accessories and did my final pre-run check :- running shorts, running vest, number tag pin on, socks both left and right ones, pair of shoes laces undone, race chip, food for breakfast, pre-run drinks, watch, deep heat rub and of course my lucky lucky lucky underwear. With that done I WAS ALL SET !!

D-Day

I woke up just in time to see the flag off for the Full Marathoners from my hotel window. Did the 3 “S” ritual that every male human does in the morning : Shower, Shit and Shave. Changed into my gear did my warm up prep and I was off to the start line. Weather forecast was rain but in the end it was a beautiful day for a run.

The race route started on Esplanade Drive near Fullerton Hotel, down to MAS building turn off to Marina South and loop back towards Benjamin Sheares Bridge (major uphill climb !!) down to Suntec's Fountain of Wealth and out pass the F1 pit buildings, turn onto Nicoll Highway down to Mountbatten where we made the U-turn at the Swimming Pool, cut into the National Stadium, back out onto Nicoll Highway, onto the actually F1 starting grid lane, pass the Singapore Flyer under the Benjamin Sheares Bridge, pass Esplanade Building, turn off to Anderson Bridge (Singapore's oldest bridge I believe) and finally end at the Padang in front of City Hall. Now isn't that the most scenic race route ever !!

At 6.45am we were flagged off. Down Shenton Way we went me and 12,499 other half Marathoners and the Christmas lights were still on which made for a very nice start. My good deed for the day happened here when I reminded a fellow runner that his laces were undone ... and no it was not to overtake him (that's a real low blow) I caught a glimpse of the elite full marathon runners as I made my way to the F1 pit buildings could just see the top 2 running onto the track. The other top 8 or so runners were behind all of them were definitely in a league of their own. All Africans.

I hit the 10K mark at 1hr 10 mins, and I was feeling better as the race went on, the first 5K was a little tough which is normal for me I do take some time to get into the ‘flow’. By the time I hit the 12K mark I knew the missus was awake and having breakfast. Some runner than passed me and practically shouted at me ‘I like your shoes!’ got a fright of my life there. At the Mountbatten turn I ran into a friend who was volunteering as a Road Marshall was he surprised to see me but at least he gave me some encouragement. (later I found out another lady I knew was also a volunteer on the 10K route) Next stop was the National Stadium turn as I entered passing the MacDonalds and KFC outlets, I suddenly felt hungry. What luck the next water point had FOOD !! Banana’s !! I would like to say that the SCSM has one of the best water points ever, it’s long and they have enough volunteers to man them. So I grabbed my drink and a banana and the problem I have here is that I have not mastered the art of eating a banana on the run. Got to practice this more often maybe even upgrade to eating Chicken Rice on the trot. At the 15K mark I caught up with the 2hr 30 min pacer. There were these volunteers who would run the pace for you and as long as you follow them you would reach your target time. I actually passed Mr Pacer !! But it was at the 18/19 K point that fatigue starts to set in. I found this part the toughest and it was also started to get crowded it was around the F1 track area as the main full marathoners and 10K runners were all converging together with the half marathoners. Then THERE HE WAS --- SPIDERMAN !! Could you believe it it was the black suit Spiderman. (Venom for all you comic fans) I think he probably gave me some motivation as I knew the guy under the mask was an elderly chap (first met him when I did the Vertical Marathon last year) I pressed on and continued to the 20K mark where Mr Pacer came back and took over. I basically followed him all the way in. Just as you pass Anderson Bridge there was just one more right turn and it was the home stretch to the finishing line. It was at this point that I slowed a bit as I looked out for my ‘Official Photographer’ but I could not spot her. I think I was probably too damn shack at this point to even notice if she was waving or not. An elephant could have stood beside me and I probably would not have noticed. But she did spot me thank goodness. Last year I ran the 10K and same thing did not get a photo of me finishing by the organisers camera man as I was blocked by everyone, so this year I got my own ‘personal photographer’. With a final surge and a raised left arm I crossed the finishing line. I finished in a gun time of 2hr 30min 02sec (chip time – 2hr 28min 39sec) – woo hoo I was pleased with the time and it was within my target.

I knew a few other friends who were running at least 1 in the full and 1 in the 10K while the bulk of them were running in the half at least 6 well it should have been 7 but she injured herself and so was there to lend her support as my ‘official photographer’. Besides the 1 volunteer I saw, I only met 1 other person and that was it with 50,000 people running all events and more volunteers and spectators it was like finding a wet hanky in a washing machine.

