Being Creative With Junk

The other night my husband commented that he goes to the recycling centre less frequently now that I am not around. Back in Singapore, I was the main contributor to our recycling bin - with milk cartons and cornflake boxes. Other than recycling, more importantly, if we can cut down on the amount of things that we use or purchase, we can “save” more. Thus, I seldom purchase things unless I really need them – clothes, accessories, cosmetic stuff, shoes, can/bottled drinks, things with excessive packing etc. When my husband made the comment, it made me think if I could have made wiser choices in my purchases.

Especially, being here in Golden Gate where there are no recycling facilities nearby, I have been feeling strange when I had to throw away things like can be recycled. Moreover, I can see my recyclable trash accumulating rapidly (I have been keeping some stuff with the hope that I can one day put them in a recycling centre, or perhaps have some use for them), and I don't really have space to store them anymore.

Thus, I have started to be even more cautious about what I buy, and think twice before I buy things with packaging i.e. i try to buy more fresh food. It's more healthy too! Also I try to use the same thing at least twice before I really throw it away. So, here are some ways that I have tried to be creative with the accumulated “trash” that I had.

1. Hot Chocolate Cans (I took them from the Education Centre kitchen trash) – useful as mini dustbins for tissues, cotton wool etc, and also to put plastic/paper bags. The other one I use a can opener to create some holes in the bottom and use as a drainer.





2. Chocolate Bar Box (also from the Education Centre Kitchen) – useful to place cooking stuff. The box is nice too!


3. Milk Cartons – Unfortunately, it's hard to find a cow to milk for my daily calcium dosage, thus I still accumulate a lot of of milk cartons. Was looking at the sunset one day, and was suddenly inspired. It's now decoration for my kitchen.





4. Top of Milk Cartons – felt bad to throw away the rest of the carton, so used one box top to put my spices, the other to put rubber bands.





5. Plastic tray from purchase of fresh mushrooms – usually, i keep these trays to defrost my frozen meat a few times before throwing them away, took one to use as a drainer for my sponge (with some holes in the bottom that drains water into the sink).
   
   But honestly, I feel that it is also because I do have a lot of time on my hands. There are no distractions in terms of television and internet. At home, at this time I would be hooked on to the net or the tv, and not writing this blog or thinking of ways how to be creative with “trash”. Anyway, the pros & cons of having the tv and the net deserves a blog entry on their own (tbc). Hope that this entry can help you to also trigger off some ideas of your own. Do share any other new ideas as well.
   
   
   
   
   

50 Things That I Would Not Have Done Back in Singapore

It’s been 2.5 months since I left home for SA, and around 2 months since I have settled down at Golden Gates. It’s time for some reflection. Here’s a list of 50 things that I never thought I would have done, accomplished or experienced:

1. Drive at 140 km/h.
2. Be driven at 180km/h.
3. Learn to stop at Stop Signs.
4. Learn how to give way at a cross junction of Stop Signs without traffic lights.
5. Learn to signal on the left and put on the wiper on the right.
6. Call traffic lights “robots”.
7. Call BBQ “braai”.
8. Wear shoes into my house.
9. Wear my pyjamas and uniform at least five times before I wash them.
10. Wash my hair only twice a week.
11. Wash my shoes at least once a month.
12. Handwash my own clothes and linen.
13. Wake up at 6.30am to handwash my own clothes.
14. Wake up at 6.30am to cook my own lunch.
15. Make beef dumplings and sweet & sour pork.
16. Bake delicious pies.
17. Eat green apples.
18. Eat green apples everyday.
19. Give green apples to horses trespassing my garden.
20. Feel that Maggie mee is the most important invention that ever happened to Mankind.
21. Feel excited and happy when I found egg noodles in a Pretoria supermarket.
22. Feel excited and happy when I found a Chinese family restaurant in Bethlehem.
23. Feel excited and happy when I spot Chinese, Koreans or Japanese.
24. Feel excited and happy when I see Chinese words.
25. Learn how to say greetings in 9 different languages (English, Mandarin, Malay, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, German, Afrikkans, Sotho)
26. Speak to an audience of 800 in simple Afrikkans.
27. Watch movies at a cinema.
28. Watch movies at a cinema for S$2.80 (R15).
29. Watch movies at a cinema 48km away.
30. Survive for 2 months without television.
31. Survive for 2 months without watching shows on internet.
32. Survive on a budget of S$18 (R100) each week.
33. Be approached to loan money (it’s usually the other way back home, I’m the one asking for loans because I forget my wallet.)
34. Be wary of my expenditure and make every cent count.
35. Compare prices of food in a supermarket
36. Count my money every weekend to keep track how much I have left.
37. Sit in a pothole (will do that the next time I go to Cleopatra Pools).
38. Hold on to a one day foal.
39. Hold on to the torn rear of a one day foal.
40. Hold on to the torn rear of a one day foal in a caddy driving at 140km/h to the vet.
41. Feel sorry for the horses when I ride them.
42. Be at a dinosaur fossil site.
43. Climb up a waterfall.
44. Climb up mountains without tracks.
45. Do a presentation to people from UN.
46. Learn so much about astronomy and palaeontology.
47. Maintain a neat & clean office table.
48. Appreciate that teachers do not have a fix timeslot for lunch.
49. Appreciate that my school forces us to leave the office by 6pm.
50. Appreciate that my school do not let us into the office on sat & sun.

A Magical Walk

Editor's Note: Cleopatra Pools is a relatively unknown trail to members of the public in Golden Gates. There used to be guided walks to the location, but for reasons unknown to me, it has since been stopped. Before I went, some colleagues warned that it is a difficult walk and that one should leave early in the morning for the walk. I finally did the walk on 24 Sept 08. I don't think words can ever do justice to the magical scenery at Cleopatra Pools. Thus, will try to put more photographs in this blog entry. All pictures with me are taken by Alet. Enjoy!

