Hello 2015, Goodbye 2014!

And....all of a sudden, it's the last day of2014?! How fast time flies! Especially when you’ve got kids!

Anyway 2014 has been a so-so year. It hasn’t been terrible, but it definitely hasn’t be terrific either.

Anyway, once again, here’s last year’s review.

And once again, here’s a review of 2014 resolutions:

1)Achieve 100% Increase In AUM FAILED
This one I failed spectacularly. The key losses in AUM were in the last two months of the year and oh my what a spectacular downfall. I wish I could blog more details about it and perhaps someday I will, but this blog post will suffice for now. Hopefully I can make it all back and more in 2015. Wonder what the new year will bring for me.

2)Achieve $500/mth Dividend Income Stream FAILED
Surprisingly even though I failed in this one, I’m quite proud of what I achieved, ending the year with an average monthly dividend stream of $190.90 at last count. I think I will stick to the $500 mark again for 2015 and hope to achieve better returns even if I should fail.

3)Improve My Social Circle FAILED
Didn’t happen. I think I’m turning full-fledged daddy mode now. Some days I prefer to spend time at home with the noisy kids rather than go drinking or partying now. Getting older.

4)Continue Exercise Regime FAILED
Yeah, with THAT ACL injury this was also never gonna happen.

5)Appreciate My Wife And Family More PASSED
This must be one of the worst years for achieving resolutions with a 1/5 pass rate! Nonetheless it’s something I’m very happy with. I appreciate the labours of my wife so much more, and I cannot love my kids enough.

Ok, time to think about my resolutions for 2015!

Tottenham Hotspurs 0 Manchester United 0

What a Christmas treat! 2 matches in 2 days! Too bad it was not the result we wanted. We really should have won but for poor finishing and a very in-form Hugo Lloris.

1) Scary Attack
As I just mentioned during the last game, we have one helluva scary attack. considering LVG did not make any changes to the team that beat Newcastle on Friday, here was a front five that really could threaten any side in Europe. Falcao and RVP up front, supported by Young, Rooney and Mata. Therefore its really a pity that we couldn't score even though we have so many chances. Perhaps the strikers need to be even more clinical, especially when faced with a very, very good keeper.

2) Right Wing
Notice that I only mentioned five players even though LVG played his 3-5-2 formation again? There's Carrick, our ultra dependable CM, and then there's Antonio Valencia, our Player Of The Year 2012. He's really been a shadow of his former self. But in recent games, his athleticism has improved since his ankle break in 2013, but he needs to do even better if he's to cement a permanent place in LVG's lineup. Then we have Rafael who's just so good in the 4-4-2 but he's not a wingback unfortunately. Hopefully one of them will step up in 2015. Anyway Rafael came on at half time to replace Tony V due to injury.

3) Carrick And CM/DM Position
Still one of our most underrated players, he suffered a knee-high leg breaker from one of the Spurs players who really should have been sent off. Hopefully we don't lose him to injury. Along the way, I have read that Daley Blind has begun training with the first team in recent days. Hopefully he can make a return as well. Herrera is also missing from the starting line-up. Maybe not match fit I guess.

4) Defence
As I've mentioned how poor our defence has constantly been all season long, as we adjust to the 3-5-2 system, last night's game actually turned in a pretty good performance for the trio of Jones-McNair-Evans. Even though McNair was replaced by Smalling and Evans was replaced by Shaw, the initial trio did pretty well by their standards with only Evans looking uncertain sometimes. DDG was as usually absolutely reliable.

5) Tale Of Two Halves
In the first half, we were actually far superior and wasted SO many chances! Yet in the 2nd half, Pochettino made some good changes like pressing further up the pitch and that screwed up our system. Spurs came on strong in the 2nd half and we had some nervy moments. I still can't make out why we cannot seem to adjust to a changed system or formation from the opponent. In fact, just as Spurs made substitutions to go for the win, we made substitutions to defend the draw. Therefore it always makes sense to be more clinical.

Oh well, at least we end 2014 on a good note, lying in 3rd position with everyone above us dropping points as well. One year ago, we happened to be winning here and there, then dropping points like no tomorrow, with no tactics, no plan B and no ideas, which I opined at the start of the year. Now we have LVG, a philosophy to follow, and a strategy that has worked very well (we are 9 games unbeaten), and the top teams are afraid of us. Under Moyes, we basically took 4 points out from the top 4 (lost twice to Man City and Liverpool, lost once to Arsenal and Chelsea, drew once with Chelsea and beat Arsenal). Today, we already beaten Arsenal and Liverpool, drawn with Chelsea and lost to Man City in the first half of the season. Already a better return.

