Bah!

You've always longed for something, but when you've got that something, you seriously wonder if you really need it. Worse, you wonder if you're really happy with that something in your life.

Sucks right?

That's why I pity you.

Hahahahahaha!...

I finally have the power to manipulate digital photos, but what the hell?! I am having trouble posting my photos up. It's so irritating...

Anyways, I went to Sentosa yesterday and it freaking RAINED BIG CATS AND HUGE DOGS!

When you want the sun, rain, in every way possible, is not good.

But because we're supposed to make the best of situations, we continued playing in the heavy rain. Kinda cool, but it dampened my mood totally.

Last Saturday, I was walking from Bugis to Suntec. I was snapping shots of the DHL Balloon, buildings, etc.. There was barely any passers-by.

Suddenly, some idiot called me while I was very absorbed with getting a nice shot.

Idiot said, "Why are you touring Singapore and taking photos of everything??"

I thought to myself, "What the HELL??!!"

Okay, Idiot's not idiotic. Cos Idiot is actually Kalis.

Then on Friday, I decided at the very last minute to catch a movie. A FREE movie at that.

So I left Eng Wah Suntec and POOF! Out came this sale!

Caserini had a sale, with atrocious discounts. So I was eyeing all the nice-coloured shirts and felt very inspired.

And to my dismay, it had been the final day of the sale. So I decided to pounce on the opportunity and go 4 shirts @ S$29.90 each.

The bargain hunter hunts down the best deals in town.

After that, I went to Art Friend at Bras Basah Complex. I got light green bling-bling that SO matches the green stripy shirts that I got.

Hahahaha!..

Then I kinda spent some time at the NLB, reading about silk-screening and lithography, at the same time enjoying the cool air.

After that, I met Hairianto and his Jewish-Muslim (exotic right?) friend briefly.

We were shopping at Bugis Street.

Strangely, Bugis Street does not appeal to the bargain hunter despite the bargains because the bargain hunter despises fakes and does not scrimp on quality.

I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw Ed Hardy caps selling at Bugis Street. To me, these fakes should be on sale at S$10.90. But NO! Those people were shamelessly selling FAKE ED HARDY CAPS at S$55.90!!! The most F-ed up thing was, THERE WASN'T ANY BLING-BLING ON THE CAP!

F*** these vendors!

In the same shop, I had to tolerate the munjen salesgirl's stupidity:

I saw a belt with a nice buckle. I asked if the buckle can be taken out and substituted with another. But apparently, the buckle seemed to be fixed. The f***ingly stupid munjen told me, "Orh, you just remove the screw lor,"

And spoil the freaking belt?! Screw her lah! After which I'll definitely "remove the screw lor,"

Sheesh.

Then we were at 'Give me back my SUNDAY', some local T-shirt brand.

Because the auntie saw the nice shoes that Hairianto was wearing, Hairianto got into an excited frenzy. I was also quite excited because I hand-painted those self-designed shoes myself.

Then the auntie told me, "You design stuff? How bout I get your number? Then you can consider selling us your designs if you have any."

Apparently they're expanding into a certain shopping mall and wants a whole variety of designs that they can print on T-shirts. But the keyword is 'SELL' my design. SELL=MONEY.

Nice opportunity eh?

And it's all BECAUSE OF HAIRIANTO who chatted up with the nice auntie that this whole thing came along.

(I cannot believe I just said that.)

The PC Show at Suntec started yesterday.

I went to the PC Show at Suntec yesterday aternoon.

Damn, it was crowded. I have no idea where all the people came from. Thursday afternoon and crowded Suntec City don't fit well together.

Anyways, I was there hoping to find a digicam, which I didn't because it was just too crowded. Totally killed my interest. Furthermore, I had all my barang-barang. Very inconvenient.

What the heck! So I left and met Hairianto for his hair-cut at Far East Plaza.

Then we were walking towards Heeren...

And POOF! Out came this Olympus Roadshow. I took a brief look and left.

After leaving, there was this nagging feeling inside. So I decided to go back.

And guess what?!

Kaa-Chiing!! with a swipe of a card and I got myself a digicam.

I mean, I GOT A DIGICAM!!!!!!

I was practically gleaming with joy.

**************

When I was at Far East, I got a new buckle! Frankly, I'm a buckle-whore. Wahaha!...

My uber cool cassette tape buckle broke! Can you believe it?? The person said it was beyond repair.

What the hell.

So I got a new one instead. This time, it's not a cassette tape.

It's a cassette tape PLAYER.

Yup, how cool is that, right?

I wore it to school today and it caught the attention of quite a few. There was a point in time that they were talking about it, complimenting it, complimenting ME, praising it, praising ME...

You know, I get that a lot, so it was still pretty acceptable for me.

*smirk*

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*smug look*

Okay, that was enough.

But do you know what's the best thing that happened to me today?

My self-portrait, which I completed till late last night, was due today.

I was feeling all strong and mighty because I was very satisfied with the turn-out of my portrait. Orange hair! I was so excited about that! And it looks great!

So during tutorial, the lecturers decided to be really cruel in the grading. You know what they did?

They started giving out A grades first. So he sifted a few out to the front, told them to hold up their portraits and said, "These are the A grades, yadda yadda.." They continued doing that for the B's, and the C's, and can-you-believe-it?!, even the D's!

So obviously for the A-graders it was very gratifying. But when it came to the C's and D's, OH MY GOODNESS?! Have they lost their minds? It wasn't just puncturing the egos. They were practically slaughtering them!

The faces of those who got D, I can never forget. It's very freaky.

