Wandering Planet

apples

2011-03-16T03:36:00.001-07:00

golden apples baked in swirling seas
that's the first thought that was born in me

Boy

2011-02-05T05:26:00.003-08:00

Boy looks for the light
that passed him by
drawn,
He's drawn back by the
lines bent by love.

Why I like music, playing music rather.

2010-05-12T01:12:00.000-07:00

Today I asked myself whilst driving home, what was it about making music that made me love it so much?

As I started to dissect the reasons, I applied some of what I was teaching in tutorials today - about how images dominate and shape much of our perceptions. We live in a society that is fueled by visual communication.

Music on the other hand, involves listening and hearing, not looking and seeing. Playing music is beautiful because by and large, we can do it with our eyes closed (after some manner of instrumental proficiency, of course). We communicate through sounds. It is so beautiful jamming away with a band, big or small. Imagine a hundred people contributing to this symphony of sounds we cannot see, but can hear, and thus feel.

The truth is, aural communication, the lack of it, and understanding of it, is nowhere as purposefully designed as the visual world. The aural world takes a back seat and is a consequence of what is happening visually. What if, sounds shaped the world instead? How amazing would that possibly be?

Studies in acoustic ecology have developed a nifty new way to design the sounds around us, to better keep us at peace (yes, control too, but I trust it will not turn that way). Limited usage of it exists in Muzak, museums, installation art, and some buildings. It is a growing awareness, and one I am most glad to be a part of.

So, this is it. A short capture of my thoughts as I was driving home in my car, and into the driveway, and trying my best to remember to immortalize these thoughts, into words in this virtual reality.

Been a while... yet again.

2010-05-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

In all honesty, all my attention has been focused on the upkeep and development of Wandering China, so this personal blog has been a tad neglected. Wandering China has been doing well, averaging 1500 unique readers a month. The dream is to eventually spend enough time to build it into a useful resource for understanding the Chinese diaspora's perceptions of what mainland China is doing today.

In any case. Here's the latest addition to the home, a little brown fence to liven up the walkway into the house. And with a little arrangement (the walking stick, plus a postcard, with a picture of a cottage sitting on a hill, in the flower pot), hopefully making an inviting entrance into the traveller's home.

Reflections

2010-03-28T13:58:00.000-07:00

"The main purpose of acquiring knowledge is to give it away" was a quote my dad picked up from an SMU advertisement back home in Singapore. And it rings true in my ears - more than an acceptable perspective to make meaning with the life direction I decided to take, it re-affirms another little bit of wisdom my mother used to share with me. It has shaped me into who I am today! It is originally in Mandarin, but when translated, it reads - "Helping others is the source of all true happiness".

Facebook beats Google for visitors: tracker

2010-03-17T16:13:00.000-07:00

Noteworthy stuff.

- - -

Facebook beats Google for visitors: tracker
March 18, 2010 - 7:01AM
Source - The Age

Social-networking star Facebook surpassed Google to become the most visited website in the United States for the first time last week.

Facebook's homepage finished the week ending March 13 as the most visited site in the country, according to industry tracker Hitwise.

The "important milestone", as described by Hitwise director of research Heather Dougherty, came as Facebook enjoyed a massive 185 per cent increase in visits in the same period, compared to the same week in 2009.

By comparison, visits to search engine home Google.com increased only nine per cent in the same time - although the tracker does not include Google property sites such as the popular Gmail email service, YouTube and Google Maps.

Taken together, Facebook.com and Google.com amounted to 14 per cent of the entire US internet visits last week, Dougherty said.

Google has been positioning challenges in recent months to Facebook and the micro-blogging site Twitter by adding the social-networking feature Buzz to its Gmail service.

In what could signal an escalating battle between Facebook and Google, the leading social-networking service celebrated its sixth birthday earlier this year with changes including a new message inbox that echoes Gmail's format.

Facebook boasts some 400 million users while Gmail had 176 million unique visitors in December, according to tracking firm comScore.

AFP

Sinatra hit has deadly record

2010-02-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

Scary stuff! "The lyrics evoke feelings of pride and arrogance in the singer, as if you're somebody when you're really nobody. It covers up your failures. That's why it leads to fights." I trust none of the songs the band and myself have written so far will evoke such feelings! Music is much better for celebrating, healing wounds, and of course, chasing girls. Hah!

---

Sinatra hit has deadly record
Norimitsu Onishi, Philippines
The Age, February 8, 2010
It's not safe to sing My Way in karaoke bars.

AFTER a day of barbering, Rodolfo Gregorio went to his neighbourhood karaoke bar still smelling of talcum powder. Putting aside his glass of Red Horse Extra Strong beer, he grasped a microphone and briefly stilled the room with the Platters' My Prayer. Next, he belted out crowd-pleasers by Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck.

But Mr Gregorio, 63, a witness to countless fistfights and occasional stabbings erupting from disputes over karaoke singing, did not dare choose one beloved classic: Frank Sinatra's My Way.

''I used to like My Way, but after all the trouble, I stopped singing it,'' he said. ''You can get killed.''

The authorities do not know exactly how many people have been killed warbling My Way in karaoke bars over the years in the Philippines. But the media have recorded at least half a dozen victims in the past decade and include them in a subcategory of crime dubbed the ''My Way killings''.

The murders have spawned urban legends about the song and left Filipinos groping for answers. Are the killings a byproduct of the country's culture of violence, drinking and machismo? Or is there something inherently sinister in the song? Whatever the reason, many karaoke bars have removed the song from their playbooks.

Karaoke-related killings are not limited to the Philippines. In the past two years alone, a Malaysian man was fatally stabbed for monopolising the microphone at a bar and a Thai man killed eight of his neighbours in a rage after they sang John Denver's Take Me Home, Country Roads. And Filipinos, who pride themselves on their singing, may have a lower tolerance for bad singers.

Indeed, most of the My Way killings have reportedly occurred after the singer sang out of tune, causing other patrons to laugh or jeer.

''The trouble with My Way,'' said Mr Gregorio, ''is that everyone knows it and everyone has an opinion.''

Others point to the song itself. The lyrics, written by Paul Anka for Sinatra as an unapologetic summing up of his career, are about a tough guy who "when there was doubt", simply "ate it up and spit it out''.

'' 'I did it my way' - it's so arrogant," said Butch Albarracin, the owner of Centre for Pop, a Manila-based singing school that has propelled the careers of many famous singers.

"The lyrics evoke feelings of pride and arrogance in the singer, as if you're somebody when you're really nobody. It covers up your failures. That's why it leads to fights."

NEW YORK TIMES

Students walk 400 km to get to hometown

2010-02-03T14:29:00.000-08:00

Inspiring!

- - -

Students walk 400 km to get to hometown

Source - AsiaOne, 02 Feb 2010

Two college students, who were short of funds, walked 400 km in seven days to reach Yongzhou, their hometown in the province, Changsha Evening News reported Friday.

Jiang Wenlong, 19, and Zhang Linghui, 20, both in their junior year in a college in Changsha, started walking on Jan 21 and reached Yongzhou on Jan 28.

They said they enjoyed the mega-marathon walk as they got a chance to absorb the beautiful scenery their province has to offer.

iphone effect: Urban Word of the Day

2010-01-27T05:08:00.000-08:00

shortly after one person in the group brings out their iphone, the rest follow suit, ultimately ending all conversation and eye contact.

"Hey, what do you want to order for drinks?" "Not sure, let's see what Imbibe Magazine has for their best beer this month." First iphone comes out of the pocket--enter safari search. Next iphone comes out--enter Facebook post. Third iphone makes an entrance -- the iphone effect has arrived.

source - http://iphone-effect.urbanup.com/4354603

pale blue dot.

2010-01-26T20:34:00.000-08:00

from where, to where

who the hell knows

a pale blue dot

on a canvas of dark

everyone we have ever known

everything we have ever heard

every way there is to fathom

everyone we have yet to meet

a pale blue dot

on a canvas of dark

specks of bright so we can see at night

and that is where

we shall arrange to meet.

bob's take on this.

Seagulls and pride

2010-01-24T20:07:00.000-08:00

Captured whilst having fish and chips by the bay. It was a massively cold summer day. Friend asked - these seagulls look like they are suffering in the cold - why? And there always seemed to be one leader up front. They took turns to battle to stand in front of formation.

My answer - pride. And we all laughed.

Check out the formation, and fuzzy feathers against the wind.

It's simple: India doesn't want to see its citizens harmed

2010-01-15T01:14:00.000-08:00

So sad to experience this happening in a place many times voted as the top city to live in the world. That joyful vibe to the place has somewhat dissipated over the years, and quickly replaced by seeds of misunderstandings, and imposing agendas.

It really is simple, all it takes is a little understanding and a willingness to walk hand in hand. It does not help sometimes that Asian communities like to cluster together like packs. Integration is the key, though the road has already been set by poorly planned immigration programmes flooding the country without knowing how to do the job properly.

- - -

It's simple: India doesn't want to see its citizens harmed
Source - The Age, 15 Jan 2010

Picture the scene of a car accident. An injured person lies on the ground needing help while the two drivers squabble over who caused the crash. That's about how intelligent the debate over attacks on Indian students has been.

It is embarrassing to watch politicians, police and the media in Australia and India engage in a dialogue that has so far been fatuous and, quite frankly, infantile.

On both sides there has been a lot of hot air and finger pointing. It's a dialogue of the deaf.

Victoria Police, announcing the lack of evidence for a racial motive after Nitin Garg's murder in a Yarraville park early this month, tell us Indian students are safer in Australia than in India. So what? Commentators tell us that terrible crimes are committed in India, too. So what?

And politicians, who tell us Australia is a safe destination for students, make matters worse by parroting a mantra that feeds the perception that Australia is either in denial or avoiding the issue.

Similarly, in India the reaction by some politicians has been hysterical. External Affairs Minister S. M. Krishna said Garg's death was a ''heinous crime against humanity'' that would have a bearing on bilateral relations. Indeed, it was a heinous crime and it is understandable that the minister should want to passionately indicate his alarm, but to evoke something along the lines of genocide was simply absurd.

As if matters were not surreal enough, those in the Indian media who have been frothing at the mouth with indignation, disseminating inaccurate information with their breathless reporting and engaging in pompous moralising, have done a spectacular job of dragging the level of debate down as low as it could possibly go.

We have seen this cycle repeated every time an Indian student is attacked in Australia, and there is no sign it will be any different next time an incident occurs. But beyond the vacuous debate, an interesting picture is becoming visible.
India's growing confidence as an emerging superpower is on display. It will not tolerate its citizens being pushed around and it will not be shy in saying so. And Australia, whether it likes it or not, carries much racial baggage.

The White Australia policy may have ended more than 30 years ago, but it casts a very long shadow. Historically speaking, Pauline Hanson and the Cronulla riots are fresh incidents hitting an old nerve.

Add to this a globally connected, technologically sophisticated media that never sleeps. News from anywhere in the world is part of a 24/7 cutthroat cycle to get the headlines first. It is in this context that the debate over attacks on students is being played out.

And perhaps, somewhere deep in the background, is the rumbling over Australia's refusal to sell uranium to India.
But while the babble and hype has been going on, a single refreshing note of clarity has been sounded. India's erudite Minister of State, Shashi Tharoor, has sought to focus on what is at the heart of the matter.

