I believe I'm extraordinary. Extra-ordinary, that is.

ASYE extended

2012-01-31T00:57:00.000+08:00

On a rare Saturday evening, we had a wonderful gathering with current plus ex- colleagues from our BU. We shared on current news and updates, we joked and laughed heartily. Just like the old days...

Once a part of the family, always a part of it. Brings back nice, heartwarming memories. Just explains why we chose to return to this big and fun family :)

I can now literally 'park a bus'!

2012-01-26T22:56:00.004+08:00

Passed my 4A driving test today!

Been a long time since I last felt the intensity of the butterflies in my stomach, but I managed to keep my cool and drive like I usually do.

Yay!

Real Escapist!

2012-01-26T22:46:00.000+08:00

Taking part in this tomorrow with some friends... sounds damn exciting! Gut instincts and brain twisters will come in handy. Good luck to us!

The North Star

2012-01-24T14:43:00.000+08:00

random pic

2012-01-17T00:15:00.002+08:00

Old flame reignites - return of the Legend

2012-01-10T22:52:00.001+08:00

When I watched this video, I looped it over and over again, soaking in the rapturous applause as the Legend placed his studs back onto the greens of his favourite field.

In the 78th minute, the Legend received the ball with an immaculate first touch, took a quick glance up and squared his body. As he raised back his right foot preparing to shoot, the seconds seemed to stop... the stadium suddenly seemed serene and saturated with anticipation. The clock rewound. As his insole caressed the ball, it seemed destined for the inevitable. It took all but a second but it was a movement of sheer class, of uncanny familiarity. When the ball rustled into the far corner, the 60,000 fans roared in ecstasy as the Legend wheeled away, a face of thrill, hysteric, shock and disbelief.

I almost teared watching this.

WELCOME BACK, THIERRY HENRY.

Swedish delight

2012-01-10T00:31:00.000+08:00

My bro is in year 3 of his tertiary studies and has just departed for Sweden for exchange.

WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHLAOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOEHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.

Major regret I didn't do such a thing during my time! Even Asia like Hong Kong, Korea would be exhilarating! Now that makes it two regrets for my tertiary studies :(

But anyway, wishing him all the best for the 5 months he'll be there. He plans to go England to watch a football match, catch Wimbledon games and also up north to take a chance on the Northern Lights. Come back with no regrets, but stay safe, healthy and watchful! He's the youngest child and arguably the most spoilt/pampered la, so I believe this period of independency will help him gain some maturity and soft skills.

Coolest ME clique

2012-01-02T23:25:00.000+08:00

Lacking Tartar Tata and Tyrannasaurus Titus, the coolest ME clique met up with Yucky Yixin on New Year's Day. Working in Northampton, England, she is back for a couple of weeks to attend a cousin's wedding. It was great to see her again - same cheerful smile, small slit eyes and ang moh pai pattern. Over dinner and desserts, the few of us were the same silly clique, teasing one another and making lame jokes and comments. Haha. It was kinda reminiscent of the times we spent together at NUS. :)

2011 - A recollection and reflection

2011-12-25T18:34:00.000+08:00

Only a few days to the welcoming of a brand new year, but 2011 has passed by so quickly it caught me by surprise. I mean, I didn't even feel the usual pre-special occasion mood before my birthday or Christmas! Other than a few holidays that I had, I can't remember other significant events worthy of a bookmark in 2011. Perhaps it has been very much a work-social-work-rest-work kinda year. If I had to choose an event as the highlight of the year, it would be the conquering of Mt. Kinabalu, hands down.

> In January this year I received good news that I would be posted permanently (until further notice, that is) to Auto Svcs. I said it is good news because I had specified my preference for it - and why so is because of the challenge, opportunities and the great company.

> In late January, TMSACO had our inaugural alumni public concert, held nonewhere other than our school hall.

