YF Camp 2005

Recently, I attended the Youth Fellowship Combined Camp 2005 held at Port Klang Gospel Hall. It was themed "My Way or God's Way" which was rather inappropriate, as the main workshop was "No Apologies". Anyway, here's a day-to-day account of my enriching experience at my first camp:

Day 1

I checked in at 8.30pm, and put my bags aside. Than we have an ice breaker where there are games, most notoriously the "Chicken Dance", brainchild of Colin. Than we had another game, "Would You Like to Be My Friend" from Colin and Ser Young. After that, we had supper, than all headed for our respective sleeping floors.

Day 2

We were awaken at 7am, although many of us didn't get any sleep due to the noisy cockerel next door. Than there was group devotion at 7.45am with half of my group (the other half had their devotion in the church, they were all guys) outside in the hut. It was very breezy. Our girl group was the leader, Michelle See, Hoong Lyn, Say Yin and I. We talked about Galatians. Than there was breakfast after that.

When breakfast was over, our main activity was held. The "No Apologies" workshop was helmed by Bobby John and Mike, an officer from Focus on the Family. We sat and listened to an interesting talk for 4 hours. Yup! You heard right, 4 hours. We had lunch after that, and than there was a forum. Uncle Chee Beng, Uncle Chandran, Koko Chee Choong and Koko Adrian answered questions posed by anonymous people on pieces of paper. Some questions were normal, others weren't.

A fun and games session was held after that. I didn't join in, I just watched the rehearsal of the night's sketch. Than there was dinner for an hour, and we all assembled at the hall for a good news night. First there was the sketch, starring Joshua, Sean, Cheryl and Nadia, and four extras: me, Kym, Alyssa and Nyuet Fen as "plenty other fishes in the sea". It was supper, than bed - or sleeping bag.

Day 3

It was the last day and we had to rise and shine early for we were joining the adults for the breaking of bread. It would be a "solemn and quiet" meeting, so it was required for attire to be "decent and modest" as quoted by Koko Adrian. When the worship meeting ended at 10.30am, we headed for the kitchen to have our breakfast. Than at 11am we sat in on a simulation exercise managed by Uncle Andrew. It was very fun!

Lunch was at 1pm, and at 2pm was our last meeting. Koko Adrian talked about lots of stuff, mostly related to the previous day's workshop. His talks were always very interesting, and this one was not an exception. At 3.30pm we all headed back to our respective homes, thankful that we attended the camp.

A Dedication to My Best Buddies

We all need friends, we can't deny that. But it's hard to find one whom you put your trust in fully, and have no doubt that she can keep your secret. It's like... euphoria, gratitude, thankfulness all in one row. If there is a heaven on earth... I think I've found it.

I have two friends who make my school life enjoyable... close to brilliant! They've got me waxing lyrical about them, and I am ever grateful that I've met them... ever grateful. My first buddy is Lim Chew Yong, from my class, 1 Harmoni. I've known her since Standard 1, but not really close, only this year we've become best friends. She's wonderful! I can't imagine life without her help. She's done so much for me that I've lost count :D Chew Yong, here's to friends forever... and when I say forever, I mean forever.

The other is Jolene Teoh, from another class, which is weird because I don't usually have best friends in other classes (they all changed). She's from another school, so it's quite refreshing to have a new friend from a different environment. I only knew her in April, and I thought we'd just be normal friends. But things happen, and I ended up as her best friend. If anything happened between us, she'd be the first to say she was sorry and all. I've never met anyone with such a forgiving nature as her, and I'm so happy that I met her that I can't even start to describe it.

This is a dedication to my best buddies. Hope this gets to you in whatever form, although one of you has no computer, and the other's PC has broken down :D. I still hope that it'll reach you (news of this blog).

Friends... something we can never live without. As a band once put, "Even if I were surrounded by a million people, I'd still feel alone."

Another Day, Another Week

I cut my hair today - technically, my mum cut it for me (you see, her former profession was a hairdresser). It's short, but not short enough... I still can tie it.

Anyway, today is the 25th of July, and the NiE (as I've mentioned before) newspapers are to be verified and chopped - literally - by the school authorities. My class has two groups doing it: one all-Chinese, another all-Indian. The all-Chinese group got a go-ahead from our homeroom and also English teacher, Pn. Jamuna, while the all-Indian group hadn't even started. Bwahahahaha... I feel sorry and happy at the same time for them!