When I spoke to him a few days ago, he made two important points: first, that Australia has a crime problem in the suburbs that it must attend to, and second, that India is within its rights to speak out when its citizens face danger.
''The whole racism issue has really coloured this debate in an unhealthy way, because when our media either seizes on that, or the Australian media in turn respond critically, we are essentially dealing with not black or brown or white, but red herrings,'' he said.

''We value our relationship with Australia, it's a friendly country … The truth is this is a problem of law and order, one that Australia is dealing with and needs to deal with internally. But it cannot but affect us when our citizens are reported to be suffering.''

And in a nod towards the nuances of the debate, he acknowledged the impact that India's ''agitated media'' had had on the Indian public by its constant reporting of Australian racism. ''Without wanting to exaggerate in any way the extent of this violence, it does worry us how this has become almost a dominant perception of Australia in the minds of so many Indians,'' he said.

In a few elegant words, Tharoor cut to the heart of the issue and it is worth quoting him in full: ''For an Indian mother to hear that her son has been assaulted in Australia, it little matters to her whether he was assaulted because of his race, or because he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, or because he was the wrong colour or the wrong height, or was carrying an iPod. She doesn't want her son to be assaulted.

''It's a very common human feeling and that's essentially what this is all about.''

Sushi Das is an Age senior writer. She is in India as a guest of the Indian Government.

Siamese Bananas

2010-01-14T05:23:00.000-08:00

Check out the Awesome Siamese Banana! Almost did not have the heart to consume the guy. :) Its fate? Key ingredient for a pretty good banana milk shake.

Rail chaos as mercury nudges 45

2010-01-11T03:20:00.000-08:00

Insanely hot today. Had to endure a little more than two hours on the road today on an airport run, and the 43 degree heat was not easy to bear. Had to constantly keep hydrated, and the car's air-conditioning brought some relief.

---

Rail chaos as mercury nudges 45
Source - The Age, 11 Jan 2010

Commuters faced widespread train disruptions as extreme heat again took its toll on the metropolitan rail network.

As the temperature passed 43 in the city, and nudged 45 in outer western suburbs and Geelong, 110 trains had been cancelled across the network by 6pm.

All but three train lines were experiencing cancellations and buses replaced trains on two lines. Metro Trains reported disruptions on all lines except Glen Waverley, Pakenham, Racecourse and Stony Point...

...Temperatures reached 43.6 in Melbourne at 4.58pm but the highest reading so far was 44.9 degrees at Geelong airport at 3.29pm.

Other highs were recorded at Avalon (44.6 at 3.24pm); Laverton (44.7 at 4.32pm); Westmere (44.2 at 2.59pm) and Dartmoor (44.2 at 1.13pm).

The temperature is expected to ease to 21 in Melbourne overnight, then start climbing again tomorrow before a cool change blows in about midday.

art.

2010-01-08T22:24:00.000-08:00

overheard on entourage -

art is only the search, not the final form.

def.

Bob's Mash

2010-01-06T05:25:00.001-08:00

The Ten Essentials

2010-01-04T02:34:00.000-08:00

Hiking has been a wonderful past-time for a while now. Long walks keep me happy nowadays as it allows all my senses to be in touch. It is never quite the same behind the glass of a car window, with a CD player blasting away, or worse, always through the TV on a couch. Thought this would be nice to share.

The Ten Essentials By Karen Berger

source - http://www.gorp.com/hiking-guide/travel-ta-hiking-wilderness-skills-sidwcmdev_058018.html

In the 1930s, the Mountaineers, a Seattle-based hiking, climbing, and conservation organization, came up with a list of 10 essential items that no climber should be without.

Map. A map not only tells you where you are and how far you have to go, it can help you find campsites, water, and an emergency exit route in case of an accident.

Compass. A compass can help you find your way through unfamiliar terrain—especially in bad weather where you can't see the landmarks.

Water and a way to purify it. Without enough water, your body's muscles and organs simply can't perform as well: You'll be susceptible to hypothermia and altitude sickness. not to mention the abject misery of raging thirst.

Extra Food. Any number of things could keep you out longer than expected: a lengthy detour, getting lost, an injury, difficult terrain. A few ounces of extra food will help keep up energy and morale.

Rain Gear and extra clothing. Because the weatherman is not always right. Especially above treeline, bring along extra layers. Two rules: Avoid cotton (it keeps moisture close to your skin), and always carry a hat.

Firestarter and matches. The warmth of a fire and a hot drink can help prevent an encounter with hypothermia. And fires are a great way to signal for help if you get lost.

First aid kit. Prepackaged first aid kits for hikers are available at outfitters. Double your effectiveness with knowledge: Take a basic first aid class with the American Red Cross or a Wilderness First Aid class, offered by many hiking organizations.

Army knife or multi-purpose tool. These enable you to cut strips of cloth into bandages, remove splinters, fix broken eyeglasses, and perform a whole host of repairs on malfunctioning gear—not to mention cut cheese and open cans.

Flashlight and extra bulbs. For finding your way in the dark and signaling for help.

Sun screen and sun glasses. Especially above treeline when there is a skin-scorching combination of sun and snow, you'll need sunglasses to prevent snowblindness, and sunscreen to prevent sunburn.

Happy 2010

2009-12-31T16:09:00.000-08:00

A beautiful 2010 and a brand new decade ahead for us all.

Enjoy the new year day by day, moment by moment! The beauty is in the moment, and the treasures; try not to let them become the moment that has just past us by. :)

Leap and the net will appear.

The Great Burger Con | Bull and burgers: mincing their words

2009-12-29T21:25:00.000-08:00

Amazing stuff. This intrigues the intrinsic marketing communications training I've had thus far - it's really all in perception. The mind is such an easy thing to toy with sometimes. But the truth about the Macdonald's Angus Burger is, it is bloody tasty. It could be relative to the standard of the rest of their burgers of course, which have significantly decreased in size and taste over the years. Smart.

---
Bull and burgers: mincing their words
Source - The Age, 30 December 2009
Image Source - http://www.sydneytable.com/angus/

Hats off to the year’s most spectacular marketing success, or con job, depending which way you care to look at it: the rise and rise of the Angus beef brand via the lowly means of fast food hamburger mince.
McDonald's and now Hungry Jack's have pushed beyond the marketing aphorism, “sell the sizzle, not the steak”, by flogging a vague and arguably uninformed concept of the sizzle.

The Land newspaper reported in September that the launch of the two “premium” Angus burgers had resulted in McDonald's beef sales soaring by as much as 20 per cent.

The greatest confirmation of that success has been rival chain Hungry Jack's jumping on the Angus bandwagon. Ah, the power of branding.

But also big winners are Angus cattle breeders – to the chagrin of other breeders - as the massive advertising campaigns print on the brains of the great unwashed that Angus is the superior breed of moo cow. Chances are the vast majority of fast food customers seeking something “a little bit fancy” only know the names of two or three breeds anyway and a great deal less about the meat itself.

It’s a dangerous thing to criticise any cattle man or woman’s breed of choice - you’re much safer criticising their religion or even brand of ute – so I’ll play safe and just say that Angus is a very fine breed, as are several others.

The Sydney Royal Easter Show steer and carcase competition is by no means a definitive indication of beef superiority, but for what it’s worth, the Stanhill Trophy this year was taken out by the Limousins with the silver going to Charolais, followed by Shorthorn, Square Meaters (yes, there is such a breed), Poll Hereford, then Angus, Murray Grey, Galloway and Santa Gertrudis. Properly prepared and slaughtered, they are all very fine eating.

Beef taste testing becomes very subjective, as several other competitions can show. What’s more, the breed of the beast is well down the list of what makes a particularly tasty steak. What the animal had been eating, its age and condition and how little stress it experienced in the lead up to slaughter all count a great deal more.

And as for what goes into hamburger chain patties, well, despite the advertising, it’s not actually the prime cuts of prime beef. That sticker on the McDonald’s ads, “Prime Australian Beef“, doesn’t seem to be actually defined as anything by Meat and Livestock Australia.

It doesn’t necessarily mean cattle in their prime, just good Australian hamburger mince which, depending on the season and what’s being turned off, can mean a whole pile of old cows as well as the usual offcuts and less-marketable bits from trade steers.

So there’s actually nothing particularly special about McDonald’s or Hungry Jack's hamburger mince that happens to be made from cattle that are at least three-quarter Angus (the definition allowed McDonald’s by Certified Angus Beef Pty Ltd).

There might have been a hint of what the marketing success was about in this paragraph from The Land:
“Bronwyn Stubbs, corporate communications manager for McDonald's Australia, said Angus beef had come up trumps in its extensive research with local customers to identify what they perceived as a good quality, great tasting beef.”

Perception is a wonderful thing. It was probably helped by the availability of plenty of cattle of that breed with a well-organised breeders’ lobby group promoting them. That Angus burgers were first launched by McDonald’s in the US three years ago no doubt has absolutely nothing to do with it.
So congratulations to McDonald’s, Hungry Jack's and Angus breeders on a well-copied marketing format that has more Australians eating beef.

For what it’s worth, taste being such a personal thing, the best beef has to be grass fed – all that grain-fed nonsense just ads weight, fat and maybe some tenderness to a beast while taking out taste.
The animal has to be prepared well for slaughter – no stress. And then, if you really want something a bit fancy, it will have lived on desert grasses.

Without doubt the best steak I’ve ever had was in Birdsville while doing a story on the Channel Country’s OBE organic beef. I’ve tasted nothing like it before or since. And the breed didn’t really matter.

Michael Pascoe is a BusinessDay contributing editor, now in hiding from feedlot operators and Angus breeders.

Farewell 2009

2009-12-27T19:09:00.000-08:00

More evidence of domestication levels at dangerous levels. :) 2009 is coming to a close, and as with all good things, we must not learn to only savour in retrospect, but to enjoy it all in the now too. 2010, here I come!

Pandora's inbox

2009-12-05T16:39:00.000-08:00

Mighty good read this, we should all take some time off to take stock. Microsoft research seems to show that "we spend an average of 14.5 hours a week reading and answering email..."And that's just email!

---

Pandora's inbox
JOHN ELDER
December 6, 2009
Source - The Age

SOME people get up early to walk the dog or do tai chi in the park. Others get out of bed to look at the sunrise, bathe in their own thoughts or otherwise meet the day in a happy way before the circus of life puts a bridle in their mouths and starts whipping them with a riding crop. Peter Beilharz feels the hurry-up lash as soon as he opens his eyes.

It wasn't always this way for Professor Beilharz. There used to be time to think. But that was in the days when work messages came by memo on a piece of paper, and friends wrote letters and postcards. With snail mail and even the telephone there was no sense of being constantly on call, he says.

These days, dozens of pressing matters pile up in the night-time and the La Trobe University sociologist gets up early to check his emails before going to work.

''If I don't check my messages before I get to the office I'm already three hours behind,'' he says. ''I used to go to work and do stuff. Research, teaching: that's what academics are meant to do, but we spend three or four hours a day communicating. I'll have urgent things in my diary but I'll forget my diary because I keep checking my email. I don't feel I have any control of how much I use it. It just shows up … distracts me from what I am meant to be doing. It's a silent medium but you feel it shouting at you.''

Beilharz isn't making news by venting his spleen at the distracting, time-wasting and somehow controlling power of the email inbox. Email trouble is spawning a host of academic research, self-help books (such as Inbox Detox), and entire businesses (such as Sydney-based Email Management Solutions) devoted to solving your problems.