It was an emotional one for me (not to the extent of crying) because of the rich memories stirred up. Our practices were held in our alma mater and whenever I'm in the compound, I feel like a student all over again. I peer down the corridor, into my ex-classroom, step into the CO room, and my mind visualizes the familiar sights, sound and laughter and friendly faces that were once the chapters of my secondary school life.

Picking up the ruan again was not an easy task but it was not a difficult one either. For the love of music and performing more than compensated for the burn on my fingers and sacrifice of several Saturday morning sleep-in/football. 值得. I also said this concert would pave the way for more to come, but it would alas be my last. I don't think I gel in the dynamics anymore... kinda old liao la hur hur hur...

> CNY 2011 was an awesome one because of the higher turn up. Many cousins gathered and we had fun like previous years. We visited our uncle's plantation and the train station, and definitely didn't miss out on the routines of the usual mahjong, eat mamee, taking of do-re-mi and jumping photos so reminiscent of CNY.

> Lazy to dig up history but I also had my first experience of travelling overseas for work in 1st Quarter this year. There ain't much to brag about, but nevertheless, a first. Haha.

> In March there was a spontaneous overseas trip with my buddies. I think we were rather exhausted from the pace and burden of work that we decided to give ourselves a well-deserved break. Planning was unproductive due to varied expectations and budget so we finally set on an easy destination - Batam.

Above: our first meal.

We didn't accomplish much there other than window shopping, thai massage, and... can't remember. HAHA. It was meant to be a brainless, slow-paced and relaxing holiday and the purpose was met. The only stress we had there was probably trying to escape the attention of the hotel staff cos we were bunking in 3 in a room meant for two. Heh.

> March-April-May-June-July was the busiest time of the year. There was a huge amount of work on my hands and as a result I clocked many OT hours, on most nights I found myself the only soul in office. :( However, I should say they were worth it because I could see my hardwork paying off. I didn't quite have a life at that time and boy, the Phuket trip came in really handy.

> Phuket trip in May with buddies and LL.

It was a promo deal we bought way back in August 2010. Only $98 nett!! And when May finally arrived, GOSH WERE WE EXCITED!!!

Phuket is a fantastically beautiful tourist attraction.

The pictures show enough. I recommend Phuket for everyone keen to experience a variety of entertainment and activities at a very affordable price! Choose to do anything from white water rafting, ATV driving, snorkelling and swimming with fishes, laying down on the golden fine sand and elephant riding to indulging in authentic thai massage or shopping along the touristy laid-back streets. Don't miss the famous nightspot Bangla Street for eye-openers and such. Haha.

We spent 4d3n there and it was a really well-spent and memorable holiday. :)

> Sundown Marathon 26 May. Ran 10km.

> Received a promotion in July. Am really thankful for all the generous support and opportunity. I received a number of congratulations on a personal note and am appreciative of that, too :)

> Went to Melaka over the weekend in July. First trip there. Had lotsa fun with the bunch of friends who were crazy and performed ducking/planking/owling wherever whenever. Summary of Melaka trip? "Queue. Eat. Repeat", as oyt put it. HAHA, how apt. In no more than 1.5 days we tried every good stuff there.

We also came up with our own homemade version of Visa dance.

"In Melaka without a Ringgit"

> An item off my bucket list in August - Conquer of Mt. Kinabalu. So awesome and memorable the experience was that in my dream last night I was climbing it a second time. Thanks to Me and Myself for the tedious planning, haha, and also to Temperamental Toeji for the tips and advice! (Temperamental Toej: Okay this time your name is carved =P)

I think I have said 'nuff of the climb in some of my previous posts haha. Don't want to bore you further, I'll just show you some more pics.

The group (I'm still amazed the group ended up having more gals than guys):

The picturesque and breathtaking view:

The signs along the way that gave us short-term motivation (Facial expressions at 5.5km and 8.0km were posed):

I recommend everyone to do this. Even oyt, who isn't quite a nature-lover nor the sporty kind, and who endured excrutiating calf ache to reach the top, commented, "I'm glad I did this."