So, today the all-Indian group were rushing to finish. Tempers flared and misunderstandings roam galore as they rush against time to finish it in approximately less than half a day. As I was doing my homework, I was surprised by the president, who came with a camera (would you believe it?) again. She wanted to take my picture - again. I was, "What? I thought you already took my picture. I don't want to do this. Seriously, you people don't know how to organize!" But I let them take the picture anyway.

After break, we had Maths, and Pn. Uma was giving out exam papers. She lost Jia Ying's one... really. And she ordered her to come to the table as if the missing paper wasn't her fault. Than, we had assembly. Nothing much, usual vows, prize-giving ceremonies and prep talks by teachers. A teacher announced that starting from next week they would hold the "Baca Buku 5 Minit" where we had to read a book for 5 minutes - our own book, mind you. That didn't bother me, in fact, I was pretty delighted. I plan to try to finish Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith by Matthew Stover quick enough.

Oh yeah, Jessica Loo of 1 Telus and I did something today. She pretended to have a cut on her wrist, and made up a story that she got hurt peeling potatoes. She also said that she found out I was her long-lost cousin twice removed. It was fun, nearly 95% of the people she told fell for it. And it was fun being her cousin - for a day.

So, basically all that happened today was a flurry or in Bahasa Melayu, huru-hara. I wasn't in it, thank goodness, I was just the audience - and it was good fun!

Homeroom Humiliation

I know I'm running late to actually talk about this - that happened over the course of the last two weeks, I think. But, I feel I have to tell you about this - it'll make for an interesting blog. First thing's first, do you know what's NiE? Yes? No? It stands for Newspaper-in-Education, where you have to create a four-page newspaper to qualify for a contest created by The Star to encourage students to be creative and the normalities. Anyway, my class had a team - I wasn't in it - and they wanted to interview me for Spelling Bee. Yup! Of course I said yes, I mean, what do you expect me to say? "I'm sorry... I can't do it" to my homeroom buddies. They'll be so - bewildered.

Okay, so we had an interview, and they asked all sorts of questions - regarding Spelling Bee, that is - they didn't run out of the topic. After that, the president (who was in the team) wanted a photo shoot. Could things get any worse? We went all around the school before deciding on where to take the photo. And guess where? In the homeroom (classroom) itself. I was like, "Duh?!" in a dumb way.

They had to clear everyone behind me because I was taking the photo at my desk. So most of the class huddled in front of me and looked at me intently, waiting for the flash to go. I was in a fit of laughs and grins, holding an absolutely worn book, wearing eye glasses with a serious look on my face. Obviously, you can't look all that serious when you're taking a photo, can you? And, before we were already getting to a decision, my best friend, Jolene of 1 Efektif (another class) walked past and yelled, "AMANDA HOI!" I turned, startled, and saw my best friend... seeing me - like this. This. Cannot. Be. Anymore. Pathetic.

Soon, my president snapped the photo, and everything was over - so fast. So, you see, if you take time to concentrate on that one moment where you want everything to be perfect, than it will be. So don't worry about what people might think or what they'll be saying about it... that's your moment, so take it while it lasts.

A Liking for the Killers

It's confirmed. I have developed a taste for rockers, The Killers. The Killers, from the USA, are named as the band to look out for this year, and I think I know why. The Killers consists of Brandon Flowers(vocals/keyboards), David Keuning(electric guitars), Mark Stoermer(bass) and Ronnie Vannucci(drums) and they're good, very good. Their debut album, Hot Fuss is on my list of albums to buy, alongside One Tree Hill: The Soundtrack.

Hot Fuss, which has 11 songs spawned many hit singles, such as "Mr Brightside", "Smile Like You Mean It", "Somebody Told Me" and "All These Things That I've Done", both of which are my favourite The Killers' songs. One song worth mentioning that is not included in Hot Fuss is "Indie Rock 'N' Roll" which got me hooked onto The Killers. From then on, I am a Killers fan. Their music is rock-driven, with stunning electric guitar and also bass solos, expecially on "Somebody Told Me" and "All These Things I've Done"; great drum mixes on "Glamorous Indie Rock 'N' Roll". However, "Mr Brightside" is very popular amongst Killers fans, not by me, though.

