Random jots

Singapore is this small

2009-08-08T23:15:00.002+08:00

I thought I should check out the latest mall in Singapore (though we have too many to start off with).

What are the chances of walking to the dressing room (coz the sister wants to try clothes) and seeing your best friend seated on the chair, right outside the dressing room (awaiting for her sister trying clothes)?

The only unfortunate circumstances here is that, the last point of contact ended with a heated quarrel and you thought you wouldn't be seeing this person in your life again. I so imagined that I live in a big country.

Let's see how things go from here.

On a side note, seriously... how slim are the chances?!! To think, the sisters are like long-time good friends as well.

A coach potato

2009-07-28T23:21:00.002+08:00

I love my nightly slack hour (note: singular coz its restricted to a full 60-min indulgence) infront of the television. Somehow I know my work is piling up, my mails are piling up, my unread papers are piling up, my escapade planning is undone and yet, I chose to spend my time watching tv.

Guilty as charged.

In fact, I was so tired that I gave my daily (at least 3 days in a row for the last 3 days) swim a miss. The danger of drowning is genuine. Strangely, my mum volunteered to wake me up for tv since I got home and rushed to my bed.

Everyone gave up and chose their bed over watching the show!

What can I say, it was worth it. Once again, I get moved by television serial.

I still feel attached to fictional events - an hour well spent :)

Shopping during GSS

2009-06-21T00:28:00.002+08:00

I wasn't at any malls.

One of my most delightful shopping destinations (other than supermarkets) is a snack shop. I simply love patronising the friendly owners.

Biscuits, candies, crackers... okay even things I don't eat - preserved fruits. I need my occasional dose of cashew nut cookies and fish crackers, at the same time, some gummies for my mum.

The breezy night uplifts my (shopping) spirit. I love a simple night out like this.

Its a boy!

2009-06-07T11:52:00.002+08:00

I was buried in work (and nearly falling asleep) when the Chias called. The initial intention was to burn my Friday night rushing some urgent work, but it was just too tempting to leave work behind (and meet up with friends). Especially since I haven't seen them since February/March, due to the then-upcoming exams.

Dinner was steamboat somewhere in Katong.

The announcement was that my god son is arriving in November! I am so looking forward :)

I am going to be a (fairy) god mother!!!

An outing in sight

2009-05-31T15:12:00.006+08:00

I was went to re-confirm what I have been missing over the years (taking stock):

2004 (inaugural): No public event - a corporation ran a donor recruitment program (nothing to miss)

2005 (Tuesday): Picnic dinner and movie under the sky at Padang
This sounds great but I was probably an overworked slave [then] who had no energy left after work. That is, if I even leave work early enough for a picnic dinner. Then again, I should be relatively more free in June, I can't remember what happened...

2006 (Wednesday): Sandcastle building at East Coast Park
Hmm... I wouldn't have gone on leave to go under the Sun, or was it that I just started my new job?

2007 (Thursday): Some whole day affair at Vivo City

2008 (Saturday): Singapore Zoo
No idea why I was not there. Okay, maybe I was then in Bangkok.

The point is, I am going to Bird Park this year since it falls on a Saturday.

Yippie

Love-hate relationship

2009-05-17T02:34:00.004+08:00

I read in the papers "every girl has a love-hate relationship with their hairdresser" (something along this line). The article goes on to elaborate how hairdresser visits are emotional affairs. I only remember singing praises of my hairdresser after each visit. Somehow, I am usually very pleased with the results.

JJ rubbed it in.

"Well, you do have a love-hate relationship with your hairdresser!!!"

"You love his service but you hate the price you are paying."

This reminds me of my long-delayed haircut (due to costs and time). My hair is way longer than its optimal length and I am beginning to look haggard.

Optimal is the best way for maintenance. Just like how I believed that there's an optimal length for school uniforms. Same rule applies in many aspects of life, definitely not a risk taker.

I am going blind

2009-05-16T00:06:00.002+08:00

I was googling around for a quick remedy.

"You should also go directly to an emergency room if you have hives around your eyes or in your mouth, or if you have difficulty breathing..."

If I have gone missing, that's why.

Needs versus Wants

2009-05-10T17:29:00.003+08:00

"We do what we have to do so we can do what we want to do" - ripped from the Chairman's MSN.

I was pondering over this and faced a fundamental problem. I can't decide what to classify under which. Perhaps many things are viewed as wants? Its too sad to consider anything as need and want being really frivolous wishes. Maybe, I lead a life of frivolous wishes.

A simple example.

Need: I need to eat
Want: I want to satisfy my hunger with yummy food

The need sounds so sad and the want sounds more positive and in control.

The default is usually the "want" version coz enjoyment of food is the fundamental to happiness. In this case, you don't have to do what you have to do first, i.e. you don't need to eat and then, pursue yummy food. The need is not a prerequisite of the one. The want is the need with a more positive attitude.

Another example.

Need: I need to study
Want: I want to pass my exams

Then again, people don't really need to study (unless being told/nagged/threatened by their parents). No one ever dies from not studying. The reason why people want to pass their exams is probably due to factors like, since you spent time, since you paid for exams, since the whole world knows you are taking an exam so you jolly well pass it.

Okay, the need leads to the want. Perhaps, the statement above is right.
Conclusion: I need to study in order to pass my exams, and I badly want to pass it.

Lucky thrice and still counting

2009-05-09T02:01:00.004+08:00

I got lost somewhere in time and stopped blogging. Somehow, I wondered whether I blog for the sake of blogging or I truly enjoy doing such time-consuming acts.

Anyhow, the recent hives outbreak is taking its toll on my health. Haa, I am still around so it didn't kill me.

I typically spend Fridays pulling my hair at work, and it was so bad today, I nearly went bald.

The luckiness is keeping me happy. Not once, twice but thrice. I made noise and 3 people came to my rescue, so to speak of.

On a heavy hearted note, one is not lucky is all aspects of life. Oh well.

Quiz Time!

2008-12-04T21:53:00.002+08:00

I love the work and effort behind putting in a training together.

From the very taxing power point presentation preparation, to the designing of "take away" (what I term for a laminated one piece summary that is handed out to participants), to buying presents for the quiz (muffins, cakes...) and deciding what to order for the lunch session (Orange Lantern).

I either belong to a happy "publisher" or a events management wannabe. Of course, not without the help of a secretary who helped me do the lamination task and order the lunch.

dinners!

2008-12-03T23:09:00.002+08:00

All of a sudden, I have a series of free food - from Monday's Welcome Lunch (last of the monthly lunch gathering), yesterday's posh dinner at San Marco, today's dinner with (boss's boss) and tomorrow's free lunch with the training.

Once again, I was the one deciding on the venue (words have been spread that I am a foodie?). I always recommend Min Jiang at Rochester Park - Chinese fine dine with superb ambiance.

En!

2008-11-20T23:29:00.002+08:00

The advantage of suggesting a venue for (work-related) dinner is that you get to choose where you would like to go (and is probably too miserly to go on your own).

The disadvantage is having to wait for your workaholic boss and colleagues, which translates to late dinner.

From Nara to En, same Japanese food, different style. I can't really compare the standards.

serial horners

2008-10-30T23:25:00.002+08:00

There was an old uncle who tried to jay walk and the oncoming car didn't bother to slow down. Instead, the driver was doing loud long horning.

I thought I saw the uncle shocked, jolted and almost lost his balance.

What exactly is going on in the mind of drivers who love loud long horning? They seriously think anything in this world is going to improve from their venting of frustration? I believe this same group of people are responsible for horning during traffic jams.

Perhaps, we should manufacture cars in such in a way that all horning are just short - 2 seconds.

Happy

2008-10-19T23:13:00.002+08:00

I must be deluded by my overflowing optimism.

Despite having viewed a SGD1.2 million house and a SGD85K car, both which I would love to own. Deep down inside I know, happiness from owning such materials is nothing compared to the general happiness and peace I feel in my heart (without owing these things).

I can't explain this but its like a sense of contentment. Despite the thousand and one stressful issues I am facing.

I am scaring myself!

Live Broadcast

2008-10-13T20:13:00.002+08:00

Its a bad habit to be eavesdropping on others, but it can't be helped when I am stuck on a boring train ride, with no seat or book. To add to this, there were three college kids talking loudly (at least audible to me) and the content was juicy.