> Was supposed to be indulging in salt-baked fish, tomyam soup, beef noodles and streetside fried chicken in Bangkok in October. Tickets (only $141!) and accomodation paid for, only for the unprecedented floods to wash our plans away. It was a real bummer, all of us had been jumping in anticipation for it before the waters came in. When they did, we were still optimistic and hoping for the best. But alas, we had to forgo the trip. Thankfully we bought travel insurance 3 days before the cutoff date! Not so bad! Right now still trying to gather the necessary admin and paperwork required to claim.

> In November I signed up for and attended an event by a SDN affliated partner. It was my first and don't think I'll go for another so soon, haha. But hey, I didn't go for it cos I was desperate - 10% of the interest was to make friends and the other 90% for the activity lol. Chek Jawa. Had always wanted to see Chek Jawa. The whole event was rather pricey at $99. But well there was a nature guide and a nice 4-course dinner that came along with it. Plus I got to know a few unique contacts.

> One of the best things that happened this year was the widening of my social circle. 'The Club', as members affectionally call it, is a facebook group specially created by founding father Levan, whose original intention was to find partners for his sister and best friend.

So he started by inviting all his single friends (with or without permission, haha), and members could then invite their own single friends. You would be surprised that the facebook page was created sometime in March, and within two months it had close to 200 members.

The many activities organised included:

BBQ
Pyjamas Party
Picnic at East Coast Park
Numerous KTV sessions
Sentosa fun
Butter Factory night
Drinking sessions at Winebar
Night cycling

As the number of active members got larger, it was more convenient to hang out in smaller cliques.

They went out for:

Movie sessions
Bukit Timah climb
KTV sessions
Countless buffets
Birthday celebrations
Golf driving practices
Zoo
Gaming and board games
Steamboat at wh's place
Wakeboarding
Cycling at ECP
Just hangin' out

And more recently, a Xmas gathering at Dawn's place! What an awesome way to countdown to Christmas as well as her birthday! Potluck was fantastic and more so were the games and laughter all the way from 6.30pm to 5.30am. We even had a gift exchange via Yankee Swap. Some of the gifts were hilarious hahaaha (handcream, colour pencils, 2 water bottles, Live Forever tea???!). I'm sure all of us had plenty of memorable fun.

Quite amazing how the fb group was innocently set up but how matured it has developed. Say, 2 couples have even 'graduated' from it! Haha. Discounting the stigma, it is cool fun to widen your social circle and have this ready group of friends you can jio for activities and such. In fact, many of us are already discussing on a NZ road trip next year... hope it materializes!

> Me and Myself turned 27 on 15 December 2011.

A great way to celebrate the strike of 12 by downing a Flamin' Lamborghini along to Happy Birthday by my friends. Really touched by the party of 8 who came by specially to make my bday a memorable one. :)

_________________________________________

When I checked my recap of 2010, it ended with my personal hope for a rose. Unfortunately it didn't happen in 2011, but I must say the romance chapter for this year is earmarked with colours and highlights. Haha.

And it is always good to measure your resolutions. In the same blog post, my wish for 2011 was, "I want to spend my 2011 the way I want it - adventurous, and a learning journey with flexibility and freedom and making lots of friends along the way, and finding my direction."

Adventurous? Hit - Mt. KK, water rafting.

Learning journey with flexibility and freedom? Hit - progress at work.

Making lots of friends? Big hit - the Club and its activities hahahaha!

Finding my direction? Hmm. Abit ambiguous. I think I had meant drawing out my career path... half tick half miss.

I think 2011 has been a pretty fruitful year, based on the evaluation above. It has been quite exciting, the trips and the friends and the activities. Enriching, at work and social. Part of it was hectic, managing endless amount of work, and balancing family and social at the same time. The hectic schedule was a big part to my obliviousness of how quickly the months have passed by. Gosh!!!