It was a public holiday and I was walking down or rather hopping down Little Caledon River and taking pictures (literally enjoying myself hoping down the rocks – see below) when I found myself at the foot of Wilgenhof.

The Chi Angel on my right shoulder gave me a pat on my ear and said, “Good job! You had a fruitful morning. Now that you are here, you just have to walk up to Alet's place and ask her to go for a walk as planned! Wouldn't that be nice?”. Before I could react, the Chi Devil on the other shoulder pulled my ear and reminded me, “Are you sure you want to do that? It's a nice afternoon to rest and just relax! Why go and torture yourself? You just have to call Alet to cancel the walk.”.

That sounded like a better option.

“But Chi, you have not been exercising for the past two weeks! And you have been procrastinating to go for a walk! Shouldn't you just exercise some self control?”

“But Chi, you can also do it another time? Why must it be today? Haven't you walked the river already? Give yourself a break!”

While my imaginary friends continued their arguments, I thought that I would just give Alet a call and see how things turned out.

“Hello, Alet? Chi here. .....How's your assignment going on? ...... good good......Would you like to go for a walk? ........ where?........Cleopatra Pools?”

The moment i said “Cleopatra Pools”, I could feel an angry 50 ton hammer slammed right into my head. What on earth was that?!!!! How did the words Cleopatra Pools come out from my mouth? It was too late now. I held my breathe for the next few seconds waiting for a reply.

“Sure? When? Now?”

Another heavy 100 ton hammer slammed straight into my chest. *gulp*

My Chi Angel friend gave a huge grin, waved bye to us and *poof* off. There was no backing out now. I dragged my feet up the hill and met up with Alet. The next thing I knew, we were at the foot of a mountain. I looked up at the greenery between two mountains. Somewhere in the midst of the trees up there lies the Cleopatra Pools.

We begun our journey by tracking through the grass. “I'm not sure where the track is, but the general direction is over there,” Alet reassured me by leading in front. Er, ok, cool, as long as the snakes stayed away, I'm fine with walking through grass. As we trekked through the grass, I couldn't help but feel really excited. I'm in for a exploration expedition!

We took several rest stops along the way, and each time when I turned back, I was really amazed by the scene that was presented to me. The last stop before we went into the “forested area” was at a cliff filled with honeycombed formation.

We had to bash through the vegetation to reach the other side where the pools were. I was filled with emotion when I saw the enormous potholes appearing behind the vegetation.

It was really a geographer's paradise! I seriously didn't want to leave this place. It was so serene and unreal. The sounds of the birds and wind filled the deep overhang with acoustic music. And the potholes were like a huge art installation, carved into the floor of the deep overhang like the steps or footprint of a giant walking by. It gave me goosebumps just thinking about how the elements of water and wind could create such a masterpiece over millions of years.

That was not the end. As we walked through the forested area, we explored more and more deep overhangs, and saw dried up waterfalls (it's now end of winter). We even tried to climb up one of the dried up waterfalls to try and see what was on top. I kinda of freaked out halfway and was clinging on the rocks for my dear life. The wind was really strong, and my knees just went weak when I looked down.

There were several other beautiful corners during this walk. There were also many formations to study, to admire and to awe at. We took several pictures and explored nearby formations.

I was really sad when we had to leave. It almost felt strange to leave, although it had been less than three hours since I was on this walk. I felt that I had been transported to somewhere from a different time and space for many many years. “Please give me moment,” I told Alet, and looked towards the cliff. I closed my eyes and tried to absorb and remember all the magical moments that I had during this walk.

It wasn't a difficult walk. In fact, it was a really relaxing and therapeutic walk. It is really the best walk that I have ever been in my entire life. On one hand, I would really like to share this paradise with the rest of the world, but I also fear that human traffic can destroy the serenity of this place. I believe the beauty of this walk and place was also because there was no human elements evident at any point! I fear how ignorant people might draw their initials on the wall, and how high human traffic swimming in the pools would affect the future formation of the holes etc. We would never know the impact that we have on this mystical location if it opens up to the public. Thus, I sincerely hope and appeal to those who learn about these pools through this site, to NOT try and locate these pools on your own, but rather wait for official guided walks from Golden Gates. =)

Adventures of the Snowman

This is a picture of me. I kinda like the way I look, with a nice smile, hands and a turf of nice hair on my head.

I was created by Alet & Chi on the 21 Sept 2008, Sunday, along Blesbok Route, Golden Gate. It was actually quite a miracle that I was born. It had been warm in Golden Gates for the past two weeks where temperatures during the day actually reached over 20 degrees Celsius. It seemed like summer was just around the corner. But suddenly temperatures dipped on 20 Sept, Saturday and it snowed on the top of the mountains throughout the night!

Fortunately, when Alet & Chi arrived at the top of Blesbok Route around 9am, not all the snow had melted. And with their bare hands, they started rolling snow around for my torsos and head. Alet made a huge ball for my lower torso, and Chi did my upper torso and head. I was really grateful to them as their fingers and hands were so frozen and numb from making me.

However, I was a bit frustrated at the by-standers who just simply watch Alet & Chi make me without helping, and just as my basic structure was done, suddenly everybody had a lot of suggestions and ideas. One guy put stones as my eyes, another even tried to make me a hand and put his gloves on me! I mean HELLO?????!!!!! Where were you all during the most difficult part in my creation – the poor ladies were the ones who dipped their hands into snow for me. It is so typical of human behaviour. During the most shitty moments, there is usually only a few pioneers who are not afraid of getting their hands dirty, while the majority just stand and watch. But when things are going on well, suddenly everyone wants to own it or me in this case.... fortunately, both Alet & Chi were quite firm with these strangers, and we took a series of wonderful pictures together! It was really fun! We used the timer and took many silly poses together. It was definitely the best moments of my life.