Just ask around and it seems that most people - particularly those with jobs and families to commune with - have some kind of love-hate relationship with email. The words ''a blessing and a curse'' come up sooner rather than later. ''As a message system, it's great,'' says Beilharz, ''but … there is a supposition that you are on tap all the time … and that speed is good for you.''

The short version: email is a symptom of a world where time, under the pressure of accelerating demands, has been cut up into small units. Our day-to-day lives are now a factory line of many things to do quickly.

''And it feels OK because it feels like you are doing something valid, that cult of busyness … . [but] our days are full of endless small tasks that mightn't add up to a great deal at all,'' Beilharz says.

Email in particular has a demanding personality. ''It's not dialogical. If I say something to you in a conversation, you can correct me or respond to me. I think email informs ultimatums … it lays down the law.''

Beilharz was one of a dozen academics contacted for this story, initially to ask if they agreed with US writer John Freeman, who recently made a small but significant splash here and abroad with his book Shrinking the World - the story of how email came to rule our lives. The book is both a neat gathering-together of all known complaints against email, and an eloquent, almost crazed, plea that we return to some form of ''slow'' communication (such as writing a letter now and then) as a means of returning to our more natural, happier selves.

In an online essay that presaged the book, Freeman writes: ''In the past two decades, we have witnessed one of the greatest breakdowns of the barrier between our work and personal lives since the notion of leisure time emerged in Victorian Britain as a result of the Industrial Age. It has put us under great physical and mental strain, altering our brain chemistry and daily needs. It has isolated us from the people with whom we live, siphoning us away from real-world places where we gather.

''It has encouraged flotillas of unnecessary jabbering, making it difficult to tell signal from noise. It has made it more difficult to read slowly and enjoy it, hastening the already declining rates of literacy. It has made it harder to listen and mean it, to be idle and not fidget. This is not a sustainable way to live.''

While most local thinkers have sympathy for Freeman's general argument, they tend to see email more as a symptom than a cause of the world speeding out of control. And not all agree with Freeman's specific charges against the inbox. These include:

■ The compulsion to check our inboxes (up to 40 times a minute, according to one piece of research he cites) is akin to poker machine addiction.

■ The faceless disinhibiting psychology of email communication unleashes our dark side, making us rude, even nasty, or at least lacking in the consideration that we apply to letter composition.

■ People feel pressured to keep up with the ever-filling inbox because a failure to reply to email within a few hours can lead to loss of trust and relationship difficulties.

■ There is emerging evidence that the brain is becoming hard-wired for instant gratification and that email is part of the rewiring process.

■ The hours spent dealing with email interfere with workday productivity and keep people in the office and away from family and friends.

Support for the last claim, particularly from the corporate sector, is accumulating like flies on dog dirt. A recent British newspaper report declared email ''a broken business tool'' that had become the new time-waster, like coffee and cigarettes. Sharon McNevin, of Sydney-based Email Management Solutions, reckons ''it doesn't seem to matter what corporations try to do. Software solutions don't work … they need to address the cultural problems.''

McNevin, citing Microsoft research, says we spend an average of 14.5 hours a week reading and answering email and the time we spend looking for and analysing information costs companies $28,000 per employee per year. And based on her work with local businesses, McNevin suspects it is getting worse. A US study found that broadband access in the workplace had ''increased the number of web pages viewed by individuals by 55 per cent and increased the amount of time spent online by 23 per cent''.

However, Dr Brad West, a sociologist with Flinders University, sees the personal use of email in the workplace as reflecting new work practices where employees self-manage their time and are kept tied to the mast for longer periods. ''It's a trade-off. Workers will use email for non-work purposes during the working day, but in exchange they have new demands on them which often means there is a fuzzy line between work and home.''

We might be busy with email, but are we actually addicted? University of Technology Sydney anthropologist Dr Jonathan Marshall says the number of people who have lost their wages or home because they check their email is probably quite small. ''If there is any validity to this point about addiction, it is simply that we live in a society which encourages addiction … Email just becomes part of the wider pattern.'' Marshall suspects that apart from people who are expecting a specific message, the only people checking their inboxes 40 times a minute ''would generally be people who are bored out of their skulls and seeking the only stimulation they get at work or, if they are really depressed, at home''.

Dr David Holmes, senior lecturer in communications and media studies at Monash University, says Freeman's addiction thesis can perhaps be better explained by seeing email less as an exchange of information than as a ritual. ''I agree that many email users are feverish about checking their mail. But the same persons are probably very anxious about receiving printed mail also,'' he says.

''The difference with the online experience is that it is an 'always-on' technology … The addiction lies not in discovering what is there, but what is not there. It is about being satisfied that there is nothing that constitutes a gift, an unsolicited communication, that is not simply a functional reply, but is distinguished, sincere content that is the internet's equivalent to 'breaking news' on the TV.''

According to associate professor Peter Corrigan, of the school of behavioural, cognitive and social sciences at the University of New England, compulsive use of email reveals our fears of being left alone. ''The receipt of an email proves that we actually exist for others … The more we need validation from others … the harder it is to switch off,'' he says.

This may be why teens spend so much time being connected to others through texting and emails, Corrigan says. ''In some ways this is a sign of the higher-than-usual chances of that particular social group not lasting.''

FREEMAN'S contention that email makes us rude, even malevolent, inspires a shrug from University of Sydney anthropologist Dr Stephen Juan. ''Disinhibition leading to rudeness also exists on the buses, trains and on the roads,'' he says. ''We are experiencing an age of rudeness. The reasons for this would constitute another article.''

But Jonathan Marshall sees it differently, arguing that email brings about a different class of behaviour because of its lack of visual cues. It can be hard to tell if people are responding to you or like what you have written, he says. Emailers who maintain polite discourse may lack a sense of how they are being received. If you are unpleasant, on the other hand, you will almost certainly get a response from somebody, Dr Marshall says. ''Then you know you exist and the response is a reinforcement of your existence, so you do it again.''

If this is true, it lends weight to the idea that we become anxious or even angry when our emails are not promptly answered and that relationships are subsequently strained.

Associate professor Julie Fitness, an evolutionary psychologist at Macquarie University, agrees with this notion, saying it has become the norm to feel anxious and aggrieved if emails are not answered right away. In her own profession, her students complain bitterly when a response is slow in coming. But responding to this kind of pressure just increases it, Professor Fitness says. The more often and sooner we answer the incessant, demanding emails, the more we reward the emailer.

''We are laying ourselves wide open, saying my time belongs to everybody,'' she says.

One of John Freeman's most interesting arguments is that ''the boundlessness of the internet always runs into the hard fact of our animal nature, our physical limits … the overheated capacity of our minds''.

Stephen Juan sees this as possibly true, but notes we have ''no data that we have reached the human mental breaking point''.

Maybe we're not at breaking point, but some cracks are showing. A Hewlett-Packard study found that workers who are constantly distracted by email and phone calls suffer a temporary 10-point fall in their IQ, more than twice that found in studies of the impact of smoking marijuana. Plus, there is evidence that our limited working memory is being sorely tested by email.

PROFESSOR John Sweller, of UNSW, is an educational psychologist who came up with the influential ''cognitive load'' theory, which refers to the load of working memory during learning. Regarding cognitive load and email, he says: ''A large number of emails on disparate topics all of which need to be handled 'now' can overwhelm humans' limited working memory with occasional disastrous consequences such as emails sent to the wrong people with information we would probably prefer was not sent.''

Glitches or weariness is one thing, but is the brain being rewired to adapt to digital living? Juan says the data is lacking. ''However, science has taught us that the brain is continually reworking its synapses. So this rewriting is possible.''

There is some evidence that this adaptation is already in play, notably among younger people. US research found that ''digital natives'' (people born into the online age) seem to adapt better to online information-gathering, simultaneously managing to maintain a more balanced relationship between the online world and that occupied by friends and family. Better, that is, than ''digital tourists'' (the older folk, who grew up doing things more slowly).

Beilharz says: ''If you joined a university in the last few years, that's the way the world works. If you entered 20 years ago, you can see it has significant effect on the capacity to do other things. Time spent on email is time not spent on doing other things.'' Such as the job one is paid to do.

In 2005, Professor David Levy, of the University of Washington's information school in Seattle, published a paper arguing that ''the accelerating pace of life is reducing the time for thoughtful reflection, and in particular for contemplative scholarship''. Professor Levy illustrates how the blessing and curse of the internet is notably ironic and bittersweet for academics. ''The loss of time to think is occurring at exactly the moment when scholars, educators and students have gained access to digital tools of great value to scholarship.''

In 2006, Levy started running a course called Information and Contemplation. It teaches students how to slow down their thinking to a contemplative pace, as a response to ''the speedy, fragmented and inattentive mind states that digital technologies seem to encourage''.

But what about the rest of us?

John Freeman suggests we cut down our inbox access to twice a day. ''And wherever possible, don't send.'' Speaking from New York, Freeman says he hasn't managed to get his own usage down to twice a day. ''I try and check it five to seven times a day rather than minute to minute.

''I could write emails all day long. The more emails I write and reply to, the more I will get … But I don't check it when I get up in the morning. I have breakfast with my girlfriend. If I'm going to have to work, I won't blend work with chatter. But it's like a Pandora's box, your mind starts to drift.''

Blues Traveler | Run-Around

2009-12-02T02:20:00.001-08:00

Top 5 songs of all time!

November - Spring Pizzas

2009-11-29T19:55:00.000-08:00

New migrants work harder. Do or die.

2009-11-15T00:32:00.001-08:00

"New migrants work harder. Do or Die."

Simple and profound words of wisdom from Singapore's founding father Lee Kuan Yew.

Will give my research a whole lot of perspective.

In the meantime, I've returned from my 4000km gallivant. Pictures to follow!

We'll start with one of 'em that highlighted the trip - lots of tender loving care, and here's a sweet morning breakfast pancake surprise by my host in Adelaide, ah-Rah. To top it off, we had some pretty darned awesome Jasper's coffee to the mix. Heaven!

Been a while

2009-11-09T03:49:00.001-08:00

It's been a while since the last update. In the midst of a long gallivant across three states, and about 4000km of travel.

Be back soon! :)

But to sum up how it's been so far, and in the glorious words of Jim Croce - "...but there never seems to be enough time to do the thing you wanna do once you find them." I swear I would walk the span of the planet if I could!

spring!!!

2009-10-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

the last thing we need are these black and white views.

may the spring colours fill this blank canvas.

Scientists Find A Precision Clock Logging the Milliseconds Inside Your Brain

2009-10-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

this certainly changes things. always was of the idea that time was a human construct.

Scientists Find A Precision Clock Logging the Milliseconds Inside Your Brain
By Clay DillowPosted 21.10.2009

Source - Popular Science Australia

Tick Tock Certain neurons in the striatum and prefrontal cortex fire at certain intervals, which MIT researchers have determined to be an internal clock time-stamping sensory experiences for memory just as a digital camera might time-stamp a photo file.

Though we do it without thinking, keeping track of time is integral to the brain's function, keeping our senses and our actions ordered in a chronology that we then recall in the form of memory. But important as it is, researchers have never understood the mechanism by which humans index the happenings of everyday life. Now, two macaque monkeys may have helped MIT researchers solve the time tracking puzzle.

Neuroscientists have theorized for decades that the human brain time stamps events as they happen, just as a camera tags the date and time onto a digital photo file. These stamps keep our memories organized so when called upon, our brains can reach back and pull the correct time-stamped file. While it seems like we do this without thinking, it's actually quite a feat, especially considering that no evidence for these time stamps exists beyond the theoretical.