That's because I earned myself the BIGGEST, FATTEST and JUICIEST 'A' in class. I suppose my loud orange Mohawk very subtly swept the lecturers off their feet.

When they picked me out for the A grades, there were only 5 A-graders out of 40 FYI, my heart just went fluttering. I'm freaking proud of myself.

On Monday, I submitted my drawings (2 working days late) for grading.

You know the best thing about one-on-one consultation with a lecturer, an experienced one in this case, is that you get tips on how to score well.

For the drawings I submitted, they were 'too flat, lack of tonal variation, presentation very bad, show no effort'.

The lecturer said I should try drawing perishable goods. Like fruits and hardy vegetables.

So I bought a couple of bittergourds and drew them for the following assignment which I submitted today.

Not much effort in particular, especially when I was watching American Idol while drawing.

BUT! the lecturer said that there is definitely improvement from the previous assignment.

Phew! After talking to him personally, I had to show some improvement.

I can so read him. He hates it when students say that they know, but still commit the same mistakes.

He had said that I could definitely draw, just that I needed to fine tune certain aspects. That made my day, most definitely. DUH!

This air pump thing is getting outta hand. Even my classmates have air pumps! I think I'll burst some time soon. But meanwhile, I will enjoy the moment.

It is my moment.

(Hahahaha!....)

Then I discovered that I'm technically the eldest in class.

I believe that is a good thing because I like to feel like I'm king.

(Hahahaha!....)

So today in drawing class, I unleashed a tinge of my sarcasm and received over-reactions.

The lecturer was showing us examples of good work and bad work. Then there was this particular drawing that looked kinda blurry, like there was fog or something.

So I said (quite loudly), "I think the person forgot to wear specs ar, cos the drawing is blur one,"

And I got some intense glares. This guy beside jabbed me in the side and told me to keep quiet.

Of course, I just went laughing.

On second count, the drawing module leader, a petite female lecturer, came into the drawing studio. I am quite casual with her because I kinda know her. But the rest didn't.

So when she stood among us, I said (quite loudly), "Whoa, she blend in siah!"

Obviously, she didn't hear what I said. But the rest did. They were like all glares and disbelief.

The faces did all the talking. They said, "How could you be so disrespectful? You crazy or what?!"

And I say (very loudly in my heart), "Gosh, you all are even more no-life than me siah! And wait till I fully unleash my mean streak. Y'all are in for some fun!~"

I am a mean and sarcastic person. BUT FOR A GOOD CAUSE.

Yes, being mean and sarcastic can still do good, FY-freaking-I.

I like to defend the weak and helpless. The get preyed on by the Meanies(not for good cause) and Bullies.

Therefore, I am there to shoo away these brats. The best way to counter Meanies and Bullies is to do it their way.

It's gonna sound very ambitious and very exaggerated, but I am standing up for the weak and eliminating the baddies.

Think Robin Hood.

(Hahahaha!....)

In my class, there's a trio-clique of girls. Two of them are very loud. Kinda like the bitch in my previous class, only 50% more loud-hailing and bitchiness.

One's an infamous foul-mouth. The other's the 'radio'.

No one really likes their vapid babbling, but no one rebuts them either. Hence, they think they can throw their weight around.

But hey! Here comes me!

I'll do everyone a great big favour!

Look, I am not particularly good at using colours on my drawings. Plus, my usual doodles are very 2-D. The drawings that I am required to draw need to look 3-D.

On Tuesday, during Concept Development class, I drew a full tonal drawing of some pineapples. Meaning black and white only. Very comfy for me. I absolutely love black and white. Very pure, very real, very cool.

But we had to transform that black and white drawing to a full colour one.

I went, "That's it, I'm screwed,"

But something came over me that day. I've never tried using colour until that lesson. My coloured pencils were brand new when I used them.

Well, all I can say is, I am a natural artist.

When the lecturer saw my black/white drawing, he was damned impressed. When I started on my coloured version, he was even more impressed.

Midway into the class, the lecturer left the classroom to chat with another lecturer.

Suddenly, I found both of them hovering over me from the corridor. (I was sitting by the window, which was plain clear glass panels. Hence, they could see what I was doing.)

I looked up and the other lecturer gave me that "You're doing great!" look.

So I waved back and felt myself floating into air. Remember the air pumps??

So here's my work, "Pineapples at 99 cents":

It's a Saturday and I'm bored at home.

I've spent 4 straight hours surfing the Net.

And I am getting more bored as time pass.

I tried doing an online purchase of a book using my new debit card, but there seems to be some glitches.

Whatever.

So I was reading up on Mohawks:

A Mohawk screams for attention. A Mohawk screams "F**K YOU". Because it stands up straight, it kinda replicates The Finger...

Whoa! I LIKE...

But my Mohawk don't exactly scream, you know. Rather, I think my Mohawk only manages a weak cough up of 'F**K YOU'.

Yet, people give me stares when I'm out in public. Like what? They no life or what?

In school, a couple of people exclaimed, "Nice hair,"

But I'm way smarter than that. The underlying message is strong.

Yesterday, I went out shopping for things again.

First I went to IKEA. I got myself a nice lamp so that I could properly illuminate my drawing subjects. My drawing lecturer said that it'll be easier to pick up the highlights and contrast this way. He's damn right. Then, very obviously, I had to buy their hotdog! IKEA hotdogs are good! But I coulda bet my life that they shrunk their sausage.

Then I went to Art Friend at Takashimaya. I much prefer the one at Bras Basah Complex, but I kinda made friends with the auntie at the Taka branch, so I feel kinda obliged to go there. Furthermore, she's a nice lady and she renders help voluntarily. And it always makes things easier with familiar faces.