Post-Run

It really felt good to complete the run. The usual body aches were there and I knew it was probably going to get worst the next day so after I showered I did apply cold sprays and joint rubs for my legs and knees. It was also during my shower that I realized that the run cause some abrasions to my nipple and groin area, lucky for me only those 2 areas and my underarms were fine. I think I have got to get some cream if I am to do longer runs. So after my rub down and cool down I put a medicated plaster on my left shoulder as it hurt a little never felt that kind of hurt in a run before guess it must be due to the strain of raising my arm at the finishing line. (note to self never raise arm at finishing line again)

It’s been 24 hrs after the race and I am still pump I feel like I could go out and do another round. My legs did not hurt as bad as I expected. The soreness was fading. As I write this on the 2 day after my run I am almost back to normal. only the tights and 1 little toe still hurts.

Before I got to the pics of me at the SCSM just a little summary of what was good and what was not.

PROS

- The Water points, much better than other runs.

- Pacers who help you achieve your target times.

- Volunteers who were all along the route to encourage you.

- Love the Carnival at the Padang

- The ease of signing up, collection and finishing.

CONS

- Getting abrasions I really hate them.

- The mass orgy that happens at the end of the run.

- Runners who use pace watches that go beep beep and very loud and irritating intervals.

- Runners who do not have the simple courtesy to throw their drinks cups to the side instead of right in the middle of the race route.

SO now its photo time taken by “my official photographer” :)

That’s ME finishing the race check out the time and guess what it’s snowing in Singapore !!

Finally its over rested a bit before I took this picture you can just make out the finishing line behind me.

Trying to figure out which is which.

 

Finally the close up of the my half marathon finisher medal and my number tag quick quick go buy 4-D or 5-D.

2 Weeks Later

Finally the pain from my operation has gone down. The doctors were right it takes about 2 week to return to normal. Started weaning off MacDonalds Soft Serve ice-cream now and started taking solid foods. So far no fried stuff yet and no chilli. The throat still feels more like it has some stuff at the back but the pain is minimal as long as I don’t sneeze, the sneeze really hurts but it gets better as the days go by. Hopefully I can eat Fried Chicken soon :)

1 Week Later

It’s been a week now since my tonsillectomy … a painful week. The days were ok as being awake you could always remember to drink plenty of water and take your medication on time. It’s the nights that were killers. I have not had a proper nights rest since the operation. Every 3 hrs or so I would be awaken with a pain in my throat, it’s either dry or the medication had worn off and the pain was really INTENSE. There were days where swallowing my own saliva was so painful that it brought a tear to my eye every time I swallowed my saliva. Luckily I found that the gargle is so far the best thing to numb the pain. Well my other antibiotics are finished and a couple of more days before I go back for my check up. Just hope the gargle holds out. 

Tonsillectomy

For the last 3 months and after 3 rounds of antibiotics, my tonsils would not go down they were still inflamed. So it was with some regret that I have decided to go for a tonsillectomy. After all, over the years my tonsils have been my early warning system against any sickness, once they start to hurt or blow up I knew I was coming down with something.

So the day finally came after all the visits and appointments to the doctors for test and checks. It was finally the day where I would get my tonsils removed. I had to check into the day surgery ward at 7.30am. I was there on the dot and submitted my forms, by 8am my name was called, registration done by a nurse who verified my NRIC number and another nurse got me to the ward and verified my NRIC again and gave me the necessary instructions on what to expect. It was then that I found out that I was scheduled for the 8.30 operation. So I got changed into those hospital gowns, you know the type where your butt is open for the whole world to see. I as told to wait a few minutes while the nurse got the ‘operating theatre’ staff. They got me on the bed and then it was time, the operating theatre staff came, another round of verification with my NRIC and what I was here for, I guess they did not want to remove things which were not meant to be removed. Off we went.

I got pushed to the operating theatre, and you know when you lie on the hospital bed and they push you it’s exactly like in the movies where you see the florescent lights in the ceiling go by. Soon I was in the what they called holding area a room slightly larger that the bed itself. The nurse again did more verification. The staff was very pleasant, they chattered with me and I guess it help me calm down. The anaesthetist came in, he started to find my vein but surprising he failed during the first try and he was very apologetic as he had to make another needle prick. This time he got it. They put a drip on me and hook me up to more monitors and then the doors opened and I was pushed into the operating theatre.