Hopefully we end the season strong and get 3rd place or better!

GGMU!!!

Manchester United 3 Newcastle 1

Actually I thought I'd blogged an entry for this match already but realized I hadn't.

1) Forward Masterclass

With Falcao and RVP up front, supported by Mata and Rooney in AM, we definitely were on top for most of the 90mins. If we can stay healthy and keep up this sort of play, we'll be very formidable given we will more often than not outscore our opponents. Falcao, for one, didn't score but had the first assist and made the decisive tackle that led to our 2nd goal. Mata was surprisingly effective, assisting the 2nd goal. RVP scored the 3rd with a sublime header. Rooney was MOTM with 2 goals and provided the 3rd assist. Impressive.

2) Wings Feature Again

Both Young and Valencia and slowly making the wins their own once more. Credit where it's due, Young is improving with each game and to see him marauding down the left wing with confidence again is a clear indication of his revival under LVG. Tony V while not as impressive, is slowly regaining his athleticism. More to come please.

3) Carrick The One Man Show

At DM, Carrick is playing the role vacated by Blind with aplomb. He adds such composure to our midfield and covers well for our lousy defence. Truly the DM role is so understated and underappreciated yet so vital to our successful season this far. I'd had hoped more people would notice the great work Blind and Carrick have been doing. In fairness to Rooney, who's played as a CM-DM, he's tracking back very well too. Clearly he was our player with the best stamina.

4) Defensively Frail Still

Evans and Jones were not the worst defenders on the day, but the mere fact tht young Paddy McNair was played in the centre of the defensive trio said it all about LVG's confidence, or lack of, in those two. Jones can be a monster at defence when he gets his groove back, but while doing well most game, that clumsy lazy leg that gave a penalty really shows he's still got to try harder. Evans also put in an ok shift but nothing to shout about. Still prone to contributing a few nervy moments here and there. McNair is one to watch for the future along with Tyler Blackett. In LVG's 3-5-2 formation, the trio that's worked best so far with ironically the most composure IMHO is Smalling-Rojo-Blackett/McNair. And still that doesn't fill anyone with full confidence. 

5) DDG

Speaking of confidence, the standout player of the season is David de Gea by a mile. He's really turning in stellar performances left, right and centre. Hopefully his contract situation gets sorted soon and I hope he will be with us for the rest of his career. This season, the number of times I've messaged, "OMG DDG" is now countless.

Well Spurs away are up next in this Christmas period bonanza. I hope we grind out a win at White Hart Lane.

GGMU!!!

Family Portrait

By the boy.

#antshavesixlegs

All Of Me

All Of Me lyrics

My fav song of the moment.

[Verse 1:]

What would I do without your smart mouth?

Drawing me in, and you kicking me out

You've got my head spinning, no kidding, I can't pin you down

What's going on in that beautiful mind

I'm on your magical mystery ride

And I'm so dizzy, don't know what hit me, but I'll be alright

[Pre-Chorus:]

My head's under water

But I'm breathing fine

You're crazy and I'm out of my mind

[Chorus:]

'Cause all of me

Loves all of you

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections

Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose I'm winning

'Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you, ohoh

[Verse 2:]

How many times do I have to tell you

Even when you're crying you're beautiful too

The world is beating you down, I'm around through every mood

You're my downfall, you're my muse

My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues

I can't stop singing, it's ringing, in my head for you

[Pre-Chorus:]

My head's under water

But I'm breathing fine

You're crazy and I'm out of my mind

[Chorus:]

'Cause all of me

Loves all of you

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections

Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose I'm winning

'Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you, ohoh

[Bridge:]

Give me all of you

Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts

Risking it all, though it's hard

[Chorus:]

'Cause all of me

Loves all of you

Love your curves and all your edges

All your perfect imperfections

Give your all to me

I'll give my all to you

You're my end and my beginning

Even when I lose I'm winning

'Cause I give you all of me

And you give me all of you

I give you all of me

And you give me all of you, ohoh

W Hotel Sentosa - A Family Staycation 2015

I actually remember that I blogged about our last staycation here a year ago. Had good memories of the hotel.

So yet another year on, yet another family Staycation on Sentosa island.

I must say I've travelled long enough as a Starwood SPG Platinum member to roughly expect an upgrade over the previous year's room standard, and boy did we receive one.