Next, I went to Suntec, hoping to catch a free movie. Well, I tried my best in hoping already. I have no idea why the company 'rewards' us with complimentary passes when all these complimentary passes come hardlocked with absurd terms and conditions. I'm quite fed-up with this. Hence, I burnt away all my complimentary passes. Yes, I really burned them. I cannot stand the sight of insincerity and these complimentary passes reflect nothing but insincerity hyped up to the limit.

This point in time, my Mohawk stands up at its tallest and straightest. You know what I mean...

After my brief appearance in Suntec, I walked to Art Friend at Bras Basah Complex because I needed to stock up on paint. I am smart because Daler-Rowney acrylics get 20% off only at Bras Basah's Art Friend.

But much to my dismay, the bling-bling is out of stock! It's been outta stock for some time now. I suppose they flew off the shelves after I bought them.

And yes! You can walk from Suntec to Bras Basah Complex. It's not quite as far as you think. Bugis is the perfect place to be if you ask me. It's very nice how everything is set up there. Very maze-y and full of cool things tucked into the nooks and crannies.

So from Bras Basah Complex, you cut through Seah Street.

While cutting through Seah Street, I noticed a cool signboard saying 'Actually'.

But you know how shophouses are intimidating right? So you see a cool sign and it directs you up the cramped and steep stairs to your right. You look up and you're unsure of what lies upstairs. So duh, you give it a pass.

But it's these places that you discover diamonds in the rough.

Then I read that 'Actually' is well, actually a boutique.

These boutiques in shophouses seldom stand out. I've walked through that street for so many times, but never noticed it being there.

Sometimes, you have to slow down and really look at the things around you.

Yay! I'm officially 18 already. I'm legal.

So on Thursday, I met up with my friends in the evening, after a long day in school.

That day didn't exactly start well.

I woke up early to rush a couple of assignments. Obviously, I didn't really complete them. So I g a teeny weeny bit frantic and flustered.

Moreover, I was supposed to submit a plethora of sketches for grading, which I failed to do miserably. I'm lagging quite far behind in drawing.

And the most irritating thing is, the drawing module holds 6 FREAKING CREDIT UNITS! I'm so screwed up...

When I left house for school, I was already feeling quite dejected.

Very strangely, I took quite a long time to feel good again. And whaddya know? I get some great news later in the day.

I was in Colour Theory class. The lecturer returned me my 'Colour Wheel' assignment.

I GOT A BIG FAT 'A'!!!

This classmate saw my colour wheel and went ga-ga over it. Believe me, he literally went ga-ga over my top-notch painting skills. Consequently, he worshipped my colour wheel.

He asked, "What if I destroyed this colour wheel?" (grins)

I replied, "Oh, then I just make another one lor," (straight-faced)

**************

People like to ask me, "You like Black EYE Peas ar?"

I'd reply, "No, I LOVE Black EYED Peas!"

It's Black Eyed Peas for goodness' sake. I tolerate people coming up to me and say, "Hey, I didn't know black eye peas got 'd' in the 'eye' one!"

That's because your Enggrish cannot make it...

**************

On Wednesday, I went for a haircut!

You're thinking, "Haircut only what..."

But this time, I got a taller Mohawk.

I NEVER admit to sporting a Mohawk. I just want to have a cool hairstyle.

So I was describing what I wanted to my haircutter.

And she went, "So you want Mohawk lah!"

(exasperated and cocks an eyebrow)

"Yes."

Hence, I now sport a Mohawk, whether I like to admit it or not...

The next day, which was my birthday, I strode out in style.

My drawing lecturer was like, "Aiyo, why you sport this type of hairstyle? So wild, don't suit you,"

I just laughed it off, though a myriad of bitchy thoughts came into mind.

There was this once I saw a picture of a girl with a big orange Mohawk. I immediately fell in love with the look. I'm kinda working towards that, whether YOU like it or not.

Then on one episode of Superband, Belinda Lee got an Afro-Mohawk. Super cool.

**************

Talking about Superband, I think it's a really good show.

Good in a fashion kinda way.

The stylists are superb!

Every episode, you're dazzled by bling-bling on the hosts.

They are ALWAYS SHAMELESSLY AND HEAVILY DRAPED IN ED HARDY!

My goodness! It is not fair!

But it definitely ignites and excites my senses.

Talk about good clothes and impeccable style, Channel U's Superband is top-notch!

It's very inspiring for me.

VERY inspiring.

On Satuday morning, I went to Art Friend and got my easel and gigantic clipboard.

It's like finally, I have my own home drawing studio!

I reckon that I'm a smarty-ass because on Saturday, I was working the midnight shift. Which means I get reimbursement for my cab fare. Which means my bulky barang-barang gets free transportation home!

I'm best at taking advantage of situations.

Yesterday, I helped Hairianto with stencilling.

Hence, he now has another 'Made in BOSNIA' tee dished out in gold letterings on a black background.

I also borrowed his digicam so that I could take narcissistic photos of myself.

Believe it or not, it's all part of my school assignment.

Wahaha!.. I'm so loving what I'm doing.

This huge assignment is titled, "Self Portrait"

SELF PORTRAIT!!!

*hyperventilates*

The best thing is, it is completely freestyle! Meaning I can go all crazy and wacky.

Then there's dumb and boring people out there who asks stupid questions like, 'Need to draw specs?', 'Need to draw hair?', 'Can use what?' and many other senseless questions.

The poor lecturer answered, 'It's all up to you,' to all the questions.

These no-brainers just have to disgrace themselves like that in a mass lecture hall.

Truth is, I'm very prejudiced against people younger than me.

Fact is, most coursemates are younger than me.