But after training two macaques to memorize an eye movement task and having them repeat it back, the MIT team thinks it has found exactly where the time-stamping is taking place. Certain neurons in the striatum and the prefrontal cortex -- areas responsible for learning, thought, and mobility -- fired at specific times during the exercises. The macaques were allowed to perform the eye movement task at their own pace, so the movements were not synched with particular movements. Rather, the researchers have determined that the neuron signals were marking intervals of time, ticking off time-stamps down to tens of milliseconds.

Measuring for the subtle signals within small clumps of cells in the brain was itself no easy task, enabled by a new technique allowing the researchers to monitor electrical signals from hundreds of neurons at the same time and then analyze them mathematically, a process involving researchers at both the RIKEN Brain Institute in Japan and Penn State University.

The team suspects other regions of the brain may also keep time, and learning more about the process could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating Parkinson's disease, which often manifests itself in symptoms consistent with a disconnect in the brain's timing mechanism. Treating those timekeeping neurons with drugs, or even with chemicals like dopamine already found in the brain, could suppress those symptoms. First, the team must determine exactly how the time-stamping work and its effects on the brain and memory. When things turn slow-mo in an emergency situation or time seems like it's flying by in low-stress environments, it may have less to do with perception and more to do with the tiny clocks inside your brain.

Spring has got to be the most awesome season there is.

2009-10-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

Been spending quite a bit of time busying up the green fingers. Spring's the time for lots of sun and big smiles.

Kuroshio Sea - 2nd largest aquarium tank in the world

2009-10-08T05:42:00.000-07:00

Please check this out if you have a few minutes to spare. It's amazing.

Kuroshio Sea - 2nd largest aquarium tank in the world
http://vimeo.com/5606758

Wandering China has moved

2009-10-07T22:04:00.000-07:00

wanderingchina has moved from blogger.com to wordpress. sleeker, easier to navigate, and yummier to read!

Check it out here! http://wanderingchina.wordpress.com/

Thanks!

Time

2009-09-21T05:16:00.000-07:00

"Time selects the superior and eliminates the inferior, choosing the thoughts which impact upon human civilization in the long term." Jin Canrong, vice-director of the School of International Studies of Renmin University of China.

Source - Global Times
60 foreigners who helped shape China's 60 years
http://special.globaltimes.cn/2009-09/469109_2.html

Chope | Easy Come Easy Go

2009-09-17T16:04:00.001-07:00

Easy Come Easy Go
I keep calling from a higher point
To take advantage of the situation I'm in
And I turn it around to you
Should I call it some polite violence?

Chope 2009
---
Written by Wesley Choo
Performed by Wesley Choo, Ronald Lee and Bob Tan

** Yes it is a little lo-fi and recorded in a home studio without a suitable complement of mics and acoustic paneling. Enjoy it nevertheless!

Raid finds 37 people living in single Brisbane house

2009-09-15T17:18:00.000-07:00

37 in a single house is pretty intense man. First, is this by choice or circumstance for both parties? Then, two key questions - why did the students allow this to happen without being to utter a voice of reason? And what kind of landlord is that? Unless they're paying negligible rent, this isn't the best piece of news I've heard in a while.

Raid finds 37 people living in single Brisbane house
CHRISTINE KELLETT
September 16, 2009
Source - The Age

Thirty-seven students have been found living in a single house in Brisbane's south.

The shock discovery at Sunnybank Hills was made as part of a series of council raids on properties across the city in a bid to curb residential overcrowding.

Since July last year, Brisbane City Council has inspected more than 1000 homes and units, issuing about 180 notices for non-compliance with sanitation, planning and fire regulations. A further 179 amenity issues have been identified in just the past month.

Among the breaches of the Housing Code, garages had been converted into bedrooms and temporary Portaloos were being installed in back gardens to accommodate the illegal numbers of people being packed into residential homes.

brisbanetimes.com.au revealed in May foreign students were overwhelmingly the victims of overcrowded accommodation, with four young women forced to share a bed in one case.

"Previously, the most we've seen is about 19 people living in one house, so this [at Sunnybank Hills] is quite extraordinary," Brisbane Deputy Mayor Graham Quirk said.

"In many cases these are overseas students being charged top dollar to live in substandard accommodation with not enough toilets or bedrooms.

"Students bring over a billion dollars to our annual economy and they spend a lot of money to get here, yet some find themselves victims of poor housing and sanitation."

Council last week passed amendments to its House Code, reducing the number of people allowed to reside in one household from six to five.

Cr Quirk said the council would continue to push for power of entry provisions to be granted to it, despite a previous refusal by the State Government on privacy grounds.

Local authorities have only been able to gain access to homes to conduct inspections with the assistance of the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, which can demand entry into private property.

The raids have resulted in a single but successful prosecution for breaches of fire safety laws earlier this year.

Cr Quirk said some overseas students were choosing to live like sardines to save cash.

"But there is no doubt some landlords are clearly profiteering from Brisbane's good reputation," he said.

"What we are seeing is organised accommodation in a lot of cases."

Individual fines for landlords can range up to $100,000 for non-compliance.

As well as "spoiling the experience" for international students, Cr Quirk said overcrowding posed serious health and fire risks.

He said improvements had been made in the past year, but warned the checks would continue.

Quintessentially Singaporean - 'Kevin Matthew's My One and Only'

2009-09-11T22:18:00.000-07:00

Quite quintessentially Singaporean. Anyone recall Lum May Yee's cover a decade odd ago? Those growing up years... :)

Chope | Almond Nomad

2009-09-08T00:16:00.000-07:00

Whimsical and funky quite rightly describes this instrumental piece about a nomadic almond.

Chope 2009 ---
Written by Wesley Choo Performed by Wesley Choo, Ronald Lee and Bob Tan

** Yes it is a little lo-fi and recorded in a home studio without a suitable complement of mics and acoustic paneling. Enjoy it nevertheless!

Donnie come lately

2009-09-02T23:43:00.000-07:00

Donnie Yen Rocks!

Care to remember the kung-fu master in a breakdance moment?

---

Donnie come lately
Actor Donnie Yen goes from Ip Man to leading man in, oh, 26 years
IHT
Source - Straits Times 03 September 2009

SHANGHAI - FOR the past 26 years, Donnie Yen has developed a dedicated following in Asia for his impressive martial arts skills and a cult status internationally for his roles in popular action movies, including Once Upon A Time In China II and Hero. But until recently, he had, he said, 'never tasted what it meant to be a superstar'.

Instead, in big-budget movies, he often played in the shadow of established stars such as Jet Li and Jackie Chan.

But with Painted Skin and Ip Man, two box-office successes last year, Yen's star is finally rising.

'He's been around as long as the two Js,' said Mr Daniel Yun, outgoing managing director of MediaCorp Raintree Pictures, referring to Li and Chan. 'For a long time, he was the third choice; but with his films making big money at the box office, he's become the leading man to watch.'

Painted Skin, which was co-produced by Raintree, grossed 230 million yuan (S$48.57 million) in China last year, making it the second most successful film of the year there behind Red Cliff.

Yen, 46, seems to approach his newfound success with healthy scepticism.

In a recent interview in Shanghai, where he was filming his final scene for Bodyguards & Assassins, a big-budget period action film produced by Peter Chan, he commented that he had 'a lot of new friends' now - whereas in the late 1990s, he could not find anybody to help finance Ballistic Kiss, his second film as a director and producer.

'Now all the producers are calling me and I have films lined up all the way to 2012,' he said. 'It's beginning to sink in that after 26 years in the industry, I'm finally getting my break.'

Yen, who also recently finished work on 14 Blades, a Ming-era martial arts movie, acknowledges that he has tended to avoid expanding his acting abilities. He believes that directors never really encouraged him to act.

'It was more 'come in, fight, look cool, show your muscles',' he said, laughing. -- INTERNATIONAL HERALD TRIBUNE

Churchill National Park

2009-08-31T17:57:00.000-07:00

Churchill National Park 30 August 2009. Located in Rowville, the park boasts 172 species of birds, kangaroos and wallabies. Stumbled through a few massive kangaroo colonies, tried to make friends with 'em that resulted in a few glorious scenes of 'roos zipping through the fields, and ended up getting very lost in the 1668 hectare park. Took us three hours and some massive detours and faux short cuts through hills to find our way out.

Consisting of 4 solid hills, a former reservoir, it was no walk in the park as it got dark. Doubling up as a mountain bike trail, most of the trek involved massive slope climbing action. Glad to have come out in one piece! Good training for sure.

History

2009-08-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

And...spotted by the roadside on the way to work today - a board that read, "The true value of the past is to enrich the present."

Mad weather in Melbourne

2009-08-25T02:33:00.000-07:00

It was mad driving home from work today. Massive hail, pockets of snow near the mountains where I was. Had to pull over a coupla' times to ensure a safe journey home. 120kmh winds! Intense does not begin to describe the madness.

---

Storms affect peak-hour commute
Mex Cooper, Thomas Hunter
August 25, 2009 - 6:03PM
Source - the Age

Wild weather has caused a number of delays for Melbourne commuters as howling winds and heavy rain sweep across the city.

A fallen tree outside Essendon station has caused delays up to half an hour to both citybound and outbound trains on the Broadmeadows line.

A problem with signalling systems also caused delays in South Kensington earlier this evening, but a Connex spokeswoman said the problem had now been rectified.

Connex had buses and maintenance teams on standby for the extreme weather but services were running "relatively smoothly," the spokeswoman said.

Winds up to 128km/h hit Avalon earlier this afternoon and were due to arrive in the city about 5.20pm.

Bureau of Meterology duty forecaster Geoff Feren said the cold front would see the temperature drop rapidly and damaging winds of about 110km/h sweep through Melbourne.

She said the strongest winds - 117 km/h - had so far been reported at Mount William in the Grampians National Park in the state’s west.
Commuters were advised to leave work early as extreme weather threatened to play havoc with the public transport system.

There was also a warning for potential blackouts.

A Yarra Trams spokeswoman said emergency crews were also ready in case overhead tram lines were damaged this afternoon.

Falling trees pulled down both overhead tram and train lines on Friday, causing delays and cancellations when high-speed winds lashed Melbourne.

Connex and Yarra Trams advised commuters to monitor their websites for updates but said it was up to passengers to decide whether they should leave early.

SES spokesman Scott Hilditch said motorists should also take care as debris could be blown on to roads and traffic lights may malfunction from power outages.

He said up to 700,000 people commuted to the city each day and leaving early would help to minimise possible transport snarls.

Emergency services crews were this afternoon gearing up for damaging winds, possible thunderstorms and power blackouts across the state.

Gale-force winds are expected mid-week, in what is shaping up to be an exceptionally gusty season.

The destructive winds would gust to 120km/h in alpine and other elevated areas, while parts of Melbourne and other southern areas would get wind gusts of 100km/h, Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Peter Blake said.

The bureau said this morning 100 km/h winds would strengthen in the state's west from early afternoon before hitting Melbourne.

"That front is approaching, it may bring a band of rain and will come late afternoon, 4 to 6pm," he said.

"There will be several hours of winds, it will pick up and strengthen during the day and into the evening.

"At least a lot of people will be safely in their houses by then."

