Blog - September Overview

Hi Blog,

As September begins, I’ve been reflecting on the feelings of doubt and underachievement that have been weighing on my mind—like concerns about my physical fitness, the challenges of finding time to work out, and the pressure of not having started a romantic relationship. These doubts can really get to me sometimes, pulling me into a negative space. But with some help from ChatGPT, supportive friends, and years of trying to be a better version of myself, I’ve noticed that I’ve actually made some improvements. They’re not huge or overnight changes, but they’re there, and they matter.

It’s important to acknowledge that I’m doing the best I can with the time I have. My schedule is packed, and I still dedicate myself to things that matter, like spending time with family, and friends, and fulfilling my duties. That’s not nothing—it’s significant. And I have to remember that fitness isn’t just about looking a certain way; it’s about feeling good and being healthy. While having a relationship is a great experience, everyone’s timeline is different. Instead of focusing on what I haven’t achieved, I’m learning to focus on being the best version of myself and doing things that make me feel fulfilled and happy—like hobbies, volunteering, or self-improvement

What I’m learning is that progress doesn’t have to be a big deal to count. Even little steps—like accepting where I am with my fitness and staying open to the idea of love—are worth celebrating. I have to remember to give myself some credit. As I keep moving forward, I’ll try to focus more on the good stuff, be patient with myself, and embrace the slow and steady path of personal growth. Here’s to making September a month of growth, self-compassion, and positivity.

1st Sep 2024 - Trisuit Theme #102
(Click here to read more)

2nd Sep 2024 - Giving myself a little credit here, I make an effort to eat healthily, especially at lunch while I am working. Being fat is inevitable because I have no control over dinner. If I did not eat healthily for lunch, I can only imagine... Well, after eating this way for years with no improvement, should I give up? Nope, I should keep going. Although it did not reduce my fat, I know it is the healthiest route to take because I have fat genes.

2nd Sep 2024 - All right, this is getting to be too much. Since last Thursday, I have noticed that my sore throat has gotten worse; aside from increasing my coughing and running nose, I have also noticed that my headache has gotten worse whether I cough. Perhaps it was time to see a doctor and take a few days off work.

3rd Sep 2024 - On my first day of sick leave, Heaven is aware of my tendency to go for a quick hike despite being on sick leave. However, it began to pour rain to stop me from leaving. I suppose I will spend the day resting. I still can try tomorrow!

4th Sep 2024 - Heaven must think it knows me too well because it does not want me to leave. That was a heavy one this time! I guess it is time to head back to bed and get some work done at home.

5th Sep 2024 - Despite just recovering from sickness, I am determined to go for a slow jog. I've taken a long break, but now it's time to work out.

6th Sep 2024 - There were many families at the pool today, and I started to think that wearing white while swimming or taking pictures might not be a good idea. However, I realized that I had only brought a pair of white trunks. I did my best to take a couple of photos to complete my swimming theme. It was a bit limiting, but I tried not to worry about how others judged me as long as I stayed away from the families. Walking around looking less than toned like a demi-god is an unpleasant sight for the public...

6th Sep 2024 - After our meeting today, I understood that M and I have contrasting approaches to situations and unique personalities, both of which are equally valid. However, considering her strong personality and the difficulties in understanding each other, it may not be wise to pursue a romantic relationship. To safeguard our friendship, it's best to maintain the current state of things.

7th Sep 2024 - Rain and Shine
(Click here to read more)

8th Sep 2024 - Grateful that I was able to properly inflate my waifu's tires at last and enjoyed the enjoyable ride to my favourite peaceful location. My new photographer thinks this place is so beautiful—it is a calm, open landscape.

9th Sep 2024 - Today, I attended a course near my workplace without being prepared for a swim, and to my surprise, it ended quickly! Additionally, I was very close to Tampines Safra while it was raining without a storm, which meant fewer swimmers! I missed this place. Also, I will be wearing these trunks for the last time today because I have gained weight and they have become loose.

More to come.

Jeff

Hiking - Rain and Shine

Hi Blog,

After recovering from an illness and being free this weekend, I thought to myself, "I should go for a hike."!

Looking through my new camera with a CPL filter lens, I observed that it rendered the sky in the photographs more vibrant.

I plan to keep it simple for my new "photographer" by hiking from my place to Bukit Timah, although I initially considered exploring other locations.