Oh my god, it’s huge, a big spacious place, it’s the first time I have ever been in an operating room. The doctor was there he came up to me spoke to me asked how I was feeling. Told him nervous as hell ! He said not to worry it’ll be painless and over soon. The did one last verification check of my name and NRIC and what I was here for which was to get my tonsils removed. Then they prep me for the op they had this ‘air blanket’ which I though was so cool it’s like those floats that you can lie on in the water but this had holes in them and warm air passed through it to keep your body warm. Someone turn on the radio. Yep you got that right they actually play music during the surgery. Finally the anaesthetist said that the doctor was here, or the chief anaesthetist, there was a brief exchange between them then the lady said, hello, not to worry you will go to sleep soon ok. It was nice to hear they injected me, told me to breath through the oxygen mask. I looked at the lights in the ceiling they seem to wobble a bit out of focus but then the focus came back … and … next thing I knew I was opening my eyes in a room with nurses talking to me if I am ok and how I am feeling. I could feel tightness in my throat and was surprised that boy it’s over !! The nurse gave me some water then told me to take some panadol to ease the pain. She was very nice she said she will crush it for me to make it easier to swallow. Then I was wheel back to the main day ward. There was no one there I was the first back. The ward could accommodate 6 beds but I was the only one there at the moment. I saw the time it was around 11am or so. The operation and recovery was about 2 hrs.

 

The nurses gave me a jug of water and told me to take sips of it. They even provided a straw for me the ice water felt cool and nice. I slept some more and then the missus came by. The nurses had called her once I was out of surgery. Soon another patient came in. The nurse told my missus to get the medication from the pharmacy downstairs and soon she came back with the big package. It was around 2pm when the missus left, I slept some more the drugs were still in my system. by 4pm I was really hungry and the nurse asked if I wanted something to eat. She said how about ice milo and soft bread. That sounded good. So I got the ice milo and soft bread sandwich. The milo I could sip down and it felt refreshing but the bread I just could not swallow. After the drink they took out the tube since I was able to eat already. Lying there by 5pm another 2 more patients came in. There were 4 of us now in the ward.

 

Soon it was dinner time and I got porridge and they actually cool the porridge for me before serving it. Had soup as well which was cooled down. Chicken porridge was good and the soup was nice. My medication was given to me 5 tablets and 1 gargle formula plus a lozenges to suck. By 7pm the ward was full another 2 more patients came in. Of which me and another guy had our tonsils removed. Oh the doctor came to make his rounds to see how we were. He came with another intern I think or a junior doctor. So he asked how I was told him throat is still sore. He say that is expected, need to drink more water and try to eat through the pain so that the wound can heal. He then checked to see if there was any bleeding. He asked me to open my mouth and stuck the ice-cream stick down my throat, just for a second, took it out and told the young doctor, it’s dry. (guess I wasn’t drinking much water) then it was the young doctors turn. Stick the ice-cream stick down my throat for what seem like ages !! I almost choked on it. Don’t they know if you still that in there too long the patient is going to throw up. He went over to the other tonsil patient did the examination and left the room.

I stayed over night for observation, During the night my temperature rose, I was coming down with a fever which is normal after an operation. Luckily by morning it had gone off. Next morning my missus had to come pick me up but first the doctor came round to see us again. Thank goodness it was only the senior doctor. He did a quick examination and said all is find and I could go home once the family member came to pick me up and he will see me in 2 weeks time. All the other patients had their own doctors come to check on them and everyone was able to leave except for 1 elderly man who was running a fever and the doctors decided to keep him a little longer for observation. They moved him to a more permanent ward. While everyone was waiting for someone to come pick them up, the nurses started getting us changed and gave us out medication. The other tonsil guy was being told what to do by this ‘granny’ nurse, how to take the tablets when to take it what to do and even had to show him how to gargle. I was going oh boy I’m next. But luckily another nurse came to brief me. My missus came at 9am and I was able to leave.

It was a real experience being in the hospital. It’s actually a rather nice place. I had a good experience there the level of care is good. My thanks to the doctors and nurses from Tan Tock Seng Hospital (Day Surgery Ward) my stay there was memorable. Now off to recuperate at home, I was given 2 weeks MC, more to rest and also not to go out where the risk of infection was higher.

Regular Exercise Active Lifestyle

Regular Exercise Active Lifestyle aka REAL is my annual ‘pilgrimage’ (if you call it that) to attend the running event. Ever since I started running 2 years ago this was my first run I signed up for and I have been attending it ever since. This is the third year of my participation. I decided that this year I would do the 15km run instead of the 10km run which I have been doing for the past 2 years.

As usually I bought the bus ticket to get me there to Changi Exhibition centre. This race has pickup points around the island which was one of the nice things. But I had to wake up like 4am and meet the bus at 5.15am we were there by 6am. The 10K starts at 7am and the 15K starts at 7.30am. I have to say the race started promptly at 7am the guest of honor was Associate Professor Ho Peng Kee. He went down to talk to the elite runners for the 10K event and soon they were off. It took almost 8 minutes to clear everyone. Then there were some tokens of appreciation given out and soon it was time for the 15K event. The minister actually made his way down the line and I got to shake his hand. Well that was a first for me and a nice gesture on his part.