The Killers have proved to be an expectant rock band, as its debut itself has been climbing the charts to score high with the critics. Cheers to The Killers!

They're Already Here

Yo! I've just returned from catching a movie with friends. And by my blog title, you could've already guessed what movie that is, right? Bingo! It's War of the Worlds, my friends.

I'm now convinced that any Steven Spielberg-Tom Cruise collaboration is a sure hit. And I'm glad to say I was mystified by the stunning film, and everything about it. Must've cost a lot for Spielberg, but then again, we're talking about Spielberg, at what cost will he ever stop filming? Zero.

The latest remake of H.G. Wells' "War of the Worlds" book, War of the Worlds stars Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Justin Chatwin, Miranda Otto and Tim Robbins. Star-studded, ain't it?

Of course, you'll know the synopsis by now, so I won't be specific. The movie was SPECTACULAR, AWESOME, MAGNIFICENT. It was a jaw-dropping experience, and I applaud Spielberg. The sound effects deserve recognition, and the CGI parts are absolutely breath-taking. I most certainly enjoyed myself.

Tom Cruise's Ray Ferrier was very funny, and his daughter, Rachel was, well, okay, I guess. All she did was cry and scream and show her intelligence, that's all. His son, Robbie, however, pumped out a commendable effort. Great acting. Tim Robbins' character was a little annoying, and Miranda Otto was graceful and simple.

All in all, it was a great watch. As the saying goes, wine tastes better with age, this third remake of "War of the Worlds" certainly scores higher.

Musical Performance... and Other Happenings

It was a long, long day for me today. But, surprisingly, I had loads of fun. I played for the birthday party with my ensemble pals. What went wrong was that I had overpracticed, so my upper arm started to get painful in the middle of Pachelbel's "Canon in D", and it spread to my entire arm during Vivaldi's "Spring". I had to stick with it until the end of "Spring". I must tell you, it was excruciatingly exhausting. Ee Lyz, my cello buddy noticed that I was missing notes, adjusting my bow and continually shaking uncontrollably. How nice of her to take note of my playing, what a great partner, ain't she?

And, besides, there was this annoying girl who came with one of the ensemble members. It was like a nightmare... except that it was threefold. They said they were late because they just had to WATCH A CAT GIVE BIRTH TO A LITTER OF KITTENS. Tell me, how absolutely pathetic is that? Very pathetic. It's amazing how dimwitted anyone can be.

So, after our rerun during practice session, that girl came up to me and was like, "You know your lower D? I think it was a bit too low, or maybe it's just me." I felt like tearing her apart at that moment. Who the heck is the cellist right now, eh? You or me? And she went on talking to the rest of the ensemble members, even the teacher, with her sarcastic remarks and know-it-all slang. In the end, we all assembled at the practice room upstairs, with the teacher there, and started to tell everything bottled up inside about that girl. It appears everyone in the ensemble hates her.

Yeah, and that was about all. After the performance, me, Ee Lyz, Yin Shi, Sharifah Leena and Xianling went to a room upstairs and wiled the time away talking. That was very fun. When we came down, I took some pictures using my camera phone.

Untitled

Hi! I don't know what title to put, so it's "Untitled". Haha. Anyway, I'd like to say sorry for the Flickr Zeitgeist, Mini Poll, NVNCBL Chat and Quote of the Day corners because they're not working properly, but I'd still like them there. So, my apologies if it annoys you in any way, but I'm just trying to make my blog a little bit more interesting. Although they do take a lot of space, I must admit, I sure hope my blog doesn't look dumb enough to deter you even more from reading it.

Also, I've created some new posts, added images to spice things up and also chose a new template (I think this is better, right? Please give comments). I hope you enjoy "Ignorance is Bliss" with a whole new look. Thank you.

Strangeness and Me

I think I'm strange, in a general sort of way. People wonder how I can even listen to stuff that are close to abnormal to them, but really, you shouldn't care. Here's an excerpt I got from a book talking about strangeness and me:

Am I strange? Possibly. But maybe I'm not really stranger than anyone else. Maybe I'm just - more aware of my strangeness. Like why am I so afraid to let my friends know who I really am. If they don't like the real me then maybe they aren't really friends. Maybe that's what I'm afraid of ...