I didn't know that college girl(s) has the courage to profess their love for their college mate. The episode was spiced up with forced kiss (at Mos Burger), stalking (ringing up half of the guy's classmates to get his address), suicide threat (jump onto the road to be knocked down by a car)...

This is more sensational than what I get on television.

My job

2008-10-06T23:14:00.000+08:00

Quite a number of friends knew that I am on a mission to clear 1,700 (work related) emails. I am actually quite traumatised by this - doing (some work) all the time and zero break to read emails properly.

ST added salt by asking "your job is to clear emails?".

If only jobs can be so simple. Clearing emails is only the tip of the ice berg.

The hype

2008-09-27T00:56:00.002+08:00

I realised there's only so much of anything I could take. After a certain level, its just overdose.

The fast cars were exciting at the beginning, the loud noise sent hearts racing, the atmosphere was highly anticipated...

Somehow, I ended up taking photos of the sky above where I was standing and admiring the city's skyline. After witnessing it once in my life, it moves from being an item on my "to-do list", to an item on my "done list". It became yet another "dream" come true.

What to do?

2008-09-25T23:17:00.002+08:00

My heart skipped a beat each time the phone rings, especially if its an overseas call.

There are some things which I have no answer/solution to and I dread it when someone/anyone/everyone keeps bugging me to solve it. Worse still, insisting that I must talk to the person who can solve it (usually undesirable, otherwise, why go through me?).

There's no value-adding on my part. Tough.

Rainy

2008-09-24T20:03:00.002+08:00

It never rains but pours.

Just when I had to go to the other office for a meeting (much further from the MRT station than my own office), it had to be pouring.

Being paranoid about being late, I ended up being early. Then, everyone else was late. Each time I thought I would be stuck in some trouble, things always turn out fine. Am I the lucky one?

late, late, late!

2008-09-18T22:59:00.002+08:00

It was bad planning on my part. When the teleconference started, I was still on the train! I contemplated to go back office but it was just too strange, to disappear and reappear.

The thing about being late is that I get jittery and can't concentrate. In the end, I was pretty clueless. A phone with mute function is priceless.

Hotdog seller no more

2008-09-08T23:27:00.002+08:00

Yippie, I don't need to be a hotdog seller in order to join the carnival.

I suspect its more than luck. Its almost like a sure-hit ballot. The unfortunate thing was missing out "the hand who feeds us". Bleah, team work needs to be improved.

Afternoon Getaway

2008-09-03T19:25:00.003+08:00

One of the greatest joy at work is to be able to get off in the afternoon for other work related (related but frivolous) matters.

I never knew there was a hotel in Sentosa called The Sentosa, I thought there is a Beaufort and a Shangri-La and, both are by the sea. Obviously, my knowledge is from an unknown source! I went Shangri-La for a wedding dinner and has never been to Beaufort. The Sentosa is the Beaufort hotel.

Where hotels/apartments/lodging are concerned, the one major factor which buys me over... swimming pool!!! The midnight blue pool is such a beauty, complete with a pool side bar. Its a pity that I didn't bring along my camera.

The buffet wasn't really a pull factor (compared to the pool). I am not into buffets but I am into pools!

I need to find some time (and money) to go there for a getaway!

what's next?

2008-09-01T21:20:00.002+08:00

Isn't short attention span a condition that plagued mainly children? I concluded its at least better than dozing off.

Life pampers me now.

Meetings used to be endless, gruesome big talk (by a certain someone) combined with preachings (by another someone). Sometimes, there was no toilet break or lunch break, you munch fast food while the meeting goes on. I always blame the quality of air whenever I doze off in Shanghai.

These days, meetings are more vibrant, with engaging content, held at five-star hotels, peppered with plenty of appropriate breaks, enhanced by feastful snacks/lunch.

My mind was roaming everywhere and, subconsciously at the meeting (multi-tasking).

The decision is final and I shall stop changing my mind. I am so looking forward to the day where I intend to spend a whole day at a hideout, learning to accept a decision made by others as it is. The toughest lession in life: dealing with upsets, disappointments and failures.

秋心赋

2008-08-31T23:20:00.006+08:00

作词：梁文福　作曲：梁文福　编曲：洪敬尧

海无边　天无际　无边无际无尽期
风凄迷　雨丝密　残泪滴
人遥远　心思念　思思念念只一个你
不回忆　又回忆　空回忆

心上秋　何年何月渐渐染上眉头
眉上秋　早已积成心上忧
心上秋　何时再与那年的你聚首
等是爱　盼是爱　望是爱
问年月　何年月　恨年月

The sea with no limits, the sky with no boundaries is like this endless wait.
The wind blows harshly, the rain falls heavily while my sad tears flow.
You are faraway and I miss you so, only you occupy my thoughts.
I don't want to remember, but I did. Its merely memories.

Sadness in my heart subtly brings upon a frown
What is on my mind weighs my heart.
My troubled thoughts is when we will ever meet again.
Waiting for my love, longing for my love, hoping for my love.
I wonder when it will be, as I dread the wait.

sweet success

2008-08-29T23:50:00.002+08:00

Success never tasted sweeter.

It took me a good number of months before I got hold of 4 bottles of Yakult. Somehow, they are always sold out at supermarkets. I was tempted to buy from the peddler at my office (who has a sold out everyday!) but was lazy to carry them home from office.

The costs for 4 bottles = SGD1! In Singapore, its about SGD2.85 for 5 bottles.

I seriously thought they tasted yummier than my usual ones in Singapore.

retaliate

2008-08-29T22:36:00.001+08:00

My belief about work is never to take work as it comes to you. I always question the purpose, the process and the outcome, i.e. what is this done for, how do we go about doing it and how is it useful.

I supposed I am quite a nightmare when I refused to do work just because I was told to. The questionable part is that the requestor/dictator being just a colleague (who is not superior in the hierarchy) and not my boss.

Perhaps, they so preferred a docile colleague.

The Last Farewell

2008-08-26T22:46:00.002+08:00

While violence has broke out in some parts of Bangkok, we still went on with our dinner gathering. The uninformed remained fearless.

Since arrangements have been made some time back and the locals assured us that its safe to go out for dinner (other than being near government buildings). There is nothing much to do at the river side but dining places are aplenty. The restaurants provide a nice scenic view, overlooking Chao Phraya river.

The time has come for a final goodbye. Jokes were exchanged over good food while we reminisced the memorable times we had at work, from strangers who speak different languages to colleagues/friends who communicate through limited English coupled with body language.

We have said goodbyes many times and each time, I wondered about how our paths might cross again.

Under the weather

2008-08-23T23:13:00.003+08:00

It was a "policy" never to order room service or indulge in disgusting self-pity hiding in apartments/hotels. However, it was just too much to bear. Its yet another case of bitten tongue. Contrary to speculations, it wasn't a case of failed suicide attempt.

It was indoor the whole day, reading magazines so I could dump them and not bring them back to Singapore. The house keeping drove me out so they could clean the room and I escaped to another common reading area. My 3 meals were rolled into one. No room service, I walked 2 minutes to the cafe at my doorstep and packed the food. It was a 3-course dinner, no less (1 course to represent each meal!).

Dinner with Cartoon Network was great (albeit terribly painful) and I fell asleep on sofa.

There need to be more discipline when it comes to health issues.

vroom vroom

2008-08-22T20:54:00.002+08:00

Exciting, exciting...

After volunteering my service to sell hotdogs, here comes an opportunity for me to witness it live! I thought it would be fun just to soak in the carnival atmosphere.

We will see how the ballot goes.

flare up

2008-08-19T21:59:00.000+08:00

When work is dealt with professionally and objectively, you earn more credits with your colleagues/bosses.

When working with colleagues much older and wiser, you get to learn plenty of soft skills which are invaluable lessons in life. I remind myself and try to stick to the general pointers I came across.

There just has to be a breaking point somewhere. When I keep going in circles to get a task/agenda completed, when responsibility/ownership of the task/agenda is volleyed back to me, when the other party keeps pulling me back to the starting point, when the end seems bleak... When I tried countless times to progress and the other party just act as a non value-adding "forwarder" (as in email forwarded)...

There is only so much I ~~can~~ want to take. Unfortunately (for her), with my amount of credibility earned, she easily gets the blame when such incidents are made known. Its never about me versus her, its about getting work done. Some folks just don't see things that way.