Personal - Suits for the Theme #102

Hi Blog,

For the past few years, I’ve been on a journey to stay fit while capturing moments of wearing different trisuits in the same spot. This one is my #102 trisuit post, it still amazes me how what started as a small gesture has now become a motivating factor in my life. Looking back at my #1 in March 2018, I realize that it had been six years already!

Yeah, it might seem a little strange, but each photo serves as a reminder that I'm taking care of myself - whether I'm going for a run or just keeping track of my progress.

It's my way of acknowledging my dedication and reminding myself that even the smallest actions, such as getting ready for a run in my trisuit, can have a big impact.

Blog - August Overview

Hi Blog,

After July, I had a clear aim for my life, but there were some unresolved backlogs, specifically relating to friendship. I will share in general, when meeting new people, we often encounter individuals who initially appear genuine and sincere. There’s a certain hope that this new connection could lead to something meaningful for one another, even though my past experiences have taught me to be cautious and I am also trying to understand that not everyone will have content to discuss besides personal objectives. Personally, opening up to someone new is always a gamble, but it's a risk we take in the hopes of forming a true bond.

Sometimes, however, the intentions of others can be a mix of friendship and something more. Even when I try to set boundaries and communicate my discomfort, the lines can get blurred. My hope to preserve a friendship often leads me to make concessions, even when, I know it might not end well.

After an encounter that involved crossing the line, the nature of the relationship changed, just as I had expected. The closeness we once felt began to fade, replaced by distance and fewer conversations. I feel regretful and blame myself for allowing things to reach this point, especially when I sensed and mentioned the potential for disappointment from the start, only to be dismissed by the other party. I feel like a fool because they could just exit easily since they already got what they wanted and affirmed that I am still that stupid person from the beginning.

Hiking - One Rainy Path

Good Morning Blog,

If I have a free Saturday morning, I'll go hiking to try out my new camera. However, I've been asked to stay at my sister's house to help her sort through her housing applications.

Unfortunately, Miss Sky chose to shower the earth this morning.

After checking the weather patterns, the heavy rain appeared to be concentrated over the Indonesian islands and south of Singapore. Considering this, should I proceed with a hike??

Hiking - Revisit Keppel

Hi Blog,

Given that I am attending Gardeners Day Out at HortPark and having lunch at Funan, I will take advantage of the pleasant weather and explore with my new camera!

Err... This weather is a bit moody, but I'm sticking to my decision!!

I plan to perform a camera test to evaluate its performance against my previous model. Moreover, I intend to introduce my new camera into my regular explorations. Today's hike will serve as an opportunity similar to an exploration I undertook in October 2023.

Personal - Swimming Theme #8

Hi Blog,

My latest monthly post mentioned that I recently got a new camera. The swimming theme photo collection was taken with two different phones because my Google Pixel phone stopped working. Due to this, I decided to end the theme collection and publish it as is, even though it was incomplete.

The photo was taken in one of the restroom stalls.

This theme was one of the most difficult to complete because there were always swimmers around, so I didn't want to make them uncomfortable with my untoned body.

Hiking - More Yishun Forest

Good Morning Blog,

The long weekend was rainy, so I couldn't go for a short hike. But today looks like a great opportunity! So where am I going then?

I had the pleasure of using my new camera and capturing some shots. I must say, it's a great investment! The colour and clarity are just perfect!

Today, I opted to revisit Yishun Forest, and I'm grateful that Elmo (who stays nearby) decided to join me on this little adventure.

Product - Insta360 Ace Pro

Hi Blog,

You know, my camera was drowned when it took a plunge into the water. I feel bad for making it swim. At the same time, I knew it was on its days were numbered. I hope my camera won't take it the wrong way as if I murdered it. Since 2016, we have created many wonderful memories and experienced some challenges... So... this time, no more EX-FR100 (already discontinued), but I consider this new camera an upgraded version of my old one!

Even though I was on a tight budget this month, I decided to invest in a new camera. After watching numerous YouTube videos for research, I realised that the Insta360 GO2, which I purchased in 2023, did not meet my expectations, and I still prefer the features of the EX-FR100. The Insta360 Ace Pro has everything I need!

What made me choose the Insta360 Ace Pro? Was it the price, features, or specs? It's time for a non-professional review of a product. Don't worry, I won't go into detail describing the specs and functions.