A severe weather warning is in place for much of Victoria predicting sustained winds up to 60km/h and locally damaging gusts up to 110km/h in the Wimmera, western and alpine forecast districts and in parts of the north central, northern country, Mallee, central, northeast and Gippsland regions.

But SES spokesman Allan Briggs said people could help lessen the disruption of powerful winds.

"People need to be prepared for a power outage," he said.

"It's good to have a battery operated radio and torch, and if the power goes out they shouldn't try to do any power repairs themselves. Phone the power company, whose number should be on the bill.

"We'd also advise against using candles, unless in an absolute emergency.

"We're also urging people to avoid parking or sheltering under trees, and suggesting they secure loose items, like outdoor furniture, around their house."

Mr Briggs said SES workers had attended about 150 jobs across Victoria in the last 24 hours, helping the public cope with fallen trees and damaged power lines.

Although the strong winds will originate in the state's west, Mr Briggs said metropolitan Melbourne and the state's elevated areas could be the worst-affected areas.

Monty Python set to reunite

2009-08-24T02:32:00.000-07:00

Monty Python set to reunite!!!

Right, the photo on the left has nothing to do with Monty Python except that it's what I made for dinner today - lamb chops and pineapple/apple milk shake. But that is purely for something completely random. Back to regular programming -

"The surviving members of legendary comedy troupe Monty Python will reunite in October to commemorate their 40th anniversary as a team.

John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam are expected to appear together at a red-letter event in New York City on October 15.

There, the Pythons will be honoured by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) with a special award that commemorates their "outstanding contribution to film and television".

"It promises to be a rare and memorable occasion bringing the hugely talented Monty Python team together again, and we feel that the special award is a fitting tribute to this much-loved and singularly British institution," said BAFTA chairman David Parfitt.

According to The Hollywood Reporter , BAFTA previously recognised the work of Monty Python in 1987, when they were presented with a Michael Balcon Award for outstanding British contribution to cinema.

Monty Python's Flying Circus , the TV series which ran from 1969 to 1974, was the home of iconic comedy sketches such as Ministry of Silly Walks, Dead Parrot and The Lumberjack Song. The team also wrote and starred in classic films such as The Life of Brian and The Holy Grail ."

Source - http://au.tv.yahoo.com/news/article/-/article/5846439/monty-python-set-to-reunite/
Date of Access 23 August 2009

And here's the Ministry of Silly Walks.

And a personal fave. The Silly Olympics.

Worth Sharing

2009-08-17T18:12:00.001-07:00

Worth sharing.

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page."
St. Augustine.

Being Happy.

2009-08-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

Caught whilst trudging through Orchard Road. Was glad that amongst the homogeneity of Singapore's rapidly shifting loss of identity via all those bloody new metal buildings that primarily conduct heat, making the island hotter and hotter; wait I digress... that we still have people staying happy, doing what they love, and having a great time. Check out Singapore's legendary happy uncle.

We are the remnants of a long line of people.

2009-07-30T08:03:00.000-07:00

The One Giant Leap ideal has been a great inspiration all this time, and in line with some of the thoughts gathering in my head about how we have much to be grateful for. That we are what's left of a long long line of survivors who made it through some impossible odds. I mean, pause to have a think. From the amoebas to amphibians to the apes, through the ice ages, the dark ages, the wars, the famines and great epidemics, to the stresses of everyday colonial to capitalist, competitive living. And we are the survivors. We are the sum total of what's left.

The video above isn't the original from the project, but a fanvid that quite does the job.

Here's a verse from the track 'My Culture' that is really apt. And check out the last line.

"When I look back over the years
at the things that brought tears to my eyes
papa said we have to be wise to live long lives
now I recognise what my father said before he dies
vocalise things I've left unsaid
left my spirit unfed for too long
I'm coming home to my family
Where I can be strong
Be who I planned to be
Within me, my ancestry
Givin' me continuity
Would it be remiss to continue in this way
would you rather I quit
come with the other shit
making people's hips sway
lip service I pay but I'm nervous
I pray for all the mothers who get no sleep
like a lifeline I light lines cause my compassion is
deep
for the people who fashioned me, my soul to keep
and this is who I happen to be
and if I don't see that I'm strong then I won't be "

'nuff said. let's find happiness in that!

Gallivanting

2009-07-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

And here they are, recent adventures on film. All good things!

I'd rather.

2009-07-09T04:28:00.001-07:00

Inspired by One Giant Leap, this thought was greatly provocative. Simple. Not simplistic. But a fundamental truth so easy to forget.

"Do we reckon that at our deathbed, we'll regret not making more money, or working harder?"

I'd rather travel, do, think, and do, spending time with people I love, sharing what I know, and experiencing the planet. The gallivanting continues! Just last week I covered about 1200kms. Will be adding another 600 this week. Onward. And yes, pictures soon.

Some top tens

2009-06-21T02:46:00.001-07:00

Some top tens worth checking out when you've got spare time.

1.) Ten Most Diabolical Fish (warning, some of 'em look really really nasty)

2.) Ten misspelled tattoos - Oh the horror of immortalizing your thoughts with a spellingly challenged artist

3.) Ten Famous Paintings recreated in Lego

Walk to the city

2009-06-20T02:35:00.000-07:00

'twas a bright and sunny Friday, and temperatures were awesome for a pretty chilly winter. The barometer topped at 17, and it felt an awesome day for another hike. Had always wanted to walk to the city from home, just to see how long it'll take. All in all 16kms were covered in just under 4 hours, and the celebratory lunch in the city was some awesome middle eastern meat ball action. Had good company this time too. Turned out to be quite the feat, too many traffic lights, zooming traffic that made for excess noise, and crowds of people in the way. Will keep the walking wanderings out in the 'burbs or the country from now on.

here're some photos of things along the way!

Blender Action and Ham Burger

2009-06-16T04:27:00.000-07:00

Finally got down to getting the blender. No more sugared drinks (I think), and onward with healthy smoothies, shakes and juices. It just doesn't make sense paying $4-5 for one of 'em health drinks in Oz. First project today - Apple/Banana + Honey juice, Served 4 people with plenty to spare. Cost? $2. Well, the blender set me back $55 (thanks to Mum), but here's to good health!

Massively 'seedy' bun with salami, lettuce from the yard, and ham, and a generous going of pepper + cayenne pepper

Indian Sweet Child of Mine

2009-06-14T21:36:00.001-07:00

Indian Sweet Child of Mine

very nuts. very nice. we are all rock stars.

Vegie Patch Update

2009-06-10T04:42:00.000-07:00

Vegie Patch is alive! Check out the latest of Bob's easy DIYs - roof for the vegies!

A lovely day

2009-06-10T04:21:00.000-07:00

Today was a bit nuts, a great day, awesomely beautiful in terms of things that happened, but awesomely cold too. Melbourne's experiencing a massively cold front.

It was a heck of a wandering planet moment. Sent the car to the workshop to get the transmission problem fixed (thanks in no small deal to some support from the bro), then spent the rest of the day hiking (to not spend money, thanks to this new hole in the pocket for the repairs). From Bayswater where the workshop was I trekked to the base of Mt. Dandenong about 10ks away, and back (had to thanks to the rain), and then to Knox City Shopping Centre to get a rest at Borders (and time to browse around for the latest domesticated acquisition - a fruit blender - smoothies and shakes made at home...woohoo!) . All in all, about 30+kms of walking in the cold, and at times heavy rain...

Best thing is, car came back running perfect! Purring like a tiger again. Good things all round.

...and some pictures.

Victoria's Traffic Infringement Madness

2009-06-03T23:48:00.001-07:00

This is quite simply, madness, if the report is accurate - Victoria issues an average of 11,000+ traffic/parking infringements a day.

In 2007-08, approximately 4.2 million infringement notices were issued by groups including Victoria Police and local councils, with more than 209,450 notices withdrawn.

Go here for the full report.

Recyclable Cars

2009-06-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

Never dawned on me this, till I chanced on this article; that cars are the world's most recycled product. Guess it was just something that I never thought about; perhaps cars that pass away go to heaven? Haha.

Read on!

---

Recyclable Cars
Cars are (surprisingly) the world's most recycled product. Find out which parts of your car end up as landfill, and which parts don't
By Alison Lakin, Associate Editor, DriverSide.com
Posted 09.05.2009 at 5:18 am
Original article found here.

Each year, around 10 million vehicles are disposed of in the United States. Before vexing your conscience though, you should know that over 95 percent of these “retired” cars head straight to one of the 7,000 vehicle recycling operations around the country and 75 percent of these cars' parts are completely recycled, letting cars claim top spot as the world's most recycled product.

Metals
As the hottest commodity at the moment, steel, iron and other metals comprise about 65 percent of the average vehicle, making the reuse of this product vital to overall automotive recycling efforts. Although reuse of metals started alongside the advent of the automobile, they're more popular than ever before. With construction exploding in rapidly developing countries like China, traders are snatching metals up to sell, and some older cars are now actually worth more for their steel than for their originally intended ‘automotive’ function. Naturally this means, according to the Steel Recycling Institute, that virtually all of this material is recovered for reuse. Wheels, engines, transmissions, wiring and body shells get shredded and filtered by ferrous scrap processors and the material is then sold to steel mills. Your trashed ’79 El Camino could be having a second life as a part of an Indian skyscraper.

Batteries
70 percent of all lead now used in the U.S. is found in car batteries. Fortunately, we’ve known about the toxicity of lead for a while now and recycling systems have been in place for years. Some batteries have enough life to be reconditioned for resale, but the dead ones go to lead reclaiming plants where the toxic substance is extracted to use in new batteries.
“Nearly 90 percent of all lead-acid batteries are recycled,” confirms Latisha Petteway, Spokesperson for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Almost any retailer that sells lead-acid batteries collects used batteries for recycling, as required by most state laws.”

Tires
In 2005, the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association estimated, based on U.S. census reports, that 299 million tires were discarded. That's a helluva lot of miles covered. Good news: 86 percent of that number was reused. While today’s tires are complex, they are also extremely recyclable. The rubber from old tires makes it into a multitude of materials, from pavements to playground covering. Some are used to create more tires, 16.255 million in 2005 were retreaded – though very few of those were for passenger cars, due to economic factors. They are also able to fuel cement kilns, boilers and paper mills as well.

Fluids
Oil, that fussy liquid which needs to be changed every few thousand miles, isn't just tossed away at lube shops. 380 million gallons are reused or recycled each year in America. It goes through a refining process and comes out squeaky clean (well, as clean as an oil can be) as a base stock for lubricating oil. The problem is that many do-it-yourselfers change their own oil, and the irresponsible ones send roughly 120 million gallons down the drain instead of taking it to a collection center, local auto parts store or garage.

Used gear oil, windshield wiper solution, brake fluid, power steering fluid, antifreeze and transmission fluid can contain some seriously toxic substances, including lead and the highly poisonous ethylene glycol. But if you drop it off at a collection site, each of these fluids can either be blended and utilized as an alternate fuel source or restored.

Truth is just like this.

2009-06-02T16:42:00.000-07:00

Had to share, chanced upon this from a buddy's site, and Zen has been something that has been filling my headspace for a while. No us and thems, no then and next. Overheard once, and it made a lot of sense. "We have to question the motives of those who speak and reason in polarities", and this short sentence says quite a lot.

---

Original nature has no opposites. Speech and words are not necessary. Without thinking, all things are exactly as they are. Truth is just like this.