Soon, both Alet & Chi said their goodbyes and went to their car to warm up. They must have been freezing cold. I was sad to see them go, but nevertheless it was heartwarming to still see them hanging around just to make sure that I was okay.

Unfortunately, more strangers came along and wanted to take picture with me. There was even this young kid, probably not more than 3 or 4 years of age who cried when her mother brought her to me. She had never seen snow and it was her first time seeing a smart looking snowman like me, and i guess she was just overwhelmed.

More random people passed by and took several pictures with me. I started to feel glad that I am bringing so much joy to people around me, then this middle age man came along and tried to put his cap on my head. The next moment happened so fast that I didn't even have enough time to think, and before I could protest, i found my head missing!!!!!! I was simply horrified! My head broke and splattered into lumps beside my lower torso. And this homo sapien actually then placed his hat on my torso and took a picture with whatever is left of me. I was really mad! If I could move, I would probably perform a kamikaze full body launch at him and freeze him up!

Fortunately, along came another family whose grandmother saw the incident. She then tried her best, without gloves, to try and fix me up. Although i lost my turf of hair and my smile, but i did get back my head. She also tried to fix back my eyes. I was so touched by her gesture. While her family continued to take pictures and played in the snow, she was just working hard to put me back. I think humans and their behaviours are really interesting. In a short span of time, i was amazed to have experienced and witnessed such varied types of human behaviour!

My heart sank when I heard Alet's car starting. It was really time for my creators to go. As their car moved off from the sideway onto the road, they turned, looked at me and waved for the one last time. A trickle of water started to fall down my broken cheek. Was it the warmth of the sun that was consuming me or was I simply sad to see them go? I wasn't so sure, but I felt tremendous warmth and peace in my heart. Thank you, my ladies... ...

My Little Red Dot

“Singapore! Oh, i know Singapore!”

“Oh great! Thanks for not asking me which part of China!” I replied, being really grateful that someone knows where I come from and that Singapore is not anywhere in or near China.

“Yes yes, i know, cos my aunt is also from Taiwan,” my new south african friend proudly announced to the group and continued to share with us the delicious food that his taiwanese aunt makes.

I just gave a polite smile. I didn't want to embarrass my new friend. I would find another appropriate moment to tell him that Singapore is also not anywhere in or near Taiwan.

I find that Singapore is not an easy concept or place to imagine. The only person who truly bothered to find out where I came from was Alet, the student intern at Golden Gate, and she said, “I really tried my best to find where is Singapore on the map, but i can't find it!” When i showed her the word Singapore on the world map, I had to convince her that my country actually existed, it was simply just covered by the little red dot used to indicate the name Singapore.

Another common question that I get a lot:

“So which city do you live in Singapore?”

“Er, Singapore?”

“I know you live in Singapore. What is the city? Where is your capital?”

“Er, Singapore?!” Then I have to explain how the island Singapore is a city. It is hard to imagine for many, especially when I tell them that my entire country can fit between where i stay in Golden Gate to the nearest town Bethlehem 48km way.

“So how does your country earn a living?!!!!”

“We focus mainly on manufacturing and services.”

“You mean like you make your own cars? but your country is so small!” Then i continue to explain that in Singapore we focus on high-valued and value-added manufacturing services, and gave examples on how we are one of the largest oil exporters in the world despite not having our own oil supply, and how because of land shortage, we also have several investments overseas. And how we have expanded our land through land reclamation to around 1.4 times from the original size. Somehow the more i described, the more unconvinced my audience became. The last straw was when i told them that we live in flat units as high as 40 stories, and that all 40 floors were just apartments, not offices.

Nevertheless, two weeks ago, I had an unbelievable nice conversation with the most unlikely person that had actually been to Singapore! It was with Charlotte (stable master @ GG)'s grandmother! She had went on a Southeast Asia tour during the 1980s. Her memory was really good as she discussed her adventures in the various countries like Thailand, Hong Kong etc she also remembered being in Singapore, and Changi Airport =)

My little red dot, my little red dot. Hopefully through this year, more people from this side of the world will get to know who you are.

Eco-School Workshop on African Time

“I live in a country where the speed limit is 90km/h, please put on your seat belt and hold on to the door,” I told my passenger as I, not so confidently, tried to maneuver down the curves of Golden Gate Mountains at 130km/h. It was already 8.55am, and the eco-school workshop was suppose to start in five minutes time at 9.00am.

I was panicking.
I don't like to be late.

It didn't help that Senitel Primary school was probably another 36km away at Qwa-Qwa, and that we were, er hrm, also the organisers of this workshop.

Thankfully (although it should not be an excuse), the rest of the educators also functioned on African Time (i.e. anytime). When we arrived at 9.20am, only two out of six schools arrived, not including our guest speaker from a neighbouring school just down the road less than 1km away. Those who arrived before us seemed to be relatively calm and accepted our apologies as if they were very used to such situations.

After the arrival of our guest speaker, we finally managed to start the workshop at 10.00am with a total of three schools. Slowly but surely, more schools arrived, including one school whom we did not invite. One school did not turn up, and even the teachers from our hosting school apparently lost their way too.