Its never work that is tough but its the people.

yet another company

2008-08-14T21:28:00.002+08:00

Its quite surreal to be meeting a friend at the ~~MRT~~ skytrain station... in Bangkok. I sensed globalisation effect on my personal life. Now that everyone is everywhere and this is just one of the many times I meet friends at train stations overseas.

The unimaginable part is that I am on work trip while YQ is on a (work related) conference, different activities, same location. I wish such coincidences are more frequent. How often do you have a friend watching television in the background while you are doing a teleconference?

Side note, I guess the more you explain, the more confused people get. I shall live with my "mutated/mistaken" name.

Expectation Management

2008-08-12T23:52:00.002+08:00

This (I mean work) is like a marketing world. Most of the time, marketing theories is applicable at work and probably gives you a head start.

Its never about doing work that bosses demand/request, its about preempting their demands/requests and then deliver straight away when they asked for it. Better still, deliver without them having to ask.

The drop in expectation is when bosses asked and had to wait to get what they need/want.

This management might be too overwhelming for the worker (work to their death). Then again, who ever says work was easy.

Another public holiday sacrificed in return for a very happy boss.

zhng my Samsonite

2008-08-11T21:27:00.002+08:00

A simple form on the website did the trick. Staff from the repair shop came to pick up my luggage and sent it back to me today.

*WOW*

It looks ~~as good as new~~ newer than new. I don't recall it being so new initially. It looks totally rejuvenated, as though it has gone for a relaxing spa session and some major plastic surgery, all ready and prepared to serve me for another ten good years.

Hmm... I think I need that as well.

Another goodbye

2008-08-07T22:30:00.002+08:00

Its time for yet another farewell. I am not taking this move extremely well despite it being the very reason why an job opportunity existed.

Its quite scary to see Singaporeans slowly replacing the Thais and people starting to disappear from the office. Its essentially a total turnover of staff in my department (save for my boss).

Despite the emotional tugging factor, its a good reason to get together and savour some good food.

visitor!

2008-08-05T22:17:00.000+08:00

The best way to spend National Day... is to make an overseas trip.

Obviously not the case if I am in Singapore. My dad offered us tickets to the actual parade :( I had to persuade JJ to give it a miss since I am "stuck" in Bangkok. I desperately need some visitor(s).

The feeling of buying an air ticket for someone to visit you - priceless. So glad that I can still get tickets despite its National Day holiday - victory!

in denial

2008-07-24T21:18:00.002+08:00

The best method to avoid answering a question(s) that you wish to avoid, is to overwhelm the other party with loads of irrelevant information.

Being the other party, you sensed that you are not going to get a direct answer even if you probe further. Its time to use your EQ and know that its a negative answer.

This is the art of Q&A.

sightings

2008-07-07T22:37:00.002+08:00

I stood at the traffic junction, with my mind on the 124 unread emails and (at the same time) trying hard to make a choice between Signature Hot Chocolate and Black Tea Latte (tough decisions I make on a daily basis). I spotted her jay walking from across the road.

At that instant, my thoughts were all messed up.

I am dead sure its her though she put on a bit of weight. Anyway, she told me (4-5 years back) that she is now living in Bangkok. I don't know what is the update and gave up trying to contact her or make sense out of anything.

There were too many thoughts in my head. What PX said about borrowing of passports, what she said about lying to CS, what I have seen with my own eyes (as we spoke 4-5 years back)... I couldn't form judgment (and probably don't need to). I didn't know how to react. Should I call out to her? What would she have said to me? How will things go from there?

So, I stood frozen as I watched her walk into the mall I came out from. I think she lives in the same area and I will see her again.

Peace and quietness (again)

2008-07-06T22:07:00.002+08:00

The occasional company is welcomed. After a week, its back to peace and quietness, similar to what it first began with.

So far, it had been exactly 2 months (and counting). My first visitors will only arrived next month. It sounds as though I am awaiting prison visits. It would be too tiring to have guests over every weekend unless they intend to leave me alone (to rest at times), but going shopping every week is madness.

By next week, the collection at Chatuchak should have been refreshed. A fortnightly trip is just about right.

Conquered!!!

2008-07-05T21:33:00.002+08:00

Enough of an overly cold picturesque swimming pool (The reason might be its 33rd storey location), a pretty thing should be useful and vice versa. If its just beneficial for the eyes, I was set to take it to good use.

With that random belief, I jumped into the pool and swam my laps. Maybe, I shouldn't challenge its existence for a mere visual purpose.

***

There is a Chinese restaurant located at the end of the road (where my apartment is on). Since it came highly recommended by two Chinese colleagues (one gets her weekly Chinese food fix there), we decided to give it a try.

Verdict: The fried rice was too oily and the chicken pieces were dried and tough (overcooked). The beef was too thinly sliced and it was stir-fried with Chinese parsley (nightmare!). The toufu was the most acceptable dish (though there was prawns in it).

It still tastes rather non-Chinese to me. Maybe after being in Bangkok for a couple of years (with eventual lowered expectations and forgotten tastes), this becomes very tasty Chinese food.

Fat bear hero wannabe

2008-07-04T21:12:00.000+08:00

The initial plan to go Chinatown was scrapped. There was no point for a two-people trip when one has to rush back by 8pm. I just couldn't bring myself to make rushed trips when I am overseas.

The initial thought and longing (???) to savour Chinese food never died. It started to pour but I had to make the daily all-so-important grocery shopping trip. Its more enjoyable when you make daily mini trips (versus weekly mega trips) though it rates low on efficiency.

Bliss. I spotted Thailand version of fishcake. It might be a common Asian snack but I was still glad to see it. It reminded me of 肥雄 in Singapore.

After various attempts (microwave, frying), it finally became hot and crispy. Perhaps, the expectation in place was too high. From the initial plain happiness (to be eating fishcake) to comparing the taste in mind and then, feeling a shortfall on expectation. Its a tad to salty.

I need my Singaporean Chinese food.

full-fledged

2008-07-03T23:07:00.002+08:00

Investment on staff training should earn the company some good returns, it probably enhanced perceived staff welfare level and in turn, lowered staff turnover. A company whose staff has low morale will pay $X to get $2X worth of work done whereas, one with high morale can go up to $3X worth of work. So, this is a higher leverage. My own speculation.

If the daily (twice) breaks and lunches were not enough, today there was a dinner for more interaction. Smart move, bonding is usually done over good food. Effectively, I did get to know many new faces which would come in handy (this is secondary) and of course, for social purposes.

soaking like a sponge

2008-07-02T22:49:00.002+08:00

One of the reasons why I couldn't be on Medical Leave this week (other than me being overseas) despite some major puking over the weekend, is that I am on course.

In the past, being on course means Concussion Time. Training was non-existent for second and third jobs. Learning new things is always interesting and challenging. However, its not enjoyable when the trainers are more focused on delivering their subject topics than ensuring that you have indeed understood.

It gets tougher when technicalities are involved. So, it was more of going through the motion. Plus with the cost cutting measures back then, training has to be efficient (not effective), which means it was as short as possible. Power packed, speedy lecture style courses kill off learning interests.

At least, things have taken a change and are looking way better now.

bad sheep

2008-07-01T23:21:00.002+08:00

The perception was that service level is generally good in Land of Smiles, you would expect plenty of smiles literally.

The dinner venue for tonight was the Italian place which is a little pricey (by Bangkok standards). Since I was all praise for the food quality, my two dinner kakis decided to give it a try.

My order did not come long after my company's orders did, so I checked with the waitress whose reply was,
"Who did you place the order with?"

I was stunned for words 'coz the service staff were not wearing name tags and I couldn't tell one from the other. ML got confused and told us that she thought the waitress who asked the question, was exactly the one who took our orders. We got even more confused.

After asking that question, the waitress disappeared from our sight (despite not getting an answer from us). That left us baffled.

Some time later, she appeared with my order.

So I asked,
"Was my order missed out just now?"

She snapped,
"You said no, no, no when I repeated your order."

Me (with question marks all over my head)
"I said no, no, no when you asked us about side orders."

The order went
1. Waitress took my order.
2. Waitress took ML's order.
3. Waitress asked whether we want side orders to which I answered no, no, no.

Judging from her bad attitude, there was no point in arguing. We were appalled by the rudeness and wondered whether it was because we didn't order appetisers/wines.

