CSI: Grandma decodes the TV

We were having trouble with the TV remote control last Sunday at Grandma Popo's place. We figured it was probably either the batteries of the remote control (RC) unit or just plain bad contact between batteries and RC. In any case, we managed to turn on the TV after a few palm slaps and hard button pressing of the RC.

Well, Grandma Popo witnessed the entire episode and got rather concerned that there must have been something wrong with the TV signals.

Popo (in cantonese): Ah Munn, I've got a new television in my room and there are words on the screen that just wouldn't go away! See? Even this TV in the living room [she points at the one that we just switched on] took such difficulty. I've never seen those words before and they are also on the TV.

Me: What are you talking about, Popo? Don't worry about those words on the screen. They are subtitles.

Popo: No they are not subtitles! I know what subtitles are! I noticed this discrepancy ever since we got the new TV in my room. I've been monitoring the situation.

Me: And how have you been monitoring it? [Popo's got all the time in the world, and she's very capable of thinking of very innovative ways to solve certain 'mysteries in life'].

Popo: Wait. I copied down those words that wouldn't go away. I'll go take it (the paper) from my room. See if it makes sense..... [she scurries into her room and comes back with the slip of paper, then thrusts the paper into my hands]

Popo: Here. Take a look at it. See... these are the words!

On that small slip of paper I'm holding were these words, painstakingly copied letter by letter, line by line.....

My beloved Popo..... always the Sherlock Holmes in her!

Featured in Redsports!

It's been almost a year since winning gold at the Sporting Singapore Inspiration Awards. YZ, representing Redsports, interviewed me last weekend. His article is here: Tham Chen Munn - An inspiring sporting Singaporean.
Thanks YZ and 'Uncle' Les!

PS: 'Uncle' Les happens to be my first 'coach' and trainer when I started in 2005. We were part of the Soulrunners. Looks like it's time to resurrect the team again, eh?
PPS: Sorry Smallcircle sir... I didn't notice the 'wet area' until the article got published! I just provided whatever pictures I had!

Dis Sox - The Sequel

And the answer to Wotz Dis? is:
It's a pair of Sock Guy socks with my palm in it.
I used it - for the first time - at the Sundown Marathon, and 42km later both sides had gaping holes in them!
Moral of the story: eh..... I think I run with a heel strike, which probably explains I don't suffer from black toenail syndrome.
Did anyone get the answer correct? Not exactly. So only half cup of latte.

Wotz Dis?

Can anyone guess what this is?

Answer the usual Why, Where, How, What, Who questions.

Starbucks Ice Latte for the right answer.

Deadline Sunday 15 June 2008

Singapore's Got Talent

They thought out of the box - literally.
They were quick-thinking; siezed the 'perfect' opportunity.
Through their actions, they managed to set the government thinking.
Some public agencies even had to go through a thorough review, while some had to undergo a revamp.
They provide jobs and income for the private sector because of the necessary makeovers.
Besides their wit, courage, and gutsiness, one of them even trialed for the 100m sprint. Another one has been confirmed in the marathon distance (at least).
One (maybe two) fell swoops, and everyone is woken up (or is it?)
Thanks to Mas Selamat who escaped, and the 2 blokes who tried to escape.
Singapore should be reassured that we do have local talents amongst us!

Someone noticed my bib number...

Winston noticed that my bib number - 4201 - seemed to indicate that I was doing the full marathon (42.105km) for the first time.

It's not a mere coincidence, dear Prof. I actually bid for my bib. I thought it was alright to donate $50 to Beyond Social Services, for youths who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. I figured that I'm fortunate enough to be what I am today, so why not?

Why not remind myself that I am doing my first marathon not only for my own personal achievements, but for some kid out there who might not even know what a marathon is?

Why not achieve something significant, while achieving it with purpose?

4201. My first marathon indeed, and I completed it.

What's next?