Nevertheless, it was a good and fruitful session for the 5 schools and 10 educators who attended the workshop. Three out of the five schools gave feedback that the time allocated for the workshop was too short. In fact, after we ended at the workshop at 12pm, packed and cleaned up the place, there was one more school that was still deep in discussion with our guest speaker. It was heartwarming to see the interests and commitment from the educators, including the guest speaker from Letotolo Primary. Despite a rocky start, I believed that the success of this workshop was due to the following factors:

Focused
There was no frills. The main objective of the workshop was to help our eco-schools in their portfolios for submission on 31st Oct, and the agenda was simple: 1) Recap on the programme objectives & expectations, 2) a sharing by a green flag eco-school, 3) discussion & sharing of porfolios and 4) sharing of common problems with eco-school portfolios.

Expertise
There were three “experts” to help the educators check their portfolios and to share their experience. Thulani – an eco-school evaluator in 2007, he was able to share what the evaluators look out for, and what were some common issues with rejected portfolios. Mr Finger – a fellow educator that can empathise with the challenges faced by the schools and could give practical advice. Moreover, he had the spirit of sharing by showing his portfolio (both 2007 & 2008) for others to learn and ask questions. Myself – an educator that is also familiar with putting up portfolios & reports for school awards in a competitive education system. Thus, there was a high ratio of facilitators to schools, and schools were able to attain critical and constructive advice for their individual portfolios.

Sincerity & Passion
All the facilitators had a genuine interest to share their experiences and also constantly encouraged the teachers to believe in the value that they are doing for their learners and schools. One school provided feedback that the workshop was “constructive” and “motivational”.

However, during the course of this workshop, I feel that although a lot of issues were addressed, I still feel that many of the portfolios would not be able to meet the standards. The main problem was that right from the start, most of the schools did not know how to use to audit to help them choose their theme. Many had mismatches, e.g. their school audit shows that they did well in the theme “healthy living” and were poor in “heritage and culture”. Yet, the school still choose “healthy living”. Also, during the celebration of water week, they had lessons on how to save water (which falls under “resource use”). Thus, there was a lack of consistency. It was also difficult to educate the teachers on this concept. Moreover, it was already impossible to change the theme and their plans for the coming submission. I fear to think that the schools might just eventually change the results of their audit to match their theme. This will definitely defeat the purpose of the programme!

This opportunity to organise and conduct the workshop actually kind of motivate me to look forward to help the KIPs schools this year embark on the eco-school programme and project next year. To be fair to the schools, I feel that we need to inform them early, and probably also conduct this workshop during the mid-year. I feel that with proper guidance, educators need not be told one month before submission that their fundamental focus was wrong. It can be very discouraging, especially for a school who had taken effort in their programmes & portfolio but chose a theme that did not support the gaps that surfaced as a result of their audit. Ok, enough said.

TV in Bedroom? No Affinity =(

I remembered the first time i had a tv in my bedroom. It was during my university days and I had a second hand tv in my hostel room. One afternoon, less than a week after i acquired the tv, i accidentally fell asleep on my bed with the tv on. I then woke up to a burning tv. Yes, it was on fire!

So, when my supervisor asked me if i would like the put a tv in my current room, i wasn't too sure. One on hand, i understand the benefits of connecting with the world and knowing more about the local culture, on the other hand, i fear that history will repeat itself. Fortunately this time, the tv did not literally burn. It just fused on the third day after i got it....

Living on 100 Rand Each Week

Imagine living on 100 rand (less than S$20) weekly. This is my current challenge. So far, it's not been really difficult. I don't drink, smoke, buy soft drinks, snacks, no internet, no calls/sms on hp (only receive incoming calls which are free), no purchases like tv, microwave etcetc etc However, i do have the occasional craving and i treat myself to a pack of chips @ 11 rand (10% of my weekly budget).

Honestly, i am amazed myself and am rather proud that i am able to keep it up so far. It's like doing a social experiment. How long would it take for me to succumb to temptations?!!!!

Actually, the main reason why I don't really spend $$ is It will cost me 50 rand service charge just to withdraw cash!!!!!! & with 50 rand i can buy a 10 piece mix chicken parts (R29.90) + a large head of cabbage (R6.99) + a bag of carrots (R7.50) + half a dozen of eggs (R5.75) and still have change to spare ... moreover, the exchange rate in Singapore is more favourable, thus i try to stretch what i bring over. e.g. in Singapore i think i S$1 = 5.70 rand whereas here, if i withdraw money, it is S$1 = 4.70 Rand or something like that ... so, here are some strategies that i use to make my R100 last!

1) No need to buy air time (only receive incoming calls)
2) Watch movie only on tue ~ 15 rand!!!!!!
3) Buy cabbage & carrots as vegetables ~ they are the cheapest and are hardy
4) Buy frozen packs for meat, and seperate your minced meat into smaller portions and freeze them. e.g. R30 for 7-9 pieces of frozen chicken & R20 of minced meat (which can be seperated into 6-7 portions) can easily last me 2 weeks.
5) Compare prices, don't be too quick to buy
6) use lots of cabbage & carrots when you cook & only one portion of meat for any meal
7) beat 2 eggs and fry then cut into strips. they can substitute as meat when you do fried rice or fried pasta
8) use only half a packet of instant noodles and add cabbage/carrots & maybe max 1 or 2 crabsticks
9) don't be shy to take away (e.g. ordered a pizza @ R42, but only took 3 pieces and took home the rest, which lasted me for another 3 meals throughout the next few days)
10) don't be too quick to make purchases unless they are necessities like food, e.g. i wanted to have a small flask for warm water in the office but just took a cup from my room as substitute (and recently i got a small flask as a gift... *goose bumps* ...).