The other thing I couldn't understand was why each time I step into this restaurant, they would ask whether I made a reservation. When I answered no, they would made me sit at a brightly lit table near the windows (a little too bright for comfort). However throughout my dinner, many other tables remained empty.

Who can I feedback to?

Back to basics

2008-06-30T11:10:00.003+08:00

The way to put an end to my indigestion woes (other than seeking medical help which will take place when I am back in Singapore) is to instill some discipline in my life/diet. There is no point blaming dinner kakis who eats less than one-man share (when divided equally) 'coz I am the one who feels sinful when there are leftovers.

The answer is cooking.

Unfortunately, I was caught in the rain on my way back. I was still walking in the rain until it got so heavy and irritating. So, I took shelter at Starbucks with my Signature Hot Chocolate order.

Why do I not bring an umbrella when I know its the rainy season in Bangkok. I don't like getting wet but I don't like carrying umbrella either. It seemed that the lack of discipline exist in many aspects.

3 rounds

2008-06-29T23:31:00.003+08:00

It was a wasted day.

I played safe by having pork congee and longan drink for lunch (so oriental!). The torture started last night with endless churning. This afternoon, I said no to bad air and tired legs when I excused myself from a Platinum Mall shopping trip (again!). I spent my afternoon concussing.

Being a believer of treating poison using poison (loosely translated from 以毒攻毒), I thought I ought to have my dinner without fail. Things took a turn for the worse. Despite non-existent appetite, I forced food down my throat.

Not too long after dinner, I had my first round of puking. I knew it wasn't going to end there so I tried to sleep while I waited. The second round came after I tossed and turned for some time. The third came too soon after the second which resulted in it ending up at the sink instead of the toilet bowl.

I was rinsing my mouth when it happened. Being a thoughtful occupant, I tried to flush it down with water. Perhaps, my food was too undigested. It seemed to be big chunks of solids instead of fluids.

The aunty is not going to have a pleasant sight tomorrow but I am too tired to perform plumbing at this hour.

Shopping Mania

2008-06-28T22:59:00.002+08:00

The trick is to reach Chatuchak by 9am, in order to beat the heat and the crowd. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we reached our destination as planned but commencement was delayed.

Having only been there once (for the past 10 years), there was difficulty navigating. The orientation was established when there was one hour left to calling it a day. Shopping has always been a low productivity activity - results from morning at Chatuchak is a casual dress and afternoon at Platinum Mall is a tee and two shorts.

Its tricky to shop at budget places in Thailand. Due to unexplainable (ruling out gluttony and sedentary lifestyle) factors, the weight gain is skyrocketing. Budget clothes in Bangkok are meant for the underweight (S), the skinny (M) and the slim (L).

My skinny and slim shopping companions were pretty upset when they couldn't fit in S size (their default size in Singapore), my plight was worse off obviously.

Girls Night Out

2008-06-28T01:29:00.003+08:00

The luxury of staying a stone throw away from downtown is not always granted, thus seizing this opportunity was the decision.

The kick off for a series of weekend programs was to catch a movie. The unanimous vote was for Sex and The City and prior to that, it was a never ending wait for a Sukiyaki dinner (given up on Suki). Those I tasted in Taipei was much better, then again I was comparing Japanese barbeque to Sukiyaki. Perhaps, Sukiyaki is as overrated as Suki.

The vegetables selection was not fabulous but the beef and pork were. The bulk of the price paid probably went to the meats.

Myth buster: The Thailand national anthem was indeed played (MTV style) before the start of a movie. I probably read this somewhere.

Movie was priced at BHT140 (less than SGD6) and the midnight cab was replaced by a 10 minute walk. Economical.

IT unsavviness

2008-06-26T23:44:00.002+08:00

Awareness breeds desires.

I was contented with my Windows Messenger until I was informed that Windows Messenger is not MSN Messenger and the latest update is the Windows Live Messenger. The last few nights was spent in attempts to upgrade to Live Messenger.

Today, the way to go around it was discovered. The age of IT savviness has been revived.

Yeay! I could finally send and receive the offline messages and my green, stripey Grump is back.

Loyalty

2008-06-25T23:20:00.004+08:00

Is there any loyalty left in me?

I shifted from my former apartment to the current one as my boss made the offer. The bigger pool was too enticing.

Last night, I went to check out the pool and was awed by the pretty sight. No wonder residents kept snapping pictures of it. Alas! The water was way too cold, I got out within 3 seconds.

As we were pondering for a dinner venue today, I suggested the Italian restaurant at my former apartment. Last night, I was back there to collect my luggage deposited with them but they couldn't locate my ring with the housekeeping. Today, as I was seated awaiting my dinner, a familiar figure came to greet me (by my first name, no less). He returned me my ring.

The staff might not know how much the ring meant to me but at least, they bothered to help me keep a lookout when I asked and took it in their custody. It might not cost a bomb but I will definitely replace the ring (if I misplaced it). I would very much preferred having back my old scratched ring than a new one (even if JJ offered to pay).

Just how much value do I place on a bigger pool which is too cold for swimming. Today, I hit the gym instead.

The beefy gang

2008-06-24T22:28:00.002+08:00

The flight had to be scheduled on this auspicious day, by coincidence. I supposed its good to be away from Singapore. Well, I am still a believer of fate and coincidences.

An end to my flying solo in Bangkok as two Singaporean girls joined me. I took the initiative to invite everyone for dinner and we conquered Coca. Finally.

MK is just a cheaper version of Coca and, Coca is not fabulous. In fact, Sukis in Bangkok are not fabulous unless you are big on sauce. Otherwise, bland is the adjective.

The informal initiation of the beefy gang. I almost thought I will stop meeting more beef lovers.

a tiny step

2008-06-10T02:11:00.003+08:00

After many nights of endless sleep and thinking through the many years which had passed (not consecutive nights, of course), the psychoanalysis was done. I personally think its quite sad when people have to psychoanalyse themselves. Instinctively, I thought something must have went so wrong for this person.

In order to move forward, its good to take a glimpse at the actions and happenings and rationalise certain behaviours. I heaved deep sighs of relief and felt loads off my chest after I finally come in face with my inner (subconscious) thoughts and feelings.

This should be part of growing ~~old~~ up. When one finally finds the courage and strength to face certain issues and talk about past insecurities with the one who caused it (in the past). Perhaps, talking about it to ST first helped put my thoughts/feelings into words (and the brief mention to HS via MSN as well).

I feel wiser.

What's cooking?

2008-06-07T20:12:00.007+08:00

There's a threshold to the number of non home-cooked meals I can stomach before the strong urge for some cooking (in the kitchen) sets in.

The rather well-stocked supermarket is just a stone throw away. The challenge was to decipher the food labels and find the required ingredients. Last night, the search for toufu was futile and enquiries were fruitless (the staff simply doesn't speak English).

The first cooked meal turned out to be Udon (my favorite Japanese carbo) in Miso soup with Japanese fish cakes (Oden Nabe). The Japanese food labels with Thai stickers stuck beside it was a little challenging for my linguistic ability, it ended up being a "visual recognition" of familiar food. Its a simple no-frill soupy dish.

Groceries shopping is therapeutic and cooking is gratifying. With the budget, I could be whipping up a feast. The other benefits is... I don't need to do the washing 'coz I don't own a washing detergent and the daily maid cleaning service comes in handy.

The kitchen is small enough for my liking but being limited to two electric hobs means it was a challenge to control the heat. I had doubts whether my food was even going to get cooked. Cooking is at experimental stage now (with limited resources, ingredients and without an aid of a recipe book - in a foreign land) and hopefully, experimental leads to scrumptious creations.

Tomorrow's menu: Sirloin steak in black pepper sauce. Due to another miscommunication, I failed to get my vegetables today.

It just ends here

2008-06-06T22:12:00.004+08:00

When you end it, it doesn't mean the love/liking has ended as well. It could be for various other reasons - push or pull factors, that made you abandon this ship for another. Of course, its a painful decision. Things are so much easier if the love/liking has ceased.

When they recruited me, the purpose was to replace S and work as a team with Y. Exactly one month after my first day, its Y's last day. The intention was never to replace her. Now that Y has left, and S is still around. Its weird how things always doesn't turn out as planned or intended. Now, we are recruiting someone to replace Y.

Just like in 2006, when I was recruited to work as a team with SS so that we could get things going. A few days after I joined, SS tendered. (I wasn't supposed to replace him and his role just died a natural death. This kind of made my role challenging as well.) We met in Shanghai, had welcome lunch and soon followed by farewell dinners.