It's very irritating.

On Thursday, I started to express my dislike for that freaking loudhailer-bitch.

And she was like, "Wah lau, you today a bit attitude lehx.."

Luckily for me, I start lessons in a new class today.

It's really not all that bad, you know...

Last night, I dreamt that I was offered a place in TP. And I accepted it. Then I felt a nagging urge to reject them because I kinda like it in NYP. In the end, I woke up.

Haha!... I know, short dream.

The point is, TP can take their time to figure out what that Finger of mine means. They can wallow in self-pity for the rest of their lives for not taking me in.

Because right now, I'm so loving NYP.

Never in my life have I looked forward to going school.

It's like a vehicle, fuelled by passion and driven by motivation.

This particular guy asked me, 'You not sian meh? Come to school everyday and face all these boring stuff?'

I went, 'No,' and grinned like nobody's business.

Back to the vehicle analogy..

I feel that I'm alone, though. I think I'm very alone in the 'fuelled by passion and driven by motivation' thingy.

I believe that my vehicle fits one only. And that one seat has been taken by me. I am comfortable alone. After all, why do I wanna hang out with kids anyways?

Somehow, I feel very special. It's my time, you know...

Talking about me, it brings me to the calendar.

On Thursday, I turn 18.

I mean, I TURN 18!!!

So very exciting! I'm finally there, you know. Not barely there or nearly there, but THERE THERE!

I get to meet up with my dear friends too. I have my favourite drawing class on that day too. I'll be at my favourite diner too. I'll be looking good (as always) too.

I don't know why, but all things good seem to be happening to me. You could say that life is unfair. I totally agree too... because I'm on the better end of the unfairness scale.

This morning, I had drawing class again!

I am by far the most enthusiastic artist around.

I go to drawing class fully prepared. Most would say I'm kiasu, but frankly, I'm just well prepared and well stocked with drawing paper.

When the wise lecturer told us to draw more stuff, there were people who said they didn't have paper.

And the reason they didn't have paper is because they only started with one miserable piece.

And you know where that miserable piece came from?

Someone else.

The kids in this class are quite atrocious.

Like being labelled 'kids' is not bad enough, they have to be 'atrocious' kids.

That's how bad it is.

I didn't take long to tell.

You know how I despise human leeches, right?

It's like, "What are these kids becoming nowadays?"

Marcus is a classmate. We used to be in the same class in lower secondary.

Marcus is different in most ways. But generally, he's nice and harbours zero ill intentions.

The f*cking bastards in class, hence, take him for granted and leech off him.

So in all, they are atrocious f*cking bastard kids-leeches.

Enough of all these trashy people.

We move on the the people with more spunk and sophistication at the same time.

That's gotta be ME, thank you very much...

Like getting a late enrolment and late start in semester is not bad enough, I'm being bounced around from class to class by the school!

It's kinda sucky how the whole system operates.

So right now, the online records show that I'm in Tutorial Group 8, while I've been told a week ago that I'll join Group 10.

A while ago, the wise drawing lecturer called me to ask about my name appearing in more than one class list. And what? I was supposed to know what was going on?!

Then again, it's not really my problem.

Just think. How many students have the privilege of class hopping? How many students have the privilege to mix with people of the different tutorial groups?

Therefore, it is my privilege.

Furthermore, I can feign confusion and stall more time for me to finish up my plethora of sketches.

This is called working to the situation's advantage.

Sane people who graduate from 'O' Level will never in a million lightyears think of enrolling in an ITE.

I am not sane.

I have enrolled myself in an ITE prior to this.

It had been a great experience.

Mdm Rashida, Section Head of Digital Media Design at ITE Bedok, had got her boss, Ms Yeo Sock Tin, Director of School of InfoComm at ITE MacPherson, to appeal my case to NYP.

NYP took me in.

My gung-ho actions made me cross path with the right people.

When I spoke to Mdm Rashida, she had said that it was TP's loss that they rejected me. Furthermore, I hadn't met the correct person.

But that Ms Yeo, boy, she had connections! She knew the 'industry people' and there I was in NYP.

Mdm Rashida told me that she'd consider me as on of her students and that after my graduation, Ms Yeo would welcome me if I'd like to join their teaching force.

*smug*

*more smug*

*even more smug*

Talk about job prospects!

*smug*

*more smug*

Talk about meeting the right people!

*smug*

As my smugness subsides, I'd like to mention that being in NYP, I feel like I am the Salvation.

Salvation for the Weak and Frail.

I don't know if you've noticed, but there are some really weak and dependent people around you.

They cannot live alone. They cannot stand tall. They speak of nothing. They are the Weak and Frail.

I just happened to notice a couple of these people, and no one seems to be lending a hand. It kinda bugs my conscience (yes, I do have a conscience, FYI,). So I was just thinking, why not help?

It feels good to be nice, unlike some irritating bitch in my class.

Appearance wise, she is not bad. That is, until she starts talking.

When I first noticed her in class (trust me, it's not difficult to notice her unless you're deaf), I was like, "Wow! This girl packs some punch!"

First impressions last. Hers didn't.

A couple of days with this bitch in class, she turns from 'This girl packs some punch' to 'This girl deserves some punch'.

I am not kidding.

She is so loud! Too loud for her own good.

I've never met a genuinely dumb bitch.

Now I have.

You know what I really feel like doing?

I really feel like giving myself a few tight slaps.

Do you know it's very irritating to keep procrastinating assignments?

Then all you can do is sit and watch your backlog of assignments snowball into a humongous pile of work...

That's when the short-cuts come in.

On Friday, during drawing class, the lecturer said that people who use short-cuts are people who utilise their brains.