Actually, by also spending the R100 only on necessities, i can also save the environment coz i do not make unnecessary purchases and learn how to be creative with what i have, e.g. using my boxes as dustbins etc I really hope that i can last all the way till my hubby arrives in Nov. That's my target =)

Kids in Parks ~ A Great Concept

“Kids in Parks” is a great concept! Sponsored by Pick N Pay (equalivant to our NTUC), pupils from disadvantaged homes/schools have a once in a lifetime opportunity to stay at Golden Gates for 3D2N. Once they arrive, there's a goodie bag with a t-shirt, hat, squeeze bottle and snacks! They experience various activities, such as canoeing, abseiling, hiking, horse riding, campfire etc. There is also a lot of learning opportunities on resource use, cultural heritage and outdoor lesson on water. It can be really packed and tiring. Imagine this, the first school comes in from mon to wed. when we send off the school on wed, we immediately pick up the next school who will be with us from wed to fri. i.e. every other day, there will be hiking, canoeing/bseiling/horseriding and campfire! thankfully we rotate our duties and there will be only two nights that we would have to work late! There are 10 schools in this programme, from late July to early September.

Nevertheless, It was very heartwarming when i read some of the reflections from the pupils. Many of them are thankful for this opportunity and for the simple things like food and nice dormitory where they slept overnight. The food that they had were really filling, and with fruits for every meal! With some schools, it was obvious that the pupils really appreciated the sumptious food which they may not have back home. The pupils just came back for second helpings and they really just ate! They were also thrilled by the opportunities to canoe, abseil and horseride!

I was very impressed with the pupils from Machaea Primary School. The pupils were very reflected in their learning, and respectful towards us and their teachers. They raised their hands to answer questions and even to ask questions. What was heartwarming was that although they did not speak English very well, and could only use simple sentences, every sentence that they spoke “hit the nail on the head”, and were reflective/good answers!

Unfortunately, not all the schools were deserving of this opportunity. Just finished with a school where pupils had flashy handphones, nice clothes and wasted food. I am not saying that they should not be given this opportunity to attend the camp at Golden Gate. In fact, they should attend the programme, but perhaps as a paying school. This fully sponsored camp should be given to schools who otherwise would never have the funds to bring their pupils. To be honest, for that few days when I was attending to these more privilege kids, I questioned my decision to come here. I felt that it was ridiculous to abandon my own pupils back in Singapore who probably needed me more. Moreover, some of these kids were more privilege than my own pupils back home! Nevertheless, this is only one school out of the many schools out there that are really disadvantaged.

After Kids in Parks, these schools will embark on another more long term programme – Eco schools, which some schools view it as very prestigious. Went to an Eco School Flag Raising Ceremony – Letotolo Primary School. It was more grand than our Speech Day. They had various VIPs, performances and the raised the flag with the national anthem, a mini police squad and salutes. It was an eye opener for me. The teachers doubled up as cooks to prepare a really sumptuous lunch for the VIPs. The whole staff room and main office was converted to a preparation kitchen. It was amazing!

Nevertheless, not all schools are successful. They also face the same problems where some teachers see it as additional work. Most of the schools that are successful have very supportive principals. However, it is important to bring the message across that building an eco-school is not about aiming to get the award or the flag, but rather strengthening curriculum & making experiences more meaningful for learners, and the flag/award is just an affirmation(& recognition) that the school's systems are in place. wow! Singapore MOE has trained me well =P

A Day at the Stables

It had been a great day! After cleaning up my own house and laundry, I decided to help out in the stables. Started off by cleaning up the stables. Learnt a lot of new things, e.g. how to separate dry hay from wet hay, how to scoop up poo, how to scrub off harden poo/mud from the stable floor, how to saddle horses etc. To be honest, I don't really enjoy horse riding as much as I enjoy being with the horses – watching them, scratching them or even helping to clean out their stables, getting food for them, having them nibble at my hair etc. Somehow, when i was riding with a group for an hour, especially at the slopes, i just wanted to get down. I felt apologetic being on the horse. It had to work so hard to carry my weight. And i have seen how much they perspire when they are back from such journeys. I just reassured myself that at least I had helped them to clean out their stables today, and that they will have a nice place to rest in tonight. Anyway, I really missed home today. I see families and couples coming for horse riding. Reminded me of home, especially when Charlotte's family visited her at the stables – her mother, sister and grandma. Suddenly reminded of our weekly Sunday gatherings with grandma at my mom's place. Suddenly missed my mom's home cooked food....... *sigh*... anyway, it really had been a meaningful day! I really don't mind helping out in the stables during weekends when i am free. =)

Adventures of Saving a Foal

“Congratulations! I heard it's a boy!” I shook the hands of Stable Master, Charlotte, and congratulated her on the new arrival of a pony foal. It had just arrived in the early morning.

Me and my colleague, Alet, were waiting for a group of people at the stable to have a guided walk at the Cathedral Caves. Fortunately or unfortunately, they decided not to turn up and we decided to go ahead to the Cathedral Caves with the horses. While we were about to get the horses, Bushman, one of the biggest stallion, suddenly went crazy and aimed for the foal's testicles. The next few minutes felt like eternity.

It was tragic.

Bushman dragged the young foal aggressively across the floor in circles. The surrounding horses were horrified, and there was total chaos. Charlotte was screaming at the top of her voice at Bushman to get him to stop. Bushman continued to slam the poor foal repeatedly on the ground. I froze. It was a frightful sight.

Suddenly, when Bushman let go of the foal, other horses managed to surround the lifeless foal and kept Bushman out. Charlotte and Alet immediately took the limp foal out of the chaos. It was bleeding between the hind legs. We had to keep it on the ground and apply pressure on its wound with a towel. It was shivering quite badly. I felt lost, not knowing what to do, or how I could help. I just kept stroking it's legs and applying pressure on the wound while others busied with getting the vet on the phone etc. The next thing I knew, Alet came with the cabby, and created space in the boot.. Charlotte had also placed mats in the boot. We were bringing him to Bethlehem (around 48km away).

