Please help me do this.
Please help me get through this.
Please help me get through this.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Rain
Do you believe in that crucial 1 second?
Let's start the day with meeting Sean, a friend I met in Korea. He was in Singapore on a business trip. Since this was his first time being in Singapore, I naturally played host, showing him around Singapore. He was staying at the Ritz Carlton (a 6-star hotel) so EK and I met him and one of his other colleague at the lobby at 11.30am.
While waiting for him, we noticed young girls hanging in the lobby, as well as korean speaking, video-camera holding, cap-wearing adults walking around the lobby. Immediately, I thought some big korean star could be staying at the Ritz. Then the more I thought and pieced things together, the more I convinced myself it was HIM who was staying at the hotel. Who else could it be? He just arrived in Singapore yesterday for his concert on Sunday night, those guys were definitely celebrity-crew...it couldn't have been more perfect. But I didn't think more. We met Sean and his colleague Colin from Perth and headed out for lunch.
Over lunch at this restaurant in Paragon, I causally mentioned that I think that Korean star was staying at the Ritz Carlton. It was just a casual topic though. Nothing more to it. I wasn't a big fan of that Korean star, so naturally, I didn't pay much attention.
We spent the entire day shopping, first it was Paragon, then Ngee An City, then Wisma, then an afternoon break at Ding Tai Feng, then followed by more shopping at Wisma, then it was back to Ngee An City. That was our last stop and we were finally exhausted, so we decided to go back to the hotel to put down their bags of shopping before heading back out for dinner.
It was pouring outside and all the comfort cabs in Singapore were fully booked. So we made a decision to take the public transport plus a long walk from City Hall MRT to Ritz Carlton Hotel.
When we got to the lobby, we saw many more girls sitting around, waiting, and even more busy korean crew rushing in and out of the lobby. It was immediately confirmed. I knew it was him. Sean and Colin went up to their rooms to put down their bags, while we waited in the lobby. When Sean returned, he confirmed it with us. That Korean celebrity was staying right beside him in the next room. Sean said when he went up, the security guards were eyeing him and his bags of shopping closely!!! He even said he heard girls in the Korean celebrity's room going 'Orh Pa Orh Pa' as how typical Korean girls call a guy older than they are, of whom they may like.
As we continued waiting for Colin to return, Rain made his lobby entrance. He was just within metres of us, walking right past us. EK, Sean and I watched as he walked past. He was in a white singlet and blue jeans. He wasn't as tall as he seemed in his MTVs, he wasn't good looking either. His hair was flat and boring. There was nothing special about him.
But nevertheless, I couldn't believe my timing. It was amazing.
Yes, I knew Rain was in Singapore, yes, I know he's very popular - his most expensive concert tickets are selling for $888 (WHAT THE?! WHO DOES HE THINK HE IS?) - but so what if he was in Singapore, and so what if he's so popular? I couldn't care less - if it was Kangta it would have been another story - but there I was, not expecting to see him, yet there he was, within metres of me. I don't know how to describe it. I'm not a big fan of his, but to have such great timing that we were there in that same lobby as Rain - that who-does-he-think-he-is by pricing his tickets at $888 - for that 1 minute as he exited the hotel, I don't know how to explain but it's that precision in timing, that 1 second, that one decision, that little factor that all adds up.
Let's start the day with meeting Sean, a friend I met in Korea. He was in Singapore on a business trip. Since this was his first time being in Singapore, I naturally played host, showing him around Singapore. He was staying at the Ritz Carlton (a 6-star hotel) so EK and I met him and one of his other colleague at the lobby at 11.30am.
While waiting for him, we noticed young girls hanging in the lobby, as well as korean speaking, video-camera holding, cap-wearing adults walking around the lobby. Immediately, I thought some big korean star could be staying at the Ritz. Then the more I thought and pieced things together, the more I convinced myself it was HIM who was staying at the hotel. Who else could it be? He just arrived in Singapore yesterday for his concert on Sunday night, those guys were definitely celebrity-crew...it couldn't have been more perfect. But I didn't think more. We met Sean and his colleague Colin from Perth and headed out for lunch.
Over lunch at this restaurant in Paragon, I causally mentioned that I think that Korean star was staying at the Ritz Carlton. It was just a casual topic though. Nothing more to it. I wasn't a big fan of that Korean star, so naturally, I didn't pay much attention.
We spent the entire day shopping, first it was Paragon, then Ngee An City, then Wisma, then an afternoon break at Ding Tai Feng, then followed by more shopping at Wisma, then it was back to Ngee An City. That was our last stop and we were finally exhausted, so we decided to go back to the hotel to put down their bags of shopping before heading back out for dinner.
It was pouring outside and all the comfort cabs in Singapore were fully booked. So we made a decision to take the public transport plus a long walk from City Hall MRT to Ritz Carlton Hotel.
When we got to the lobby, we saw many more girls sitting around, waiting, and even more busy korean crew rushing in and out of the lobby. It was immediately confirmed. I knew it was him. Sean and Colin went up to their rooms to put down their bags, while we waited in the lobby. When Sean returned, he confirmed it with us. That Korean celebrity was staying right beside him in the next room. Sean said when he went up, the security guards were eyeing him and his bags of shopping closely!!! He even said he heard girls in the Korean celebrity's room going 'Orh Pa Orh Pa' as how typical Korean girls call a guy older than they are, of whom they may like.
As we continued waiting for Colin to return, Rain made his lobby entrance. He was just within metres of us, walking right past us. EK, Sean and I watched as he walked past. He was in a white singlet and blue jeans. He wasn't as tall as he seemed in his MTVs, he wasn't good looking either. His hair was flat and boring. There was nothing special about him.
But nevertheless, I couldn't believe my timing. It was amazing.
Yes, I knew Rain was in Singapore, yes, I know he's very popular - his most expensive concert tickets are selling for $888 (WHAT THE?! WHO DOES HE THINK HE IS?) - but so what if he was in Singapore, and so what if he's so popular? I couldn't care less - if it was Kangta it would have been another story - but there I was, not expecting to see him, yet there he was, within metres of me. I don't know how to describe it. I'm not a big fan of his, but to have such great timing that we were there in that same lobby as Rain - that who-does-he-think-he-is by pricing his tickets at $888 - for that 1 minute as he exited the hotel, I don't know how to explain but it's that precision in timing, that 1 second, that one decision, that little factor that all adds up.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Glad-Wrapped
Yesterday, I made it for my massage - half an hour later than my appointment time. Luckily the lady after me cancelled her appointment, so they made it possible for me. It was most gracious of them. When I entered and said I wanted Contour Control Slimming treatment, they asked "But you don't need it. Why not massaging?"
The answer was simple: Coz I'm a woman.
So the treatment started. First it began with taking all my measurements - calf, thighs, butt, hips, waist, tummy, under chest, above chest and arms. Then came the massaging using a huge machine which vibrated against my tummy and thighs - the 2 important areas I wanted them to focus on. What followed was something I never expected and I'm proud to say I've experienced.
I've always seen it on TV, when they promote those slimming centres, but of course I've never explored into those centres - WAY TOO EXPENSIVE and you can say "Not Necessary". I've always been very curious about this treatment and now, I can proudly say "I'VE BEEN GLAD-WRAPPED!"
Yes, I was wrapped in those kind of sticky wraps you cover leftovers with. It was very interesting, being wrapped tightly within that plastic cocoon. And then I had to figure out how to climb back onto the bed with both legs and arms in "casts". Then I got zipped up as if I was in a heated sleeping bag and left alone to rest. (Imagine Final Destination 3 with improvisations: the bag overheats, I'm all wrapped up and kinda impossible to move...dun dun dun)
Anyway, after the 20 minute or so slow cook session, I was cut open as she sliced the plastic off me. The feeling literally felt like breaking out of a cocoon (not that I have ever broken out of a cocoon before). My skin could breath again.
And then another round of measurements. My tummy lost about 2cm in circumference, though there was no change in my thighs nor in my weight (a weight I was delightly shocked to discover - I thought I had put on weight). But nevertheless, it was an experience I will never forget.
I doubt I'd return - maybe when I get super fat - but for now, it'll remain just an experience, an interesting and free treatment to iSpa.
The answer was simple: Coz I'm a woman.
So the treatment started. First it began with taking all my measurements - calf, thighs, butt, hips, waist, tummy, under chest, above chest and arms. Then came the massaging using a huge machine which vibrated against my tummy and thighs - the 2 important areas I wanted them to focus on. What followed was something I never expected and I'm proud to say I've experienced.
I've always seen it on TV, when they promote those slimming centres, but of course I've never explored into those centres - WAY TOO EXPENSIVE and you can say "Not Necessary". I've always been very curious about this treatment and now, I can proudly say "I'VE BEEN GLAD-WRAPPED!"
Yes, I was wrapped in those kind of sticky wraps you cover leftovers with. It was very interesting, being wrapped tightly within that plastic cocoon. And then I had to figure out how to climb back onto the bed with both legs and arms in "casts". Then I got zipped up as if I was in a heated sleeping bag and left alone to rest. (Imagine Final Destination 3 with improvisations: the bag overheats, I'm all wrapped up and kinda impossible to move...dun dun dun)
Anyway, after the 20 minute or so slow cook session, I was cut open as she sliced the plastic off me. The feeling literally felt like breaking out of a cocoon (not that I have ever broken out of a cocoon before). My skin could breath again.
And then another round of measurements. My tummy lost about 2cm in circumference, though there was no change in my thighs nor in my weight (a weight I was delightly shocked to discover - I thought I had put on weight). But nevertheless, it was an experience I will never forget.
I doubt I'd return - maybe when I get super fat - but for now, it'll remain just an experience, an interesting and free treatment to iSpa.
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
A simple request...
Today, I've got a body contour control massage at 6.30pm - FREE. It's a slimming massage, the lady informed me over the phone. I knew that and that was precisely why I chose it out of the other 2 treatments.
However, I really wonder if I can make it. Previously, I thought it was at 7.45pm. That would be better. But just now I called to confirm, and it was at 6.30pm. Half an hour to get down to Orchard - assuming I leave work sharp on the dot. How likely is that? NEVER.
Anyhow, it's free so if I miss 15 minutes of my appointment, they can, by all means, cut short the treatment by 15 minutes. However, leaving work on time is all dependent on my designers - PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR ARTWORK TO ME ON TIME!!! I don't mean to press you for it, but I can't reschedule this appointment and I have no intention of being LATE-R (than already expected).
Let me pamper myself this once. Yesterday I stayed late till 8pm, today, I just want to leave on the dot. Is that too much to ask?
However, I really wonder if I can make it. Previously, I thought it was at 7.45pm. That would be better. But just now I called to confirm, and it was at 6.30pm. Half an hour to get down to Orchard - assuming I leave work sharp on the dot. How likely is that? NEVER.
Anyhow, it's free so if I miss 15 minutes of my appointment, they can, by all means, cut short the treatment by 15 minutes. However, leaving work on time is all dependent on my designers - PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR ARTWORK TO ME ON TIME!!! I don't mean to press you for it, but I can't reschedule this appointment and I have no intention of being LATE-R (than already expected).
Let me pamper myself this once. Yesterday I stayed late till 8pm, today, I just want to leave on the dot. Is that too much to ask?
Friday, January 05, 2007
Counting My Blessings
A recurring theme in 2006 was procrastination and it has to be so with my 'last' entry of the year ('this year' refers to 2006) - it's 5 days late!
Despite this procrastination, I always get things done - and hence, this entry. A thanksgiving entry.
For one, this year has been awesome - and I'd like to award it the title 'The Best Year So Far'. Too many things happened, a lot more great blessings than bad messings.
The first major blessing was returning to Singapore. That was a decision I made and 2006 marked the start of my future in Singapore. It was both a scary yet exciting decision, knowing that God had many things in store for me this year. And he kept to that promise.
God blessed me and my family with great things this year. One such event was Siyong's wedding in January 2006. My first actual wedding which involved me on all 3 events - the church wedding, the 'pang tei' session (chinese tradition of serving tea to the elders) and the wedding dinner. I've never been through an entire wedding before, usually it's only the church wedding or none at all - parents only. So this was definitely a big thing for me - 2 new dresses for the day and night, new shoes, make-up and all.
The day after the wedding on 3rd January, we went on our holiday to Paris and the UK. It was a big affair, with my grandparents as well. Paris was as breath-taking as they make it in movies, even better as a friend of mine joined my family in Paris as well. Of course, there were down-times when our luggage got lost in transit, but on the whole, I can't say I didn't enjoy Paris. UK was great too. Touring the entire island, from London to Scotland and back, was an experience in itself. The back seat of the family car became half my home for the day and the luggages beside me were my best friends on the journey. It was tiring but great fun exploring a new country. We're truely blessed.
Arriving back to Singapore on the eve of Chinese New Year, we celebrated both my sister's birthday and the big reunion dinner. Ever since we moved to NZ, this was the first time in 5 years we returned to celebrate Chinese New Year in Singapore and it was great, visiting old relatives, basking in that festive season with great tidbits and loads of good dinners. That was a FAT FAT period of FUN and FOOD. Prosperous too.