We were off at around 7.30am. The route took us through some grasslands, then onto the long stretch of link road (with no shade), the route split after that with the 10K runners heading to the trail while the 15K runners took another route to cover some road running. The route eventually headed back to the trail and you could see the tail end of the 15K runners. There were a few ‘large’ runners at the end and I was really impressed by them as they were doing the 15K and even if they walked it was a 15km walk which is 15km more than any couch potatoe was doing. The route then joined up with the 10K runners at the trail and then it was the 400m stretch of beach, one of the hottest parts before running back to the finishing point on the link road (the one with no shelter or shade)

It was an enjoyable run for me and a good warm up for the half marathon that I hope to attempt in december.

GE

I was there at the recent GE Women’s 10K run. No not as a participant but was there with  a friend to take some photo’s of the event since I can’t be running in it. Did not really have to wake up too early for it. We arrived at the event just in time as we made our way to the start. Used the overhead bridge as a vantage point to get the runners coming down field. After that we made our way to the end point which was at the Padang just in time to the get lead runners coming in. I move around a bit went all the way to the esplanade and back again to the end point. Here are some of the shots taken.

A main group of Elite Runners starting the race above and below the swarm of red after the start.

 

Above some of the last few runners as they made their way down the start, still smiling :)

There were a lot of photographers there, from the official guys to the media to the professionals and to the weekend photographers or those who were there to take family and friends. Here’s a shot of a camera man taking the runners guess he was not expecting someone behind him taking the shots.

 

 

Some of the runners above as they made their way to the finishing line.

And below the Elite Runners coming home. The winner from Kenya and I think the other photo should be the first Singaporean.

Finally just some shots of the main body of runners coming in and the joy of completing the run.

 

Movie Night

Me and the missus had a movie night recently. Watch the DVD Paul Blart : Mall Cop. That was a hilarious show. Kevin James is funny. It’s not often we have a quiet night together, it’s not going to get any quieter soon !!

29th Generation

I’ve just found out that I am the 29th Generation in my family tree. Now that’s something you don’t learn everyday.

Next Run

After the arm up of the Nike 10K, I’m off to the next run in 2 weeks time the REAL Run, which I have signed up for the 15K event and that will be the longest I have run since like 20 years ago !!! It will all lead up to Decembers Standard Chartered Marathon event which I have signed up for the half marathon. Hope to get through that one :)

Nike+ Human Run

I was at the Nike+ 10K Run on Saturday. Well the day did not really start out great, the night before I forgot that I left my cranola bar in the office so I did not really have anything to eat for breakfast in the morning. I did drink just a pack of ice milo. Then when I reached the area I realised I did not pack my deep heat to warm the muscles up. Not a good start.

The Event started slightly after 7am. I have to admit it was a refreshing start as they had a rock concert going on and the stage was built just slightly behind the start/finish line and they built 2 tunnels under the stage so you literally ran under the band that was playing. It was pretty cool if I do say so myself. problem was the rock music blaring was really really loud. I really pity the senior citizens they probably could get a heart attack even before the race began.

We were actually flagged off by the band itself halfway through their number they started a beat and then the countdown began and off we went just a sea of RED. It was absolutely amazing.

So race strategy was to take it easy for the first half and come in strongly in the second. It was just after the 5km water point that I felt something sticking to my shoe, I looked down and saw what I though was a black tape so I quickly pulled to the side and scraped the piece off. Just about the 7km mark I felt the stickiness again and looking down saw another black tape like stuff stuck to the sole of my shoes. I stopped and pulled off the black item and I got a shock it was part of the sole of my shoe !! My left shoe was disintegrating as I ran !! I went oh-oh like a telly tubby. I immediately slowed down I did not want to do a Zola Budd and run barefooted. I guess after 2 years the shoes had enough and decided to call it a day on me. So I ease into a slow job and made my way back to the finish point thankfully in 1 piece.

 

I got the Nike band for completing the race, very nice. Had my bananas but missed out on the ice-cream, they ran out before I got a chance to queue up it was really hot so I had moved to the back away from the food stalls and missed my chance to get a free ice-cream.

Overall it was an enjoyable race and unique in many ways. Oh I think I saw Rod Monterio there among the runners as well.