---

from "Dropping Ashes on the Buddha - the Teaching of Zen Master Seung Sahn" compiled and edited by Stephen Mitchell

Up to some more cookin'

2009-05-31T06:24:00.000-07:00

more cooking adventures.

Prawn Noodles. Tag team with Ron, and courtesy of Ling's auntie's soup base.

Pasta with crumbed oven-baked fish.

Days

2009-05-23T21:56:00.001-07:00

from a birthday song a friend wrote. (not for me though) It's s'posed to a bit of a hush-hush affair, so I can't reveal too much of the lyrics. but in a nutshell, she writes with each new year, we wonder if there's a new floor, a new door, if they are new flaws. But somehow as we recollect our hindsight, we've all got one positive, we're one step closer to who we're truly meant to be. The sum of all these trials and tribulations, pains and joys we've accumulated to become who we are. And there is joy in that. What a journey.

"... and all of your days, they will walk with you."

beautiful.

Sharing.

2009-05-12T21:25:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I've shared thoughts, so here's one.

It came over a hotpot party I was attending. Got stuck into many a conversation, and when asked what I did, my answer was simple, but easily read as cryptic. I said, "I'm trying hard not to work."

A few faces of amazement, some of bewilderment, others of cynicism, I had to present my case.

I shared my understanding of the machinery civilized, patriotic folk are trapped in. The cycle of endless work, time bankruptcy, a life where true enjoyment of things around us are an occasion bonus facilitated by annual leave, or the sickie (come on we all do) could be broken by a simple (not to be misconstrued as simplistic), rule of thumb.

Breaking through the barrier of the 8-10 hour work day was the key. When we get the much vaunted first full-time job, we're trapped straight away. Case in point - how many activities can you engage in after coming home tired from work? Dinner, the odd movie out, the fortnightly drinks with buddies that do not end too late coz you've got to maximise the rest of the weekend?

I had a simple solution. By learning to make the best of the things I enjoy, I found a middle path. Gainful employment with a worthwhile pursuit, and the luxury of being free from the work day cycle. I now teach drums (3 regular students), give English tuition (4 regular students), work at a furniture chain selling sofas (twice a week), grow my own vegetables, work remotely for the academic institution as an academic associate, and pursue the PhD dream all at once; they are all things I enjoy and have come to know as an integral part of me. To top it off I play in two bands, and one's halfway through recording an album for release in Australia this year. My activities are blocked into no more than 2-3 hour chunks. Which means one simple thing - more time to do more things and enjoy the fruits of being alive. It's not been without his share of hitches and scary bank balances, but I am enjoying what I love doing. Been able to travel and wander around much too. Hence.

Trying hard not to work. Enjoying what I do, making a living out of it, and being free from 8-10 hour blocks, unless I choose to.

Of course I have more obligations than most, but heck. It can't be all too perfect. We're here on earth. Yes I lose out on medical benefits, the works, et al. Let's see how I can learn to find a middle path that'll incorporate that too.

Thanks for reading!

Eating at Home

2009-05-10T22:04:00.000-07:00

Pita bread with two bean mix in Mexican Sauce + Bacon Special, with a hint of tabasco.

and.

Oven-baked soy garlic marinade chicken and beer basted chips.

The Vege Patch

2009-05-02T22:35:00.000-07:00

Lettuce, turnips, beetroot, carrots and parsley! Doing fine despite the cold weather!

"There's a room somewhere with a different look."

Melbourne records coldest April morning for 56 years

2009-04-29T17:22:00.000-07:00

I've been brave in leaving the heater in storage. Have been quite determined to do without it till the peak of Winter, but I crumbled last night. It's way too early in Autumn to be 2.9 degrees. The mind just can't take it! :)

---

Melbourne records coldest April morning for 56 years
Reko Rennie
April 30, 2009 - 7:59AM
Source - the Age

You're right - it's cold. So cold in fact, it's Melbourne's chilliest April morning for 56 years.

The celsius in the city plunged to 2.9 degrees at 6.35am, a brisk wake-up call for Melburnians trying to rouse themselves for work.

The cold snap tested records across the city, with some suburbs dropping below freezing, Weather Company meteorologist Brett Dutschke said.

Mr Dutschke said most areas recorded their coldest April morning for decades, with some as much as 10 degrees below the monthly average.

The aptly named Coldstream recorded the greater Melbourne area's lowest temperature, with a frosty -2.7 degrees at 6:30am.

Many other suburbs recorded temperatures of less than 1 degree, with Scoresby managing only 0.3 degrees and Essendon 0.6 degrees.

Over in Melbourne's south-west, Laverton reached 0.4 - its lowest April temperature for 66 years - while Tullamarine struggled to just over a degree.

Mr Dutschke said tomorrow morning would not be as cold due to increasing cloud and a bit more wind, while frosts would only hit east of Melbourne.

Elgar's Nimrod

2009-04-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

Moving does not begin to describe this piece. How I wish I had the chance to play this piece back in the symphonic band days!

Good Travels

2009-04-22T23:23:00.000-07:00

April travels.

Leave your shoes behind. Great Ocean Road.
Photo by Lorraine of my Timberlands and Bob walking into the deep blue.
What a lovely shot, a thoughtful interpretation of 'leap and the net will appear'. :)

The Empty Cup redux

2009-04-17T01:09:00.000-07:00

A book tightly shut is but a block of paper.

- Chinese Proverb.

Wandering Weekend

2009-04-13T04:57:00.000-07:00

On the peak of Mt. Oberon

It's been a great long weekend. Had some friends visit from Perth, and some others from Singapore, and I got conveniently stirred for the outdoors, and general doing of things.

Started off with a blast at the Easy Star All-Stars gig at the Corner (easily the best gig of 2008/2009 by far), getting a new drum student who's really passionate about the drums, hiking at the 565m tall Mt Oberon at Wilson's Prom, and hanging out in the sun at Williamstown and the Sidney Myer Bowl at King's Domain watching the clouds go by. Tomorrow's a drive down to Great Ocean Road, and more traveling beckons. Would have clocked up at least 1,200kms of travel by the time I'm done.

:)

Happy Easter everyone.

MMM

2009-04-06T07:48:00.001-07:00

Read on till the end. The content's good content, but the comment posted by a reader truly made me laugh. Worth a read from beginning to end!

Dr M: I will not accept senior minister's post if offered

Mon, Apr 06, 2009
The Star/ANN

TAIPING, Malaysia: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has openly given his stamp of approval to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak's administration, saying that the current government was truly "the people's government."

The former premier said his confidence in Najib grew following his willingness to get up close and personal with the people by meeting them on the ground in his second day as prime minister.

"I have full confidence that Datuk Seri Najib can correct the problems currently plaguing the country, and also confident that he would bring Malaysia to new heights to benefit all the races in the country," he told a crowd of thousands at Dataran PPP near here Monday.

Later, he said he would not accept a senior minister's post in the Cabinet if offered, but was willing to advise the Government in an unofficial capacity.

Najib is widely expected to unveil his new Cabinet line-up on Wednesday.

Dr Mahathir was in Bukit Gantang at the invitation of Umno deputy president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, who is heading the Barisan Nasional machinery for the three by-elections -- Bukit Gantang here in Perak, Bukit Selambau in Kedah and Batang Ai in Sarawak.

This is the first time in the nearly six years since he left office that the premier of 22 years has hit the campaign trail.

Mahathir, who rejoined Umno on Saturday, expressed his hope that the many members who had left the party would also return to its fold.

"Times have changed. The government today is truly for the people. So I am urging those who had left Umno, please come back," he said, adding that he was confident that the current administration would be taking steps to address people's unhappiness.

He also said that street demonstrations were not part of Malaysian culture and were a waste of time.

"What do we get by demonstrating on the streets, except to cause damage? Dialogue is the best way to resolve unhappiness and differences. If we are still unhappy with the government, then show it through the ballot boxes," he added.

He also expressed his appreciation to the thousands of people who had gathered at the field an hour before his arrival at 10am.

"I feel I am truly back in Umno. Thank you for the welcome, although some people had told me to be prepared for spoilt eggs," he said to thunderous applause.

Dr Mahathir was truly in his element when campaigning for Barisan, always referring to the Opposition as "the other side" with his trademark dry wit.

He is scheduled to hit the campaign trail in Bukit Selambau later Monday.--The Star/Asia News Network

---

Dr M is not interested in SM post because he is eyeing the MM post.

Imagine MM M???
Posted by: amfreeaccess at Mon Apr 06 21:31:48 SGT 2009

the world...

2009-04-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

the world's beginning to appreciate uniqueness more and more as it all becomes too homogenous.

Let's hope it doesn't assimilate.

Today I played till 2 fingers bled.

2009-03-30T05:30:00.000-07:00

I am now 30 years old. It is no less a milestone as it is an insignificant imprint of the fabric of time.

There are many things I am thankful for. But for sure, my dream of becoming a millionaire before I turn 30 falls short. That's one down the list of dreams, but in retrospect, I feel fulfilled with the adventure of my life, both high and low in states, the miles travelled, the depth of thought and introspection, the gainfully employed to the doctorate seeking thinker, to downright too chilled; the list goes on rather infinitely. By and large, I am happy that I've been given a wide breadth of experiences to feel fulfilled by it, rather than one prescribed linear path to be pursued with governance and instruction.

This might all sound a bit self-indulged, and it probably unavoidably will do so, is that yes, it is a little about me. Feel I haven't really been sharing much of real personal experience, just photos, links, the odd phrases. So here it is. Something a little deeper. Reflections of 2008. The last mohicans of my twenties, or tweenteens, as my Cuz Ray would call it.

To begin, is the Mitsubishi Magna 1997. She fell ill just 4 months into becoming my steed. Diagnosed with a transmission box problem, she's been running with me through thick and thin since October 2007, never failing, despite the weak transmission making her prone to having problems at the low gears and low ravs, but still she gets me to band practice at Williamstown (about 35km away) and the airport (40+km) with pretty good determination. So kudos to that.

Next is getting into my current band the Suntrap. They're awesome to goodness. Felt the need to attempt to break into the Aussie band market. Many great bands have come from here. And they usually move to worldwide stardom. Logged onto a Melbourne band forum and wrote in to a few 'drummer needed' ads. Out of the 3, 2 were cool with me playing for them without an audition. Only the Suntrap asked for an audition. Lugged my kit over for the auditions anyways, because their music sounded so good. 90s effected indie-rock in the style of Radiohead and a bit of Verve. Made it in straight after the auditions and man, I've been so happy. Regular practice weekly for one day only - of hardcore rehearsal, attention to detail, the dynamic creative process. It was lovely. For once I could be just a drummer and do what I loved - play the drums. This luxury was not one I had back in Singapore half-managing the band and playing, getting gigs, et al. And man. Album due mid 2009. Finally, making a record in Australia with an Australian band. Just today, I played in recording till 2 fingers bled.

On the topic of music, I am also glad I have a lifetime goal - to travel around China to record sounds and music of all the 55 ethnic 'tribe's on emotions like love, hate, anger, jealousy, and the like. Take a year off just to do it. And see how the great expanses of the Chinese lands might just see many things harmoniously, that might prove a point, that all the voices shared equally could be a truer voice of the Middle Kingdom, we shall see. Thanks 'One Giant Leap' as the source of inspiration.