Early February was spent shopping for furniture and decorating my very own bedroom from scratch. A new coat of paint, a new colour, a new bed, new bedsheets as well, a new shelf and many other new entries. It was like a dream come true, being the interior decorator of my own room, owning my own room.
Then came March, April, May - KOREA! I must add: the highlight of my year. Living in Korea for 3 whole months - without family - was an experience I cannot forget. I got to learn a whole new language and converse in it too, meet people from all over the world, get around on my own, eat food only the locals know about, cheer alongside millions of other koreans in the worldcup, do the things a tourist won't get the chance to do, adopt a new family, shop almost everyday and many many more. I'll never forget that experience of becoming a part of Korea. Not all of it was great, I missed home, I fell sick on and off throughout the 3 months there, and I got tired of the variety of food - mostly all red and spicy. But I loved it. Every bit of it.
When I got back, job hunting started. It didn't last very long and by the end of June, I started work at Pagesetters, a local advertising agency. The pay isn't great compared to what I got in NZ, the stress was a lot more, but I got what I wanted. A place in Singapore's advertising industry, to become a part of the Singapore workforce. Though I'm not sure that's where I want to be for good, at least I got to taste it. That's a celebration in itself - finding a good job.
In September, Jolie Avenue was established. Pear and my very own jewellery business. It started all because we had a dream, and several potential customers. We made a decision. The official decision was on 9th August 2006, where we went shopping for materials. Then came the designing of our website, the making of the trinkets, the photograph shoot. The launch of our website was on 1st September 2006.
While at Pagesetters, I met EK - my current boyfriend and hopefully someone I can be with for the rest of my life. Nothing has been the same since then. Now it's what WE do, what WE think, what WE want, what WE like. I love it. I love having someone there for support when I fall, for encouragement when I'm discouraged, for comfort when I'm down, for care when I'm sick and for love - regardless. Many many first memories were created together. No girl can be happier.
Then Christmas came. Christmas is always a lovely time for me, with good food, family bonding and lots of beautiful Christmas hymms. I love christmas, but even more this year beccause for the first time, my all time Santa wish came true. That was to spend the entire day with someone I love.
So there you have it, my year's events all wrapped up in a blog. I wouldn't have it happen any other way.
Despite this procrastination, I always get things done - and hence, this entry. A thanksgiving entry.
For one, this year has been awesome - and I'd like to award it the title 'The Best Year So Far'. Too many things happened, a lot more great blessings than bad messings.
The first major blessing was returning to Singapore. That was a decision I made and 2006 marked the start of my future in Singapore. It was both a scary yet exciting decision, knowing that God had many things in store for me this year. And he kept to that promise.
God blessed me and my family with great things this year. One such event was Siyong's wedding in January 2006. My first actual wedding which involved me on all 3 events - the church wedding, the 'pang tei' session (chinese tradition of serving tea to the elders) and the wedding dinner. I've never been through an entire wedding before, usually it's only the church wedding or none at all - parents only. So this was definitely a big thing for me - 2 new dresses for the day and night, new shoes, make-up and all.
The day after the wedding on 3rd January, we went on our holiday to Paris and the UK. It was a big affair, with my grandparents as well. Paris was as breath-taking as they make it in movies, even better as a friend of mine joined my family in Paris as well. Of course, there were down-times when our luggage got lost in transit, but on the whole, I can't say I didn't enjoy Paris. UK was great too. Touring the entire island, from London to Scotland and back, was an experience in itself. The back seat of the family car became half my home for the day and the luggages beside me were my best friends on the journey. It was tiring but great fun exploring a new country. We're truely blessed.
Arriving back to Singapore on the eve of Chinese New Year, we celebrated both my sister's birthday and the big reunion dinner. Ever since we moved to NZ, this was the first time in 5 years we returned to celebrate Chinese New Year in Singapore and it was great, visiting old relatives, basking in that festive season with great tidbits and loads of good dinners. That was a FAT FAT period of FUN and FOOD. Prosperous too.
Early February was spent shopping for furniture and decorating my very own bedroom from scratch. A new coat of paint, a new colour, a new bed, new bedsheets as well, a new shelf and many other new entries. It was like a dream come true, being the interior decorator of my own room, owning my own room.
Then came March, April, May - KOREA! I must add: the highlight of my year. Living in Korea for 3 whole months - without family - was an experience I cannot forget. I got to learn a whole new language and converse in it too, meet people from all over the world, get around on my own, eat food only the locals know about, cheer alongside millions of other koreans in the worldcup, do the things a tourist won't get the chance to do, adopt a new family, shop almost everyday and many many more. I'll never forget that experience of becoming a part of Korea. Not all of it was great, I missed home, I fell sick on and off throughout the 3 months there, and I got tired of the variety of food - mostly all red and spicy. But I loved it. Every bit of it.
When I got back, job hunting started. It didn't last very long and by the end of June, I started work at Pagesetters, a local advertising agency. The pay isn't great compared to what I got in NZ, the stress was a lot more, but I got what I wanted. A place in Singapore's advertising industry, to become a part of the Singapore workforce. Though I'm not sure that's where I want to be for good, at least I got to taste it. That's a celebration in itself - finding a good job.
In September, Jolie Avenue was established. Pear and my very own jewellery business. It started all because we had a dream, and several potential customers. We made a decision. The official decision was on 9th August 2006, where we went shopping for materials. Then came the designing of our website, the making of the trinkets, the photograph shoot. The launch of our website was on 1st September 2006.
While at Pagesetters, I met EK - my current boyfriend and hopefully someone I can be with for the rest of my life. Nothing has been the same since then. Now it's what WE do, what WE think, what WE want, what WE like. I love it. I love having someone there for support when I fall, for encouragement when I'm discouraged, for comfort when I'm down, for care when I'm sick and for love - regardless. Many many first memories were created together. No girl can be happier.
Then Christmas came. Christmas is always a lovely time for me, with good food, family bonding and lots of beautiful Christmas hymms. I love christmas, but even more this year beccause for the first time, my all time Santa wish came true. That was to spend the entire day with someone I love.
So there you have it, my year's events all wrapped up in a blog. I wouldn't have it happen any other way.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
waiting AGAIN
I'm waiting again, but this time, it SUCKS. Why? Coz one thing affects so many people.
I'm waiting on an E from my client. She has sent it about half an hour ago. I still haven't got it. It's because of that earthquake that disrupted the internet connection all around Asia.
While I'm waiting, my designer has also been waiting. So that he can finish up this last bit and zip it off to our client.
While we're waiting, our love ones are waiting for us. I'm sure his wife is waiting for him, especially with the amount of latenights he's been pulling on this job. EK is also waiting for me in Orchard. And there I thought today, I could for once be on time or even early for him. Nope. I'm late AGAIN. I want to catch a cab down but it's raining so basically it's hard to catch a cab. On top of that, I don't have cash in my wallet, which means I'll have to draw money which is more waiting for EK.
My client IT side is hence waiting for us to complete this job and send it across to them so they can code. Yes, it's a vicious wait. And no one knows how long we need to wait. That stupid mail could be travelling across to the other side of the world and back for all we know. Bah.
I hate waiting. Especially when I'm not the only one affected by it. People are waiting for me!!
I'm waiting on an E from my client. She has sent it about half an hour ago. I still haven't got it. It's because of that earthquake that disrupted the internet connection all around Asia.
While I'm waiting, my designer has also been waiting. So that he can finish up this last bit and zip it off to our client.
While we're waiting, our love ones are waiting for us. I'm sure his wife is waiting for him, especially with the amount of latenights he's been pulling on this job. EK is also waiting for me in Orchard. And there I thought today, I could for once be on time or even early for him. Nope. I'm late AGAIN. I want to catch a cab down but it's raining so basically it's hard to catch a cab. On top of that, I don't have cash in my wallet, which means I'll have to draw money which is more waiting for EK.
My client IT side is hence waiting for us to complete this job and send it across to them so they can code. Yes, it's a vicious wait. And no one knows how long we need to wait. That stupid mail could be travelling across to the other side of the world and back for all we know. Bah.
I hate waiting. Especially when I'm not the only one affected by it. People are waiting for me!!
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Santa Heard Me
Last year, my christmas wish could have been expressed through one song sung by Britney Spears:
Ooh yeah
Last night [year] I took a walk in the snow
Couples holding hands, places to go
Seems like everyone but me is in love
Santa, can you hear me ?
I sign my letter that I sealed with a kiss
I send it off and just said this
I know exactly what I want this year
Santa, can you hear me ?
I want my baby, baby
I want someone to love me someone to hold
Maybe, Maybe
Be all my own in a big red bow
Santa, can you hear me ?
I have been so good this year
And all I want is one thing
Tell me my true love is here
He's all I want just for me
Underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here
Santa that’s my only wish this year.
Christmas Eve, I just can’t sleep.
Will I be wrong for taking a peek ?
Cause that I heard that you're coming to town.
Santa, can you hear me ?
I really that hope you're on your way,
with something special for me in your sleigh.
Ooh please make my wish come true
Santa, can you hear me ?
I want my baby, baby
I want someone to love me someone to hold
Maybe, Maybe
we'll be all alone under the mistletoe
Santa, can you hear me ?
I have been so good this year
And all I want is one thing
Tell me my true love is here
He's all I want just for me
Underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here
Santa that’s my only wish this year
I hope my letter reaches you in time
woooo yeah
Bring me a love that I can call all mine
Cause I have been so good this year
Can’t be alone under the mistle toe
he's all i want in a big red bow
Santa, can you hear me ?
I have been so good this year
And all I want is one thing
Tell me my true love is here
He's all I want, just for me
Underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here
Santa, that’s my only wish this year
Ooh Santa
Can you hear me ?
ooh santa
Well he's all I want just for me
underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here..
Santa, that’s my only wish this year
Santa, that’s my only wish this year
This year, I'm proud to say, Santa heard me! It couldn't have been any better than this. Though he didn't arrange for EK to be sitting under my Christmas tree with a big red bow on Christmas morning, but I had him with me for both Christmas Eve and the actual day itself and I can't ask for anything more than that!
Ooh yeah
Last night [year] I took a walk in the snow
Couples holding hands, places to go
Seems like everyone but me is in love
Santa, can you hear me ?
I sign my letter that I sealed with a kiss
I send it off and just said this
I know exactly what I want this year
Santa, can you hear me ?
I want my baby, baby
I want someone to love me someone to hold
Maybe, Maybe
Be all my own in a big red bow
Santa, can you hear me ?
I have been so good this year
And all I want is one thing
Tell me my true love is here
He's all I want just for me
Underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here
Santa that’s my only wish this year.
Christmas Eve, I just can’t sleep.
Will I be wrong for taking a peek ?
Cause that I heard that you're coming to town.
Santa, can you hear me ?
I really that hope you're on your way,
with something special for me in your sleigh.
Ooh please make my wish come true
Santa, can you hear me ?
I want my baby, baby
I want someone to love me someone to hold
Maybe, Maybe
we'll be all alone under the mistletoe
Santa, can you hear me ?
I have been so good this year
And all I want is one thing
Tell me my true love is here
He's all I want just for me
Underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here
Santa that’s my only wish this year
I hope my letter reaches you in time
woooo yeah
Bring me a love that I can call all mine
Cause I have been so good this year
Can’t be alone under the mistle toe
he's all i want in a big red bow
Santa, can you hear me ?
I have been so good this year
And all I want is one thing
Tell me my true love is here
He's all I want, just for me
Underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here
Santa, that’s my only wish this year
Ooh Santa
Can you hear me ?
ooh santa
Well he's all I want just for me
underneath my Christmas tree
I’ll be waiting here..
Santa, that’s my only wish this year
Santa, that’s my only wish this year
This year, I'm proud to say, Santa heard me! It couldn't have been any better than this. Though he didn't arrange for EK to be sitting under my Christmas tree with a big red bow on Christmas morning, but I had him with me for both Christmas Eve and the actual day itself and I can't ask for anything more than that!
Friday, December 22, 2006
Christmas Thoughts and Love
Sometimes, you feel totally embarrassed when people (specifically my colleagues) give you gifts for Christmas and you didn't prepare any in return.
I guess for me, when I was little, it was all about receiving gifts. As a child, the more prezzies the merrier! Then when we grew older, gifts from individual relatives became like an exchange gift event (think that didn't work very well) so we scrap the entire prezzies altogether. Within my family, I only got prezzies for my sis coz its so hard thinking of what to get for my parents and when you have thought of something, it never seems to be within budget. Either that or they don't really express what they want so I have no clue what to get and getting something else would be meaningless. So I don't usually give prezzies to them, just my sis, and sometimes my close cousins coz we celebrate Christmas with them as well (in NZ).
So giving gifts have never been a habit of mine. Perhaps also Christmas has been too commercialised. For many, Christmas is all about prezzies.
Yes, to an extent, prezzies can be weaved into this meaning of Christmas. The three wise men bought gifts to exalt the new born king. Christmas day celebrates Christ's birth, but it also celebrates the purpose of his coming, to save us from our sins with his undying love, and according to a phrase spoken by a pastor once "you cannot love without giving".
I feel utterly bad when I receive gifts from my colleagues, not because I haven't prepared anything, but because I didn't have enough love and thoughtfulness. And that is one area I need to improve on.