Pre-Op Checkup

Recently just went for my pre-op checkup. I never knew they had such a thing in the first place. Surprisingly it was a relatively quick affair. Arrive early in the morning took my number. I got attended to by the Asst. Manager (first AM I ever met in a hospital) she guided me through the procedure what to expect and what I needed to fill in on the day itself. Took my weight, height and blood pressure, everything seems normal that day. Finally met the aesthesis' and got a briefing on what to expect from the knock out dose and the recovery procedures. All in about 45 mins spent at the hospital before I was out of there and off to work.

Maid in Singapore

We finally decided to get a Maid, previous week me and the missus pop in to an agency and being first timers at this we got to know of the little things that were needed just to get a maid employed here. Now I’ve never really had a maid myself, during my early years I remember we had a malay nanny who was a really nice lady I remember even after her services were not needed we would still visit her during Hari Raya but we drifted apart after both families moved. The rest of my early years I was looked after by my grandparents. The only other time a maid ever stepped in was to look after my elderly grandfather and we had a Sri Lankan maid. But that was for a short while. We did some looking around further and finally decided on an agency. Picked a maid, paid the fees (it’s like a human auction) and the missus did get to talk to the maid over the phone the other day and so far she seems ok. The agency said they need to do the paper work and some additional training was being conducted for them which was fine by us as we only needed her to come in around mid-Dec. The missus had to take a test as well and we needed to print out the cert (it was an online test) at the end as proof that someone in the household took the test. So now the big shift to get the babies and maids room in order.

TREMORS

The movie TREMORS which was about some giant earth worms which terrorises a small town, I love that show. They had a couple of sequels to it but the first was the BEST. Anyway it’s not about the movie but the recent Earthquakes and Typhoons hitting the region. I actually felt the 2nd tremor from the earthquake, the floor swayed a little it was like for a second or so but you could feel it, the missus on the other hand was totally oblivious to it. So with all this earth moving going on our estate has been selected by the BCA (Building and Construction Authority) to have sensors installed in the estate to monitor the movement, It will take a month or so for them to install the stuff and at various levels of the block for their study.

Heat WAVE

It’s a freaking HEAT WAVE ……. ooohhh man the haze is back and I think it is just trapping all the heat !!!!

Island Wedding

Well not exactly, but I guess you can Sentosa an Island and if you are having a wedding there it’s an Island Wedding. Attended a wedding on Sentosa recently. It was a very nice event, small and quaint event. We had to go a little early as the missus was helping the bride out with some wedding coordination. We drove onto the island around 11am as it was a lunch time solemnisation and buffet reception. I was tasked to help out with the video recording for the day. But did managed to get some pictures in as well.

 

The ceremony started in this little area where the Justice of the Peace arrived and the wedding proper began. A very short ceremony and it just took about 15 minutes and it was over, the vows were taken, kiss the bride, exchange of rings sign the documents and before you know it we were done and some photo taking opportunities were there with the happy couple. Here they are George and Darma with the witnesses and Justice of the Peace.

The party proceeded to the reception in the ballroom for lunch. Some more pictures of the event and I love those wedding gift very nice.

 

There was the usual games and stuff the yum seng  was shouted out and of course there was the throwing of the bridal bouquet which had to have a retake as the first time no one caught it. Around 4pm the final thank you’s were said and the guess started to take their leave.

A couple of more shots of the happy couple.

 

 

And through it all was the missus who was task with being the ‘Captain’ of the bride for the day. Good Job sweetie :)

 

On a side note, if you ever visit Rarotonga there is an island on that island (does that sound right) where you can actually hold a wedding. It’s about I think 50 to 100 m in length and you take a small boat over (or you can walk over if you like, in your tux !!) It’s just a stones throw away from the main land. Many people actually go there to get married. That would really be an island wedding.

Its the Season

It's that time of year again where after the Chinese 7th month, it's safe to go back into the waters again and also to get married, there's a wedding this week and I have another next month to attend as well. All the love birds are up and about :)

Happy Birthday Bilbo

For all you Lord of the Ring’s fans, It’s Bilbo’s Birthday today 22nd September.

How Big is Big

As the missus is expecting now and her tummy is beginning to show, she did comment to me recently that previously when she got on board MRTs and Buses, no one would give her a seat, even when her tummy was just showing people probably did not notice but finally people are giving up her seats to her and from then on you know that it’s starting to show :)

Visit to the ENT

I’ve been having an enlarged tonsils since July and finally last month in late August I decided to have it checked out wanted to just check it out at a Government Hospital first but before I could even get to see the ENT (Ear Nose Throat) specialist, I had to get a referral from a Polyclinic, well I’ve got my referral done and 3 weeks later it was time to see the ENT guys at Tan Tock Seng Hospital.