When we placed him in the boot, his mom was furious and confused, and just kept coming to the boot. It was heart wrenching. When we were moving off, she just kept galloping towards the car, knowing that her new born foal was in it.

Nevertheless, in the car, we were doing what we were good at. Charlotte – being the stable master and the best with horses held on to the foal's head and stroked it, trying to comfort it. Alet – superbly fast, but not necessary safe driver, eventually managed to drive us all in one piece to the vet at 170km/h. Me – since i could do neither, held on to the wound, and in order to do that well, my face was at its rear end for most of the journey. My first real application of the first aid skills that I have learnt during my first two weeks of training in Kruger.

To be honest, when I was kneeling in the 170km/h cabby holding on to the rear end of the foal, for a split second, I had visualized the headlines in the newspaper tomorrow, “Golden Gate Tragedy – 3 Dead with Foal in Car Crash” I believed my heart rate was probably at least beating as fast as the car was travelling, i.e. 170. It must have been all over my face as Charlotte, who should be the most traumatized, kept asking me if I was alright. I just kept on praying that all would be well, the foal and us.
Charlotte was initially worried that his mom would reject him. Afterall, he was just born, had yet to feed, and there was no time for imprinting before we took him. Thankfully, he was not rejected when we got back, and now, he is feeding well, sniffing, trying to gallop =) He is a real survi

Someone is watching over Me

i have always strongly believe that there is someone watching over me (is is God? or a Guardian Angel? Or is it simply because i have contributed a lot during my past life?). Whatever it is, it is one of my driving factors to keep on doing good, as an appreciation and also to be that guardian angel for someone. These are also the reasons what keeps me going and being positive. The fact that everything always seem to fall into place. Here's more reasons why during my journey so far:

1) The other ex-GVI volunteer from Singapore is actually a fellow Sungei Buloh Volunteer as well, and I saw her wearing a GVI t-shirt during our volunteer outing. It was strange coz we had communicated through email but didn't know each other! what are the chances???!!!!!! Crazily slim!!!
2) I met someone who was also going to Harrismith on the bus from the backpackers inn in Joburg, thus i had company. Initially was bit concerned about travelling on my own. although i never got his name, i am thankful for him crossing my path and assisting in my journey in GG.
3) my co-colleague is also an ex-teacher, and we have very similar philosophy and attitudes when it comes to teaching and learning. it gave me goose bumps when we graded some science projects with very similar results.
4) my 14watt light bulb burst and i was just about the replace it when i was given one as a free gift during the science expo. i freaked out when i saw what the gift was. i was just about to buy it that day?!

Strange? Fate/opportunities/chances are very strange. it always amazes me how things fall into place. Someone asked me what if one day something really bad happens? I am really not sure, but i hope it never happens, and even if it does, i believe that my coping mechanism will pull me through – there's always a light at the end of the tunnel, the sun will always rise again tomorrow, there will always be something positive in any bad situation.. ...

Settling Down At Golden Gate Highlands NP

Sunny South Africa! Here I come! Counting elephants daily on a safari! Where's my sun block?! My insect repellent! My shorts?! My tank top?! My hat!?

That was for a few months before I left Singapore. The day before I left Singapore I was told that I would be stationed at Golden Gate Highlands National Park. I repeat, it is a HIGHLANDS national park where it snows and where summer doesn't reach beyond early 20 degrees Celsius. Let me paraphrase again, summer during the day doesn't get warmer than the coldest night back home. Currently in sunny Singapore, i already use a quilt at night (without aircon, just my windows open); plus I already sometimes turn blue after bathing at night due to the cold weather. Now, I am transported to a freezer almost 2000m above sea level.

I had to repack all my clothes & stuff.

I had to rethink my safari dream & anticipated experiences.

Nevertheless, I am glad i was told before i left. At least i would not be stranded at my snowy winter wonderland dressed in shorts and tank tops.

Thankfully, it is the end of winter at Golden Gate, and it is starting to get warmer. I have managed to settle down comfortably, and converted my little hut into a warm home. The previous occupants (former GVIs) were all males, as such my supervisor was initially concerned that it may not be suitable for a lady (*er hrm*) to live in. Other than the clothes line being too high for me to reach, the house is quite well equipped. The scenery infront of the house is also beautiful. Sometimes, the horse will gather and feed infront of the house. I also get the sun the whole day to the left of my house. The stars are also amazing at night!

My colleagues are really warm and new friendships are easily formed. Their friendliness made it even easier for me to settle in. It did help that my birthday was a week after I arrived, and they did a mini celebration – with balloons and a homemade cake. We also did a massive pizza together, it was almost the size of a small table! Thankfully, I could reciprocate their kindness with peanut butter cookies (which I learnt from Vishalla & Bridget how to do during the first two weeks training in Kruger).

Workwise, it is very similar to home, except that I am obviously enjoying myself more here. I am now involved in environmental education work. Basically helping out with groups coming into Golden Gate and raising awareness on environmental issues. Also get to canoe or hike or have a campfire at least once a week. Get to teach pupils and share teaching strategies and ideas with fellow colleagues. Weekends - busy with cleaning up house, laundry, walking around. Unfortunately or fortunately, no television =)

Food – currently there is Kids in Park programme, i.e. food is provided as the pupils stay in the dorms for a 3D2N camp. Nevertheless, there are still some meals that I have to prepare on my own. But it's fine, and I could try out many different recipes. Meat is expensive, but the rest of the basic necessities are easily available (about 48km away – er, although that's further than from changi to Jurong, i.e. the whole Singapore can fit inbetween GG and Bethlehem – where i get my groceries).