With all my love, MERRY CHRISTMAS to all of you!
I guess for me, when I was little, it was all about receiving gifts. As a child, the more prezzies the merrier! Then when we grew older, gifts from individual relatives became like an exchange gift event (think that didn't work very well) so we scrap the entire prezzies altogether. Within my family, I only got prezzies for my sis coz its so hard thinking of what to get for my parents and when you have thought of something, it never seems to be within budget. Either that or they don't really express what they want so I have no clue what to get and getting something else would be meaningless. So I don't usually give prezzies to them, just my sis, and sometimes my close cousins coz we celebrate Christmas with them as well (in NZ).
So giving gifts have never been a habit of mine. Perhaps also Christmas has been too commercialised. For many, Christmas is all about prezzies.
Yes, to an extent, prezzies can be weaved into this meaning of Christmas. The three wise men bought gifts to exalt the new born king. Christmas day celebrates Christ's birth, but it also celebrates the purpose of his coming, to save us from our sins with his undying love, and according to a phrase spoken by a pastor once "you cannot love without giving".
I feel utterly bad when I receive gifts from my colleagues, not because I haven't prepared anything, but because I didn't have enough love and thoughtfulness. And that is one area I need to improve on.
With all my love, MERRY CHRISTMAS to all of you!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Trying to be a smart ass.
Why do I try?
Is it even worth the try?
I tried and what did I end up with?
A quotation that's too low or a 'retired' account director asking me 'why didn't I consult him first'?
Which is worse?
What can I do now?
Sit and hope that we don't require this additional quoted service?
Or ring them to inform that we need to revise the quotation?
But will an increase in the quoted price be well received?
Isn't it also not legally correct?
What we sent out is final, isn't it?
What can I do now?
Is there really nothing I can do?
Is this the only option, or do you have anything better?
Is it even worth the try?
I tried and what did I end up with?
A quotation that's too low or a 'retired' account director asking me 'why didn't I consult him first'?
Which is worse?
What can I do now?
Sit and hope that we don't require this additional quoted service?
Or ring them to inform that we need to revise the quotation?
But will an increase in the quoted price be well received?
Isn't it also not legally correct?
What we sent out is final, isn't it?
What can I do now?
Is there really nothing I can do?
Is this the only option, or do you have anything better?
Friday, December 08, 2006
Women Drivers!
Days are unpredictable. One moment, you can be happy, the next moment, sad.
Take for example yesterday. I took the day off to shop with Pear. At the start of the day, I was happy, excited and looking forward to a nice relaxing day of shopping - bead shopping that is.
Then while preparing to go out, the sky started to turn grey and gloom set in - rain rain go away, come again another day.
Pear and I met up, excited to explore this new shop which was stated in the papers to be one of the larger bead shops around, but I was disppointed when we got there. It was messy yet not loaded with a large variety of things. It was cheap, but not really either. We didn't end up buying much in the end, proceeding to our next destination - People's Park Shopping Centre.
That was when it happened. My parking skills are atrocious, especially with Singapore's narrow lanes, so I always have to readjust my car to park perfectly. Just as I was reversing out of the lot to readjust my car, I turned to my right and saw a car approaching. I stopped and waited for him to pass before reversing out.
KNOCK!
I turned around and realised I've hit into his car which was right behind me. The thought that ran through my head at that moment: "SHIT. It's GRANDPA'S car". He had stopped behind me and was reversing into a car park lot that was diagonally opposite mine.
Getting out, he was rather pleasant about it. Assessing both our damage - I got away with a scratch, he had a tiny dent above his rear tyre - he said he probably wouldn't claim insurance. I was relieved, but of course, a damage is a damage. He said he'll take it to his mechanic to assess the repair costs and get back to me. We exchanged name cards, took down IC numbers and were off on our way.
My mood was slightly affected. I was relieved, yet disappointed with my driving. 'Women drivers' he must have thought. I couldn't pinpoint my exact feelings then. I just wanted to go home and not drive. Though I was relieved that Grandpa's car only received a scratch, I just hate the fact that it's not my car. If it's my car, I wouldn't be that bothered, but the fact is, it's Grandpa's car and I had loaned it from him to drive. I should have been more responsible.
Having said that, accidents are bound to happen.
Shopping kind of took my mind off things for a while, then we moved on to our next destination: Arab Street. I didn't park coz they were all parallel parks and if I had attempted to park, it's like asking for another accident, so Pear went to walk the shops, while I toured the place for an easy park.
I finally found an easy lot (first lot of a line of parallel parks) but being lazy to tear parking coupons and also to get out of the car, I stayed in and waited for Pear. I was relieved that I found an easy lot.
That evening, we went home and I broke the news to Grandpa, who took it well. That was both an embarrassing moment, and also a moment of relieve. Sometimes, after such things happen to you, you don't really feel like driving anymore. Well, that's how I feel.
But as EK puts it: if you are not prepared to meet with an accident, then don't buy a car or don't drive.
If only these options were viable...
Take for example yesterday. I took the day off to shop with Pear. At the start of the day, I was happy, excited and looking forward to a nice relaxing day of shopping - bead shopping that is.
Then while preparing to go out, the sky started to turn grey and gloom set in - rain rain go away, come again another day.
Pear and I met up, excited to explore this new shop which was stated in the papers to be one of the larger bead shops around, but I was disppointed when we got there. It was messy yet not loaded with a large variety of things. It was cheap, but not really either. We didn't end up buying much in the end, proceeding to our next destination - People's Park Shopping Centre.
That was when it happened. My parking skills are atrocious, especially with Singapore's narrow lanes, so I always have to readjust my car to park perfectly. Just as I was reversing out of the lot to readjust my car, I turned to my right and saw a car approaching. I stopped and waited for him to pass before reversing out.
KNOCK!
I turned around and realised I've hit into his car which was right behind me. The thought that ran through my head at that moment: "SHIT. It's GRANDPA'S car". He had stopped behind me and was reversing into a car park lot that was diagonally opposite mine.
Getting out, he was rather pleasant about it. Assessing both our damage - I got away with a scratch, he had a tiny dent above his rear tyre - he said he probably wouldn't claim insurance. I was relieved, but of course, a damage is a damage. He said he'll take it to his mechanic to assess the repair costs and get back to me. We exchanged name cards, took down IC numbers and were off on our way.
My mood was slightly affected. I was relieved, yet disappointed with my driving. 'Women drivers' he must have thought. I couldn't pinpoint my exact feelings then. I just wanted to go home and not drive. Though I was relieved that Grandpa's car only received a scratch, I just hate the fact that it's not my car. If it's my car, I wouldn't be that bothered, but the fact is, it's Grandpa's car and I had loaned it from him to drive. I should have been more responsible.
Having said that, accidents are bound to happen.
Shopping kind of took my mind off things for a while, then we moved on to our next destination: Arab Street. I didn't park coz they were all parallel parks and if I had attempted to park, it's like asking for another accident, so Pear went to walk the shops, while I toured the place for an easy park.
I finally found an easy lot (first lot of a line of parallel parks) but being lazy to tear parking coupons and also to get out of the car, I stayed in and waited for Pear. I was relieved that I found an easy lot.
That evening, we went home and I broke the news to Grandpa, who took it well. That was both an embarrassing moment, and also a moment of relieve. Sometimes, after such things happen to you, you don't really feel like driving anymore. Well, that's how I feel.
But as EK puts it: if you are not prepared to meet with an accident, then don't buy a car or don't drive.
If only these options were viable...
Thursday, November 30, 2006
3-day Adventure
It was another adventure to remember.
When it first started on Thursday night, everything went wrong when the bus left Singapore. A tired little girl, missing and wanting to see her boyfriend sooner, a different bus and seat was allocated to her (not as comfortable), and a frustrated boyfriend over the phone at the swapping situation.
But it all changed when she arrived in Penang. Though her eyes were sore from crying and her emotions hurt, it was all forgotten with an explanation from the boyfriend regarding his frustration at the situation - not at her. The bus company were the ones who 'manipulated' the little girl and that's what the boyfriend was angry over.
Everything was back to normal. TLC was put into place and the holiday began. After a late breakfast - Lorong Selamat Char Quey Teow - it was off to the mall for some shopping where the little girl bought a pretty hair clip. Then, they left for the beach. It was going to be their first time riding the jet ski and both were excited. It is an item on her 'things I want to do before I die' list - to jet ski. He was a little hesitant at the start, asking the little girl to take the front, to drive the jet ski. She started off slow, screaming and a little frightened to accelerate. As the waves came against them, she gave up, and her hero came to the rescue. Sitting behind her, he took the bars and started up. Accelerating, OFF THE WENT! She was safe between her hero's arms, screaming with excitment, semi-fear and laughter.
She enjoyed herself thoroughly. They rode out towards the horizon, sped over the sea as if they were skimming the surface, did leaps over the ocean's choppy waves, and drank bits of salt water.
The fun didn't stop. They continued with horse-riding on the beach. Sharing a horse, they rode romantically off into the sunset - NAH, they didn't. It was only 4+pm!
They spent the remaining hour or so lying on beach chairs under palm trees, sipping their cocktails and enjoying the blue blue sky.
Evening came and they set off for home, sitting in a jam for over an hour with rain batting down heavily on the car. Tummies were rumbling and bodies were shivering, but the journey home was not one bit boring - with a chit here and a chat there. When they got home, it was already 8pm! Walking across the street, they had dinner at the hawker centre just opposite their apartment - Penang Laksa, Jawa Mee, Buan Jian Kuey, Hokkien Mee - before retreating indoors for a night in.
The next day was another eventful fiesta. The couple went for Fried Fish Mee Fen (vermicelli) first, then a walk around a mall, before returning home to pick up the parents. Off they went to the southern most part of Penang for Crab Porriage, then made a detour to have Penang Laksa before heading home, oh wait, they made one more stop to buy some fruits from a roadside stall before going back - crossing to the main island via the famous Penang Ferry.
They rested in that night and for dinner - FRUITS.
On Sunday, the family went for dim sum, shopped around, ate Jawa Mee and Rojak at a hawker centre, went to the seaside to dig up clams (or whatever it's called) and picked home a few pretty seashells, saw Penang airport (tourist destination - haha) and then the couple dropped the parentals off at home before heading out again.
Baskin Robbins was the place. Ice Cream was the agenda. After chilling over fantastic ice cream, they got back into the car and went for a car ride in the heavy storm. Arriving home, they decided to have dinner at the hawker centre opposite. From the car to the hawker centre, they walked hand in hand through the rain, their legs and shoes soaking up with rainwater. The little girl giggled and laughed, enjoying every bit of the rain. The boyfriend looked on, smiling at her many expressions.
There, she ate fusion Buan Jian Kuey - Chicken Hawaiian flavour which included cheese, mushrooms, pineapple, chicken and ham. It was AMAZING! She was satisfied. They returned home to pack their bags and prepared for the journey back to Singapore.
Tired and burnt out from the 3 days of intensive fun, the little girl fell soundly asleep throughout the entire bus journey home.
When it first started on Thursday night, everything went wrong when the bus left Singapore. A tired little girl, missing and wanting to see her boyfriend sooner, a different bus and seat was allocated to her (not as comfortable), and a frustrated boyfriend over the phone at the swapping situation.
But it all changed when she arrived in Penang. Though her eyes were sore from crying and her emotions hurt, it was all forgotten with an explanation from the boyfriend regarding his frustration at the situation - not at her. The bus company were the ones who 'manipulated' the little girl and that's what the boyfriend was angry over.
Everything was back to normal. TLC was put into place and the holiday began. After a late breakfast - Lorong Selamat Char Quey Teow - it was off to the mall for some shopping where the little girl bought a pretty hair clip. Then, they left for the beach. It was going to be their first time riding the jet ski and both were excited. It is an item on her 'things I want to do before I die' list - to jet ski. He was a little hesitant at the start, asking the little girl to take the front, to drive the jet ski. She started off slow, screaming and a little frightened to accelerate. As the waves came against them, she gave up, and her hero came to the rescue. Sitting behind her, he took the bars and started up. Accelerating, OFF THE WENT! She was safe between her hero's arms, screaming with excitment, semi-fear and laughter.
She enjoyed herself thoroughly. They rode out towards the horizon, sped over the sea as if they were skimming the surface, did leaps over the ocean's choppy waves, and drank bits of salt water.
The fun didn't stop. They continued with horse-riding on the beach. Sharing a horse, they rode romantically off into the sunset - NAH, they didn't. It was only 4+pm!
They spent the remaining hour or so lying on beach chairs under palm trees, sipping their cocktails and enjoying the blue blue sky.
Evening came and they set off for home, sitting in a jam for over an hour with rain batting down heavily on the car. Tummies were rumbling and bodies were shivering, but the journey home was not one bit boring - with a chit here and a chat there. When they got home, it was already 8pm! Walking across the street, they had dinner at the hawker centre just opposite their apartment - Penang Laksa, Jawa Mee, Buan Jian Kuey, Hokkien Mee - before retreating indoors for a night in.
The next day was another eventful fiesta. The couple went for Fried Fish Mee Fen (vermicelli) first, then a walk around a mall, before returning home to pick up the parents. Off they went to the southern most part of Penang for Crab Porriage, then made a detour to have Penang Laksa before heading home, oh wait, they made one more stop to buy some fruits from a roadside stall before going back - crossing to the main island via the famous Penang Ferry.