Maybe its me, maybe they don't want to work with me (nah, I do know the reasons). To them, it was a painful decision. To me, it was brief meetings/encounters and their words of kindness reassured my career choice.

It happened for every job change if I don't count the first one where I was a mere headcount (no replacement to talk about).

Diversity

2008-06-05T22:29:00.001+08:00

I appreciated the prompt email response I had gotten so far. The benchmark seemed to be reply within 3 hours, or at least that was what I experienced so far. It was economical as there wasn't a need to follow up with overseas phone calls which could be a hefty sum.

However, I was shocked by the contents of 2 emails from the same girl. She sounded rather rude and demanding in her emails, ran short of patience as we asked her for more details. She just wanted us to accede her requests, best without any enquiries.

I raised my eyebrows when I saw her replies. There was bold in red and there was a repeat of "instructions". I looked at my Thai colleague, who was cool, calm and composed and replied these emails without batting her eyelids.

I attribute this to either cultural differences (Singaporeans might be just too uptight about courtesy) or knowledge of English (perhaps that colleague didn't mean to sound rude, perhaps my Thai colleague interpreted the tone differently).

I am amused by the content, still.

Output > Input = ?

2008-06-04T22:35:00.001+08:00

When the output exceeds the input, the net result would be a loss?

Now, how do I explain the significant weight gain? Its a combination of bloatedness, loss of appetite and visiting the loo five times a day (for big business). At the same time, extreme hunger when going without food.

Note: Im is the Employee of the Year - her concern was it being unfortunate for an employer to have its employee visiting the loo five times a day. She insisted that at the same time, she was happy to hear that her friend has an active bowel system.

I thought some Betagen (couldn't find Yakult) could do the trick but it seemed to make things worse. It usually happened when I stepped into foreign land initially, but this is my 1st month in Bangkok!

The sandwiches with overly sweet and watery mayonnaise didn't do the trick either. If I couldn't make things better, I must at least make myself happy. I counted on Royce bitter Nama Chocolate to do the trick.

company, at last

2008-06-03T23:37:00.000+08:00

It was crazy to be going for massages twice within a span of 5 days. I am neutral where massages are concerned, imagined the existence of unutilised overly priced packages in Singapore (since 2004) and paying for much cheaper ones in Bangkok. Unwise.

It was worrying to let a tourist go massage alone (heck! I am a tourist too) and so I tagged along. The concern is more of someone else going missing than myself losing my way.

Massages twice in 5 days and late night shopping (after work) on two consecutive nights are perfect reasons to be skipping my nightly exercise routines!

shepherding

2008-06-02T23:49:00.002+08:00

The bad shepherd walked in a fast pace, ahead of her only sheep. She thought that just by giving instructions (via email), the sheep would follow and supervision could be minimal.

Unfortunately, there was miscommunication so the shepherd ended up in office without her sheep. After numerous calls and tracking, the sheep was located. It was a good thing that the sheep has knowledge of finding her own way around using cabs.

***

I thought I lost the sheep and was going to lose my rice bowl as well. *phew*

no more fishy affair

2008-06-01T21:38:00.002+08:00

After 2 fish orders (seabass on both occasions) in Bangkok, I got scarred. Their fishes are extremely fishy and its unbearable to finish the whole meal without feeling disgusted.

As I was walking around today, I spotted The Mahanttan Fish Market. It shouldn't go too wrong since they exist in Singapore as well. It has been proven that we should give ~~everyone~~ every food a second chance, or perhaps, a third in this case.

At last, I ate fish like how I remember they should taste.

poke the bubble

2008-05-31T23:36:00.003+08:00

One of the ways to live through your dream (and come out of it alive, hopefully) is to put words into actions and your dream into reality.

The craving for Suki has spiraled since the thought first crossed my mind. In Shanghai and Taipei, there are restaurants serving one person's portion. I dipped toes and was being stared at, at MK, even without making it a Suki lunch. Generally, folks don't eat alone in Bangkok.

To get round this issue, I ordered home delivery. It was a long struggle on the phone, trying to communicate in my Singaporean English. When it eventually arrived, my vermicelli was missing. I thought the BHT20 was for that, but it turned out to be a delivery cost. The BHT33 (SGD1.50) beef was a serving of 5 slices! I should have suspected, how can quality beef comes at this price?

The killer was the corn (own deduction) stock base which was the last straw. I was expecting soy bean or chicken stock!

Live your dream and let it die a natural death, rather than having someone else trying to kill off your dream (telling you that Suki is not a fabulous meal option).

Now, it might be MK (not Suki). So, going Coca might make my dream coming true. Till the bitter aftertaste dies off.

little discoveries

2008-05-30T22:01:00.002+08:00

Sore neck caused by uncomfortable pillows ignited my search for economical massage places.

I asked for recommendations. The highly recommended is economical but a train ride plus some walking distance away. I was too lazy to go that length just for a massage.

After asking around, I continued to search on the net. Actually, I wasn't expecting to find steals. However, anything that doesn't even have a net presence is doubtful, especially when its massage in Bangkok and I am going alone.

I managed to find one near my apartment, rang them and made an appointment.

In order to play safe, I emptied my wallet at the apartment before heading to the massage place with just BHT 500 (agreed price = BHT 300). This sounds crazy but its risk mitigation in view of potential blackmail/robbery/whatever misfortunes.

The place was clean, nice, safe and as a bonus, I discovered hor fun across the road. Its not as good as what I can find in Singapore, but hey, I am in Bangkok! If I want Singapore version of hor fun, I might as well go back Singapore.

wrong side of the bed

2008-05-29T22:39:00.002+08:00

There are days when things just go so wrong.

1. Woke up late (thus, in a frenzy to go work)
2. Gave yummy complimentary breakfast a miss (no choice!)
3. 'School bus' left without me
4. Took cab to work (with the vague idea where office is and clueless with regards to the driving directions)
5. Grabbed heavy breakfast (over compensated hunger)
6. Breakfast tasted bad

The sandwiches from Starbucks taste as bland as their pale looks.

Follow ups

2008-05-28T22:29:00.002+08:00

The little colour flags in Outlook look pretty adorable.

Once I started colour flagging my emails, I couldn't stop. It was supposed to help track what to follow up. Heck, my inbox is a sea of coloured flags (I couldn't even remember which colour was for what purpose).

Cluttered.

Betagen = Vitagen?

2008-05-27T22:10:00.002+08:00

The search for Yakult has began (in the expatriate supermarket, no less).

Is it not a global drink? How come I could only find Betagen, which sounded suspiciously like Vitagen (Yakult's nemesis)? Perhaps its good enough since it existed 10 years ago when I was in Chiang Mai.

This is strange 'coz there exists imported Yakult in Shanghai.

Chinese food!

2008-05-26T23:37:00.002+08:00

The Chinese restaurant opposite my apartment looks inviting, at least, the signboard is in Chinese.

I was hoping to savour Chinese food like those found it Singapore. Alas! It serves herbal tonic cuisine of Northern origins, which was exactly what I had last night. The Northerners are heavy on carbohydrates intake and that doesn't appeal to me. Instead of noodles or dumplings, I chose to order a soup and sweet and sour pork.

The owners looked Thais and so I spoke English to them. They gave me this appalled look and immediately I switched to Mandarin. The service was not fantastic as they served customers who came in after me, before me. They told me 'coz the dishes I ordered take longer time to prepare.

The soup was enough to feed my whole family (the waitress couldn't be bothered to tell me the serving portion when I asked) and the pork was overwhelming with flour coating. The consolation was that food was pipping hot (as compared to lukewarm food at many places in Thailand)!

Maybe, its bad customer service carried over from China. I am now pinning my hopes on the other Chinese restaurant spotted.

Multitasking flops

2008-05-11T22:01:00.002+08:00

As we were chatting at Starbucks, my mind was constantly running through my many other commitments in life.

It feels lousy to be coughing (with phlegm!) when I am overseas alone. LX reminded me last night to keep off Milo ('coz its heaty) and I only recalled that while I was sipping my hot chocolate.

2008 has proven to be an unpredictable year for me. Its May and I am still clueless as to where I will be heading, literally. My plans have been shifted, altered, cancelled...