Discovering an inner state of 'immature' Zen. Been largely been able to attempt to control my states of flux and pendulum swings, both ways they find sustained presence, but never at one time. And being able to merge some Zen sharings to reflect a state of mind of perhaps Jesus Christ. Last year my laptop hard disk crashed, 2 days before two 9,000 word assignments were due. I just smiled when it died, and banged away fresh on the school computer the entire 2 papers, and managed to get 2 distinctions in return. That state of mind is beautiful. Though I still lose it from time to time, unfortunately, when it came to being with loved ones. Must learn to break this bad habit. A nice center surely must be nice to keep centered around family.
Sometimes it may swing too far, but all one needs to do is to let it go.

Which leads me to the most significant point, being thankful for my family for bringing me this far. From struggling student to fledgling academic back to studenthood towards permanent head damage. These words need no long elaboration. Thankful is all I need to say.

Oven-baked crumbed fish

2009-03-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

new dish! - fish fillet marinated in garlic salt, oregano, parsley and sourdough bread crumbs; and oven-baked for 10minutes.

Favourite All-time snack

2009-03-22T05:07:00.000-07:00

Comes a bit pricey here in Oz though. That set me back $7.

It's 'let-Kim-eat-pizza' time in Pyongyang

2009-03-16T06:28:00.000-07:00

Noteworthy.

It's 'let-Kim-eat-pizza' time in Pyongyang
Oliver Burkeman
March 17, 2009
Source - The Age

FOR millions of undernourished North Koreans, the notion of eating at a restaurant belongs strictly in the world of fantasy. And so there is only the grimmest humour in the news that, for the country's ruling elite, Pyongyang's dining options just got a little more impressive: the country has its first pizzeria.

An obsession with pizza stretching back at least 10 years prompted the isolated nation's dictator, Kim Jong-il, to authorise North Korea's first Italian restaurant, which opened in December, according to a pro-Pyongyang newspaper published in Japan.

"General Kim Jong-il said that the people should also be allowed access to the world's famous dishes," the restaurant's manager, Kim Sang-Soon, was quoted as saying in Choson Sinbo, a Tokyo-based newspaper seen as a mouthpiece for the regime.

Those dining at the restaurant are reportedly treated to pizza and pasta made with wheat flour, butter and cheese flown in from Italy. They are also presumably reaping the benefits of a years-long effort by Kim Jong-il to bring the perfect pizza to his famine-plagued totalitarian state.

In the late 1990s, he summoned a team of Italian pizza chefs to Pyongyang to instruct army officers. One of the chefs, Ermanno Furlanis, later recounted how one of the officers he was training asked him to specify the precise distance at which olives should be spaced on a pizza.

Mr Kim seems to have taken a personal interest: while the pizza-making sessions were under way, on a ship anchored offshore, he was apparently witnessed arriving to inspect his officers' progress. "I am not in the position to say whether it really was him," Mr Furlanis later said. "But our chef, who had no reason to fib, was, for the space of several minutes, utterly speechless. He said he felt as if he had seen God, and I still envy him this experience."

The training seems not to have met Mr Kim's expectations. According to Choson Sinbo, subsequent efforts to reproduce pizza were a process of "repeated trial and error", and last year the dictator sent chefs to Naples and Rome to learn more. Finally satisfied, he authorised the restaurant.

North Korea, one of the world's poorest countries, was hit by devastating famine in the mid-1990s, with up to 2 million people dying. But Kim's passion for fine food is legendary: he is said to be a connoisseur of cognac, French wine, shark-fin soup and sushi.

One of his former chefs, writing under a pseudonym, recalled travelling to Iran and Uzbekistan to fetch caviar, to Denmark for bacon and China for melons and grapes. He defected, he wrote, by offering to find sea urchins in Japan, and never returned.

GUARDIAN

what a neat idea

2009-03-07T02:34:00.000-08:00

from the straitstimes.com

MONTREAL - CANADA'S CBC public radio has plans to teach US President-elect Barack Obama a little more about his northern neighbour, with an inaugural compilation of 49 Canadian songs.

Some '49 songs from north of the 49th parallel' are to be chosen on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) on Friday.

Mr Obama's 'playlist could definitely benefit from some Canadian content, especially given the depth of our musical offerings - spanning a wide variety of genres and representing our culture from coast to coast,' CBC mused on its website.

Judging from the top 100 songs listeners can vote from on the radio's website at cbc.ca/obamasplaylist, Mr Obama will get an eclectic earful.

The list includes 'Night Train' by famed jazz musician Oscar Peterson, folk rock singer Joni Mitchell's 'Both Sides Now,' "The Hockey Song' by Stompin' Tom Connors, as well as a song by leading indie rock group Arcade Fire and some French-language selections.

'One of the best way to know Canada is through the depth and breadth of our artistic expression,' CBC Radio executive director Denise Donlon said in a statement.

'We're excited about the new president and we want him to be excited about us, so we're asking our audience to help compile the list of our most definitive Canadian songs!'

Voting began on Jan 5 and CBC said it would unveil the final list on Jan 20, the day of Mr Obama's inauguration. The winning songs are to be broadcast on CBC Radio 2 that day.

Mr Obama is expected to make the first foreign trip of his presidency to Canada, the largest trade partner of the United States. The date and exact location of the visit have not yet been announced. -- AFP

Bob's Tee-shirts for sale on Redbubble

2009-03-03T20:12:00.000-08:00

Keep this hungry student well-fed here!

First full-cooked meal

2009-02-27T18:08:00.000-08:00

Corn and Anchovy Soup and Fried Chicken!

Back in Melbourne

2009-02-24T21:11:00.000-08:00

Day one found Bob preparing a steak lunch that cost all of $4 (sirloin steak, mushrooms, and assorted veg), and a backyard that was half dead thanks to the heat wave. Also spent the evening watching One Giant Leap (What about me?) and getting really inspired, and Jesus Camp which was 'just a tad' shocking.

overheard

2009-02-21T08:05:00.001-08:00

overheard on a car ad.

humanise mobility.

like the idea.

Music for

2009-02-16T19:24:00.001-08:00

Music for lying down,
Music for life above the sun,
Music for letting cats run all around you,
Music for breathing, lying on sweet fields of joy.

Such a joy, songwriting. Such a joy, listening!

Tip for enjoying music folks - seriously. try lying down, a nice grass patch preferably, as close to the earth as possible. And hear reflections of our living on this wandering planet.

Dad's asked me to try to write a Chinese song, and this will be my next endeavour!

5 random bob things

2009-02-15T23:00:00.000-08:00

1. Bob was the National 'C' Division Age Group Long Jump Champion in 1991. He is right handed, but his take-off/propulsion foot is his left.

2. Bob first started to learn how to play drums at the age of 11 at Yamaha in Plaza Singapura.

3. Bob was a name given to him by a bunch of close buddies in the ACS Band, whilst giving each other silly as names. The other two were called Wellington and Valentino. Bob stuck.

4. Bob's first dream was to become an Astronaut/Pilot, but the dreams were dashed when he developed myopia at the age of 10.

5. Bob's first car was a 1982 Holden Gemini back in 2001.

Wanderings around Coleman Street

2009-02-10T01:07:00.000-08:00

Wanderings around Coleman Street -Peranakan Museum, and my alma mater Anglo-Chinese primary's current incarnation, the National Archives. WARNING - el cheapo mobile phone camera at work.

09022009

2009-02-08T19:02:00.000-08:00

That's today's date folks - 09022009, nicely pointed out by the keyboardist partner in crime. And it deserves some nice random words! Just writing kinda phonetically according to a melody in the head.

One, is the word of the fish
one bubble at a time
But it's not quite a sound that he can likes to make
Given another time

But hey that's really not the sound
that fish can really make
Not that I've really heard it before
But let's not sing this in vain!

---

and, found randomly at Daiso in Vivocity. Love the funky metalloid name - Germanium balls. Wah. Soap. Hmm.

Survivors

2009-02-08T05:27:00.000-08:00

Spend some time pondering how we're all survivors of massive great wars, ice ages, daily car accidents, dark ages, natural calamities, floods, droughts, great plagues through thousands of years, well you get the point - and I have much to be thankful for. Rather, in awe of.

wow.

---

in other news, friends who visit, do care to click on my google ads from time to time. Much appreciated - they help support this blog!

Fook Yew - hmm

2009-02-05T23:30:00.000-08:00

Spotted in City Hall's citylink - subtle but very rude. Love the style though.

Dog Armour

2009-02-01T19:58:00.000-08:00

Wah. Nice one.

Source - Weekly Geek Show

Glutton Bay and catching Richard Live!

2009-02-01T03:37:00.001-08:00

'Twas a pleasant surprise hopping over to the Esplanade with Mel and Alicia on Thursday. Richard Philip (the first lead vocal and front person of the original incarnation of E.P.I.C back in 1999 when we were the Optical Brothers) was on, and I hadn't seen him sing for the longest time - the stars were mightily aligned. Wasn't planning to catch him, we decided on a dinner venue and Bob thought of catching what was on to complement dinner, and well. All good things. He's still the best songwriter/performer I've ever known.

Melbourne heat

2009-01-29T08:09:00.000-08:00

In a big way I'm glad I am back in Singapore this period. Melbourne's going through one of the worst heatwaves ever. I've experienced highs of 42 and 40 degrees last summer, but this summer's quite insane. Very intense. A whole week of 40+ degree temperatures. Madness!

Read more below!

---

The Age
Andra Jackson
January 30, 2009
Full article here...

THERE was an eerie feeling on Melbourne's streets yesterday. They were largely deserted, as people took refuge indoors to beat the searing heat.

The city's temperature reached 40 degrees by 11.40am. The mercury continued to climb throughout the afternoon, notching 44.3 degrees at 4.40pm.

It was the city's third-hottest day on record (the hottest was Black Friday — January 13, 1939 — with 45.6).

The heat followed a sticky night, with the temperature falling to 28.7 degrees at 3.13am. There have only been two nights hotter, the hottest of them on February 1, 1902, when the low point was 30.5 degrees.

Lifesaving Victoria's Guy Britt said people had been shunning beaches during the day because it was too hot. Instead, they descended from 6pm until late into the night.

More than 70,000 people flocked to the state's beaches on Wednesday night, prompting a call to lifesaving volunteers to patrol beaches and put up flags on the heatwave nights. More than 30 clubs responded.

In the city's meltdown yesterday, the air-conditioning at the DFO outlet in Spencer Street failed, forcing many shops to shut and send staff home.

Ambulance Victoria was flat out, with 75 heat-related calls between 9am and 5pm.

The Metropolitan Fire Brigade was also under siege. Emergency calls jumped dramatically in the 24 hours to midnight on Wednesday, with 266 calls on the first day of the heatwave.

MFB and Country Fire Authority firefighters received a total of 986 calls, including multiple power pole and transformer fires as a result of the heat.

Across the border, Adelaide sweated through its hottest night on record on Wednesday, with the temperature dropping only to 33.9 degrees.

Adelaide hit 40 degrees-plus yesterday for the third day in a row. It is forecast to remain in the 40s and 30s into next week.

The extreme heat also spread to Tasmania. A high of 41.5 degrees was recorded on Flinders Island — the state's highest temperature since 1976.

On day two of Victoria's heatwave, the top temperatures were 45.8 at Avalon airport, 45.3 at Geelong airport, 44.8 at Mount Gellibrand, 43.6 at Bangalore, 43.9 at Bairnsdale and 43.3 in the Latrobe Valley.

Mildura and Albury, normally the state's hot spots, reached 42.8 and 41.5 degrees respectively.