They rested in that night and for dinner - FRUITS.
On Sunday, the family went for dim sum, shopped around, ate Jawa Mee and Rojak at a hawker centre, went to the seaside to dig up clams (or whatever it's called) and picked home a few pretty seashells, saw Penang airport (tourist destination - haha) and then the couple dropped the parentals off at home before heading out again.
Baskin Robbins was the place. Ice Cream was the agenda. After chilling over fantastic ice cream, they got back into the car and went for a car ride in the heavy storm. Arriving home, they decided to have dinner at the hawker centre opposite. From the car to the hawker centre, they walked hand in hand through the rain, their legs and shoes soaking up with rainwater. The little girl giggled and laughed, enjoying every bit of the rain. The boyfriend looked on, smiling at her many expressions.
There, she ate fusion Buan Jian Kuey - Chicken Hawaiian flavour which included cheese, mushrooms, pineapple, chicken and ham. It was AMAZING! She was satisfied. They returned home to pack their bags and prepared for the journey back to Singapore.
Tired and burnt out from the 3 days of intensive fun, the little girl fell soundly asleep throughout the entire bus journey home.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Visit/Revisit
La la la la la. I've got nothing to do (technically I do, but I'm not in the working mood). I don't feel like working at all. I want a break. Can't wait for tomorrow evening, the start of my holiday. Though it's starting off with an overnight coach ride, but nevertheless, I'll be on a holiday. Took Friday off work to enjoy a full 3 day weekend in Penang. It's a recharge holiday. Talking about holidays, let me share with you my list of places I want to visit or revisit!
(1)
What: To revisit
Where: New Zealand, specifically Auckland
When: SOON (March/April 07?)
With: EK
Why: Miss my family, miss my friends, and I want to show EK the home where I've lived for the last 5 years.
The rest of the list is in no specific order.
(2)
What: To visit
Where: Taiwan
Why: SHOPPING! Never been there.
(3)
What: To revisit
Where: Korea, Seoul
When: Soon-ish
With: EK
Why: Coz EK says he wants to experience Korea's night life which he didn't get to do when he was with the tour group. And I want to go before all my friends in Korea forget about me.
(4)
What: To visit
Where: USA
When: Within the next 3 to 4 years
With: Whoever
Why: Coz James is there to be my tour guide! Must make use of resources. AND I WANT TO GO DISNEYLAND!
(5)
What: To visit
Where: Venice
When: In my lifetime
With: The person I love
Why: WHY NOT?!
(6)
What: To visit
Where: Japan
When: In my lifetime, hopefully when I'm below 30
Why: I want to go Harajuku/Shinjuku and dress (for one day) in those outrageous colourful outfits with wild hair to say 'been there, done that'.
(7)
What: To visit
Where: Germany
When: In my lifetime
Why: To rent a fast car and drive along that 'no speed limit' road. That is, if that's in Germany. I think it is.
(8)
What: To visit
Where: Hong Kong
Why: Just a place to go I guess, heard shopping is good there.
(9)
What: To visit
Where: Europe
Why: To see the castle among the clouds, to see the leaning tower, to see Michaelangelo's work, the list goes on!
(1)
What: To revisit
Where: New Zealand, specifically Auckland
When: SOON (March/April 07?)
With: EK
Why: Miss my family, miss my friends, and I want to show EK the home where I've lived for the last 5 years.
The rest of the list is in no specific order.
(2)
What: To visit
Where: Taiwan
Why: SHOPPING! Never been there.
(3)
What: To revisit
Where: Korea, Seoul
When: Soon-ish
With: EK
Why: Coz EK says he wants to experience Korea's night life which he didn't get to do when he was with the tour group. And I want to go before all my friends in Korea forget about me.
(4)
What: To visit
Where: USA
When: Within the next 3 to 4 years
With: Whoever
Why: Coz James is there to be my tour guide! Must make use of resources. AND I WANT TO GO DISNEYLAND!
(5)
What: To visit
Where: Venice
When: In my lifetime
With: The person I love
Why: WHY NOT?!
(6)
What: To visit
Where: Japan
When: In my lifetime, hopefully when I'm below 30
Why: I want to go Harajuku/Shinjuku and dress (for one day) in those outrageous colourful outfits with wild hair to say 'been there, done that'.
(7)
What: To visit
Where: Germany
When: In my lifetime
Why: To rent a fast car and drive along that 'no speed limit' road. That is, if that's in Germany. I think it is.
(8)
What: To visit
Where: Hong Kong
Why: Just a place to go I guess, heard shopping is good there.
(9)
What: To visit
Where: Europe
Why: To see the castle among the clouds, to see the leaning tower, to see Michaelangelo's work, the list goes on!
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
sunnyside DOWN
This morning, I wanted to make breakfast for EK. He stayed over to keep me company in an empty house as my grandparents had gone on a church retreat. Thinking whipping up some eggs and sausages for breakfast shouldn't be too hard, I started the cooking at 7am.
The sausages were ok - not pretty but OK (had to dispose of the first 2 sausages).
The sunnyside UP became a sunnyside DOWN. It was a disaster. First, the egg stuck to the pan - HOW MUCH OIL DO YOU NEED TO USE?! Then when I tried scooping the egg off the pan, the sunnyside was disturbed and the runny yolk broke. It looked terrible on the plate - very sad in fact. I can manage a scramble but not a sunnyside up.
I was so disheartened and embarrassed, I went crying to EK. Tears were balling down my face as I cried about my atrocious cooking, swearing never to cook again. EK was most encouraging, even apologising for not waking up earlier to help. He came out and ate the egg. When I saw him eating the ugly and probably gone cold sunnyside up, I broke down again. It must have tasted terrible. I felt so bad. He felt even worse seeing me crying like that. He said it was nice. But I know he was only being nice.
WHY AM I SUCH A BAD COOK? AM I DESTINED TO BE A TERRIBLE HOUSEWIFE? I CAN'T EVEN SERVE THE MOST BASIC SAUSAGE AND EGGS, WHAT ELSE CAN I COOK?!
The sausages were ok - not pretty but OK (had to dispose of the first 2 sausages).
The sunnyside UP became a sunnyside DOWN. It was a disaster. First, the egg stuck to the pan - HOW MUCH OIL DO YOU NEED TO USE?! Then when I tried scooping the egg off the pan, the sunnyside was disturbed and the runny yolk broke. It looked terrible on the plate - very sad in fact. I can manage a scramble but not a sunnyside up.
I was so disheartened and embarrassed, I went crying to EK. Tears were balling down my face as I cried about my atrocious cooking, swearing never to cook again. EK was most encouraging, even apologising for not waking up earlier to help. He came out and ate the egg. When I saw him eating the ugly and probably gone cold sunnyside up, I broke down again. It must have tasted terrible. I felt so bad. He felt even worse seeing me crying like that. He said it was nice. But I know he was only being nice.
WHY AM I SUCH A BAD COOK? AM I DESTINED TO BE A TERRIBLE HOUSEWIFE? I CAN'T EVEN SERVE THE MOST BASIC SAUSAGE AND EGGS, WHAT ELSE CAN I COOK?!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Beautiful.
Today is beautiful. I'm not stressed or gasping for air. The things I thought might arrive late was waiting for me in my mailbox when I arrived at work. Ahhh...everything is going great!
I'm in a fantastic mood today. This week is going to be a short week for me at work since I'm on annual leave on Friday. Taken it off to visit Penang and Langkawi! Going to hit some beaches and ride some waves - on a jet ski hopefullly!
I'm also alone in my little corner of the room as one account executive is somewhere in Anerica, roaming the streets and another is sick in bed. So I've cranked up Corrinne May and am enjoying my privacy - sketching new trinkets!
Ah...what a drastic change in tone, emotions, everything. From my previous 'Sob.' entry to this 'Beautiful.'
I'm in a fantastic mood today. This week is going to be a short week for me at work since I'm on annual leave on Friday. Taken it off to visit Penang and Langkawi! Going to hit some beaches and ride some waves - on a jet ski hopefullly!
I'm also alone in my little corner of the room as one account executive is somewhere in Anerica, roaming the streets and another is sick in bed. So I've cranked up Corrinne May and am enjoying my privacy - sketching new trinkets!
Ah...what a drastic change in tone, emotions, everything. From my previous 'Sob.' entry to this 'Beautiful.'
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Indeed. Today, yesterday, the day before yesterday hasn't been great days for me.
Today, I didn't do well in my presentation. Yesterday's was better (even my boss says so). Sigh. And the horrid thing is, I was presenting to the general manager of my client company. Yesterday was only to the executive director. I don't know if we will get the job, but from the looks of their stern expression, I can only hope and wish and pray.
Yesterday's drama? Please, have a seat and LISTEN! Apart from spending my frantic morning from 8am to 10.30am getting ready for my presentation at 11am, and the slow computer which plays up just at the crucial moment, I also had to deal with another crisis. Another client of mine has got a hugh event next Monday. I'm in charge of handing all their 150 handouts folder (we still have missing pages which will only come tomorrow), their info cards, all their signages, etc.
The first panic attack came when the printers discovered incompatible fonts which displayed wrongly on their computer, which made text run out of place, which means - NO PRINT. So it came back to us and that whole afternoon, I was sorting out and converting the powerpoint slides to PDF but there was drama with technology which delayed the whole process. AND THE JOB HAD TO GO TO PRINT SOON IF NOT WE'LL BE LATE LATE LATE!! What happened? I finally found a computer (at the other end of the company) having MS Powerpoint. Yes, can you believe that only selected computers in our office has MicroSoft?! Then, after converting the slides to PDF (2 slides per page), the PDF came out blank as an error message detailing 'no such fonts installed' flashed in front of me. Thinking it was converted wrongly, I tried another several times. Still failure. So I returned to my computer, dishearted when I realised that same file that opened with errors on that computer opened fine on mine. So back I went to that computer to convert the remaining files, which was a tiring process of running to and fro to check because there were still other problems which I shall not go in detail. Finally, all was done by 3pm and passed on to the printers.
The second panic attack for the day was when I heard WE DON'T HAVE THE WHITE RING BINDERS. The supplier called our printers to say they didn't have enough ring binders - we had already ordered from them the quantity. They played us out. So at 4pm, I was off with our production manager and a staff from our printers to a warehouse to look for the binders. The good news? She had the white binders. The bad news? She only had 100. We needed 150!!! So all the way till today, I was worrying about this, until lunch time, when the printers informed us - ALL IS SOLVED.
The day before yesterday was another mad day, getting ready all the handouts that were going into the folder, organising the layouts, liasing with our clients to get the last minute information, etc etc etc. YEA. SOB.
Oh, and my boyfriend has left the company for 'greener pastures'. Yesterday was his last day. SOB to that too. AND I DIDN'T HAVE TIME TO ATTEND HIS FAREWELL LUNCH. Of course I'll get to see him at other times. It just means we won't see as much of each other coz we won't have lunch together, we won't bump into each other's paths while running around the office, we won't...basically, we won't see each other from 8am to 6pm. But of course, there's 6pm till bedtime to see each other...still...
Sob.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Inspiration
The lack of it is detrimental, especially in the creative/design industry. Sometimes I feel like I've got IT. Other times, I feel like my existance is worthless.
Where do you go to find new inspiration?
In the advertising world where there are so many messages flying around, nothing is truly new - just tweaked. In the design industry, a new look is often bounced off someone else' design - a new material here or a new colour there.
With an urgent deadline to meet, the creative team struggle to produce something of inspiration quality. It doesn't help when your boss has sold your company to your client with impressive archives of our previous achievements. On top of that, there is a lack of motivation (yet another recruitment TVC), a lack of time (storyboards, creative rationale and costing have got to be sorted in a matter of days), but most importantly, a lack of inspiration (especially when the client comes from a very specialised industry).
Somehow, I'm thankful I'm not part of the creatives. Of course my contributions are welcomed, but at the end of the day, I've learnt to accept that I'm just not gifted in this department. I wish I can be more creative, but...
Where do you go to find new inspiration?
In the design industry, with the lack of knowledge on good material suppliers and a lack of proper training by those who have been in the industry for longer, I find myself at a disadvantage. However, those are the least of my concerns. Inspiration is the key to producing something of beauty. The most challenging part is finding inspiration to design something with the materials we have. Sometimes I think to myself, though I have the materials, I may not have the gift. That's why I'm still exploring. I don't want to give up too soon. That's why I'm still searching for that spark.
And when inspiration do hits, the next challenge is converting this bit of inpsiration into reality. Sometimes, your inspiration ends up being tweaked and compromised due to limited materials, the texture of the materials, and the possibility of such a design.
So really...where do people go to find new inspiration?
It's boils down to stealing an idea here, ripping a tagline there. Nothing is truly new. Just tweaked. Revamped. Amended.
Do you agree?
Bored of me yet? You've asked me to update, hoping to hear some juicy details about my life perhaps, but you end up getting an 'article' on Inspiration. I find these last few entries of mine have been rather ambiguous. Please be patient. It's not easy opening up after disappearing for so long. Stay tuned for the next episode...