Got there at my appointed time and the wait started. About an hour later it was my turn to see the doctor. Got called in and the doctor asked a few questions about my tonsils. He did a look at it and then he also had to do a quick scope to see what was behind my throat. Not the best of experiences when you have a torchlight shoved up your nose, it feels like when you have too much wasabi. Everything seems clear doc told me it could still be left in there but the decision was up to me. I said it was time to get it out now as I have been having issues talking and sometimes when I eat it feels like I’m choking. The doc then went on to check on my sleeping patterns as it seems that could be affected and I may have to see the sleep centre if the problem was bad. As it turns out not an issue with that. There was a quick discussion with the senior doctor (I suppose that was him) where I overhear the them saying that the tonsil were big “4+” I assume the scale was a 5 point scale so I guess that would make it big. In the end the ok to get my tonsils removed was given. Next I had to get an appointment.

But before that I had to go settle some bills for the checkup. Well that scopey thingy actually cost extra (the doc did tell me) but the subsidise rate was manageable. So there was the wait for my name to be called for billing. After which another wait for the appointment.

A very nice elderly nurse was at the appointment station I think she was the friendliest of the lot. Once I got my name called met up with the nurse and after some debate on when was the earliest date. I just wanted to get it out as soon as possible, as it turns out the surgeon would be away and the earliest was a month from now but as it turns out there was a heavy schedule on his operating days (only on Mondays in this case) so in the end it would be on 9th Nov 2009 when my op was scheduled. I had to come in 2 weeks prior for some checkup with the anaesthetist. Actually the date that was given was pretty good as it would be after the REAL run and I should have recovered in time for the Marathon at the end of the year.

Dan Brown’s – The Lost Symbol

Well it’s not going to be a book review ha ha …… I actually pre-ordered this book from MPH, if I’m correct this is the first time that I ever pre-ordered something from MPH, it’s the follow up to the Da Vinci Code. Anyways I just collected it and being a pre-order it cost me $12 less and I got a mug to go with it as well as a MPH $5 voucher. I did not know the book was a hard cover, probably should read the fine print on the pre-order form next time, but the nice people at MPH actually called me up once the book was ready for my collection. There were 2 covers which you could choose from I took this one. Got to start reading this after I finish my comics.

 

Nice SBS Bus Driver

I was off to take my daily bus to work today and encountered a rather nice Bus Driver, not many of these you see on the road these days. I had to cross the road to get to the bus stop and as traffic was heavy I got caught on the centre Island, as I was waiting there, a bus pulled in (it’s not my bus) passengers got on and as he pull out he tooted at me and asked if I was taking his bus, mind you I was still on the centre divider trying to get across. I shook my head and told him to carry on, now that’s a nice bus diver or bus captains as there are known now I believe. You don’t see many of these around. WELL DONE.

Size Does Matter :)

This year's Nike run was open for registration recently. Although I was not the first, I did try to register within a week of the registration opening. I went to the site add in all the information and I submitted the info and an error pops up !! It said my T-Shirt size (which was L) was not available. Now that was a surprise seems the organisers made the T-Shirts before people submitted their registration! Ok I thought lets try a different size, maybe XL, submit and boom same error message saying I coulf not register as there were no more sizes !! This is the first time I have ever encountered an event which already had printed the number of S, M, L, XL shirts before anyone registered. Or maybe they were just using the left overs from next year.

Yellow Ribbon Project

The Yellow Ribbon Project is in aid of ex-offenders to give them opportunity to integrate back into society. In aid of this which I have supported over the years, I got my yellow ribbon which I have tagged to my bag.

 

The Prison service also had their very first inaugural Yellow Ribbon Prison Run held on 6th September 2009. I signed up for the 10km run (there was another 5.8km run category) The start point was a little strange as you did not start and end at the same place. We could park at the Singapore Expo and they had shuttle busses to take all the runners to the start point where you could deposit your bag (they had trucks to ferry your bag to the end point) but I think there was some chaos at the end point with the baggage collection.

Some highlights of the run were the unique scenery, and the slopping terrain, it almost rained (or actually it did at the end) and the wind was gusty which made running a little hard. They had this novel idea to have a “cool zone” it’s actually a 10m stretch where you could run under a mist machine. It was quite refreshing and unique but I think those ipod users gave it a pass. At the end we collected our goodie bags which contain among other things the 1 isotonic can drink, water was only provided at the end, toilets were not many. Oh I forgot to mention the end point was at Changi Prison !! I guess the only time you would ever get to be in a prison, it was really an eye opening place the huge field where I suppose on any given day inmates would be allowed to roam around. They had a mock up of a prison cell as well and the inmates baked muffins which were given out. Props to Anderson’s ice-cream one of the sponsors which gave out free ice-cream yummmy …. the ice milo was cool as well extra yummy …. I remembered drinking ice milo in primary school during sports day, that was probably the last time I had ice milo.