With no projection of major events, I think 2012 will be almost similar to 2011. Work will still be work. The Club will still be hanging out as usual. Here's hoping for 2012:

New Zealand road-trip cum skydiving WOOHOO!!!
Hong Kong with family in June (tentative)
KL for cousin's wedding in Dec
Squeeze in a Bangkok trip somewhere
And a beachy place (Langkawi/Bali/Krabi/Boracay????!)
Smooth-going at work, with fulfilment and enjoyment
Stock prices to go UPPPPPPPP
Minimal public transport breakdown
Good health and wealth, haha
A rose???

Personal goals:

Join acapella society as a CCA
Further studies. Take GMAT? Ha
Maintain Silver standard for IPPT
Be more patient when explaining/communicating
A more chiselled-look on my face -____-

2888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888888 siao liao OTL omgwthbbq kthxbye.

2011-12-25T17:40:00.001+08:00

Time for a recap of 2011.

Was telling my cousin what a strange year this has been. Not in terms of extraordinary events or unexpected happenings, but just a feeling - haven't been too aware of how quickly the weeks and months are ticking past...

Merry Xmas!!

2011-12-24T15:56:00.001+08:00

It is this time of the year that Orchard Road is unusually (ultra) packed with shoppers, party-goers, buskers, couples and families. The streets are romantically decorated with dazzling lights and extravagant accessories, christmas trees each standing higher and brighter than the other.

Have yourself a very Merry Christmas, my friends. You deserve a good celebration :)

Work mask

2011-12-21T00:02:00.002+08:00

“我只有在你面前才可以脱下面具”

Do you put on a work mask?

I'd say, better be comfortable with yourself than coping with contrasting, inner emotion-contradictory selves.

Show your appreciation, please

2011-12-20T00:25:00.000+08:00

When I was a commuter like everyone else I also grumbled whenever the train halts to a stop between stations. God knows when it will start moving so I just cling on to the handstraps and stable my standing posture.

When I finally learnt about the system and its operations I fully understood why trains travel slower during wet weather; why they tend to stop in between stations; why at the platform the trains doors open and close, open and close. Even why the announcements do not come up as often as you want them to.

When I was not doing bus maintenance work I used to question why breakdowns occur, why buses are noisy and dirty, why buses don't arrive on time, why the a/c is freakin blowing hot air?!

When the workshop came under my purview I stopped questioning.

In spate of the recent happenings, it is very disheartening to read about the netizens' extreme negativity and the sensationalization built onto the mishap. These comments are most unkind and un-emphathetic. However, more often than not, they are half truths and are not objective at all.

I believe Singaporeans, at the end of the day, are still understanding and cool. Some understand the need for train speeds to be lowered; some cooperate to queue and board the buses.

Thank you for your patience and understanding because we are all doing our best to resolve this incident. Unfortunately you are not able to see the blood, tears and sweat that go behind the scenes but trust me, every staff is dedicated to make seconds count. When you stare at the urgency in their eyes, and witness the commitment in the body language of the ground staff, I bet you want to stand up and do your part too.

Our lady may not give the most friendly comments; she may not be technically trained - but I have full confidence in her, that her leadership and courage will pull the company to stride through this storm unscathed. And definitely stronger.

___

Today I bought lunch for every of my staff , in recognition of and gratitude towards their hard work and effort. A handful of them came up to me and thanked me personally.

It feels great to be appreciated :)

Today cannot say I'm 26 liao

2011-12-16T01:45:00.002+08:00

Dropping a birthday wish on your friend's wall is a ultra simple 5-second act but I tell you, the receiver's happiness is multiplied by at least 27 times.

I must be really blessed to have received so many of those on facebook, sms and whatsapp. Thanks to everyone for making my day and for those sincere wishes. =)

____

I always thought my birthday is another ordinary day until a bird shit missed me by a metre. Haha.

However in the evening, major, major train incident. Wish that we are able to brace through this together, strong.