Where do you go to find new inspiration?
In the advertising world where there are so many messages flying around, nothing is truly new - just tweaked. In the design industry, a new look is often bounced off someone else' design - a new material here or a new colour there.
With an urgent deadline to meet, the creative team struggle to produce something of inspiration quality. It doesn't help when your boss has sold your company to your client with impressive archives of our previous achievements. On top of that, there is a lack of motivation (yet another recruitment TVC), a lack of time (storyboards, creative rationale and costing have got to be sorted in a matter of days), but most importantly, a lack of inspiration (especially when the client comes from a very specialised industry).
Somehow, I'm thankful I'm not part of the creatives. Of course my contributions are welcomed, but at the end of the day, I've learnt to accept that I'm just not gifted in this department. I wish I can be more creative, but...
Where do you go to find new inspiration?
In the design industry, with the lack of knowledge on good material suppliers and a lack of proper training by those who have been in the industry for longer, I find myself at a disadvantage. However, those are the least of my concerns. Inspiration is the key to producing something of beauty. The most challenging part is finding inspiration to design something with the materials we have. Sometimes I think to myself, though I have the materials, I may not have the gift. That's why I'm still exploring. I don't want to give up too soon. That's why I'm still searching for that spark.
And when inspiration do hits, the next challenge is converting this bit of inpsiration into reality. Sometimes, your inspiration ends up being tweaked and compromised due to limited materials, the texture of the materials, and the possibility of such a design.
So really...where do people go to find new inspiration?
It's boils down to stealing an idea here, ripping a tagline there. Nothing is truly new. Just tweaked. Revamped. Amended.
Do you agree?
Bored of me yet? You've asked me to update, hoping to hear some juicy details about my life perhaps, but you end up getting an 'article' on Inspiration. I find these last few entries of mine have been rather ambiguous. Please be patient. It's not easy opening up after disappearing for so long. Stay tuned for the next episode...
Insightful News/Useless Blabber
I'm back!
I'm sure all of you must have missed me? Well...at least some of you? Anyone at all? No? (Please excuse me as I wrote this paragraph without knowledge of my very active tagboard.)
Anyway, I've finally decided my blog have been left stagnant for far too long. Time to pick up the slack and write a good article or two. However, the fact is, I never write good articles anyway so why not end your reading misery - especially with my limited vocabulary, atrocious grammer, and world 'unimpacting' news.
But once in a while, I do feel like writing. I do feel like expressing my brainless imagination. I do feel like telling the world what I've been up to, even if it's really nothing.
So here I am, back in the act. And I'll try to keep this promise of updating my blog a little more often - hopefully with some insightful news and not useless blabber.
I'm sure all of you must have missed me? Well...at least some of you? Anyone at all? No? (Please excuse me as I wrote this paragraph without knowledge of my very active tagboard.)
Anyway, I've finally decided my blog have been left stagnant for far too long. Time to pick up the slack and write a good article or two. However, the fact is, I never write good articles anyway so why not end your reading misery - especially with my limited vocabulary, atrocious grammer, and world 'unimpacting' news.
But once in a while, I do feel like writing. I do feel like expressing my brainless imagination. I do feel like telling the world what I've been up to, even if it's really nothing.
So here I am, back in the act. And I'll try to keep this promise of updating my blog a little more often - hopefully with some insightful news and not useless blabber.
Monday, October 09, 2006
Penang Penang
Three weekends ago (yes, I have been insanely busy), I followed him back to Penang, his hometown in Malaysia. Leaving straight after work on Friday, we went home for a quick shower before leaving for Golden Mile, where the pick-up point was for the coach. We were taking an overnight coach all the way up to Penang.
The coach was new, he has never travelled with this company before and it was an eyeopener for both of us - more for me of course. This country pumpkin was so amazed at how luxurious the seats were - just like flying business class on an aeroplane! We even had our own personal TV screen, showing a great variety of outdated shows but it was still a good selection. The seats reclined as well!!!!! It was amazing; like a lazy boy - minus the leather of course.
However, the 9 and a half hour journey wasn't very comfortable. According to him, the seats did not recline as much as the other company's coaches and both of us didn't manage to catch as much sleep as anticipated. Nevertheless, the moment we arrived in Penang, put our bags down at his place and washed up, it was out of the house for the 4 of us (his parents included).
Here's what we did.
Activity (1) At one of his favourite food stall called 'Jie Mei Char Kuay Teow'...
Activity (2) Drive around Georgetown before coming to his next favourite food stall...
Activity (3) To a famous chinese temple up on the hill and then to another temple (used to be the biggest sleeping goddess in the world) before going for lunch...
@ the temple
Activity (4) Take a long drive around Penang's coast, stopping by at a hillside plantation for...
Activity (5) Continued on our road trip around Penang Island before returning home for a rest at around 3pm which involved...
Activity (6) Drive to another part of Penang for appetizers...
Activity (7) Drive to Gurney Drive, queued along the road till we were almost giving up when we found a park, got out of the car and walked to the food market for more...
Activity (8) Dropped off the parentals for their beauty sleep (10pm) before zooming off to a pasa malam (night market) and then to the beach to watch the starless sky.
Ahhh, finally an activity that didn't involve any eating. Bliss!
And that was my long first day in Penang.
The second day, we woke up at 9am, washed up and got ready to embark on another day of activity. I promise it doesn't involve too much eating.
Activity (9) Off to one of his favourite breakfast places for...
Activity (10) Went to check out this big house in Penang
Activity (11) Then we went to the Youth Park where there were loads of people exercising, and children, playing on the swings and stuff. We took loads of pictures as well.
Activity (12) Dropped his parents back home before going out again to a 5-star hotel for massage and spa treatment. I'm not one who appreciates such things, to me it was pain and torture, but I did feel more relaxed after that so I guess it worked.
Activity (13) I had been craving for ice cream the whole time in Penang ever since I saw Baskin Robins so after the massage, we went to the shop beside Baskin Robins? Why? Coz he wanted to introduce me to a shop called Ice Ice Baby which had baby faces all over the shop! They served amazing desserts!
@ Ice Ice Baby
Activity (14) Then we went shopping! He took me to this big shopping mall called Comta where we walked the floors. He bought me a nice 3/4 black pants and a pink singlet, before rushing home for dinner with his sister and family.
Activity (15) Shower, Pack-up, and get ready for the bus ride home, which was even better than the bus ride to Penang though the coach was slightly older and there weren't any personal television set. We travelled with another coach company this time around, one he frequently travels with and it was nice because the seats could recline to almost horizontal and we managed to get better sleep on our way home, to recharge us for the next working day.
The coach was new, he has never travelled with this company before and it was an eyeopener for both of us - more for me of course. This country pumpkin was so amazed at how luxurious the seats were - just like flying business class on an aeroplane! We even had our own personal TV screen, showing a great variety of outdated shows but it was still a good selection. The seats reclined as well!!!!! It was amazing; like a lazy boy - minus the leather of course.
However, the 9 and a half hour journey wasn't very comfortable. According to him, the seats did not recline as much as the other company's coaches and both of us didn't manage to catch as much sleep as anticipated. Nevertheless, the moment we arrived in Penang, put our bags down at his place and washed up, it was out of the house for the 4 of us (his parents included).
Here's what we did.
Activity (1) At one of his favourite food stall called 'Jie Mei Char Kuay Teow'...
Food (1) Hokkien Mee - apparently not one of the best food stall for it
Food (2) Char Kuay Teow - DELICIOUS but it'll never be my fav
Food (3) Yam Cake - at least I tried...don't know why I thought I heard them say fish
Food (4) Otah ?soft, juicy and different from Singapore's
Activity (2) Drive around Georgetown before coming to his next favourite food stall...
Food (5) Buan Jian Quey (2 different types) - love the one with black sugar
Activity (3) To a famous chinese temple up on the hill and then to another temple (used to be the biggest sleeping goddess in the world) before going for lunch...
Food (6) Penang Laksa (Assam style) - LOVE!
Food (7) Penang Laksa (Sweeter style) - LOVE IT TOO!
Food (8) Passembur - it's alright but not a favourite
@ the temple
Activity (4) Take a long drive around Penang's coast, stopping by at a hillside plantation for...
Food (9) Fruit Rojak - I LOVE FRUITS, so sweet so juicy!
Food (10) Fruit Ice Kachang - amazingly sweet mango!
Activity (5) Continued on our road trip around Penang Island before returning home for a rest at around 3pm which involved...
Food (11) Homemade Moon Cake - Eating is also a form of rest!
Activity (6) Drive to another part of Penang for appetizers...
Food (12) Fried Lalas - it wasn't the highlight, just to keep the mouth busy while waiting for...
Food (13) Grilled Female Crabs - I've never had it this style (YUM) and the female crabs had so much eggs!! I learnt to eat crab eggs that day.
Activity (7) Drive to Gurney Drive, queued along the road till we were almost giving up when we found a park, got out of the car and walked to the food market for more...
Food (14) BBQ Cuttlefish - nice and crispy!
Food (15) Muah Ji - not much of a starchy chinese dessert person
Food (16) Soft Apong with banana - love bananas!
Food (17) Crispy Apong - DELICIOUS! Almost like loveletters!
Activity (8) Dropped off the parentals for their beauty sleep (10pm) before zooming off to a pasa malam (night market) and then to the beach to watch the starless sky.
Ahhh, finally an activity that didn't involve any eating. Bliss!
And that was my long first day in Penang.
The second day, we woke up at 9am, washed up and got ready to embark on another day of activity. I promise it doesn't involve too much eating.
Activity (9) Off to one of his favourite breakfast places for...
Food (18) Bak Kut Teh - Beautiful!
Activity (10) Went to check out this big house in Penang
No food involved
Activity (11) Then we went to the Youth Park where there were loads of people exercising, and children, playing on the swings and stuff. We took loads of pictures as well.
No food involved
Activity (12) Dropped his parents back home before going out again to a 5-star hotel for massage and spa treatment. I'm not one who appreciates such things, to me it was pain and torture, but I did feel more relaxed after that so I guess it worked.
No food involved
Activity (13) I had been craving for ice cream the whole time in Penang ever since I saw Baskin Robins so after the massage, we went to the shop beside Baskin Robins? Why? Coz he wanted to introduce me to a shop called Ice Ice Baby which had baby faces all over the shop! They served amazing desserts!
Food (19) Baked cheese noodles - I managed to eat a little of it. Too cheezy but edible.
Food (20) Ice cream on chinese egg waffle (aka kuay bulu) - YUM YUM YUM!
Food (21) Chocolate fondue with ice cream, cakes and assorted fruits - DROOL!
@ Ice Ice Baby
Activity (14) Then we went shopping! He took me to this big shopping mall called Comta where we walked the floors. He bought me a nice 3/4 black pants and a pink singlet, before rushing home for dinner with his sister and family.
Food (22) Fried Egg Oyster - bought from the food stall opposite their apartment.
Food (23) Steamed fish drenched in tomato sauce - it tastes just like how mama cooks it.
Food (24) Brocolli with mushrooms - nice and healthy for a change.
Food (25) Steam egg with prawns - another nice, healthy and delicious dish.
Food (26) Chicken Soup - another dish very much like how mama cooks it.
Activity (15) Shower, Pack-up, and get ready for the bus ride home, which was even better than the bus ride to Penang though the coach was slightly older and there weren't any personal television set. We travelled with another coach company this time around, one he frequently travels with and it was nice because the seats could recline to almost horizontal and we managed to get better sleep on our way home, to recharge us for the next working day.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
The Inner Workings of a Shopaholic's Mind
Recently, Pear passed me a book from the Shopaholic series written by Sophie Kinsella. Although the book she passed me was the second book and I haven't read the first, I could immediately relate to Rebecca Bloomwood, the shopaholic.
Here's a snippet into the workings of a shopaholic's mind. (Ladies, don't lie to yourself, I'm sure you can TOTALLY relate.)
And for the next hour as she sits at a cafe sipping her cuppaccino, all she can think about are those clementine shoes and the outcome? What do you think? Duh. A woman can justify any want to a need.
Well, I haven't finished reading the book but I'm ever so thankful I'm not as bad a shopaholic as Rebecca is.
Here's a snippet into the workings of a shopaholic's mind. (Ladies, don't lie to yourself, I'm sure you can TOTALLY relate.)
So for example, when I get to LK Bennett, I'm incredibly focused and direct. As I walk in, a pair of red boots with high heels catches my eye - but I quickly look away, and head straight for the display of sandals. This is how I shop these days: no pausing, no gorgeous new range of sequined pumps over there. I simply go straight to the sandals I want, take them from the rack and say to the assistant,
'I'd like to have these in a six, please.'
Direct, and to the point. Just buy what you need and nothing else. This is the key to controlled shopping. I'm not even going to glance at those cool pink stilettos, even though they'd match my new Jigsaw cardigan perfectly.
Nor those slingbacks with the glittery heels.
They are nice though, aren't they? I wonder what they'd look like on.
Oh God. This is really hard.
What is it about shoes? I mean, I like most kinds of clothes, but a fabulous pair of shoes can just reduce me to jelly. Sometimes, when no-one else is at home, I open my wardrobe and just stare at all my pairs of shoes, like some mad collector. And once, I lined them all up on my bed and took a photograph of them. Which might seem a bit weird - but I thought, I've got loads of photos of people I don't really like, so why not take one of something I love?