Currently enjoying the space and fresh air that is around! =)

Best Animal Sightings at Kruger

They were like a cut out from a cartoon. All the tightly packed elephants were just staring at us. We were just looking at some impalas at Roodewal, Olifants, waterhole on our left, and just as we are able to leave, Vishalla alerted us to our right. We could see all their packed faces, big and small, at various heights, just intensively looking at us to anticipate our next move. Apparently, they had been staring at us for sometime now.

Suddenly, when they realised that we were also staring at them, they backup for a while before one of the larger females walked infront of our car and the rest of the herd followed and crossed the road. The matriarch then came out from the herd and faced us with her trunk slightly raised. She stayed protective and stood firmly infront of our car as her herd pass behind her. the moment was very intensed, and my heart was seriously pumping very fast. As the last elephant crossed, she finally turned and joined the herd.

They went to the waterhole to quench their thirst. There was this really little one that tried to drink from its trunk as well. It was just like a scene from National Geographic. Everything else was a standstill, except for this herd of almost 15 plus ellies. It was a peaceful sighting and finally the herd left. Just as we were about to leave again, another female that was limping scrambled from the bushes and crossed the road quickly, and tried to keep up with the herd. It was really a heart wrenching sight.

River at Skukuza

The entire episode was an amazing 15 min, and was the best animal sighting that I had in Kruger. Nothing can beat the ellies, not even the leopards or lions. There were a lot of other good animals sightings, e.g. over 50 – 80 buffaloes hanging out/crossing the road, etc. Many of them at Olifants, but I really have a soft spot for the ellies.

Olifants River (I get goose bumps when I see the river - like a scene from LOTR)

Lions feeding on a girrafle! Along the roadside!

There was another old female that we saw close to the road. She was so tired that her eyes were drooping every now and then (see above). Her trunk was so relaxed that it touched the ground. She swayed slowly from side to side, closing her eyes occasionally, and scratching her ears every now and then. She then took a bunch of leaves. Just as we thought she would be feeding on them, she took the bunch of leaves and stuffed it in her ear! We just kept on laughing and laughing. I think the whole car shook for the next couple of minutes! It must have been itching really badly! That's what I mean about ellies, you can watch them for hours without feeling bored =)

Training in Kruger

The training in Kruger was very comprehensive and organised. There was a wide variety of activities. e.g. visit to skukuza herbarium, first aid course, SA education course, reptile course etc. It was a great experience to be able to travel around Kruger, along with fellow GVI mates , attending training together, cooking and eating together. For me, the best part of the entire training, other than the game drives, was finally being able to learn first aid formally. Back in school, we train ourselves by reading up or learning from our guides when they share what they learnt during first aid course. It was great to be able to be able to learn with a small team. We had mock up scenerios for us to train our ability to react and think when situations arise. Also, glad that finally I had the opportunity to try out CPR on a dummy. Definitely, i feel more adequate and confident now. At least now with our guides, I feel that I am in a better position to “train” or comment on certain first aid issues.

Another highlight from the two weeks wonderful course was the visit to a local school at Phalaborwa Gate. There were about 718 pupils in the school with about 20 teachers. Unfortunately, they only have 8 classrooms, out of which 1 was burnt down, and the pupils had to have their lessons in a make shift shack. Also, the truck which was suppose to bring food did not arrive, so the pupils did not have food for recess. It was really difficult to see how many of the children, some in their home clothes because they cannot afford uniforms, looking and staring at one lucky child, with his neatly pressed uniform, sitting on a chair outside the classroom having packed food. The teachers did not have a staffroom, simply because there wasn't enough money to buy one. The HODs and VP sat in a room that was half the size of our conference room, with the library books. There was only one computer in the principal office. However, despite the poor conditions of the school, it was heartwarming to see how the pupils work diligently and neatly on their exercise book. The classrooms though packed with pupils, had decorated walls, and one even had a mini science garden at a corner. The school has also organised fieldtrips for the pupils, e.g. kruger, coke factory and radio station. There was a team of willing and hardworking teachers, but lacking the funds to have a more conducive physical environment.

Another interesting experience during these two weeks was the cooking and preparation of food! We had to prepare the meals by ourselves. We were very fortunate as there was only 4-5 of us at any part of the journey, so preparation of food was easy. It was also easy to have teamwork, i.e. some of us prepare food, some cook and another wash (mainly Pete, the GVI coordinator, was doing the washing – thankfully). One thing that i needed to get used to was to eat sandwich for lunch. Generally, I am okay with sandwiches once in a while, but it was different from the usual hot lunches (rice or noodles) that i am used to. I can have noodles from our canteen auntie for weeks =P But having sandwiches for two weeks was difficult. Nevertheless, learnt a lot of new recipes! It will be put into good use for our 2009 Guides Camp! My girls was commenting during the last camp the menu was the same as the previous year =P It was a good two weeks of training, and also an adjustment for us before we go to our parks!

Recycling ~ Any real value?

Is there real value in recycling? This question was posed to me many times, especially when my friends come over to my house and see the recycling bin that i have in my kitchen. The argument is that one individual cannot make an impact, it has to be the major companies or government that take the lead and make more efforts in conservation.

While I agree that in the short term to have maximum impact, these efforts should be driven by large companies and the government. However, that does not negate the impact that we have! The value of conservation can start from home, and our actions also influences our future generation. Recycling can be contagious!