I modified it a little so that it can relate to normal people living normal lives, particularly students with loads of friends in school or anywhere else. Think over that paragraph again, it sounds pretty philosophical to me. I'm so happy I got that book! I know you must be wondering what book I'm talking about, it's "One Tree Hill: The Beginning".

All for Him

This blog is dedicated to all who are walking with the Lord in their everyday life. You know when there are times where you feel so down and depressed, so much that you could actually give everything up. During these times, remember Jesus, because he'll always be there with you ... always.

You can pray whenever you're going through this times, because He will help you through, and although you'd be wondering how can He hear you when there must a million other people around the world praying at the same time, I'd like to remind you that the Lord is Almighty and Powerful in everything, and He will most certainly hear your prayers, whenever, wherever.

As you continue your journey with God, I pray and hope that you will not stray far from him. Keep your hand firmly in His, and He will guide you with all the love and care that he has continually showered upon us. The Lord God is our Father in Heaven and on Earth, and He's all powerful. Let us do everything, all for Him.

I'm On Fire

Yesterday night, I was at EMF '05 (short for Evangelistic Music Fest 2005) at Port Klang Gospel Hall.

Above is an image of my church band, On Fire consisting of: Wei Jin, Joshua, Kwo Kuang, Ser Young, Nadia and Su Yin. They were great, but they didn't win. Anyway, they sang three songs: Switchfoot's "On Fire", Steven Curtis Chapman's "Listen to Our Hearts" and Jars of Clay's "Worlds Apart". They were nice songs, and I hope you'll find this lyrics of "On Fire" pretty meaningful:

They tell you where you need to go
They tell you when you need to leave
They tell you what you need to know
They tell you who you need to be

But everything inside, you know
Is more than what you've heard
There's so much more than empty conversations
Filled with empty words

And you're on fire
When He's near you
You're on fire
When He speaks
You're on fire
Burning at these mysteries

Give me one more time around
Give me one more chance to see
Give me everything you are
Give me one more chance to be near you

When everything inside
Looks like everything I hate
You're the hope I have for change
You're the only chance I'll take

And I'm on fire
When You're near
I'm on fire
When You speak
I'm on fire
Burning at these mysteries

I'm standing on the edge of me
I'm standing on the edge of me
I'm standing on the edge of me
Standing on the edge
I'm standing on the edge of everything I've never been before
And I've been standing on the edge of me
Been standing on the edge

The Beginning of the Bat

I've just caught Batman Begins, and it is the ultimate Batman movie. I must say, Christopher Nolan did a rather good job. And Christian Bale has got to be the most suave Batman I've seen so far. My favourite was obviously Lieutenant Gordon, played by Gary Oldman of Sirius Black fame. Absolutely fabulous and entirely fantastic, that's how I'd sum up Batman Begins.

The cast consists of: Christian Bale, Katie Holmes, Gary Oldman, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine and Cillian Murphy, who makes a mysteriously creepy bad guy.

However, I don't exactly recommend it to kids below 10, because it might be a little too terrifying, especially during the parts where the villain shows his real power to the so-called powerful backbone. But, if you must, than please be my guest.

Whichever way, the gadgets shown by Lucius Fox(Freeman) were delectably hi-tech and of the highest quality in this century. The humour part of the movie was nifty as it was handled by Michael Caine, who starred as the butler, Alfred, whom I'm sure is a very well-known name amongst movie fanatics. He let out an air of good humour and teasing sentences. Great script!

Anyway, you should catch it, as it happens to be a great Batman movie, and also is a prequel. So, if you'd like to know how Bruce Wayne actually started out to be, catch Batman Begins in theatres near you.

The Anatomy of Hiccups

It's something that all of us have experienced before and are bound to experience in future. What I'm talking about is hiccups. Even as I type this blog, I am hiccuping. I know it's funny, but don't laugh. As devoted as I am to providing my readers with a glimpse into my life coupled with some useful information, I have dug deep into the realms of the web and searched for stuff on hiccups. As you can see, reading my blogs can not only help you know about my life, but also about daily things we face in our life. Isn't this wonderfully entertainingly helpful, or what?

Okay, here it is. Hiccups are sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle. As the muscle contracts repeatedly, the opening between your vocal cords snaps shut to check the inflow of air and makes the hiccup sound. Irritation of the nerves that extend from the neck to the chest can also cause hiccups.