Enter the Junior Exec Suite.

The room was uber huge and thankfully super-impressed the wifey and kids. So I cannot complain at all.

Bathroom was awesome...

And all the usual quirky stuff all over again.

All in all a good staycation. Finally got to spend quality time in the pool as well, which was fantastic. Staff were excellent (except a small matter of screwing up my late 4pm checkout) so I have very little to complain about. We even had complimentary drinks at the Woobar where my boy still got to write his ABCs and 123s.

Spent the first day just chilling at the pool followed by dinner at Brussel Sprouts @ Quayside Isle. The rain wasn't very kind on us. Next day we had a full day of drizzle but we made the best decision by bringing the kids to USS, rain or shine! Then on the third day we went to the Port of Lost Wonders which is like a water playground for kids.

All in all a great staycation again!

Oh and they still have my favourite soap of all time!

ACL Rehab Day #174

Can you believe that this is the first run I've had in more than a month?

My last full workout was on the 14th of Nov!

Anyway I did the exact same route and considering how long since I last ran, I possessed good enough stamina to actually run non-stop for 80% of my standard route.

Followed by the static workout and the walk up 15 stories of stairs as usual.

Hopefully I have more discipline to do this at least once a week from now on. Can really feel the unhealthiness creeping into my body. Feeling fatigued and sluggish these days, with inner aches from dunno where.

Thankfully not falling sick. Yet.

Aston Villa 1 Manchester United 1

Boo what a lousy result following six wins on the trot...

1) Defence Still In A Mess

Every game we attempt the 3-5-2 formation it feels like we're inviting the opponents to take advantage of our super high defensive line. Last night we had Jones, Carrick and Evans there and it was a terrible trio. Not that they played exceptionally bad, but they just weren't good, and weren't composed enough. If we want to keep this formation, we really need better defenders. A trio of Rojo, McNair and Blackett would be more soothing. Didn't help that Evans gave away Villa's goal.

2) Ashley Young

I've given him so much stick last season but this season he's been such a revelation. Against the boos of his former club, he came through all the controversies and unwanted attention very well. Made the left wing his own. Possibly my vote for MOTM. Also assist Falcao's goal.

3) Darren Fletcher

Much as I have a soft spot for him, this season shows he's not United standard. It's quite sad to see and I'll wish him all te best if he leaves for another club, but he's really not good enough with performances likes last night's. Misplaced passes, being run round in circles and generally unable to stamp any authority at all. Rightly substituted at half time.

4) Juan Mata

For some weird reason (and we can always debate this when the team doesn't get results), Mata wasn't substituted all game, even though he was having a very anonymous game. Instead, we had RVP, Valencia substituted, both of whom played far better and provided a bigger threat than Mata did all game. What gives?

5) Fearsome Attack

One of the bright spots is the attacking potential we have. With RVP partnering Falcao and supported by AdM and Rooney, we look rightfully scary. Hopefully we can churn out a lot of goals in the games to come

Hopefully we can get past this drab draw and start a new winning run starting next weekend!

A Life Of Luxury

Something I want to give and provide for my family. And yet I feel so far from achieving my dreams.

Whenever I am feeling low
I look around me and I know
There's a place that will stay within me
Wherever I may choose to go
I will always recall the city
Know every street and shore
Sail down the river which brings us life
Winding through my Singapore

This is home truly, where I know I must be
Where my dreams wait for me, where the river always flows
This is home surely, as my senses tell me
This is where I won't be alone, for this is where I know it's home

~ Home (NDP song)

Sigh.

Manchester United 3 Liverpool 0

Wow. What a difference a year, and a change of manager makes.

Last season's same fixture ended in shambles for us so going into the game I was hopeful but apprehensive.

1) DDG Masterclass
Have to get this out of the way. Considering that he received the team's Player Of The Month award right before the game, I'm sure no one had an inkling of what is to come. Oh my, David de Gea, what a true masterclass. 3 saves from Sterling, 4 saves from Balotelli and many in sure scoring situations. I was in awe, seriously. The amount of times I actually commented "OMG DDG!!!" on my FB chat was too many to count. I just hope we tie him down to a new contract and he won't leave us next season when Real Madrid comes calling. #davesaves

2) Defence Is Still Not Good Enough
With yet another makeshift defence of Jones, Carrick and Evans, this showing simply wasn't good enough. If Liverpool were abit more clinical or DDG not in God-mode, they definitely would have scored a few. Phil Jones and Evans are only recently back from injury and look terribly rusty. It didn't help that they played a 3-man defence instead of 4, where two CBs would've been more assuring. We really need to improve this department if we're to mount a serious title challenge.