After the chat, my head went spinning! I looked out of the window and it was drizzling (I thought its all-year sunny in Bangkok). I went on coughing again and lost my last bit of strength, I dozed off.

Now, now... I probably missed my family, my friends (a number who are not in Singapore, anyway), my handphone (not so much the physical phone but my phone line which I didn't roam) which is sitting on JJ's desk, my Baby Fate (it doesn't have a physical existence but I feel so detached missing its debut event)... My multiple commitments - my regular job, my Baby and my freelancing.

I hang on dearly to my internet existence (MSN and email). There's no way anyone could contact me now, other than ringing my apartment. Pathetic.

Some like it Green

2008-05-10T21:19:00.004+08:00

At least I do!

Its not just Turtle who is green but I love my curries green as well. I had a second go at green curry for lunch and I still think, green curries are too spicy in Bangkok for my liking. Me, a non-chili eater with low spiciness threshold.

Not just the colour green, I walked quite a fair bit to do my part for green travelling. The crowd at Siam Paragon is overwhelming.

I discovered some gems along the way. It was unbelievable when I saw what I saw at Siam Centre directory, I had to verify with my own eyes - my favourite shoe boutique does indeed exist in Bangkok. As a bonus, I found a Dunkin Donuts outlet too (the sweetness is an overkill, but its not for my own consumption).

The weather is Bangkok should be cooler than in Singapore now but its still too hot. I blame it on global warming.

Lost in time

2008-05-09T22:36:00.004+08:00

I was reminded of "What Time Is It There?" (a movie by Taiwanese director Tsai Ming-Liang). Instead of wearing two watches, my Baby G is at Singapore time (which is 1 hour ahead of Bangkok). I diligently take one hour off each time I read my watch. However when one gets tired, everything goes haywired.

I took a lift back (to my apartment) tonight and just like in Singapore, Bangkok is jammed on a Friday night. I was getting weary but since another colleague was on the car, I had to keep a conversation on going (I couldn't just doze off!).

When I reached the apartment, it was 8.30pm on my watch. Being semi-concussed, I thought it was 8.30pm in Bangkok (it was only 7.30pm actually). I was half wondering how a car ride could take so long (we left office at around 6.30pm and without traffic jam, the usual drive is about half an hour).

After my dinner at the apartment restaurant, I half intended to either go look for Dunkin Donuts or shop around. It was 9pm on my watch (actually only 8pm) so the interest level dipped to an all-time low. A check with the apartment staff confirmed that shops close the same time (10pm) on Fridays, so it was really pointless to go anywhere at 9pm.

Alas! I just realised my silly mistake. My happening Friday is wasted.

The same old look

2008-05-05T20:10:00.002+08:00

It was supposed to be an update or a refresh.

The bizarre outcome was a newly taken set of photographs, with uncanny resemblance to those taken 3 years ago.

The half empty glass says: Its a waste of money to have another set taken.

The half full glass says: There were negligible aging, or at least, the photographs are telling such a story.

Note: I may have longer arms 2 years down the road if I keep carrying laptop in paper bag. Since when are they issued without a bag?

Upgrade

2008-04-30T21:29:00.002+08:00

It was revealed that deprivation persisted during the past 1 year plus of traveling when a simple frill like laundry services sent me to sheer delighted.

It got me jumping up and down, shouting "I don't have to do my own laundry anymore!"

Laundry with the aid of a washing machine isn't too heavy a chore, I did it for 3 years on alternate days. The challenge was ironing - which I left to my Mum. If there wasn't an option of laundry service, there definitely wasn't a washing machine or an ironing board provided.

Farewell to smelly, semi-dry clothes in late Autumn/Winter/early Spring. Heck, there isn't even four seasons in Bangkok to begin with.

I am so thrilled with this benefit.

What the toot am I waiting for?

2008-04-17T17:19:00.003+08:00

As a form of revenge, I am going to go that extra mile to keep myself healthy, to make sure that I minimise doctor visits in my life.

The doctor asked me to go for my blood test today and so I went. I told the registration staff that I was there for a blood test, half guessing that I could skip the consultation part. For some strange reasons (maybe to generate revenue), she said I was to see the doctor. Okay, fine.

I trust professional opinions and don't usually question them (though I have a history of arguments with doctors, these days, I just let them have their way).

I did my blood test and reconfirmed with the laboratory staff on whether I really need to see the doctor (skepticism is in my blood). He gave a reassuring yes.

I waited outside the consultation room for almost 2 hours, finished reading the papers I brought and played countless rounds of games on my handphone. I saw people barging into the room and demanding it to be their turn. Never mind that I was on priority queue, I thought its only right that the old or the sickly go before me, its okay if I don't be so petty.

Its not okay when I watched everyone - whether in priority queue or not, whether case number was before or after mine, went before me. There was no one waiting, till some random uncle who just arrived, walked in as well.

Finally, I barged into the room and I saw my case file on the table.

I told the doctor my situation and he said, I was not on his patient list in the system so he didn't know I was waiting outside. My file was right infront of him, on his table. He obviously think that was a joke and nothing should be done about this patient. He then started to accuse the laboratory staff for not forwarding my case to him. Can I blame the same staff who reassured me that I should be seeing the doctor? Seeing that I was still not appeased, he pushed the blame on me and said I should have barged in and demanded for my turn.

In the end, he asked me what was wrong and I said I had no idea coz the receptionist asked me to go for consultation. He then laughed (yes, he had the cheek to) and said I could have skipped this part 'coz the results were not ready. He asked whether I was feeling okay. I wanted to ask whether blood pressure going from 100 to 250 was considered okay.

He then said that I don't need to pay for consultation (its free visits for me in the first place) and I supposed he thought I might be thankful. Its like my wasted last visit, where the doctors summoned me (only to realise its totally unnecessary) and then said he would waived my charges. Can they get this right? I am entitled to free medical!

Maybe they thought a freelancer is very free (pun intended), has too much time on her hands, and would appreciation a 2-hour waiting session at hospitals to spice up her life.

Doctors are my nemesis (sorry, PX).

Free Publicity

2008-04-02T17:21:00.002+08:00

Today is the 1st official business day. I shamelessly asked friends to help spread the word. I noted that ST, MH and JR had changed their MSN "personal message" to help me spread the word.

I hope business will pick up. I am blessed with friends who lend a hand when needed.

On the other side of Earth, my business partner is going crazy being overly excited. Business owners can never rest their minds fretting over their business.

The beginning

2008-03-30T23:38:00.000+08:00

The death of sloth, the birth of a new partnership.

Long live my dream come true!

***

Finally, I see some improvements. I managed to wake up before 9am and be the first blood donor for the day. The first time I took under an hour for a donation. I set a new record.

I should stop grumbling about quarrels with doctors and inefficiencies. At least the centre commenced operations though I reached slightly before 9am. Plus, the staff were ready to serve the donors.

One up for the medical workers!

half-hearted

2008-03-27T23:40:00.004+08:00

I was quite thrilled that I have indirectly secured an interview.

I thought retirement was way too early and it was a waste of experience and skills. For a while (half a day?), I was quite pleased with myself.

As far as it seemed now, nothing is going to materialise. My efforts down the drain! Breathe.

I don't wish to get upset over small matters - disinterest in job, escalating phone bills with zero effort to contain cost. I am losing my sanity.

Free trip

2008-03-18T23:22:00.002+08:00

Ask and ye shall receive...

An all expenses paid trip to Shanghai. Its not exactly all, it says "airfare, transportation, hotel, etc..." [extracted from the email]. I supposed meals are not covered but who knows, maybe its included under "etc".

Its a trip with a purpose, but it does no harm if I can fit in some time to visit my old friends in Shanghai, to savour those restaurants I highly rated, to do some random shopping... even shopping at Changi Airport looks inviting. It might just be a 2 days 1 night trip or worse still, in Shanghai for less than 8 hours.

Since my plans for 2008 are jumbled up, there's no further damage in being a little greedy.

My Mum thinks its 贩卖人口 while Im and YQ sensationalised the whole affair. Hopefully, I come back alive.

Back to the theatre

2008-03-17T23:55:00.006+08:00

A simple sms from SL brought me back to the theatre tonight. To be more precise, its the "Theatre Idol".

I went for it in 2005 (inaugural, I think). I excitedly asked for 8 tickets (or something like that) and brought a small village with me. The administration for ticketing was horrendously messy. There were 3 plays and the whole event dragged way past waking hours. The standards (of the 3 plays) were distinctively different, with one being more developed than the other two.