However, don't worry because hiccups are not serious and have no clear reason for occurring. You can breathe easy knowing that when you get hiccups.

Many conditions are associated with hiccups, but none has been shown to be the cause of hiccups. If you eat too fast, you can swallow air along with your food and end up with a case of hiccups, so, don't eat too fast, take your time. Hiccups are sometimes thought to be a reflex to protect you from choking.

Hiccups can be described as brief, irritable spasms of your diaphragm that can occur for a few seconds or minutes. I believe that is all I got from hiccups, so, if this has been of help to you, then I am most certainly pleased.

This blog, I hope, have helped you to understand even more about hiccups. I know I make it sound serious, don't I? Maybe I'm overdoing it, haha. Okay, I think that's all I wanted to let you guys know about hiccups. Compliment me on doing my homework, will you?

Phew! I'm Back!

Hello, all! After a rather long hiatus due to no access to the Internet, I am once again back. My first priority is to update readers on the reason as to why they could not get a glimpse of my life for the past few - aw geez, I didn't count! The reason is because, haha, well, my dad didn't pay the bill. So paiseh la. Now, never mind that.

Anyway, just so you all know, my birthday was on June 8 and it was a holiday, but I did do a few things. A few friends wished me, but other than that, it was a pretty normal day. I can't get my hopes high anyway. Haha. Well, that happens to be all. Can't write anymore for various reasons. Bye!

Wretched Weather Forecasts

I have been following the weather forecasts in the newspapers, on the radio and other media massa. My survey has found that they aren't always accurate, and that bothers me; because currently, it is not accurate - at all. I've been let down by the Malaysian Meteorological Service. If you would like to apologize, MMS, you are most welcome.

You see, they keep on saying there will be isolated showers over Selangor and all, but so far, its been hot and humid weather, and I've been sticking sweaty over the course of a few hours. How very much I'd like to put Malaysia away from the garisan khatulistiwa if I damn well could. But, I hope that the MMS will improve their service and try their very best to get right-on accurate weather predictions, but they most probably won't know about this, 'cause who the heck from the MMS reads Amanda Hoi's blog? Haha.

Apology for Change

Sorry for the huge change in my blog. Yes, I did get a new template, but I realized that there was something wrong with the font. I tried to edit them posts, but the size of the font was still small. I've tried a few times, but it's not changing. So, I guess it'll make for good eyeball exercise. Haha. If you wanna read my previous blogs, sorry that you have to squint your eyes and go, "For goodness' sake, doesn't this blogger have brains?" But I hope that this deformity won't deter you from reading my previous blogs, because, if I may say so, I think my previous blogs will give you a glimpse into my life, and I've made it spunky enough, so please, read it. And besides, your eyes need exercise once in a while. Thank you and I apologize again.

Movies, the Epitome of Entertainment

During the holidays, it has always been a fixated activity to watch movies on the DVD player and catch a blockbuster at least once in the cineplex. That has proved crucially necessary, or else I shall be trampled by discreet boredom. Luckily for me, I recently catched the final instalment of the popular George Lucas creation, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith at Bukit Raja Shopping Centre(BRSC) with my younger brother, Josiah, three church friends: two guys and a girl - Wei Shern, Mervyn and Melody.

Now, about the film. It was, I'm afraid to say, overrated. Star Wars fans, I'm sure, must've thought it was superb and a wonderful curtain-closer. But, I think it was overrated, but not underrated, of course. Everything about it seemed so kua cheong. There was a big helping of action and a spoonful of emotional romance. Other than that, there was just fight scenes, very little talking. I guess the lightsabers do the acting. Haha.

Anyway, I held a Movie Marathon yesterday. I watched Hitch, The Pacifier and House of Fury on the DVD player for the entire afternoon. Hitch was a fun ride, The Pacifier certainly was for the entire family and House of Fury is decidedly one of the best Chinese films I've watched.