'Here you are!'
Thank goodness, the assistant is back with my lilac sandals in a box - and as I see them, my heart gives a little leap. Oh, these are gorgeous. Gorgeous. All delicate and strappy, with a tiny little blackberry by the toe. I fell in love with them as soon as I saw them. They're a bit expensive - but then, everyone knows you should never skimp on shoes, because you'll hurt your feet.
I slip my feet into them with a frisson of delight - and oh God, they're fantastic. My feet suddenly look elegant, and my legs look longer...and OK, it's a tiny bit difficult to walk in them, but that's probably because the shop floor is slippery.
'I'll take them, please,' I say, and beam happily at the assistant.
You see, this is the reward for taking such a controlled approach to shopping. When you buy something, you really feel as though you've earned it.
We head towards the checkout, and I keep my eyes carefully away from the rack of accessories. In fact, I barely even notice that purple bag with the jet beading. And I'm just reaching into my bag for my purse, congratulating myself on being so single-minded, when the assistant says conversationally, 'You know, we've got these sandals in clementine, as well.'
Clementine?
'Oh...right,' I say after a pause.
I'm not interested. I've got what I came in to buy - and that's the end of the story. Lilac sandals. Not clementine ones.
'They've just come in,' she adds, rooting around on the floor. 'I think they're going to be even more popular than the lilac.'
'Really?' I say, trying to sound as indifferent as I can. 'Well, I'll just take these, I think...'
'Here it is!' she exclaims. 'I knew there was one around here somewhere.'
And I freeze, as she puts the most exquisite sandal I've ever seen onto the counter. It's a pale, creamy orange colour, with the same strappy shape as the lilac one - but instead of the blackberry, there's a tiny clementine by the toe.
It's instant love. I can't move my eyes away.
'Would you like to try it?' says the girl, and I feel a lurch of desire, right to the put of my stomach.
Just look at it. It's delicious. It's the most darling shoe I've ever seen. Oh God.
But I don't need a pair of clementine shoes, do I? I don't need them.
Come on, Becky. Just. Say. No.
'Actually...' I swallow hard, trying to get control of my voice. 'Actually...' God, I can hardly say it. 'I'll just take the lilac ones today,' I manage eventually. 'Thank you.'
And for the next hour as she sits at a cafe sipping her cuppaccino, all she can think about are those clementine shoes and the outcome? What do you think? Duh. A woman can justify any want to a need.
Well, I haven't finished reading the book but I'm ever so thankful I'm not as bad a shopaholic as Rebecca is.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
www.jolieavenue.blogspot.com
I've been so busy and tired lately, I haven't had the time to sit down for a breather.
Life has suddenly caught up with me, age has clearly slowed me down and time has been slipping right by me. To be more explicit, work has come to a slow drag with sudden stressful climaxes, an extra hobby vies for the rest of my time, and love comes knocking at my doorstep.
Work...it's the same thing over and over again. Periods of constant waiting and periods of immense stress. A week without deadlines follows with a week with back-to-back deadlines. Work has definitely gone from stressfully interesting to stressfully mundane. But nevertheless, against the benchmark of going back to school, a pay check at the end of the month still works wonders for the shoppaholic's soul.
My newest hobby? I don't really know how else to call it. Perhaps it's called a hobby. Perhaps it's called side-line income. Anyway, Pear and I have just launched an online business on the 1st September 2006 selling jewelry, hand-made exclusively by us. It's our pride and joy at the moment: right from the start when we decided to start such a business, to the first day we actually got down to putting our talk into action on 9th August 2006, then to the day we rushed to launch the website on 1st September 2006, and till today, a normal business day for us, where we'll be meeting after work and uni to discuss business.
I'm still in disbelief, amazed at how just 2 months ago, we were still talking about how nice it would be to make and sell our own earrings. It was really all talk then and I never thought at that point in time, this dream would come true one day. Even my prince said so himself. When I met up with him slightly more than a month ago, it was only a casual topic of conversation that was brushed over briefly as a passing thought. And today. We've got a website, extra materials and orders!
Pear and I have plenty of dreams and to see one dream realised - I don't know how else to describe it but as Mr Big says on Sex and the City - ABSO-F***ING-LUTELY AMAZING!! The thing is, I've been so busy with the launch of it, I completely forgot to announce it to the world, so everyone out there, if you haven't already visited our shop, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Pigs to fly? Go NOW!
Apart from Jolie Avenue, there are other things new to the heart of this expired teenage shoppaholic - like Love. It's all new to me at the moment, and I have not figured out how to weave it into a bloggable topic yet. Perhaps coz 'love' is so personal to me, I don't think I can do justice to it with words just yet.
Life has suddenly caught up with me, age has clearly slowed me down and time has been slipping right by me. To be more explicit, work has come to a slow drag with sudden stressful climaxes, an extra hobby vies for the rest of my time, and love comes knocking at my doorstep.
Work...it's the same thing over and over again. Periods of constant waiting and periods of immense stress. A week without deadlines follows with a week with back-to-back deadlines. Work has definitely gone from stressfully interesting to stressfully mundane. But nevertheless, against the benchmark of going back to school, a pay check at the end of the month still works wonders for the shoppaholic's soul.
My newest hobby? I don't really know how else to call it. Perhaps it's called a hobby. Perhaps it's called side-line income. Anyway, Pear and I have just launched an online business on the 1st September 2006 selling jewelry, hand-made exclusively by us. It's our pride and joy at the moment: right from the start when we decided to start such a business, to the first day we actually got down to putting our talk into action on 9th August 2006, then to the day we rushed to launch the website on 1st September 2006, and till today, a normal business day for us, where we'll be meeting after work and uni to discuss business.
I'm still in disbelief, amazed at how just 2 months ago, we were still talking about how nice it would be to make and sell our own earrings. It was really all talk then and I never thought at that point in time, this dream would come true one day. Even my prince said so himself. When I met up with him slightly more than a month ago, it was only a casual topic of conversation that was brushed over briefly as a passing thought. And today. We've got a website, extra materials and orders!
Pear and I have plenty of dreams and to see one dream realised - I don't know how else to describe it but as Mr Big says on Sex and the City - ABSO-F***ING-LUTELY AMAZING!! The thing is, I've been so busy with the launch of it, I completely forgot to announce it to the world, so everyone out there, if you haven't already visited our shop, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Pigs to fly? Go NOW!
Apart from Jolie Avenue, there are other things new to the heart of this expired teenage shoppaholic - like Love. It's all new to me at the moment, and I have not figured out how to weave it into a bloggable topic yet. Perhaps coz 'love' is so personal to me, I don't think I can do justice to it with words just yet.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Like and Love
"There's a difference between like and love. I mean I like my Sketchers, but I love my Prada backpack." - Bianca, Ten Things I Hate About You
Sometimes, I wish it was so easily defined. Neverthless, here's what I think:
There's a difference between like and love. I mean I like that there's a difference, but I love how both feels.
Sometimes, I wish it was so easily defined. Neverthless, here's what I think:
There's a difference between like and love. I mean I like that there's a difference, but I love how both feels.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Drama in my life
Mark-Up
Pear and I have been dabbling in some jewelry business so I decided we should mark-up our price on each item by quite a big sum of around $50. Both parties agreed and our business florished! No one seemed to object the mark-up and we were doing very well.
Detail Rating (out of 5): *
Quitting
Everyone heard that I was quitting Pagesetters. Everyone is getting ready to celebrate my leave with good farewell words and lunch treats.
But how come I didn't know I had announced it to everyone that I was leaving. Yes, I thought about it and I think I should quit, but I don't recall telling anyone about my decision.
So I asked a colleague of mine if I did tell everyone I was leaving and with a straight face, he said, “Yes, you did.” I found this very puzzling.
Detail Rating (out of 5):***
Murder Accomplist
Last night, after being an accomplist for a rather serious crime, I decided to run. It was all dark, everyone was asleep. To appear less obvious, I stayed low, crawling on the ground of my precious stuff toy in my hand (WHAT THE?). I turned around the corner of the street and spotted a police car and a couple of policemen attending to some commotion at my neighbour's place - probably some party that went a little too overboard. I froze for a second. They looked at me, a weirdo crawling on the ground, but without thinking twice, they continued on with their police business.
Heart beating faster and faster, I turned around and made my way to a car parked on the side of the road. Quietly without being obvious, I broke into the driver's side of the car. The car was a left hand drive. Not the normal kind of car you see in Singapore. I spotted several policemen walking past my car. One of them looked in. I hurriedly tried to start the car, but automatically, I reached over to my left for the gears. Wrong move. I thought I was in for it. I thought I had given it away. Realising my mistake and avoiding eyecontact with the policeman, I reached for the gears on the right. The policemen walked away.
I breathed a sigh of relief.
Detail Rating (out of 5):****
The Overview
What a busy night it was for me yesterday, or should I say early this morning! Hitting the pillows at 12.30am, I thought I could get a full 7 hours of sleep. I was wrong. I had dreams after dreams after dreams. And they weren't nice dreams either. They were all stressful to an extent. It wasn't the kind of dreams where you feel good and end up smiling to yourself when you wake up. It was about business, work and crime! And what is more amazing is that I remember them. Perhaps it's coz I woke up after every dream. However, you can clearly see the detail rating as I progress with each dream. The more recent the dream, the better I remember it. Though I love dreaming, being an accomplist on a crime isn't my cup of tea and being a panda the next day isn't a bonus as well!
Pear and I have been dabbling in some jewelry business so I decided we should mark-up our price on each item by quite a big sum of around $50. Both parties agreed and our business florished! No one seemed to object the mark-up and we were doing very well.
Detail Rating (out of 5): *
Quitting
Everyone heard that I was quitting Pagesetters. Everyone is getting ready to celebrate my leave with good farewell words and lunch treats.
But how come I didn't know I had announced it to everyone that I was leaving. Yes, I thought about it and I think I should quit, but I don't recall telling anyone about my decision.
So I asked a colleague of mine if I did tell everyone I was leaving and with a straight face, he said, “Yes, you did.” I found this very puzzling.
Detail Rating (out of 5):***
Murder Accomplist
Last night, after being an accomplist for a rather serious crime, I decided to run. It was all dark, everyone was asleep. To appear less obvious, I stayed low, crawling on the ground of my precious stuff toy in my hand (WHAT THE?). I turned around the corner of the street and spotted a police car and a couple of policemen attending to some commotion at my neighbour's place - probably some party that went a little too overboard. I froze for a second. They looked at me, a weirdo crawling on the ground, but without thinking twice, they continued on with their police business.
Heart beating faster and faster, I turned around and made my way to a car parked on the side of the road. Quietly without being obvious, I broke into the driver's side of the car. The car was a left hand drive. Not the normal kind of car you see in Singapore. I spotted several policemen walking past my car. One of them looked in. I hurriedly tried to start the car, but automatically, I reached over to my left for the gears. Wrong move. I thought I was in for it. I thought I had given it away. Realising my mistake and avoiding eyecontact with the policeman, I reached for the gears on the right. The policemen walked away.
I breathed a sigh of relief.
Detail Rating (out of 5):****
The Overview
What a busy night it was for me yesterday, or should I say early this morning! Hitting the pillows at 12.30am, I thought I could get a full 7 hours of sleep. I was wrong. I had dreams after dreams after dreams. And they weren't nice dreams either. They were all stressful to an extent. It wasn't the kind of dreams where you feel good and end up smiling to yourself when you wake up. It was about business, work and crime! And what is more amazing is that I remember them. Perhaps it's coz I woke up after every dream. However, you can clearly see the detail rating as I progress with each dream. The more recent the dream, the better I remember it. Though I love dreaming, being an accomplist on a crime isn't my cup of tea and being a panda the next day isn't a bonus as well!
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Mr Sandman, give me a sign
Expired:
I wanted to be a pilot,
And travel the world with class.
But I suck at multi-tasking,
So this dream I gave up.
I wanted to be an air-stewardess,
And travel the world to explore.
But Mum doubted my service,
So this dream I gave up.
I wanted to work for an airline,
And travel the world on discount.
But so did many others,
So this dream I gave up.
Frozen:
I wanted to be a cop,
For it was a childhood dream.
But I doubted my ability to handle the training,
This dream is now on hold.
I wanted to be a fashion designer,
For all the clothes I want to wear.
But without a degree in fashion design,
This dream is now on hold.
I wanted to be my own boss,
For I rather answer to myself.
But without good research and proposal,
This dream is now on hold.
Active:
I would like to be a copywriter,
I hope to design a big ad.
But I might not have enough creativity,
So this dream I'm still pursuing.
I would like to find a job I love,
I hope every work day is fun.
But I don't know what I really enjoy,
So this dream I'm still pursuing.
I would like to find a Singaporean boyfriend,
I hope I'm on my way.
But it's harder than I thought,
So this dream I'm still pursuing.
Under-Construction:
I wouldn't mind being a tai tai,
I hope my husband is rich.
But not many guys would approve,
I'm still amending this dream.
I wouldn't mind being more ambitious,
I hope for more drive in life.