The PAC (Prison Action Committee – I think that’s what it’s called) provided entertainment at the end with a band and quite good signing from the inmates, all shaven head and wearing smart looking white T-Shirts. The band was pretty good, the crow loved them and I think they were very happy to be able to perform for us.

Well instead of a finisher’s medal they gave us a plague (or paper weight if you wan to call it) an interesting memento of the event.

Expenses

Well last month wanted to track my finances and after a month I got a rough estimate of what percentage I spent on stuff. The top highest expenses were on spending on the babies which were coming soon. Loans which included car loans and other items and transportation. These 3 came up to about 60% of total monthly expenditure. The only thing unusually would be the baby stuff.

 

I spent about 10% on food and my hobbies took up about 5% of total expenditure. the rest were on periodicals (I tend to like to read), religion (some extra given to the church this round), personal stuff, lottery and entertainment. It was an interesting excercise and I am going to keep it up for 1 more month and see how it goes.

STGCC

 

This year’s Singapore Toy, Games and Comic Convention (STGCC) was held at Suntec Convention Centre from 13 to 16 August. I only managed to get down there on the last day this year. I had my brother in law help me out on the first day to get Brian Bollard’s signature. He got me a cool Tank Girl sketch as well. That was lucky too as the last day most of the time were already sold out. I did get my Batman the Killing Joke signed after waiting almost an hour in the queue. Here’s a picture of me with Brian Bollard.

Pretty nice obliging gentleman, managed to get a picture of him signing my book as well. That was great too.

I did get a few things at the convention like my last piece of Star Wars Mighty Mugg (Darth Vader) which I was missing for sometime now. Hasbro had the ‘Smiling’ Luke as he returned from destroying the Death Star it was a Comic Con Convention Special and I got that as well. I guess that was about it. I guess the highlight for me was getting a picture with my favour Star Wars character the Emperor’s Royal Guard. ya ….

As to the cosplay characters they were quite elaborate did not know who won as I was still standing in line to get my book signed, but here’s 2 of my favourites.

 

Bridge Run

Well it was the first run for me this year, 10km only on the Sheares Bridge Run. Flag off was at 7am. My timing for the event was terrible, I was more of just there to complete the race. But the good  thing was I managed to complete without really walking any part of the course. The interesting thing about the race this round is that they used disposable timing chips which means we as runners get to keep them as a momento.

Expo Sale

Metro had their Sale over the long weekend at Expo, Border and Harvey Norman were having theirs as well. It was like a free for all there, so many people and everyone seems to be there just to shop shop shop, well we were not the exception, spent about $300 worth of stuff and it might even have been more had it not been getting late and we wanted to get home.

The Nation’s 44th Birthday

It’s the Nation’s big again today and since it is celebrating 44 years of Nation Building, I think I’ll list out the 44 foods, fruits and desserts that I really like in no particular order.

1) Nasi Brayani

2) Chicken Rice (Wee Nam Kee)

3) Soto Ayam

4) Chilli Crab

5) Hor Fun (seafood)

6) Cha Kway Teow

7) Fish Head Curry

8) Kambing Soup

9) Indian Rojak

10) Chinese Rojak

11) Pepper Crab

12) Deep Fried Baby Squid

13) Hot and Sour Soup (Cathay Restaurant)

14) Satay

15) Mee siam (the sour type)

16) Mee Rebus

17) Roti Prata

18) Half Boiled Eggs

19) Escagot

20) Pizza (Super Supreme)

21) Ice Kachang

22) Cocktail Ice Jelly (Bedok)

23) Cheng Ting

24) Durian

25) Chicken Wings

26) Mango

27) Ngoh Hiang

28) Fish Ball (Old Chang Kee)

29) Beef Kway Teow (dry from Maxwell)

30) Prawn Kway Teow Soup with Pork Ribs (Katong)

31) Nasi Lemak

32) Buah Keluak (grandma’s)

33) Wan Ton Mee (Dunmern Food Court)

34) Otah Otah

35) Rambutan

36) Mangosteen

37) Lychee

39) Fish Head Steam Boat

40) Drunken Prawns

41) Peking Duck

42) Crispy Chicken

43) Sambal Kangkong

44) Coconut

and so these are my favourite 44 all time items.

Sing Dollar

Attend the week night screening of Sing Dollar at the Esplanade recently. The show was to start at 8pm, I was a little late off work and me and the missus had to get a quick dinner and header for the show.