Tonight, the ticketing remains a nightmare for SL and I (perhaps, not for the others). There were only 2 plays and time was better managed.

There was no drastic gaps in standards, however in general, the crowd prefers something light-hearted and steers away from dark psycho-thriller.

I supposed the theatre and I are still somehow connected in some way. Perhaps, its a tie that I cannot sever.

Lost and found

2008-03-16T23:22:00.002+08:00

The only usefulness of online social network (i.e. Friendster, Facebook) is for me to uncover old friends.

Just yesterday, Jan and I were lamenting about not being able to reestablish lost contacts with some girls from our class. I particularly was trying to "hunt down" LX who was my primary 1 best friend (same class again in primary 4 to 6). I did my usual googling, saw some traces of her whereabouts but there was no contact details. I tried to ask JJ to help reestablish with LY (LX's older sister who was one of my sister's primary school best friend), and nothing progressed.

It seemed hopeless at that point in time. Not wanting to give up, I did one simple name search and I found her!

The happy news is that I have added her to my MSN and gotten her handphone number as well. The sad news (sad for me who doesn't foresee any relocation in near future) is that she is relocating to Korea for work soon.

The overall happy news is that at least, I found her before she leaves. Yeay!

The amount of endorphins during my conversation with her, was an overwhelming ecstasy. I must agree with Jan that with old friends, everything seemed so familiar and comfortable. Its easy to love them but for new friends, we often make judgements. As time passes, all new friends become old friends... bliss. (Disclaimer: Excluding those who somehow lost being termed as friends along the way. Not many, hopefully.)

Endless tea

2008-03-15T23:16:00.004+08:00

The girls were fashionable (-ly late) and the guys were even more fashionable. I almost thought they were not making an appearance.

Why Ah Teng's? I love alfresco places (its semi alfresco) and the location is right smack at where human traffic is. It would have been an accessible spot. Truth be it that I had happy memories hanging out there and I have a weakness for nostalgia.

Anyway, the eventual venue was Bakerzin at Millenium Walk (courtesy of Jan's suggestion). The food there was a-okay, I thought it was more fabulous before the groundless name switch. That place is quite a walk by public transport but that works out to be a good spot for a more intimate get-together. A crowded place would mean more distraction.

Never a believer of villager gathering, and a turn out of eight would definitely qualify it as one under my definition. With the girls (okay, and two guys), anything is fine with me.

Nothing beats sixteen/seventeen (majority. It depends who is the reference point.) years of friendship. Tea easily morphs into dinner.

Its all about marketing

2008-03-14T23:26:00.002+08:00

I wouldn't have fancied them that much, if not for the fact that these agents are "selling" them to me with all the marketing tactics. The disappointment of not getting them wouldn't be that great as well.

What you get might not be what you heard or saw. Then again, who is going to give you a refund or entertain your disgruntlement.

Marketing is a money spinning tool.

End of the world

2008-03-13T23:54:00.002+08:00

I looked out of the windows (those only 2 still opened, at home), looked up at the sky and wondered whether end of the world is coming.

I have such thoughts when I failed to understand the weather. The weather makes my day. After intensive travelling overseas, I realised that many people are rather concerned about weather forecast. There are too many things Singaporeans took for granted.

YQ says if I throw this line at all the people I know, I get a range of different responses.

Me: I think the sky is falling!

JJ: Crazy

Stan: Good

It depends on how you are feeling.

JJ is enjoying herself in India and the sky looks perfectly fine to her.

Stan is still nursing a broken heart and his bochupness is at its maximum (own speculation).

I am worried about not having anymore time to wait.

striking a balance

2008-03-12T23:55:00.002+08:00

The care and concern keeps me going.

The care and concern gives me stress.

The care and concern makes me feel loved.

The care and concern compels me to perform.

The care and concern maintains my sanity.

The care and concern ensures discipline in me.

I am thankful.

Its all about timing

2008-03-11T20:35:00.002+08:00

Its never about how you meet, who you meet, where you meet, but when you meet.

I concluded this from "Famous Princesses". Seol-chil's number one queue number taker appeared at the right moment, when she was at her moments of weakness. I heaved a sign of relief while I keep my fingers crossed.

Survival 101

2008-03-10T22:41:00.003+08:00

As she learns that she is merely her parents' adopted kid and her biological parents are another couple, she packed her belongings (within 5 minutes) and left the house.

The dialogue exchange between her parents and her drove my Mum and I to tears. Since I always ask my Mum whether she picked up the wrong child at the hospital, she had to ask me this.

Mum: If you discover the same thing, what will you pack? Given that you have an enormous collection of junks.

Me: At such instances, given the time limit... I can only bring my wallet (with cash and cards), my bank passbooks and my handphone. Its really a case of too bad. How much belongings can one bring with oneself?

At the end of the day, what really belong to me? I have lots of doubts about this.

My Mum has successfully brainwashed me in believing that whatever I owned are indirectly under her ownership!

Presents for all no occasion

2008-03-09T20:09:00.002+08:00

When there is an occasion, the need to get presents raises the stress level. Under such condition, I usually ended up empty-handed.

Its difficult to live up to expectations and finding presents for the appropriate occasion. I learnt to put off ideal presents I spotted, till the occasion arise. However, I get so excited over the presents idea that I couldn't contain my excitement for long.

This leads to the invention of "presents for no occasion".

PX, SL and YQ were all delightfully surprised by such small gestures. After all, I have been on the receiving ends of their endless kind gestures after so many years of friendship. Its time for me to show some appreciation.

Today, YQ "climbed slopes and braved grass" to get me half a dozen durian puffs from Goodwood Park hotel! I am so caught up with nitty gritty in my life, and didn't even realised the season is here.

too close for comfort

2008-03-08T23:23:00.002+08:00

You know your friends are comfortable with you when they have the audacity to take an hour nap, while you are in their house.

I kept myself entertained with their television, Coco (the Miniature Schnauzer which now looks like a Jack Russell) and Her World. Luckily, I wasn't starving while I counted down to dinner date with the Sleeping Beauties.

Shopping List

2008-03-07T22:01:00.002+08:00

Hong Kong - checked

Japan - checked

Taiwan - checked

Bonus offer: Australia (limited, but nonetheless) and Korea

Is this what I am looking for? Never mind that my dream offers of London and New York did not happened, we will see how it goes.

tick

2008-02-28T23:32:00.002+08:00

I finally met my target and finished "Wild Swans" (10+ years too late) before February ended.

Its different from my usual reading picks. 1. The background is set in China. 2. It spans a few decades and three generations!

I spent much time reading but didn't read many books, this is a reflection of low efficiency. There's a high stack of books at home, screaming for my attention. Reading is always on my agenda.

I could finally piece stories that my Grandparents and Mum been telling me. I could finally get a glimpse of events in their time. I could finally understand (a small percentage) their anguish.

Stupidly, I told my Mum "鸿" is the Author's Chinese name. She told me its the book title in Chinese. I want to get hold of that book in Chinese, but it may be too emotionally laden for my Mum.

haphazard

2008-02-27T22:19:00.002+08:00

As much as I tried to layout my plans for 2008, everything in life came crushing. By plans I mean general big picture, like my holidays or any major purchases or general pace of my social life (meeting who, doing what, exploring where).

Planning is only as good as planning. I relied too much on the comfort of familarity and these days, learning to live day-to-day and loving it, is my new way of life.

I don't know what I am expecting for 2008 even though 2 months flew by. I don't know whether London, Australia or Yunnan is going to happen.

Randomness in life.

in denial

2008-02-26T20:02:00.004+08:00

LL had been urging me to make that phone call, to get a status update. Given a choice, I rather live in denial and not hurry for an answer.

I thought, I might as well heed his advice.

Heh. There is no concrete response for me, yet. I am keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for the best.

P.S. I love you

2008-02-15T03:13:00.002+08:00

As the book was being made into a movie, I then recalled that I had read the book, somehow. I probably borrowed the book from someone who recommended (maybe JJ?), I don't remember.

Its quite scary when not being able to recall some past happenings.

Anyway, it was a lovely book and the underlying message was unconventional.

"Holding on doesn't mean possessing and moving on doesn't mean forgetting, either" - how I interpreted it.