I remembered a lesson/sharing by one of my uni professors (prof. victor savage). He shared about how he gave an overseas talk on conservation/reduction of carbon emission and was challenged by one of the audience. The audience asked him what car he drove to school. My prof was proud to say that he took a bus instead. Of course, he then gained the respect of the audience and me as well =)

The point that I'm trying to make is that all actions start from home and how you live your personal life. In large companies and governments, it is still the individual who makes the decision or at least promote conservation efforts. If we always have this mentality that as individuals there is nothing much that we can do, things will never move, and things will never change.

If you don't believe in recycling, do cut down on consumption as an alternative to conservation. Choose wisely and make sound decisions. Avoid purchasing items with excessive packaging and say no to plastic bags/styrofoam etc etc Just take the first step today, and after a while, it just becomes easier and easier.

My Other Half

I really need to count my blessings.

When I married my hubby, I did not know that he would also care for the environment. I would already be grateful if my the other half does not complain when I set up a recyling corner in the kitchen and store "trash". However, not only does he support setting up our own recyling corner, he also helps to bring the trash to the main recyling bin periodically.

I was particularly proud of him the other day, when he decided to take public transport to Vivocity to purchase movie vouchers in exchange for tickets. I mean, we don't exactly live near Vivo. Today, he ordered a chicken pie, and when the lady wanted to use a styrofoam box, he told the lady to use a small paper bag instead.

I really need to count my blessings.

My hubby really supports me in what I do, and also participates actively in my passions. Many people cannot understand why he would allow me to go for this journey to SA for a year, while he stays in Singapore. But I understand that it is his way of showing his love for me. I cannot imagine how different my life would be if he had been less accomodating. And to some extent, I do feel a bit guilty as I feel that he is definitely more supportive than I am in this relationship. I would really need to do some self reflection and think about how I can provide more actively for our home/family before going on this journey!

I must be the world's most blessed wife =)

It's more than Cruel ~ It's Barbaric

This was written in response (suntimes@sph.com.sg) to the article on how people are tattooing fish for 4D numbers (Straits Times 10 Feb)

No matter how humane people claim the process of tattooing (the fish) is, it does not change the fact they are branding another living thing -permanently. Even if it does not cause pain, the act itself is barbaric. To me, these are actions of the past, when humans were less civilized, and where slaves were branded and forcefully tattooed. Have we now accepted these kinds of actions just because the victims are now other smaller animals?

It is not as if the act of tattooing on fish is for research, where one can help to find the cure cancer. It is simply for the pleasure of some who wants to get 4D numbers. Can’t there be other less deeming ways to get the 4D numbers? Here are some suggestions:

1) Throw a pack of cards into the air, and pick out numbers.
2) Make a board of numbers and play darts.
3) Use mahjong tiles and get your pet to “pick” the numbers.
4) Draw a matrix of numbers (0 to 9) on the floor/sand, turn your back to the matrix and throw a one dollar gold coin to see which number it lands on.

I am sure people can get the numbers without subjecting the fish to unnecessary dosage of anesthetic and injection.

As for issue on tattooing on fish as a form of art, there have been many people around the world who readily decorate their bodies with tattoo art. So, I have no problems with that as long as the fish agrees.

Why I am Anti-Golf

During CNY visits to family and friends houses these few days, I have heard at least five people spoke about picking up golf or are already playing golf. Well, while I may not agree with their choice of hobby, I have not gone to the stage of discouraging them from it in a serious manner. I don't think I'll ever do it either, unless its my own close family members.

I'm anti-golf. The first time I knew about the environmental impacts of golf was through my teacher. I can't remember when I started having such strong feelings against golf, but I remembered being very upset with my parents for picking up a country club membership when I was in Secondary school. I also refused to pick up the club during a trip to Desaru with my colleague (it was a free trial or something like that). While I acknowledged the many benefits of golf, from providing income for the local people to even sometimes protecting pockets of nature from urbanisation, I still cannot condone an activity that destroys massive forested areas and wetlands just for the enjoyment of a privillage few. Also, with the increased popularity of golf, more and more developing countries have started to clear their lands, and this is growing concern as these LDCs (with all their other problems) may not have developed proper accountability and stewardship to the environment.

Here are some articles/websites that I would like to share:
1. Impact of Golf Courses (Retrieved on 09 Feb 08) which also highlights the benefits of golf.
2. A Global Perspective on the Environmental Impact of Golf (Retrieved on 09 Feb 08) which gives details on the environment impacts as well as the impact on developing countries

It was interesting to read how golf traditionally is a game where the course "goes" with the environment when it first started approx. 500 years ago (e.g. using pasture land ~ maximising land use!), but has unfortunately become a game where it deliberately changes that landscape =(

Anyway, to all who are avid fans of golf, I sincerely hope that you can seriously think through if there are less damaging forms of sports and entertainment. =)

Showers of Blessing

The Golden Shower (Cassia fistula) is another tree that I highly respect and appreciate. It is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves every 8-10 months, especially during flowering. It is absolutely beautiful when that happens (see below) as the whole tree simply brightens up the roads when there are very few leaves to cover the yellow flowers.



This golden shower tree is found along Serangoon Central, opposite the KFC outlet. There are about three of these trees along this road, which I would pass on my way back home. However, this particular tree caught my attention as it would bloom the brightest! It gives me a sense of happiness whenever it blossoms! And it's definitely a great stress reliever after a long day at work =)

What is also amazing about the golden shower is that (according to The Trees of our Garden City)almost all parts of the tree - the leaves, bark, flowers, fruits and seeds - are believed to have curative properties, and are extensively used in folk medicine to treat a myriad of ailments, from pimples, burns, wounds, skin diseases and worms, to cold, fever, flu and malaria, to rheumatism, epilepsy, convulsions, delirium and even cancer! People in general, are like trees where we are all unique from each other. So how then, can we make ourselves useful? =)