Therefore, contrary to popular belief, I'm actually quite an avid user of my brain.

I take the lecturer's words to heart because he is a wise old man.

I take experienced people very seriously.

When my new classmates found out that my 'O' Level aggregate point is only a meagre single digit, they started seeing me differently.

All they could say was, "Smart lah, you! Wah lau, so smart still here.."

That's what I call discrimination.

It hurts me to discover that majority of the people there are very stereotypical.

It hurts me even more that majority of the people there are boring.

In the previous class in NYP, all the people talked about was DOTA, DOTA and DOTA only.

And you know what kills me?

Majority of the people there have the fucked up attitude towards learning.

I have wondered very hard why they're even there.

And freshies will always be freshies.

They are like kan chiong spiders.

Cannot hand up late work, cannot be late for class, cannot miss lecture, must attain 100% attendance, blah, blah..

But then when I see the work that they hand up, it's like shit.

As though they did their work with their eyes closed and brain shut down.

Now that I'm doing so much drawing assignments, I've come to really believe in the principle, "Either you hand in work with effort or you don'thand in at all."

Seriously, drawing is a feeling thing. And drawing what you see is very challenging.

I am not kidding.

Taking design is not easy. It is still hard work.

In fact, I think it's more taxing because you end up using your brain more.

I'm beginning to feel myself becoming an artist.

Right now, I'm like totally sucky at drawing from observation.

And the assignments just keep coming.

The psycho lecturers are just out to wipe us out.

Scheming bitches, they are.

I find myself enjoying drawing class very much.

Even though I kinda suck at it, I still love attending the three hours of it.

The most comforting thing to know is that despite the many people who are much better at drawing than I am, there are plenty more that are much worse at it than I am.

Sometimes, I think I'm Superman.

I've been working for such long hours that I don't have time to do my long overdue assignments.

Plus it's not like I've completed all my administrative procedures.

For so much trouble, I question if it's all worth it or not.

But I guess it should be worth all the trouble because thinking of what I can do after I acquire the skills just gives me the chills.

Good chills.

Anything that gives good chills is definitely worth everything.

Yes! I'm back!

It's been quite hectic the past week or so.

Even before I can say 'Ahh', I was already thrown into class at NYP. Then there's the horrible enrolment procedures.

And you know the worst thing? I have also a backlog of assignments hurled at me.

But at least they were all drawing assignments.

For once, I feel at ease with what I am doing. It is definitely me.

I've never done so much drawing in my life. It still takes some getting used to. But overall, I'm enjoying myself.

Drawing is a very feeling-dependent thing to me.

I keep telling myself that I have 10 different sketches to submit and 100% of the time, I end up with nothing but frustration.

You see, once I start seeing things as 'assignments' and 'obligations', I automatically harbour intense hatred for it.

I have to feel good before I can draw. And I assure you, once I get started on the drawing, nothing matters more. Not even food.

This is my second week in school, although it's officially third week into semester one. I was a week late, thank you very much.

The beginning of this week, I was posted into a permanent class. The people were a much better bunch as compared the the previous class I was attached to. Thank god it was only temporary with that class. I'm very glad that I got assigned to a better bunch of people.

As a design student (I can finally finally call myself a design student!!!), I realised that I should take a hell of a lot pride in my presentation.

Presentation of myself. How I dress myself up.

So it's very inspiring when I flip through fashion catalogues. I feel as though a great deal of inhibitions have been thrown out of the way. I feel free. I feel open. I feel adventurous.

But you know the one thing I cannot stand? Pairing a denim jacket with denim jeans. ALL IN THE SAME FREAKING SHADE! It hits a big fat ZERO in the style meter without much thought. Plus it gives the very 'wannabe' look. I'm all out against it.

Then there's the hair issue. A certain bombastic and spastic male lecturer spent 30 minutes of a 2-hour tutorial addressing the group on how to dress and how not to dress. Specifically, he said, "Guys, if you wanna keep long hair, NYP is not the place for you. If you wanna get outstanding colours for your hair, NYP is not the place for you."

Instantly, I felt a tingle in that finger of mine as hot blood rushed through my veins and the nervous impulses grew strong.

Then again, whatever.

Throughout his 'pep-talk' speech, I was smirking non-stop. I was incredulous at how ridiculous he was.

I remember on my first day, I met a very interesting lecturer already. The best thing was, we did a small exercise on concept development and he acknowledged my creativity in expressing ideas. It's like, you know, he brought an air pump along, stuck the nozzle in my head and began pumping furiously? I didn't know it felt so good...

The first thing I noticed about Mr Juinn, sadly, was his poorly-masked receding hairline. Then I noticed his futuristic orange specs. (I'm not in his class now, but I saw him the other day and he was wearing this futuristic transparent specs.) He is definitely a Design lecturer. Looks the part.

That's why, I said, "Presentation is the KEY."

Well, it's not just me that's saying that. I remember Mr Juinn implying that too. He's kinda weird, that's why he's fun. I can totally relate to that. Plus, he brought that 'air pump' to my first class in NYP! How could I not mention him?!?!

And he is by far the most interesting person I have met, apart from when I look into the mirror, that is.

There's the other lecturers too. But they're boring. You know, no bitchy comments, no quirky dress sense, no cheesy taglines, no nothing. Just plain boring.

I so look forward to meeting bitchy lecturers with cutting edge lingo that can drive me crazy. Frankly, I just need someone to open up my Channel of Sarcasm. Its about time to let it flow!

From ITE to Poly

Yesterday morning was my selection test.

By yesterday evening, I received a call from the section head at ITE Bedok.