The comedy play basically centered around a hawker stall in Geylang, with the regular crowd of people from the beer lady to the hooker and how they came to find half a million dollars and how it affected their lives. It was directed by Zahim Albakri and Selena Tan (who acted as well) What was innovative was the program which came in a huge money like format even had 4-D type page with the songs.

Some celebrities were spotted, including Koh Cheung Mun (Dolly fame) and that NUS professor or something in that academic show on TV, can’t remember his name. Some of Singapore big names from theatre were in the production the cast list included :-

 

Hossan Leong as Boon Huat (the stocker broker younger son)

Kumar as syed (the Blangadeshi worker)

Najip Ali as Sa’adiah (the Malay ‘lady’ cleaner)

Lim Kay Siu as Mr Siong (owner of Geylang store run by elder son)

Sebastian Tan as Valentino (the elder son)

Selena Tan as Tiger Lily (the beer lady)

Emma Yong as Lan Lan (the China call girl)

Pam Oei as Glory (the Filipino maid)

I have to say the play was hilarious, I love Kumar best of all, his jokes and the delivery was really good. They even had all sorts of dig at the Singapore local events and even world events, talking about Michael Jackson dying, Ho Ching, and even Mas Selamat’s escape, not forgetting the 4 widely known white collar crimes by David Rasif, Joaquim Kang, TT Durai and Ming Yi (Ren Ci head)

I had no regrets getting the more expensive tickets we were like 5 seats from the front of the stage. I guess the only issue I had was the lady audience 2 seats to my left who was really into it and was like giggle and giving piggy snorting laughter, arm chair beating, at times it was she who made me laugh and she was I think either Indian or Eurasian and she laugh the loudest at the Hokkien jokes, guess that tells you what a multi-racial community we have become. Go catch it if you can, there are still a few more tickets as they open up 2 more shows.

Cash Flow

I've always wanted to know my spedning habits and so I have decided to record my espenses for the month and in the end I can probably tally how much I have spent on stuff inlcuding personal and household expenditure, hopefully I can keep a running daily total.

Liverpool Anthem

YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE

WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH A STORM

HOLD YOUR HEAD UP HIGH

AND DON'T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK

AT THE END OF THE STORM

THERE'S A GOLDEN SKY

AND THE SWEET SILVER SONG OF THE LARK

WALK ON THROUGH THE WIND

WALK ON THROUGH THE RAIN

THOUGH YOUR DREAMS BE TOSSED AND BLOWN

WALK ON, WALK ON

WITH HOPE IN YOUR HEARTS

AND YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE

YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE

YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE

Singapore 0 – Liverpool 5 (part 2)

Part 2 of Liverpool’s visit to the National Stadium. The first half saw the merseysiders deploying most of their reserves, The Singapore team held their own and created some good chances. Alas during time added on for the first half Liverpool scored their goal. Half Time Score Singapore 0, Liverpool 1.

You don’t see this too often when the Rafa the Manager gets off his line and starts barking orders to his players.

Liverpool was wearing their new away kit if you notice the score boards says Black for the Reds, while the Lions had the Red jersey on being the home team. Hope that was not too confusing.

 

The first goal above and the celebrations from Voronin near the bottom right. The other pictures are nearer the first half strike from Singapore and a good save in the second half from the Singapore Keeper. I guess I got the correct side to be seated as I figured the second will see some of the big guns come out to play and the Singapore Goal will be nearest to me. Should see plenty of action in the second half.

 

The Second half started as expected,with Liverpool making a few changes. Soon as the match wore on the flood of goals came, and chants went up around the stadium for Alonso to come on. I think he had the most vocal support from the crowds, everyone wants him to stay at Liverpool and we the fans really made it known to him. Of course the loudest cheer went up for Torres once he came on as a sub. Here are more shots of the action.

Jamie Carragher, marshalling his defence.

 

 

A free kick and a rare shot of Reina as he was introduce late in the game. I though he might not play as Liverpool had used 2 of their other keepers already.

The Liverpool sub mid-way through the match, it was a whole sale 5 player swop, Singapore did also rotate their players.

And here is Torres’ goal.

I actually did not realise that the mode I set my camera too was on drive which mean I could take multiple shots quickly, I finally found it out late in the game but still managed to get in this sequence of shots.

(A)

(B)

 

(C)

 

(D)

(A) Shows the cross coming in. (B) The diving header. (C) The desperate dive by the keeper. (D) GOAL !!!!!

Well in the end Liverpool romp to a 5 goal lead. And here is confirmation of the final score. I thoroughly enjoyed the game especially the second half.