Somehow, I caught a number of soapy songs on radio yesterday "会有那么一天" by JJ Lim and "Love, Me" by Colin Raye". These songs brought tears to my eyes.

My sweet Valentine's

2008-02-14T23:11:00.002+08:00

My Valentine's flew from Shanghai to meet me today.

We strolled around Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Boat Quay and the Esplanade. We savoured yong tau foo and the best toast in Singapore (according to me) washed down with my favourite teh terik.

I received presents for my Dad, my Mum and myself!

Everywhere was dotted with couples holding hands and carrying bouquets. Why is it, only on this day?

draw the line

2008-01-22T23:07:00.000+08:00

The stress from work can really get a person, turns his/her life upside down, spoils his/her day and eventually affect one's mood so badly that, other aspects of life get affected as well.

As we stood at the door of her department, cracking jokes about random things. Suddenly, the topic was on work. How certain issues came crushing down on her. I stood frozen as I watch tears roll down her cheeks.

The only consolation I could come up with, was to ring another mutual friend. He would hopefully ring her bf.

Sigh, work should really just be work.

visual creatures

2008-01-21T23:19:00.000+08:00

I kept telling JJ that the elder cousin in "Coffee Prince" is cute and she didn't seemed to think so. I did Googling and saw his roles in other shows - bleah, zero cuteness.

The conclusion: What I really like is his pair of nerdy glasses (I have a pair as well). They look really cute but perhaps, a little unprofessional for work. He got away with it since he is a Musician - a arty farty profession.

JJ suddenly commented that the elder cousin is cute, but only with his glasses on (she emphasized on that clause). Its amazing how television production crews conjure characters for each script, with the appropriate dressing and mannerism. Isn't that a fair bit of stereotyping involved?

The other conclusion: The only thing I like about the younger cousin is his single ear stud. I think men look good with single ear stud. Can I wear one without piercing?

burnt weekends

2008-01-20T23:32:00.000+08:00

The priority is given to administrative matters (over having fun), a few weekends have gone down the drain.

Do I see an end to this?

Chinese New Year is approaching and the shopping areas are probably flooded with mad shoppers. I am looking forward to the events lined up right after the festival, shopping can always wait. Anyway, my shopping kaki YQ is to the brim with her work.

Hopefully, there are fruitful results from my burnt weekends. My 2008 holiday plans have been changed countless times from 2007 till now. Due to a sudden change in plans, the possibility of having overseas holidays became zero. Now, something fabulous is coming up.

If everything turns out perfect, I would be in the mood to enjoy my holidays at the perfect timing.

Holidays... here I come!

wise words

2008-01-20T04:03:00.000+08:00

I spent a happy night at ST's place, catching up, savouring good food, enjoying myself. I thought I get along better with friends older or my age but ST, YQ and PQ proven this belief otherwise.

There were pretty much to do at ST's place - the yummy buffet, their cute schnauzer (I would have played with him if their place was not filled with guests. Since he is bigger than Mimi, I found him a little intimidating), friends' babies/toddlers (we spent hours gazing at), Serta sheeps (number 9 and 11), nice sweet dessert wine, red wine (which I detest), mahjong (with the couple since I was the last guest)...

This is my fourth meeting with the wise one and once again, he spills words of wisdom upon me. I shall remember them by heart.

The lovely couple invited me for part 2 next Saturday - a steamboat dinner!

After that, it was supper with KH with more wise/funny words from him. I was half awake (due to the red wine) and was constantly yawning. Its crazy to meet friends at 1am and I do intent to kick this bad habit, but, a certain part of me adores staying out late. I especially love the driving part.

A perfect night with long-time friends. Lovely.

not by fluke

2008-01-18T19:34:00.000+08:00

Good news come through the mail and bad news come straight in your face.

I passed my exams despite not completing my mugging! Its a real morale boost after not passing any exams for the past few years.

Another piece of good news is that the exams are becoming computer-based by the next examination date, which means more available test dates/times/venues and faster processing for results.

The bad news... my other 2 parts used to cost $165 each, has now been revised to $250 each! The increase in living costs has hit me real hard. I wonder whether it helps if I register and pay off now,

serious anot

2008-01-17T23:34:00.000+08:00

The wise one has advised me not to take life too seriously.

I didn't realise I delayed a meet-up with DK from last November till today! Its a hassle to make time for friends especially when me-time is so scarce, but perhaps I became too apathetic towards certain friends.

DK has kindly gotten me a gift (something I requested) from Kyoto. I merely sent him a MSN message to ask for the gift and he acceded while I paid lip service and talked about a meet-up that took months to crystallise.

Once again, time is tight on my side and my agendas are piling up. There's not much serious time I could afford till March. Its another make or break for me.

The art of cooking

2008-01-16T22:38:00.000+08:00

Spaghetti in cream of mushroom, stir-fry pork ribs and stir-fry abalone mushrooms and shitake mushrooms.

The record time was about 50 minutes and I was starving while standing at the stove. The ultimate achievement would be yummy food, but I am still stuck at estimating the portions (cooked too much food again!) and taking a reasonable time.

Perhaps, the touch was lost since I moved back home and ceased having free time to cook as and when I like.

accidental tourist

2008-01-15T22:53:00.000+08:00

The latest challenge is to organise a 2.5 days / 2 night Singapore tour. Its fun to be a tourist anywhere, even your own country!

I am looking forward to CKJ's visit to Singapore. I was delighted to hear that she made arrangements to extend her stay in Singapore. I proposed the idea but did not pinned much hopes on it, knowing the workaholic she is.

Its now the brainstorming stage and I threw the question at JJ and ah Le during dinner. Those two heritage advocators suggested Arab street, Little India and Chinatown, while C (this workaholic is not taking leave to join us) suggested Sentosa. I am all for Night Safari and the Singapore River area.

This is so exciting!

missing you

2008-01-14T23:20:00.000+08:00

My parents and Turtle have gone on a holiday in Malacca and so, I was given the option of a back-up car. There's always the option of taking buses to work but I challenged myself to be more adaptive!

There was plenty of time to afford a bus ride this morning but also, it was good to have buffer time when its not the usual car. It had been more than 2 years since I last driven an automatic car.

I got car sickness. My last jerky ride was more than 8 years ago (with a "L" plate) - the acceleration was super slow, the braking was not smooth, the engine was loud... endless flaws.

There wasn't much to do much my left hand and left leg. The typical choice would be using the left hand to caress the front passenger's thighs (oh man!) or gesturing vulgarity hand signs (to show displeasure towards fellow road users). Since neither was an optimal choice, I was at a loss.

The pleasant surprise was, the radio had been tuned to my favourite station and my sun glasses had been placed at a spot where I usually grab them from. My Dad made effort to ease the unfamiliarity.

Come back Turtle, come back.

bang

2008-01-01T22:03:00.000+08:00

I wonder whether the prophecy from a wise one couple of weeks back, is coming true for me in 2008.

At least, a major decision has been made for 2008. For better or worse, only time can tell. I hold on to that flickering hope and work towards a better future.

Random jots

Singapore is this small

A coach potato

Shopping during GSS

Its a boy!

An outing in sight

Love-hate relationship

I am going blind

Needs versus Wants

Lucky thrice and still counting

Quiz Time!

dinners!

En!

serial horners

Happy

Live Broadcast

My job

The hype

What to do?

Rainy

late, late, late!

Hotdog seller no more

Afternoon Getaway

what's next?

秋心赋

sweet success

retaliate

The Last Farewell

Under the weather

*vroom vroom*

flare up

yet another company

Expectation Management

zhng my Samsonite

Another goodbye

visitor!

in denial

sightings

Peace and quietness (again)

Conquered!!!

Fat bear hero wannabe

full-fledged

soaking like a sponge

bad sheep

Back to basics

3 rounds

Shopping Mania

Girls Night Out

IT unsavviness

Loyalty

The beefy gang

a tiny step

What's cooking?

It just ends here

Diversity

Output > Input = ?

company, at last

shepherding

no more fishy affair

poke the bubble

little discoveries

wrong side of the bed

Follow ups

Betagen = Vitagen?

Chinese food!

Multitasking flops

Some like it Green

Lost in time

The same old look

Upgrade

What the *toot* am I waiting for?

Free Publicity

The beginning

half-hearted

Free trip

Back to the theatre

Lost and found

Endless tea

Its all about marketing

End of the world

vroom vroom

What the toot am I waiting for?

tick

bang