She had said, "How about I refer you to NYP's Digital Media Design? They're quite established. I think you should go to a Poly. I know they've started school term, but it's still worth a try. I also want to ask your permission to submit your drawings to NYP."

I went, "Okay, it's worth trying. You can show them my drawings."

What a twist of fate right?

Then this afternoon, the greatest thing of all happened.

The course coordinator from NYP called me while I was shopping in Far East Plaza.

After a brief chat over the phone, I asked the million-dollar question:

ARE YOU OFFERING ME A SPOT IN NYP?

I got a priceless answer:

YES.

I scrapped my plans for the next 3 hours as I went down to NYP 'for a chat with them'.

I spoke endlessly with the Deputy Director. He gave me a short tour and went on and on about his lumbar injury.

Then he gave me a rude shock when he said, "I'm gonna give you a short sketch test."

My heart skipped a beat and I almost gagged.

We were on the way back to his office then. I so dreaded that moment.

But I just smiled and went with it lah.

In his office, he gave me a piece of paper and a pencil, grabbed a scotch tape dispenser, a jar and a small box, arranged them briefly and said, "Okay, draw."

What the freaking hell?!?!

Then he said, "I saw your drawings in the test you did at ITE. I just want to confirm."

Crazy ass. I was half freaked out.

It had been a horrendous sketch.

But I think he more or less was at my feet already, so he just said okay and handed me over to the course coordinator to settle the admin procedures.

And so, I start class immedately since they're already into theire second week of semester.

Tomorrow is my first day.

I am very excited. I am very nervous.

Most of all, I am Kang Yong. I create miracles.

Believe it.

They accepted me!

This wonderful morning, I went down to ITE Bedok once again.

This time, I was there for a selection test, essentially a drawing test.

I had to draw: whole and sliced tomato, whole and sliced cucumber, slice of bread and slice of cheese.

That was section one. I kinda aced it.

Section two, I had to draw my handphone, my own hand, or my watch.

I deliberated for so long, okay. I've said that I'm not the draw-things-as-they-are kinda person, so I was quite worried.

Finally, I decided to draw my hand. Because I was smart, I played up my strengths. I clenched my fist.

Hence, there was less details, less creases, and much easier for me.

Well, DUH! I aced it too.

The last section, I was given a curved line. Was asked to make the line as visually exciting as possible.

Without a doubt, I double, maybe even triple, aced it. It was my forte.

Then I flipped through my test paper and smiled. Very impressive. I didn't know I could draw that well.

Following my submission, I was called to be interviewed by the Section Head. Nice Malay woman.

She said I was overqualified. She said I was talented. She said, "Welcome aboard,"

Yesterday, ITE Bedok called me up.

Told me that my selection test is on Monday. Where I have to report at freaking 9 am with my drawing materials and all.

So cool right?

Regarding the Giordano thingy, there is zero hope for me.

I feel kinda stupid submitting that entry. Because I have wasted much of my bling-bling for nothing.

I didn't feel right about it, but I still submitted my entry. All foolishness on my part.

It was a sure guarantee that I wasn't going to win anything if I was feeling that bad about it.

Anyways, I took a look at the top 5 entries that were put on display yesterday.

All I have to say is, I'm still novice when it comes to design.

That's why it'll mean so much to me if ITE Bedok takes me in.

But frankly speaking, the selection test on Monday is essentially a drawing test.

I'm a little worried because I'm not exactly the draw-things-as-they-look kinda person.

I'm more like draw-as-you-think-it-looks-like kinda person.

However, it helps when you have someone telling you straight in your face, "Don't worry, I believe you can draw. You can do it one,"

And it doesn't really help when you have someone telling you straight in your face, "You sure or not? You really wanna go ITE?", "Don't waste your time lah," or "Why got short route dun wan, wanna take longer route?"

Despite all the negativity, it only takes a glimmer of positivity to make me feel all good again.

Kalis messaged me: "I think you should be featured in some magazine for your actions."

I replied: "Magazine like so chin chai, Straits Times lah."

My number is back in service!

But with good news comes the bad.

I lost all my contacts.

Therefore, to my loyal blog readers (blogder is still unacceptable lingo to me), in other words, my fans, I mean, friends, y'all might wanna text me a message with your name or something.

I am terrible at memorising contact numbers.

Regarding my lost L6, I didn't tell much people though I lost it during work. And yet I published it here.

It's kinda stupid how I lost it, so I'm pretty ashamed to tell the story. And I don't like it when my mother calls up someone and tells the whole story.

Today, my manager told me that our big boss has prepared something for me because of good publicity. And I thought they were devoid of gratitude. =D

You know, back when I was still in SP Biotech, I was my class' Class Rep. It's kinda funny how it started. I think I got the kinda of face for that kinda job because the class tutor zoomed in on me the very first time. I mean, how could I have rejected it?

Then now that I'm outta the scene, it's down to the classmates' choice, not lecturer's choice. And I heard the current class rep got sabotaged like hell. Well, I said classmates' choice already what...

If I get admitted into ITE Bedok, I don't know how I'll cope with the uniform. I'm very worried that I'll look bad because school uniforms have been deemed by moi as 'unflattering and ugly'. Which is true, okay!

One of my long-term goal is to look my best at all times.

So far, so good.

But if the uniform kicks in, I have no idea what kind of hell will break loose.

Then again, I find it almost impossible to picture myself being ugly and all. It's just so hard. Whenever I look into the mirror, I just go gleaming. 'Cos I am beautiful, no matter what they say. And no matter what I wear.