Okay, as my title suggests, I know that many of you agree that the term 'movies' means a form of material to entertain you. And it is, indeed, the epitome of entertainment, aside from music and stuff. Without movies, we'd be really bored. I mean, just looking at music videos cannot satisfy our hunger for hour-long shows with pretty people in them and, at rare times, meaningful storylines. And anyway, if we don't have movies, there wouldn't be people like Nicole Kidman and Brad Pitt ka-chinging at their cash counters. We won't be able to feast our eyes on people of Hollywood quality and have the motivation to say, "I wanna be like that. I've gotta work out" and then when you come back again, you're in tip-top condition. Yes! Movies are a bare necessity. If you have no idea what movies are, my friend, you've been living under a rock. As a closing point, I'd like to say, MOVIES ARE THE EPITOME OF ENTERTAINMENT!

Well, hat's up to the days to come where I shall spend the hours catching films. Cheers.

Wonderful Beginnings and Tragic Endings

It's so sad. American Idol has just ended. But, luckily for me, I caught the repeat of the final. And it was SUPERB! It keeps reminding me how much a mo langs can do, and how little we Malaysians are capable of. "Malaysia Boleh!" konon. Anyway, enough insulting our country, I am very surprised and also happy because it is apparent that this year's American Idol has been the best so far. Before the announcement of the winner, they planned so much stuff to do in two hours. That's so amazing.

First, there was a song by the 10 finalists apart from the final 2. Then, they also had a video on Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell ... that was the only sick thing about it. But I guess it's all for the good of entertainment. I don't remember clearly, but here are snips of my memory. The top 12 finalists, including the final 2 got to sing with the celebrity guest stars: Rascal Flatts, Kenny G, George Benson, Billy Preston, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Lynyrd Skynyrd ... and I think that was all. The best are obviously the final 2, Carrie Underwood's "Bless the Broken Road" with Rascal Flatts; and Bo Bice who sang "Sweet Home Alabama", accompanied by rock band, Lynyrd Skynyrd. Besides, Bo comes from Helena, Alabama too! It was really nice. And there was one outstanding performance, by Constantine Maroulis (my fave), Nadia Turner and Jessica Sierra, where they were in tight black leather and Constantine looked so much the rocker. They were accompanied with electric guitar by Kenny Wayne Shepherd, who did magic on the electric guitar.

There was also a teasing video on Simon Cowell. It was about his darkest secrets, where he took phone calls from a mystery caller ... and whom he smothered with disgusting, mushy words. Steve Edwards, who went undercover, interviewed fellow judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, there were also a character played by Constantine, who starred as restaurant owner Steven Popodopoulous. Yeah, in the end, the mystery lover was ... ah ha! Simon himself. He was in love with himself. Okay, whatever.

I think that's everything special featured in the two-hour special. But, the announcement was nerve-wracking. Either Bo or Carrie were good enough. Whichever one who won was okay, because, seriously, they deserved it. They had equal chances. "The winner of American Idol 2005 is ... " As Ryan Seacrest said this, everyone held their breath. " ... Carrie Underwood!" There was a roar of triumph and Carrie breaked into tiny tears. Bo sportingly hugged her and said something to her. Yes, the small-town farm girl from Checotah, Oklahoma was the next American Idol. Her warm smile and endearing personality has made her a fan favourite. And she also got her own Marquis private jet. So cool!

That was American Idol. That was the "Wonderful Beginnings" part. Now, for the second part. After American Idol, I decided to watch The Contender with my brother, since it was the semi finals. The game was between Sergio Mora and Jesse Brinkley. I wanted Jesse to win, but my brother was rooting for Sergio. There were seven rounds, consisting of a minute each. It was so kan cheong, you know! I was practically jumping in my seat. There was a round where the stupid Sergio went and punched poor Jesse in the eye and breaked open his former stitches. Ouch! That must've hurt bucket-loads. In the end, "The winner by unanimous decision," announced the ringmaster, "is who you call the Latin Snake, Sergio Mora!" Stupid, stupid, stupid! But, Jesse, has a sporting sportsman sportingly hugged Sergio, and said, "Congratulations in Vegas, bro." And Sergio replied with a, "Thank you, man. Thanks." What a tragic ending for Jesse. I just hope he won't commit suicide like Najai Turpin, who took his life when he lost a boxing game, in The Contender too. So, I'm looking forward to the final, where the Latin Snake will fight with Peter Manfredo Jr., who beat Alfonso Gomez before. I don't know who I want to win. Most probably Peter, because I hate Sergio, although Peter has a weird nose. Okay, whatever.

