Completed completed two weeks of ICT a week plus ago and finally completed my 6 high keys and am now (almost) free from National Service liability. Was not as sad and nostalgic as I thought it would be, perhaps with catching up of my batch boys (almost 20 of them) a few days back and knowing that we will meet up yearly made it much more bearable. Of course I will miss the 'country club'; 10-meter pool, soccer, basketball, canteen, dives, jellyfish, jetty, and most of all, the sea. Had great fun this ICT and also made/caught up with new friends. The number of outings was really a first. Amazingly, had lost 4kg over this time and gained back quite a bit of fitness. Guess I miss this kind of lifestyle, having the luxury to exercise almost everyday, without having work bog you down, or being too tired at the end of the day to do so. It has been an uphill battle to keep fit, more with age, and it would be good to maintain it now. Need to keep to my resolution for 2010!
Back to reality and work, had gone back to school last week (for the last week of school) to see my boys for one day. Been away during my boys' exam period and their results are a little daunting. Couldn't have done much even if I was around but ultimately responsible for them. Felt a little bad for physically not being there but what's done is done. They did quite okay but as usual, every teacher will say that their pupils can do better. An uphill task for the next semester and next year, hopefully if I follow up with them. Finished my own re-exams last week as well too and keeping my fingers crossed that I can pass it. My first repeat paper in my life, but with everything that is going on with work, school and life, something got to give. Haha, excuses that we make for ourselves.
May is a month of birthdays and celebrated Daniel's (who coincidentally has the same birthday as OC) birthday the weekend before, and gave him my MR photo frame. It was one of the hardest gift to give as it meant a lot to me as well. End of the day think that he would treasure it as much, if not more? It is the thought that counts, knowing I had it. Haha... The mahjong kakis (Mark, Keith, Ching Ging) were here yesterday for mahjong and also to celebrate Mom's belated midweek birthday. Leon, the photo is supposed to make you feel guilty! Haha. Our 31 is coming soon but not looking forward to it, especially now suffering the brunt of the marathon. Have to admit old liao.
Completed my first and hopefully last marathon yesterday, almost beating the sunrise during the Sundown Marathon. Never ever joined any of the marathons that the pessgang (Anderson, Spyder, Theresa, Keith and Jan) knowing that it would destroy my body but decided to sign up this time round before the big 30s. Was good to meet all of them up before the race and after the race (plus Mark and Ching Ging, to complain about the run. Haha... It was a excellent 21 until my right hamstring/calf and left knee decided to give up on me. Had to walk the rest of the 20 and it was very very painful, counting down each kilometre one by one. Even was bored enough to measure that it takes about 13 minutes per kilometre. Zzz... Ching Ging was nice to walk with me. Tried a few occasions to resume running but it was too painful. Had to hobble all the way back, painfully, mentally and physically. Made up my mind on my way back, give me competitive sports or adventure races in future, the thrill/satisfaction of running just doesn't appeal to me. Had signed up for 21 for SCM end of year and think that will be my limit from now on when it comes to running.
Today marks the start of the month-long holidays. Feel very relaxed and carefree for the first time in a long time. Perhaps it has been too hectic a half-year and I just need the break. Have nothing planned for the month except a having to do timetable, plus the finally-anticipated squashgang diving trip mid-month! As usual, the same thoughts of sorting our my tons of photos and updating my website comes into mind but we'll see... Haha... Rest is best. Need to start on my routine too, 31 and counting. Looking forward to the new place.