And all of a sudden, I'm reminded of the Giordano competition. I think the exhibitions on from tomorrow onwards. But I haven't heard anything from them. What's that means? Okay, I just got my phone number back in service also, but will they dump my entry just because I was uncontactable???

I exhausted my bling bling resources just for that. And it's freaking NON-RETURNABLE. Oh well, for the experience if I don't win anything.

I prefer gaining experience to gaining just knowledge.

Hairianto has plenty to say on that gaining knowledge thing. You can request him to give you a seminar or something. He charges reasonably.

Monday morning, I went down to NAFA and got rejected.

Got rejected despite being shameless.

Rejected by two ugly receptionists.

It's like triple slaps across my face, you know.

Still, I'm shameless.

Then further into the day, I opened the mail and found a letter from TP.

Saying, "We have given careful consideration to your application and regret to inform you that we are unable to offer you a place of study in the above course(s). Thank you for your interest in Temasek Polytechnic."

And I say, "F*** YOU LAH!"

So this morning, I went to ITE Bedok and applied for Digital Media Design.

The lady got a shock when she saw my results. She became speechless, literally.

Now I wait.

Missing

Okay, it's like one devastating news after another.

I lost my handphone yesterday. Yes, I lost my new Motorola L6.

I went to clear my bowels in the toilet. I left my L6 on the tissue dispenser. I cleaned and I happily left.

When I realised I didn't have my phone with me, DUH, too late. Some asswipe had already set off with his new found prize.

I called my own phone, and the asswipe still could pick it up and not make a noise. I stupidly talked nicely to him when I could've cursed him. Well, I wasn't thinking very well at the moment, you know. I was more like shocked.

Nevertheless, this lousy rat who pocketed my L6 will face dire consequences. Of course, not that I wish for him to die lah. I'm not so evil.

I JUST WISH FOR HIM TO SUFFER BAD LUCK THE REST OF HIS PATHETIC LIFE, OR WHATEVER'S LEFT OF IT!

I'm not evil, but I'm psychotic.

What goes around, comes around. Karma is the word, people.

I consider myself quite calm after such a heart wrenching loss. You know, all my candid shots with friends (but mostly alone), pictures of my artwork and all.

I think this is a very obvious sign that I should invest in a proper digicam.

But then meanwhile, I'm more concerned with getting a phone.

Which leads me to the Giordano Graphic Tee Design Competition.

I hope I win the Sony Ericsson phone. Because I submitted an entry anyhow!

I was thinking, just taking part gives me a chance. If I didn't, there was no chance at all. But then the results only come out on 27 April.

My design consists of a background with splattered paint in red, blue, green and yellow. In the centre, there is 3 hearts of different sizes, each shamelessly studded with bling bling (Duh, like you don't know me). Then there's this huge drip trail of red paint from the collar down. Right down the middle to merge with the hearts. I cut the hearts out from felt and studded lotsa bling on.

I intended wings behind too, but was too lazy. I had stayed up quite late the previous night to complete with finishing touches.

I hope I win myself a new phone.

It's a great thing to know that I am not alone. I have a couple of people I know who's, well, kinda stranded. You know, just hanging around, when we're 'supposed to' be studying.

Just something quirky to share with you: The other time, I needed to get the credit card from this lady customer. She flipped open her purse and asked me to help her take the card out because she just had her nails done. Yeah, nails done right before a movie. So cool, right?

Yesterday, I worked the midnight shift. It left me sleeping till 2 pm today. So shiok.

Yesterday, I was late for work because I was having lunch with Kalis and Hui Yi.

We were at Swiss Culture, at Suntec City Sky Garden.

Food portions like kena zapped by reduction laser. But the fondue was so much fun.

Because it was my first time having fondue. I was very excited. I gamely posed for Kalis' camera with my mouth full of chocolate. I was flashing my smile like a shameless bitch. Then I had one shot with chocolate on my lips. Then I looked like some freaky drag queen.

Before that, I went to Candy Empire at Millenia Walk and had a mini shopping spree. Candy Empire has recently become one of my favourite hang-outs. Especially after I discovered that it's only, literally, a stone's throw away from Carrefour. Eng Wah Cinemas above Carrefour. Therefore, Candy Empire is freaking near where I work.

Candy Empire sells like massive variety of sweets and chocolates. It's like heaven for sweet-tooths and hell for calorie-control freaks. They even have Wonka bars. I thought they only existed in the Willy Wonka movie.

Until Hairianto asked me to buy 20 Wonka bars for him. Actually, that was kinda the start of my constant patronage to Candy Empire.

And then I came to know that it was established by Indians. Cool.

But it is uncool to know that registration for Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts has closed. Nevertheless, I'll try to apply. Be shameless. Late and shameless. It's worth a shot. My cousin also asked me to just try. My cousin knew because my mother told her. My mother told her because she thinks I don't know what I'm doing. But she is wrong.

Last weekend, I went down the Motorola Service Centre to get the USB cable so I can transfer files from computer to phone. The person told me that stock would come the following week and that she would call me. But did I hear my phone ring? NO! Obviously, she lied. But I'm gonna give her till tomorrow, which happens to be the official one week after that day.

As each day passes, my thirst for design grows more intense. It sounds very strong. That's because IT IS!

Giordano has this Graphic Design Tee competition going on. Closing date tomorrow. I got to know about it like a little more than a week ago. I was very excited about it because I was urged to submit an entry. So I'm halfway through with the T-shirt design. But then I kinda lost the thrill for it. I don't feel like submitting the entry.

I stand a chance to win (well, if I submit an entry, that is) a Sony Ericsson phone and Giordano shopping vouchers. And winning entries get exhibited at Suntec City Tropics Atrium from 21 April. Goes on for a few days.