Music Recommendations

I don't know why I've been listening to lots of music nowadays. Anyway, here are some recommendations for those of you who have similar tastes with me. Recently, I've been hearing Missy Higgins' one-hit wonder, "Ten Days" from her debut album, The Sound of White. Her vocals are obviously paired with an Australian twang, so it's kinda fun hearing her sing.

I know I've mentioned Howie Day before, but he really is good! "Collide" is easily his best song, and I think I know why, because it's such a nice listen. His vocals are quite rough at the edges, but it makes for a wonderful time listening to it, nonetheless.

And there's also Jack Johnson. I've also been hearing him a number of times. Most of the time, I listen to "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing" from In Between Dreams. And although he is only close to MTV material, his music is pretty good. And he should be given a pat on the back for his commendable efforst. I've also watched the "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing" video. It was kinda weird at the ending, but it was creative, no doubt.

On the list is also Emiliana Torrini, the voice of "Gollum's Song" from the LOTR soundtrack. At first hear, her voice may sound slimy due to the portrayal of Gollum in your head, but do not be mistaken, for appearances are deceiving. Emiliana has such well-done vocals that they might come as nicely-laced at the sides. I particularly enjoy listening to "Sunny Road" from Fisherman's Woman. You should watch the video too, directed by Ali Taylor. The animation was mind-blowing. It was such a beautiful video that I didn't mind watching it again.

Damien Rice, an Irish singer, is well worth the mention. His album, O has sparked off many wonderful listens, such as "The Blower's Daughter" (also from the film, Closer's original motion picture soundtrack), "Volcano" and the heart-tugging "Aimee". More songs to look forward to from soundtracks are Mick Jagger's "Old Habits Die Hard" from Alfie. It's a tap-your-feet-to-the-rhythm song.

Do not forget James Blunt, the American rising star. Songs such as "High", "You're Beautiful" and "Wisemen" are absolute faves. They're all from his album, Back to Bedlam. One other musician who might be categorized in James' same genre is David Berkeley, who spurned "Jefferson", "Fire Sign" and "Stillness" from his album, After the Wrecking Ships. However, "Jefferson" still appeals to me more than the other two.

Not forgetting Ed Harcourt! Songs such as "Apple of My Eye", "She Fell Into My Arms", "This One's for You", "The Birds Will Sing for Us" and "Loneliness" are quite good tracks. Rosie Thomas's "Paper Airplane" is a relaxing, soft hit for anyone who needs a break.

I would like to mention Jamie Cullum too, of Twentysomething fame. Two songs of his really made me a fan of his; namely, "All at Sea" and "Singin' in the Rain". Check him out, too.

Jason Mraz isn't new, for sure, but his songs sure are. "Wordplay" from Mr. A-Z really means its title. Jason sure does play with the words in his trademark blabbering-fast style. It might seem loud at first due to the drum solo, but that's pop.

Also check out Michael Buble, dubbed the new Frank Sinatra. His newest album, It's Time has released some hit singles, namely the self-composed "Home", a favourite of mine. Also worth the mention is "Quando, Quando, Quando" featuring folk singer, Nelly Furtado. A wonderful combination resulting in a commendable cover of the former oldie.

Hayley Westenra, a long-forgotten young musician's "Who Painted the Moon Black" is fine for Enya fans. But, other than that, I dare not hear the rest of her music.

Don't miss out on Gorillaz, the cartoon band. They are back with a brand new album! Yes, the well-known four-piece are out with Demon Days that contains my most cherished track, "Feel Good Inc". I certainly do feel good hearing this song. The beginning bass solo is cool, but make sure that you don't get put off by the opening laughter, it's just a joke. So, welcome back, Gorillaz, missed you all this time.

I think that's all I can give so far. Make sure to check all the aforementioned musicians if you have taste in music like mine. Might give you a real happy time.

HOWIE DAY!!!!!!!!

Anyone who's reading this blog, if you have the same taste as I in music, then you might want to consider my recommendation. I'm currently listening to Howie Day a lot, and I must say, it is highly addictive. Like some guitar-driven, soft rock, relaxing and easy to the ear. Especially his "Collide" song from Stop All the World Now. Top-class quality ballads that aren't too mushy or too tough. Perfectly sung and beautifully done. Highly recommended to all whose tastes are quite like mine. If you don't know my taste, you can check my Friendster account.