But with ambition comes overwhelming stress,
I'm still amending this dream.
I wouldn't mind being a psychic,
I hope to see my future.
But the future lies in your own hands,
I'm still amending this dream.
Achievements:
I've always lived a life of a dreamer,
Wishing for so endless things.
And now that I've achieved this,
What's next? Pray tell, I do not know.
I wanted to be a pilot,
And travel the world with class.
But I suck at multi-tasking,
So this dream I gave up.
I wanted to be an air-stewardess,
And travel the world to explore.
But Mum doubted my service,
So this dream I gave up.
I wanted to work for an airline,
And travel the world on discount.
But so did many others,
So this dream I gave up.
Frozen:
I wanted to be a cop,
For it was a childhood dream.
But I doubted my ability to handle the training,
This dream is now on hold.
I wanted to be a fashion designer,
For all the clothes I want to wear.
But without a degree in fashion design,
This dream is now on hold.
I wanted to be my own boss,
For I rather answer to myself.
But without good research and proposal,
This dream is now on hold.
Active:
I would like to be a copywriter,
I hope to design a big ad.
But I might not have enough creativity,
So this dream I'm still pursuing.
I would like to find a job I love,
I hope every work day is fun.
But I don't know what I really enjoy,
So this dream I'm still pursuing.
I would like to find a Singaporean boyfriend,
I hope I'm on my way.
But it's harder than I thought,
So this dream I'm still pursuing.
Under-Construction:
I wouldn't mind being a tai tai,
I hope my husband is rich.
But not many guys would approve,
I'm still amending this dream.
I wouldn't mind being more ambitious,
I hope for more drive in life.
But with ambition comes overwhelming stress,
I'm still amending this dream.
I wouldn't mind being a psychic,
I hope to see my future.
But the future lies in your own hands,
I'm still amending this dream.
Achievements:
I've always lived a life of a dreamer,
Wishing for so endless things.
And now that I've achieved this,
What's next? Pray tell, I do not know.
Monday, August 21, 2006
Composition Title: A Day Out at the Beach
The day started out warm. All dressed in her new pink towel-material skirt, a white top, and a pink bikini hidden underneath, Lorraine made her way down to Harbourfront MRT station where she had arranged to meet with her best friend, Pearlyn, and two other friends.
After lunch, they boarded a Vios and drove into Sentosa. Driving across the bridge to Sentosa, Lorraine was consumed by excitement. It has been about three years since she last stepped foot on the shores of Sentosa and she was looking forward to it. Though Lorraine isn't much of a beach girl - she didn't like the sand between her toes and the salty sea water - she was nevertheless excited. She was the one who called for this outing. She was dying to go Sentosa, to stretch out on the beach and chill the afternoon away.
They parked their car and walked down to the beach. There was a good crowd of people on this semi-cloudy day. The sun was just right. Not too scorching, and yet not entirely useless. They stretched out on a beach mat, lying in the sun and chatting. Life couldn't get any better.
They felt drops of rain falling on their exposed skin. Lorraine wasn't bothered. Afterall she loved the rain and what better timing than on a day she was dressed to get wet! They ducked for shelter though, having a drink while waiting for the rain to 'vanish' which it eventually did. Just a passing shower.
The adjourned back out onto the beach and let the sun warm up their bodies. Lorraine took this chance to absorb everything. She saw people who were doing the same as she was - sunbathing - and others who had a book in front of them, reading by the beach. And then there were others who were playing with the sand, and a few others who rather be in the cool sea. There were little kids, playing in the kiddy pool just a while away. Not to mention the groups of teenagers at the far end, competing against each other in a game of beach volly.
An ice cream and some nacho chips went down well under the beautiful sun. Lorraine even took a dip into the cool sea water. She enjoyed it. When a person is in the mood, everything feels good.
At around 5pm, they were all hungry and decided to leave. After a nice shower, they met once again and walked back towards the carpark. One their way, they spotted a large white snake! There must have been some animal performance earlier and there were a few remaining audience hanging around the stage, taking pictures with the large snake. Not wanting to miss this great opportunity, Lorraine's friend went down to join the queue. Lorraine took her cue as the cameraman, but she refused to touch the snake. Pearlyn made it a point to stay far far away from the snake. She wouldn't even look at the pictures that were taken!
They left Sentosa for Chinatown, having Korean food for dinner and some asian desserts before heading home. Plonking herself on the bed, Lorraine fell asleep after a little bit of Korean drama treats.
After lunch, they boarded a Vios and drove into Sentosa. Driving across the bridge to Sentosa, Lorraine was consumed by excitement. It has been about three years since she last stepped foot on the shores of Sentosa and she was looking forward to it. Though Lorraine isn't much of a beach girl - she didn't like the sand between her toes and the salty sea water - she was nevertheless excited. She was the one who called for this outing. She was dying to go Sentosa, to stretch out on the beach and chill the afternoon away.
They parked their car and walked down to the beach. There was a good crowd of people on this semi-cloudy day. The sun was just right. Not too scorching, and yet not entirely useless. They stretched out on a beach mat, lying in the sun and chatting. Life couldn't get any better.
They felt drops of rain falling on their exposed skin. Lorraine wasn't bothered. Afterall she loved the rain and what better timing than on a day she was dressed to get wet! They ducked for shelter though, having a drink while waiting for the rain to 'vanish' which it eventually did. Just a passing shower.
The adjourned back out onto the beach and let the sun warm up their bodies. Lorraine took this chance to absorb everything. She saw people who were doing the same as she was - sunbathing - and others who had a book in front of them, reading by the beach. And then there were others who were playing with the sand, and a few others who rather be in the cool sea. There were little kids, playing in the kiddy pool just a while away. Not to mention the groups of teenagers at the far end, competing against each other in a game of beach volly.
An ice cream and some nacho chips went down well under the beautiful sun. Lorraine even took a dip into the cool sea water. She enjoyed it. When a person is in the mood, everything feels good.
At around 5pm, they were all hungry and decided to leave. After a nice shower, they met once again and walked back towards the carpark. One their way, they spotted a large white snake! There must have been some animal performance earlier and there were a few remaining audience hanging around the stage, taking pictures with the large snake. Not wanting to miss this great opportunity, Lorraine's friend went down to join the queue. Lorraine took her cue as the cameraman, but she refused to touch the snake. Pearlyn made it a point to stay far far away from the snake. She wouldn't even look at the pictures that were taken!
They left Sentosa for Chinatown, having Korean food for dinner and some asian desserts before heading home. Plonking herself on the bed, Lorraine fell asleep after a little bit of Korean drama treats.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Sandwiches - Account Executives' Lunch
How do you like your sandwich? Toast? Thick-sliced or thin? Buttered?
Here's my sandwich:
Stale toast on one side but not on the other. Both are on thick-sliced bread. On the toasted and super stale bread, you've got margerine, smooth and apparently good for you. Then comes the miserable piece of ham stuck in the middle. Following that is an piece of non-toasted multigrain bread. No spread.
"WHAT THE?"
Think abstract. Here's some help:
Stale toast - Our Clients (tough and demands lots of energy when chewing)
Margerine - The contact between you and your client (it's got to be smooth since they mean business and business is always good for you)
Miserable Ham - Me, the Account Executive
Non-toasted Multigrain bread - The designers (with the creative variety of ideas)
*And no spread - Our contact maybe a little dry (especially when balancing the clients' wants with their creativity)
WELCOME to the exciting world of Account Servicing (AS), also known as Ass Sucking.
Here's my sandwich:
Stale toast on one side but not on the other. Both are on thick-sliced bread. On the toasted and super stale bread, you've got margerine, smooth and apparently good for you. Then comes the miserable piece of ham stuck in the middle. Following that is an piece of non-toasted multigrain bread. No spread.
"WHAT THE?"
Think abstract. Here's some help:
Stale toast - Our Clients (tough and demands lots of energy when chewing)
Margerine - The contact between you and your client (it's got to be smooth since they mean business and business is always good for you)
Miserable Ham - Me, the Account Executive
Non-toasted Multigrain bread - The designers (with the creative variety of ideas)
*And no spread - Our contact maybe a little dry (especially when balancing the clients' wants with their creativity)
WELCOME to the exciting world of Account Servicing (AS), also known as Ass Sucking.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Vampires and Magnets
It's been a long time since I last wrote a good blog entry. Or any blog entry for that matter. Today, I decided to 'pick up my pen' and 'let my fingers do the walking'. Sadly, all I have to write about is my wait. Yes, I'm waiting once again. So today, to change the direction of this entry, I have decided to write about another topic in my life: The stress that comes with waiting.
I've been feeling rather stressed lately and it's an accumulation of many things related and unrelated to work.
Let me start with the first client - I'll call them the vampires. Whenever I talk to them, meet them or do anything related to their project, I'm mentally and physically drained. I feel completely worn out as if I have just tended to a problem child - no, let me correct this. I feel completely worn out as if I've just tended to a child who is also my aunt. When you still have to maintain your professionalism even though they are so disorganised, undecisive and demanding. I was left sucked dry on last Friday evening, last Saturday afternoon, yesterday morning and now this afternoon. It doesn't get any better than this. Tomorrow, I'm meeting the vampires again so lets see how much energy and time they can suck out of me.
The second client - let's call them Houdini! This client is a constant struggle of waiting and stress. For one, Houdini's assistant whom I'm dealing with is forever not answering her phone calls (she's never at her desk). Then when I've sent her something, she'll never reply as if she never checks her email. She holds a low position so basically, she answers to the Great Houdini. Slowing down the entire process, I've got to go through her to get consent from the Great. It's always a wait with this lady - and it's not as if we have time. But then again, Houdini is known to be able to magically escape out of tight situations at the last minute. Let's hope magic is on our side!
The third client is definitely, without a doubt, known as Little Miss Fickle. Do you know the story of Little Miss Fickle? Go read the Mr. Men and Little Miss series! But from the name, it's quite S.E. Basically, they are very fickle-minded. One day it's this, the next day it's that. Not to mention disorganised so what you do now is never quite right. Today we just submitted a final ad for their approval and minutes later, we've changed the entire ad around. Which is final? I don't think I can pin-point the end!
Another worry of mine is the MC King. Every company has an MC King. And especially at this crucial moment, he first takes annual leave from work for a holiday (which is still okay) then followed by an MC the next day to rest in. The worse thing is, our presentation is on Friday and he's only coming back tomorrow. Because he's on MC, I'm stressed because all I can do is wait. I need information to complete this other quotation which will leave me with more waiting once I submit it.
Let's leave the work worries and move on to other things.
Moving on to the next stressful situation: The Persistant Magnet. This is written in an extermely abstract context, which I don't know how else to explain. If you get it, you do, if you don't, move on. You know how magnets work - even though you pry the magnet away from the metal, but if they remain in close proximity with each other, somehow, the magnet finds its way back together. Not to mention this is a quite persistant and mature magnet with many years of experience in re-attaching itself to any types of metal. And I'm new in this magnetic field as well. Oh, sorry, forgot to mention, this is semi-work related. All work and no play makes Raine a dull girl.
So now, let me introduce the Hinter. I really dislike it when people hint, but it's even worse when I can pick up on the hint. The worse part is that I think I know what might follow and I don't want it to follow. So here I find myself waiting and dreading what's to come. And when it does, it'll only put myself in a super horrid position to make the decision call, and put the other in an awkward position.
Then lastly, but the least stressful one of all, I'd name it the French. French is such a hard language...who came up with it?!!! Unless you speak it, you'd think it's such a weird language! And all I can do is wait for some French inspiration or any other sort of inspiration. PLEASE COME SOON.
I've been feeling rather stressed lately and it's an accumulation of many things related and unrelated to work.
Let me start with the first client - I'll call them the vampires. Whenever I talk to them, meet them or do anything related to their project, I'm mentally and physically drained. I feel completely worn out as if I have just tended to a problem child - no, let me correct this. I feel completely worn out as if I've just tended to a child who is also my aunt. When you still have to maintain your professionalism even though they are so disorganised, undecisive and demanding. I was left sucked dry on last Friday evening, last Saturday afternoon, yesterday morning and now this afternoon. It doesn't get any better than this. Tomorrow, I'm meeting the vampires again so lets see how much energy and time they can suck out of me.
The second client - let's call them Houdini! This client is a constant struggle of waiting and stress. For one, Houdini's assistant whom I'm dealing with is forever not answering her phone calls (she's never at her desk). Then when I've sent her something, she'll never reply as if she never checks her email. She holds a low position so basically, she answers to the Great Houdini. Slowing down the entire process, I've got to go through her to get consent from the Great. It's always a wait with this lady - and it's not as if we have time. But then again, Houdini is known to be able to magically escape out of tight situations at the last minute. Let's hope magic is on our side!
The third client is definitely, without a doubt, known as Little Miss Fickle. Do you know the story of Little Miss Fickle? Go read the Mr. Men and Little Miss series! But from the name, it's quite S.E. Basically, they are very fickle-minded. One day it's this, the next day it's that. Not to mention disorganised so what you do now is never quite right. Today we just submitted a final ad for their approval and minutes later, we've changed the entire ad around. Which is final? I don't think I can pin-point the end!