On Wednesday, the day when I found out the devastating news, I decided to pamper myself. And you know where I went? I went to my favourite diner, Billy Bombers!

At Century Square. And yes, ALONE.

I just had to order their jumbo hotdog. I can never get enough of their humongous hotdog. makes me feel like king instantly.

The freaking manager gave me a window seat, where every single schoolkid in unflattering school uniform could see me from my head to my toe. But I just took it anyhow.

Throughout my whole meal, I caught the service crew throwing constant glances at me. You know the worst thing? This irritating waitress decides to patrol the aisles to check on every table. She would kinda scrutinize the table. That made me a little uncomfortable. But since I'm pretty shameless, I continued stuffing the hotdog into my mouth. How I wanna eat my dog is for me to care. So is who I decide to eat with. In this case, nobody.

See ya.

Today I feel much better. Actually I was much better yesterday already because I overhauled my mindset. I have many doors open for me. I'm lucky that I see them.

Last night, I talked to my mother. And then I didn't feel like talking anymore, because she was all negative and stuff.

Then today, I suddenly thought of emancipating from my family. I know it's super crazy. I'm just letting you know what weird thoughts I have from time to time.

It actually paints a really perfect picture in my head.

Temasek Poly is making me wait. I could appeal, but I still have to wait. School terms starts, and I could still be waiting. I do not play the waiting game well.

Then I was thinking, take a look at the other open doors. And ITE came into the picture.

I've come to reognise that design is my life. It is what I do.

In Singapore, I am not afraid of not being able to receive education. But my mother thinks otherwise. She thinks what I'm doing is just fooling around. I was insulted.

But of course, this is serious stuff for me. I've never been this serious about something. I feel it in me. It's who I am. It is what I'm meant to do.

Therefore, I will pursue design. No Poly, then there's ITE.

People say I downgrade. They say I'm stupid. They say I'm wasting my time. They think I'm jumping off a cliff.

But's that's what they say, that's what they think. Not me, though.

I'm very proud that I live my life for myself, not for anyone else. It'll be otherwise pathetic.

I am not pathetic, I am not stupid.

But you probably think I'm pathetic and stupid.

Continue with that, it's how you think. I cannot change it.

Meanwhile, I'm happy with my life.

Offered Intake Admission Exercise: DAE
Status: Unsuccessful
Status Date: 07/04/2006 03:25:00 PM

Today, I bring devastating news.

Duh, you can read for yourself right?

-

On a happier note, I got myself a new phone! Motorola L6! I went completely crazy with the camera.

I love it because it's ultra slim, ultra cool. I feel that it is my phone, for once. A phone that's really me.

Last night, we went over to Hairianto's house to celebrate his birthday.

Very exclusive. Not in some public place, like others who are just desperate for attention.

Actually I'm quite freaked out now. Because I just found out my application status. On Monday, TP Design School called me and told me that the school is quite full, and I can only wait for people to back out and then I come into the picture.

Quite devastating, but I'll make sure they get me in. Maybe speak to some big shot or something.

Meanwhile, I'm moodless to blog more.

In my last entry, I was saying how I was ripping the company of its funds by working hellhole-y hours, and my working hours got reduced this week because of that?

Guess what? I was damn right.

From a reliable source, I've come to know that the company is kinda cutting back on labour costs. Second hand information, but highly accurate and reliable.

Tsk, tsk, these people...

Yesterday, I trawled the higher end shopping malls. I ransacked Guess, fcuk, Ralph Lauren, Zara and projectshop boutiques in town. That was as high up the branded ladder as I could bring myself to go.

It was exhilarating. And mind-blowing.

I didn't notice any furtive glances at me though. I was trawling Paragon like I owned the place. But seriously, window shopping won't hurt. Who cares what the people think. I may not be able to afford, but at least I can see and look, right?

Clothes from Guess are so freaking nice! I was very inspired after raiding the boutiques in Ngee Ann City, Paragon and Suntec City. What Marciano can do, I will be able to do. I have to press on!

On Saturday, I was at Billy Bombers at The Heeren. I just became a fan of Billy Bombers.

Because I couldn't help myself, I ordered a hotdog. I really wanted to see how it was like in American serving. I love hotdogs, by the way. And Hairianto hates it. 'Cause it reminds him of, well, whatever hotdogs remind you of. Think, member... What member? Goldmember, member... Yes, that...

Anyway, when it came, it just left me in shock. 'Cause it was really jumbo. It was like nothing you've ever seen. A hotdog of gargantuan proportion.

Beaming from ear to ear, I took my first bite and immediately felt ethereal.

Hairianto, on the other hand, was shuddering in disgust as I even took photos of it.

The huge dog costs me $11. I think it was worth the money. I went from famished to full in one sitting. Very impressive. Very memorable. Always brings new surprises.

Hey, recently the first Campus Superstar was born! Yay! Zhiyang, is it? I think he deserved it because he can sing, he can talk, and most importantly, he can act.

Not drama-act, act, but say-good-things-only-to-media act, act. They figured that he was probably the smartest of the lot. Plus he has the face that is unlikely to offend. The singing is just a bonus.

Did you see his face when he won? Cos I didn't. But I think he grinned like a child.

Suddenly I feel happy for him. Oh yes, he's very politically correct also. The producers were definitely looking out for that in their winner too. He's smart lah. Check out his blog: http://justme-willy.blogspot.com/

Tomorrow's my off day. It's perfect timing for a free day. I have like a gazillion things to do tomorrow. I got a couple of projects to embark on and I shall cram them in tomorrow. It's a long day ahead of me.

I see you, when I see you. DUH.