Personal - Suits for the Theme #101

Hi Blog,

#101 trisuit theme - just a reminder for myself that I moved on.

Apart from the conclusion of my unfruitful romantic saga, the next chapter that weighs on my mind is friendship.

I haven't identified a clear pattern yet, but what I do know is that people come and go. Especially when many initially seem sincere and eager to kindle a friendship. However, once they received the confirmation or acknowledgement, their demeanour changed and became distant, even though I made an effort to be open and approachable...

Blog - July Overview

Hi Blog,

Since May, I've been trying to find the positive force within me, but I haven't succeeded. I never feel good enough to wield the lightsaber. In June, I aimed to focus on recognizing the positive things I've been doing, but I needed clarification.

July always reminds me that I am getting old, as I often recall a quote from the Analects of Confucius. “吾十有五而志于学，三十而立，四十而不惑，五十而知天命，六十而耳顺，七十而从心所欲，不逾矩。” Online Translation: "At fifteen, I was focused on learning. At thirty, I stood firm. At forty, I had no doubts. At fifty, I knew the decrees of heaven. At sixty, my ear was tuned to the truth. At seventy, I could follow my heart’s desires, without transgressions.

四十而不惑, At forty, I had no doubts; I must say, I am moving in that direction, especially self-doubt. Even though I fell down, I must say I picked myself up quickly. Unlike when I was 30+, I would be stuck for a long time. I hope I can get better and wiser as time goes on.

Personal - A Reflection on Life, Love, and Self-Worth

Hi Blog,

Today marks my 45th birthday, and I wish myself a happy birthday. I've chosen to reflect on my life's journey, acknowledging the periods of darkness and the moments of self-acceptance I've experienced. Thank you for ChatGPT's assistance in refining my English, making it more easily digested for readers interested in learning about my past and reflections.

(2024) I'm not sure where to begin... Initially, feeling depressed about being single at my age and demotivated upon seeing happy couples fit together like two matching puzzle pieces was common, along with a bittersweet sentiment towards them.

I have chosen to introspect deeply to uncover any potential flaws within myself. Why do others seem to avoid my company? Although I have received much advice, I have not accepted it because success is generally not as simple as ABC. Perhaps it is my own timid or narrow perspective that has led to all this. I will organize my scattered thoughts here for ChatGPT to summarise, and then I will copy from various places and paste them here.

I plan to organize my reflections into candles for easier reading, and I will include some of my older photographs that I have never shared on my blog before.

Personal - Swimming Theme #7

Hi Blog,

The blog post may be brief, but it represents a significant effort in gathering this information. Hmm...Honestly, I had an excess of trunks and wanted to sell some, but I'm not interested in dealing with the odd requests I've read about on forums.

I'll continue to wear them for as long as possible and refrain from acquiring any more.

I really like the cut and design of those trunks, so perhaps one day I might not be able to wear them. For the time being, they're part of my themed swimming trunk collection.

Personal - Cosplay in New Suit

Hi Blog,

I recently made a painful decision on my wallet (even though there was a great discount on the website): I bought a new costume for myself. I convinced myself that investing in a high-quality costume would enhance my cosplay experience.

I'm pleased to announce that it's finally here after a long wait.

While I had hoped for sponsorship like YouTubers 😂, I understand that things don't always work out that way. Anyway, it is time for our unboxing!

Trip - Visit Batam

Hi Blog,

It was early morning... Yawning... As I didn't have enough sleep... Saturday morning where was I going to?

Mr Sun had not woken up yet, so where was I heading? As titled, yes! I was heading to Batam! Yippee!

Yippee! As promised, I went to Batam with RD after planning it for a while. RD generously offered to treat me on this trip, and I’m really grateful for the kind gesture. This will be my second visit to Batam (my first visit was documented in my previous posts), and travelling with a friend promises to make this experience even more memorable.

Personal - Suits for the Theme #100

Hi Blog,

Can you believe it!? It is my 100th Trisuit theme anniversary! 😂 Are you excited and amazed at how I feel?

Perhaps you might not understand... It is just about an ugly me's collective attempt to jog and plan my jogging route.

Since Feb 2015 when I decided to go for first jogging (post link) or search all my #jogging posts, my physique is still untoned since then, but I'm not waving the white flag and adding on with a #trisuitsuit theme (page link) in 2018 to motivate myself.