Another blistering hot 43 degrees is predicted for today.

Melbourne last suffered through a severe heatwave in 1959, with three consecutive days of temperatures in the 40s.

Chope - Easy Come Easy Go

2009-01-26T18:48:00.000-08:00

Finally, some new material after a long while. With the studio built, Wes, Ron and myself have gotten down to work to test the capabilities of the studio and our gear.

Here's a sneak preview to some of the new music we're working on. Not anywhere near ready yet, but I figured it'll be worth getting some feedback on our new tunes. So, this is by no way at all an official release :) But it sure is a product of 2 weeks of intensive band camp - more so to get our workflow correct and that the gear work, so please do pardon the quality of the track - it really is just a demo!

This is Easy Come Easy Go, and we're now called 'Chope'. Yup, we're done and dusted with English names that aren't quite enough to say what we would like to say, and 'Chope', harking back to our days as kids does the right job. For those who don't recall - remember playing Catching or Police and Thief and going 'Chope' when you seriously need a time out to tie those laces or catch a drink? That's what we're about. Stepping aside, taking a breather, living life outside that narrow line.

Download it here (file's valid for downloading for 7 days)

Thank you!

The curious PhD

2009-01-24T05:17:00.000-08:00

So, I've decided to pursue for my love and passion for 'rediscovering' China by way of a PhD. So that's another 3 years of study, although now I realise at this level, it's not study. It's an adventure where one separates oneself from the rest of the 'real-er' world and immerses in a reality much like seeking out a holy grail! This means having to resign from my beloved job at Republic Polytechnic. My first job, 6 years I had with them. And it's coming to an end. But well, a bright new spark awaits.

And here's my curious approach to deciding the area of research area. By way of really happening possible titles!

Here's a selection of what I've been mulling on - all related to overseas-born Chinese and their relationship with the mainland.

* The New Mandarins
* Borrowing the East Wind
* The Great Firewall

Any thoughts? I know they're really too broad for starters, but hey. A good title is a great part of the battle won!

Chinatown and a great new year everyone!

2009-01-21T15:55:00.000-08:00

Spent a lovely evening conquering Chinatown and the hordes of people in a massive revel preparing for the new year!

front yards, back yards, and lost kampungs

2009-01-16T18:09:00.000-08:00

overheard on a doco which made me think how life has changed rather quickly.

from kampungs and open fields
to void decks. what a name! void decks.

becoming such a closed society where we live.
front yards with high fences
spending our lazy afternoons in the backyard where no one can see
is it such a faraway place to sit out front and watch the world go by, whilst saying hi? has it become so hard to be friendly without an agenda? we'll see.

Singapore's making moves to destroy our last remaining village at Jalan Buangkok. Seriously, do we need more (read another) modern high rise steel citied skyscapes? And must we really do WITHOUT our last village/kampung? Perhaps I don't have the lateral foresight of our urban planners. But that's their job as administrators. As a citizen, I am saddened. Must the only way to experience our life of old be through printed material and glossy brochures that really does little to save our trees?

"SINGAPORE — It is Singapore’s secret Eden, a miniature village called Kampong Buangkok that is hidden in trees among the massed apartment blocks, where a fresh breeze rustles the coconut palms and tropical birds whoop and whistle.

Charles Pertwee for The International Herald Tribune
The New York Times
Kampong Buangkok will be demolished and redeveloped.

With just 28 houses in an area the size of three football fields, it is Singapore’s last rural hamlet, a forgotten straggler in the rush to modernize this high-rise, high-tech city-state. But apparently not for much longer. Kampong Buangkok is designated by the government for demolition and redevelopment, possibly in the near future. When it is gone, one of the world’s most extreme national makeovers will be complete.

Kampong is a local word for village and also defines a traditional rural way of life that Singapore has left behind.

“The big overhaul began in the early 1960s,” said Rodolph de Koninck, a professor of geography at the University of Montreal and one of the authors of “Singapore: An Atlas of Perpetual Territorial Transformation,” which graphically charts a half-century of change.

As the decades passed, a clamorous tropical settlement reinvented itself as a spic-and-span outpost of the developed world."

For full article, go here.

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otherwise...

good thing I'm back now that it's summer in full swing in Melbourne. It as 39 when I left, and Singapore's been rather kindly cooling!

The Home Studio

2009-01-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

Pride and joy. And a life long dream come true. The Home Studio accomplished.

Ronald Lee on Guitar and backup Vocals

Bobby T on drums

Wesley Choo on Bass and lead Vocals

Erin Holmes on Vocals

and so it is.

2009-01-11T00:19:00.000-08:00

love is brightest in the dark.

just finishing watching an interesting doco/drama on climate change. 'Set in the Year 2075. Climate predictions made at the beginning of the 21st century have turned out to be dramatically true and global warming of the Earth's atmosphere has now serious consequences on the every day lives of our grandchildren.'

the film's from France and called Changing Climate, Changing Times. Recommended watch! Summer, has really been weird here in Melbourne this year. It's most definitely a month late to date.

In other climate related news. Here's a good read on the winners and losers of our changing climate. Most of us are suffering under what the industrialized nations are imposing on us.

Ice Cream for Summer (where to go)

2009-01-05T16:45:00.000-08:00

from the Age. Where to go for ice cream in Melbourne come Summer!

Cold comfort
Justine Costigan
January 6, 2009

Justine Costigan savours a range of flavours that take some licking.

EATING ice-cream is a lovely thing to do all year round, but when the temperature reaches 25 degrees or beyond, it becomes that much harder to walk past a gelateria or icecreamery without succumbing.

Now that it’s prime ice-cream time, Epicure has road-tested some of Melbourne’s best to help you fi nd that perfect flavour combination...

Full article here.

and overheard - - -
the last thing I need is you, and all your black and white views.

happy new year!

2009-01-01T04:08:00.000-08:00

happy new year everyone!

all good things.

summer's gone a little nuts over here. It's 11 degrees tonight!

last year was a super 42 degrees same day New Year's. I remember well coz I was out camping out in the bush with Windsor!

one day.

2008-12-30T03:17:00.000-08:00

randoming musings.

one day is too far away
two becomes a painful state
and three is way too late.

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AND. next stop for the wandering planet?

Ballarat. Looking forward to getting some gold mine action.

random musings.

"Ballarat (formerly spelt "Ballaarat") is a city in Victoria, Australia, and one of the country's largest inland cities. It is well-known for its history and heritage.

It is approximately 105 kilometres (65 mi) north-west of Melbourne, with an urban population of 88,437 people. The city lies at 441 metres (1,447 ft) AHD and consists of an area of approximately 740 square kilometres (286 sq mi), with the city occupying a built up area of approximately 75 square kilometres (29 sq mi).

Gold was discovered near Ballarat in 1851, and the influx of over 10,000 miners in less than a year transformed it from a pastoral town into Victoria's largest settlement. The Victorian gold rush occurred throughout the 1850s and 1860s whilst gold could be readily extracted from the surface. The city's growth slowed after the 1880s and Melbourne quickly overshadowed it in importance. However, Ballarat has endured as a major inland regional centre and tourist destination, having retained much of its Victorian era heritage, a unique culture, and is highly regarded for its grand heritage listed public and private buildings, monuments, statues and expansive gardens."

Source - photo and writeup from Wikipedia.

Wandering Cheers

2008-12-26T22:51:00.000-08:00

A new year awaits.

troubled heart,
no need to look so far away
your peace is right there
no need to give it a name,
a shape,
a form,
nor cry out loud for a dream
it is right here, right now, and going nowhere.

A life of utter garbage

2008-12-25T19:10:00.000-08:00

Worth checking out - one man's attempts at throwing 'nothing' away for a whole year!

A life of utter garbage
Thu, Dec 25, 2008
from Asia1 website

LOS ANGELES - DAVE Chameides has spent almost an entire year living a life full of utter garbage and hoping he can inspire other Americans to do the same.

The Los Angeles-based cameraman has lived in his comfortable Hollywood home without throwing away a single piece of trash, from wine bottles to chewing gum and pizza boxes.

Instead the 39-year-old Chameides - nicknamed 'Sustainable Dave' - recycles his garbage or else stores it in his basement. He says he wants to show that it is possible to dramatically reduce his family's consumption habits.

And he can show astounding results. Rather than the 1,600 pounds of trash the average American family produces each year, Chameides, his wife and two daughters have amassed only 32 pounds over the last 12 months...

Click here for the rest of article.

or go here for his blog.

Something to work towards for the new year!

Merry Xmas everyone

2008-12-23T16:08:00.000-08:00

to one and all, a great time ahead. time to forget the worrying and leave it all to someOne else. :)

this Xmas season's got 3 bbqs lined up. time to load up on the wandering to keep reasonably healthy and looking like a former track athlete.

and now for some random photos whilst this world keeps on spinning.

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found in a car at a shopping mall's parking lot in box hill - a jack russell.

not sure if the photo's clear enough, but the fella was pretty well stocked in there. food, drink, plenty of cushion and lots of air.

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found in Singapore's Maxwell Market, Tanjong Pagar.

Houseboat Action

2008-12-23T00:58:00.000-08:00

Source - http://www.murrayriver.com.au/

Just spent 4 days drifting up and down the Murray River, a main artery of Australia's internal waterways. Lovely great fun. The boat we had had 4 rooms, a sweet upper deck with deck chairs, a bbq pit and a living room with plasma tv. well, and fully functioning kitchen too. have to do it again. it was very very sweet sailing down a river playing music with my band-mates. 2 guitars and a djembe and the lovely surrounding sounds of nature. couldn't ask for a better way to embrace coming X'mas.

Houseboats rock. Check out the facilities on this one!

Having Parents around

2008-12-15T05:41:00.000-08:00

being away in Australia means I don't get to see my folks much. We do the occasional skype call which is great, and free. IDD calls used to be so expensive I could hardly afford to in my undergraduate days. I remember chalking up $100s of phone bills calling an ex in Sydney. These days a $10 (students pay $8 if they purchase them on campus) phone card gives me 200odd minutes of talk time. folks were just over for a coupla' days and for graduation, it was the first time they ever saw me wear that silly gown thing. I skipped mine for the Bachelor's (2002) in a care-less show of silly defiance. Sometimes I blame it on the Singaporean Chinese kid in me saying,"Nevermind not worth going".- have we all not been guilty of this?.

wanted to share, when a dear friend asked what it was the best thing having parents around.

XXXuffles says: (12:39:31 AM)
what do you like best about having parents around
bob | and so it is. says: (12:39:50 AM)
i can be a small boy again
bob | and so it is. says: (12:40:00 AM)
takes away the weight of adulthood, ya know?

i didn't think much of it till she asked, and the answer came out as naturally as it could be without a doubt, a exactly pure unadulterated thought with no agenda, unlike what most of us may think of nowadays, in some ways. i really think i meant what i said.

'although sometimes i know we try to behave all the more adult when they come around these days, but i think we all fail, some more than most, but definitely rarely so.

Waiting in Vain.

2008-12-11T22:48:00.001-08:00

Cover of Bob Marley's (yes, my glorious namesake) Waiting in Vain.

Location - Home. Wesley on Guitar and Vocals, Ronald on Guitar and Vocals, Bob on Djembe and keeping time, and some backup Vocals.

TOoooooo Cute

2008-12-09T06:13:00.001-08:00

Just had to share.

Photo from the Age website.