Another worry of mine is the MC King. Every company has an MC King. And especially at this crucial moment, he first takes annual leave from work for a holiday (which is still okay) then followed by an MC the next day to rest in. The worse thing is, our presentation is on Friday and he's only coming back tomorrow. Because he's on MC, I'm stressed because all I can do is wait. I need information to complete this other quotation which will leave me with more waiting once I submit it.
Let's leave the work worries and move on to other things.
Moving on to the next stressful situation: The Persistant Magnet. This is written in an extermely abstract context, which I don't know how else to explain. If you get it, you do, if you don't, move on. You know how magnets work - even though you pry the magnet away from the metal, but if they remain in close proximity with each other, somehow, the magnet finds its way back together. Not to mention this is a quite persistant and mature magnet with many years of experience in re-attaching itself to any types of metal. And I'm new in this magnetic field as well. Oh, sorry, forgot to mention, this is semi-work related. All work and no play makes Raine a dull girl.
So now, let me introduce the Hinter. I really dislike it when people hint, but it's even worse when I can pick up on the hint. The worse part is that I think I know what might follow and I don't want it to follow. So here I find myself waiting and dreading what's to come. And when it does, it'll only put myself in a super horrid position to make the decision call, and put the other in an awkward position.
Then lastly, but the least stressful one of all, I'd name it the French. French is such a hard language...who came up with it?!!! Unless you speak it, you'd think it's such a weird language! And all I can do is wait for some French inspiration or any other sort of inspiration. PLEASE COME SOON.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Drifting to Tokyo
Today, I watched Tokyo Drift at the movies as a form of stress relief to mark the close of a SUPER BUSY FRIDAY.
The movie wasn't that great, quite boring plot, but then the gorgeous cars, set in Tokyo, the cool japs and the racing made up for it. I wouldn't recommend it 100% because the cars weren't fantastic either. You can definitely see how low the budget of this film is compared to The Fast and The Furious and 2 Fast 2 Furious. This movie loses out in terms of the cars (their look, their style, their angles) and the filming is not as fantastic! But...who's complaining?
The movie wasn't that great, quite boring plot, but then the gorgeous cars, set in Tokyo, the cool japs and the racing made up for it. I wouldn't recommend it 100% because the cars weren't fantastic either. You can definitely see how low the budget of this film is compared to The Fast and The Furious and 2 Fast 2 Furious. This movie loses out in terms of the cars (their look, their style, their angles) and the filming is not as fantastic! But...who's complaining?
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
29th of July
I wrote this blog entry so long ago but I'm only posting it now...
Two weekends ago, two different days, two different senarios, and two very different set of friends.
Two weekends ago, two different days, two different senarios, and two very different set of friends.
| Friday | Saturday | |
|---|---|---|
| Start Time | 7.30pm | 5pm |
| Reason for outing | - To destress | - To meet up |
| First lot of friends | Pear, Junren and Zeyun | Derek and Locy |
| First activity for the evening | Dinner at Alexandra Village | Drinks at Pan Pacific Hotel lobby bar |
| Language | English | English |
| Conversation topics | The stressful week, working worries, our busy days | Sydney, friends of theirs, business |
| Second lot of friends | Pear, Junren and Zeyun | Derek and Zhiyong |
| Second activity for the night | Drinks at Villa Bali - happy hour 1 for 1 drinks | Dinner at Pepper Lunch - to eat for the sake of eating |
| Language | English | English and Mandarin |
| Conversation topics | Work, life, friends, latest life updates | Immediate plans on what to do next, where to go, about speaking mandarin |
| Third lot of friends | Pear | Derek, Zhiyong, Ginger, Leslie, Alloi and Dexter |
| Third activity for the night | Sleep-over at Pear's place | Dao Huey at Rocher |
| Language | English | Mandarin and Hokkien |
| Conversation topics | Girl stuff, guys, the future | Unknown last gathering, drunk stories, a lot of inside jokes |
| Fourth lot of friends | Derek, Zhiyong, Ginger, Leslie, Alloi and Felicia | |
| Fourth activity for the night | Coffee or Tea at an Arabic cafe | |
| Language | Mandarin and Hokkien | |
| Conversation topics | A lot of jokes and forgettable talk (i.e. Crap) | |
| Relationship with friends | Close to very close | Only one close, the rest are all acquaintances |
| Conversation input throughout the night | From average to a lot | From average to a lot less than average |
| Alcohol Guage | From sober to tipsy and high | From a little tipsy to sober |
| End time | 1+am | 1+am |
Monday, August 07, 2006
Need-I-Say-More Days
Today. Monday.
Usually I don't even need to type 'need I say more' and you'd get the drift. However, today is an excellent day. Monday blues? NO WHERE IN SIGHT! Today defies all Mondays.
Why?
This is my typical week:
Monday - it's the start of another hectic/stressful/boring/tiring week of work
Tuesday - oh gosh, as if Monday wasn't bad enough
Wednesday before lunch - hurry and get on with it
Wednesday after lunch - yay, second half of the week
Thursday - it's almost Friday...hang in there
Friday - need I say more
But this week is a short week coz National Day is on the 9th of August, Wednesday. National Day splits this working week into 2 proportional halves. It makes the week exceptionally short. Check this out:
Monday - because the next day is the eve of a public holiday
Tuesday - it is the eve of a public holiday, shouldn't need to say more than that
Wednesday - need I say more
Thursday - already the second half of this week? That fast?
Friday - need I say more
According to the above data, by comparing the number of 'need I say more' days, this week is SWEET!
Therefore I'm forced to be in such a happy mood. I'm savouring every moment of this week!
But before you tune out, stop and listen to my eventful weekend that just passed.
Last Friday night, I stayed over at Pear's place and we talked till I fell asleep – literally. Apparently she had told me to remove my contact lenses several times. The third time, I told her I had done so and went back to sleep. The next morning when I was awaken by the sound of renovations right outside her room window, it took me several blinks and stares before realising I was still wearing my contacts. I never removed it. HAHA.That was how tired I was. I just knocked out completely.
We washed up and went over to TPY central for dim sum - yum! Both of us have been craving for dim sum in a while so it was definitely great and we discussed and planned our future joint venture together. Can't wait to start! Shan't fill you guys in on this yet, but when we start, I'll definite invite everyone to come for our grand-opening!!
After a good lunch, we walked around TPY, checking out our competitors' products, sourcing for potential materials and we even did some shopping! I bought myself a pretty black and pink flat slippers for work. It was comfy!
Then we headed back to her place for a while before leaving once again to RJC. Yiqing came to pick us up. They were going down to watch a basketball match where their boyfriends (kinda) were playing in. And I? Since I had nothing to do for that couple of hours before my other appointment, I joined them under the crazy hot sun. The sun's intense rays were horrid, burning through my skin and going straight for my sweat glands. After the match, both Pear and I agreed that we had a work-out too!
At around 5.30pm, I split and made my way back to TPY to meet Dan, Ah Min and 2 more of their friends for dinner and also to celebrate Dan's birthday. It was a great dinner. We had sambal sting ray, prawns, sambal kang kong, chilli sotong and bbq chicken wings. We were so full after dinner, we decided against having her chocolate cake immediately (law of diminishing returns) so we went to visit Dan's shop instead. This time around, I played some online games. The 4 of us played warcraft (with Dan as our teacher floating around among us). I was the lousiest at it. I kept yawning away, and every so often, I'd scream for Dan. "Where's my hero? I can't find her." "What should I do now?" "What should I buy?" "What should I do now?" "What do I click to heal myself?"
We were losing at first since all of us didn't know how to play the game except for Dan and Ah Min, but at the end of the game, WE WON! I emerged with the best score among the 4. Why? Coz I'm a genius! Or rather, I'm a genius coz Dan's a genius. She selected one of the easiest hero for me with her own healing ability, and also, she played most of the game for me too while I yawned away, taking over at bits when Dan had to disappear off to help the others.
After the game, we went back to Dan's place where one more of her friend joined us for the birthday cake. The chocolate cake was good, not as fantastic as it used to be sadly. Maybe coz they've gone too commercial that the quality dropped significantly. SOB. There goes another good chocolate cake option for me.
That night, I only got home around 1.30am but I refused to go to bed (not wanting the long beautiful day to end), watching 1.5 episodes of a korean drama before finally giving in to my tired body.
On Sunday, I went to church, met a friend for lunch that afternoon and chatted with mum in the evening before meeting Pear and Junren for dinner at the famous Pongol Nasi Lemak along Upper Serangoon Road. Then I went home, did work while watching some chinese show on TV before watching another korean drama episode and then bed. I had a fantastic weekend and I guess that kinda add points to the start of a new week as well.
That's why...Today. Monday.
Usually I don't even need to type 'need I say more' and you'd get the drift. However, today is an excellent day. Monday blues? NO WHERE IN SIGHT! Today defies all Mondays.
Why?
This is my typical week:
Monday - it's the start of another hectic/stressful/boring/tiring week of work
Tuesday - oh gosh, as if Monday wasn't bad enough
Wednesday before lunch - hurry and get on with it
Wednesday after lunch - yay, second half of the week
Thursday - it's almost Friday...hang in there
Friday - need I say more
But this week is a short week coz National Day is on the 9th of August, Wednesday. National Day splits this working week into 2 proportional halves. It makes the week exceptionally short. Check this out:
Monday - because the next day is the eve of a public holiday
Tuesday - it is the eve of a public holiday, shouldn't need to say more than that
Wednesday - need I say more
Thursday - already the second half of this week? That fast?
Friday - need I say more
According to the above data, by comparing the number of 'need I say more' days, this week is SWEET!
Therefore I'm forced to be in such a happy mood. I'm savouring every moment of this week!
But before you tune out, stop and listen to my eventful weekend that just passed.
Last Friday night, I stayed over at Pear's place and we talked till I fell asleep – literally. Apparently she had told me to remove my contact lenses several times. The third time, I told her I had done so and went back to sleep. The next morning when I was awaken by the sound of renovations right outside her room window, it took me several blinks and stares before realising I was still wearing my contacts. I never removed it. HAHA.That was how tired I was. I just knocked out completely.
We washed up and went over to TPY central for dim sum - yum! Both of us have been craving for dim sum in a while so it was definitely great and we discussed and planned our future joint venture together. Can't wait to start! Shan't fill you guys in on this yet, but when we start, I'll definite invite everyone to come for our grand-opening!!
After a good lunch, we walked around TPY, checking out our competitors' products, sourcing for potential materials and we even did some shopping! I bought myself a pretty black and pink flat slippers for work. It was comfy!
Then we headed back to her place for a while before leaving once again to RJC. Yiqing came to pick us up. They were going down to watch a basketball match where their boyfriends (kinda) were playing in. And I? Since I had nothing to do for that couple of hours before my other appointment, I joined them under the crazy hot sun. The sun's intense rays were horrid, burning through my skin and going straight for my sweat glands. After the match, both Pear and I agreed that we had a work-out too!
At around 5.30pm, I split and made my way back to TPY to meet Dan, Ah Min and 2 more of their friends for dinner and also to celebrate Dan's birthday. It was a great dinner. We had sambal sting ray, prawns, sambal kang kong, chilli sotong and bbq chicken wings. We were so full after dinner, we decided against having her chocolate cake immediately (law of diminishing returns) so we went to visit Dan's shop instead. This time around, I played some online games. The 4 of us played warcraft (with Dan as our teacher floating around among us). I was the lousiest at it. I kept yawning away, and every so often, I'd scream for Dan. "Where's my hero? I can't find her." "What should I do now?" "What should I buy?" "What should I do now?" "What do I click to heal myself?"
We were losing at first since all of us didn't know how to play the game except for Dan and Ah Min, but at the end of the game, WE WON! I emerged with the best score among the 4. Why? Coz I'm a genius! Or rather, I'm a genius coz Dan's a genius. She selected one of the easiest hero for me with her own healing ability, and also, she played most of the game for me too while I yawned away, taking over at bits when Dan had to disappear off to help the others.
After the game, we went back to Dan's place where one more of her friend joined us for the birthday cake. The chocolate cake was good, not as fantastic as it used to be sadly. Maybe coz they've gone too commercial that the quality dropped significantly. SOB. There goes another good chocolate cake option for me.
That night, I only got home around 1.30am but I refused to go to bed (not wanting the long beautiful day to end), watching 1.5 episodes of a korean drama before finally giving in to my tired body.
On Sunday, I went to church, met a friend for lunch that afternoon and chatted with mum in the evening before meeting Pear and Junren for dinner at the famous Pongol Nasi Lemak along Upper Serangoon Road. Then I went home, did work while watching some chinese show on TV before watching another korean drama episode and then bed. I had a fantastic weekend and I guess that kinda add points to the start of a new week as well.
That's why...Today. Monday.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Unwell...
Dizzy,
Queasy,
Uncomfortable.
Busy,
Tired,
Vexatious.
Stress,
Problems,
Ants!
Sorry, got distracted by an ant on my table. They seem to frequently visit my desk - one at the time though so it's manageable.
Queasy,
Uncomfortable.
Busy,
Tired,
Vexatious.
Stress,
Problems,
Ants!
Sorry, got distracted by an ant on my table. They seem to frequently visit my desk - one at the time though so it's manageable.
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