3) Wing Backs Flying Again
It is somewhat hard to fathom that Tony V and Ashley Young could get back into our good books, but they both are slowly but surely doing so with performances like these. Tony absolutely dominated his right wing all night long, providing the assist for the first goal and threatening the flank each time he runs up. He might have lost abit of pace since his ankle break two seasons ago, but he's slowly working his way back to form. Ashley Young also assisted the 3rd goal and was a menace down the left. Funny we didn't use him more, but he definitely enjoying a renaissance in his game. Long may that continue.

4) Midfield Can Improve
The midfield of Mata, Fellaini and Rooney was fairly ok. I actually thought Rooney was having a good game but he was taken off for Herrera. Scored the first goal which was awesome. Fellaini was a monster throughout. Granted, I thought his 4th minute yellow card meant a red soon at some point. Instead, he was immense throughout, although he still has the tendency for the occasional sloppy pass to an opponent. Mata, was erm...Mata. Anonymous for periods of the game, and then pops up several times at the right moments. Assisted the 2nd goal too. Hopefully he continues this form. Even saw him tracking back quite often last night.

5) Attack Is Improving Too
Our starting lineup of James Wilson and RVP wasn't super scary, but RVP marked his return to form by scoring his 4th goal in his last 3 games, while Wilson provided the pace. I'm just concerned that Wilson doesn't seem to be contributing as much even though LVG rates him so highly. When Falcao came in that was when things looked scary. If he is fully fit and RVP is on form, I think we will have a very scary attacking lineup.

Hopefully we can continue this rich vein of form. 6 wins on the trot and we are 3rd in the league. Hopefully we can mount a serious challenge and maybe even win the league!

GGMU!!!

Bold Statement

So my good friend goes:

It's so early in the season and we're lying 3rd, with 11pts separating us and Chelski with tonight's game to spare.

Mathematically we have more than enough game to make up ground on Manchester City and Chelsea. All we need is for LVG to turn in the winning streaks!

I sure hope we beat Liverpool tonight!

GGMU!!!

Christmas In Wonderland

The kids performed for the first time at their school's year end concert!

So proud of them! 

Can you spot them both in this picture?

Traffic In Jakarta

You know what's the problem with Jakarta?

It's transport infrastructure.

I've covered this before 2 years ago and today it is still the same. Traffic is an absolute slow crawl because there are just too many vehicles on the road, the the road system is just not conducive enough to unclog these mass orgies of traffic jams on a daily basis. It's public transport system is also not good enough. There are not enough buses, trains nor even good enough pavements for the public to use. Anyone coming from the airport can take between half an hour to a staggering three hours (!!!), depending on the traffic conditions on the day.

The road system is also very archaic. There is little use of traffic lights or roundabouts to allow any changes in direction. Most of this can only be done at major roundabouts in the heart of the city. What this means is that if you missed a turn, or if you see your hotel on the opposite side of the road, there won't be any slip road to allow you to turn in. Instead, you have to wait till the next available roundabout which could be up to one kilometer away, in the jam. Personally I have experienced for myself, a half hour wait in the taxi to get through the sprawling jam to the next roundabout and make a U-turn, even though my destination was just on the opposite side of the road not far from where I began my journey.

And yet walking is also not a very good option. The roads used to be unsafe as it was easy to get mugged. Even though that is all cleaned up now, there are hardly any pavements for walking. Even if there were, there would be a long distance to walk primarily because one building to another tends to be rather far apart and commercial buildings tend to be pretty far from retail centres.

Of course with the new president, Jokowi, many are very hopeful that finally there will be change in many things and transport infrastructure is one of them. With Jokowi at the helm, the mantel of Jakarta Mayor actually went to his no2 in Jakarta, Mr Basuki (Ahok), the first mayor of Jakarta of Chinese descent. So there is actually much hope that he will bring about positive developments for Jakarta in the years to come.

Traffic here is also so bad that it is a norm to actually be late, often citing traffic as the key reason for missing appointments.

Yesterday a client actually said he took two hours, just to travel a mere 3km to meet us. What a joke.

I can actually see the MRT finally being worked on, after >10yrs of crowing about its eventuality. So that is one good sign to come.

Am very hopeful for Jakarta to grow even faster as a city in time to come!

Museo

Guess who drew what (flowers weren't drawn of course!)