My Thoughts for July,...

Since 2006, I have been running every year in the Standard Chartered 10km run. But this year, I have decided to quit this run because the organiser has jacked up the registration fee by 50%,.......even for early-bird past participants who register early.

This is a no, no for me ! How could they do this ?
As no reasons were given for the price increase, I just boycott it.
I feel that they should have kept the cost low and go green to save the environment and cost. I just need a number tag and a RFID chip to record my timing which I can check online after the run. I do not need any runner vest, certificate or the finisher medal, which I have plenty at home occupying spaces.

I hope one day, the organiser and sponsor can devise an ala-carte system to let runners decide & pick what they want & pay for what they want. Just like no-frills budget airlines : pay basic fare + extras you want.  

I dream that some day, somebody or some organisations could organise no-frills, free or charity runs to help community & those in needs. This dream inspired my drawing below.

In Singapore, I see that photo studio is a dying business. 
Almost all photographers are now mobile & shooting outdoors. I salute my cousin who closed his photo studio many years ago & rented out his space for passive income.
From the 70s to 90s, taking family portraits were quite common, but not anymore. People now shoot photos whatever they want, and whenever they want & make them as family photos. But I think this is boring, & family caricature is more interesting & humourous to create. See my own example here. Can you spot which character is me ?  

Many caricature artists create some kind of icon to represent them in communication media or for their artworks. Many of these iconic caricatures are of very high quality standards. Somehow, I feel I need to do the same,........just for laughs. Below drawing is my first attempt to create my own icon for future use. I'm not so satisfy with this water-color drawing, there is still room for improvement,..... 

Recently, I received invitation from my ex ang-moh boss for his girl's first year birthday.
He still remembers me even after he has gone back home to france.
I did not attend his party, so I send him a hand-made greeting card for the fun of it. 
I believe customised greeting cards with caricatures & captions can be developed for many purposes. If you have this needs, please contact me.

These days, kids are so fortunate and lucky. They celebrate their birthdays every year from year 01. I had my first birthday dinner event only on my 21st birthday at a coffee-shop below my block.