The Busker and his Way

2011-12-09T23:36:00.001+08:00

The rain had just stopped near Tampines MRT station. The floor was wet and the sky was dark. Crowds of apathetic commuters walked hastily past this busker seated in his foldable plastic chair, singing into mike and guitar in hand.

I was walking behind the sight-impaired man in his mid 40s when his song caught my attention. I halt to listen. It was 'My Way' by Frank Sinatra.

He was in his own little world, strumming the guitar to his own beat and tune, singing arguably just within range. He seemed totally oblivious to the pacy steps of the passer-bys. Unlike other flashy buskers in fanciful outfits and with kickass speakers, this man didn't seem to be performing to attract attention or for people to drop coins. He was disregardful of the external environment; he was just singing to himself.

Even though that during that 2 minutes only one stopped to show his appreciation towards his singing, the performer didn't care much - he made sure he completed every verse and every chorus of the song. Even though he wasn't very much a good singer or guitarist, even though he was not loud or good enough to attract passer-bys to stop to watch, he made sure he ended the song on the strum of the last note. With respected professionalism and dignity he entertained his audience.

___

And now, the end is near;
And so I face the final curtain.
My friend, I'll say it clear,
I'll state my case, of which I'm certain.

I've lived a life that's full.
I've traveled each and ev'ry highway;
But more, much more than this,
I did it my way.

Regrets, I've had a few;
But then again, too few to mention.
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption.

I planned each charted course;
Each careful step along the byway,
But more, much more than this,
I did it my way.

Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew.
But through it all, when there was doubt,
I ate it up and spit it out.
I faced it all and I stood tall;
And did it my way.

I've loved, I've laughed and cried.
I've had my fill; my share of losing.
And now, as tears subside,
I find it all so amusing.

To think I did all that;
And may I say - not in a shy way,
"No, oh no not me,
I did it my way".

For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught.
To say the things he truly feels;
And not the words of one who kneels.
The record shows I took the blows -
And did it my way!

断掌

2011-11-30T23:13:00.001+08:00

Heard of what having a 断掌 represents?

As explained in http://www.360doc.com/content/09/1205/12/245131_10414136.shtml,

(extracted a portion below)

SO FREAKING, UNBELIEVABLY TRUE for someone we know.

Always the first. First asian to sit in the position. First female to be in that rank. Always the first asian female to sit at the edge of the table with the highest backrest.

Now, I always thought palm lines could tell a story...

2011-11-27T15:25:00.001+08:00

So true.

We're going HongKong next June.

Don't say I no share! Tiger Airways only $247 per pax!

那些年

2011-11-26T00:44:00.001+08:00

Took awhile for me to finally catch this heartwarming movie that all my friends have been recommending.

It was very touching, very pure and innocent puppy love. I think My Girl slightly topped this movie though.

But the female lead is incredibly sweet and cute!

I also want a 沈佳宜 in my life.

When non-action does more good

2011-11-24T22:32:00.001+08:00

You know the old saying that if you only talk or daydream about something ,yet don't take the first step to doing, you will not achieve?

Well, here's an exception of non-action actually doing more good. My friend had all along wanted to open a trading account to buy stocks and invest... he kept saying it for almost a year?

However, procrastination took over but it proved to be the winning solution - he isn't a victim of the global financial crunch. Good for him haha.

And I came to realise that my losses, albeit paper loss, are substantial enough to get me to Emirates Stadium or Yankee Stadium already.

*Sigh*

Ok, it will only pick up.

Eyes that see right through (and inside) you

2011-11-23T00:08:00.001+08:00

Apart from the course on dining etiquette, we also attended one on "Leading with Actions" that was held over 2 days.

The content brought us along many realistic everyday examples at work and we were guided on how to apply the skills effectively - for example on giving feedback (positive and negative), how to influence ppl (using Cartesian logic, how interesting), how to engage your staff (one-on-ones) and coach them, and how to read someone's DISC profile in 30 secs (gesture, rate of speech and facial expressions). They were really simple tools that we all already know but are not conscious or diligent enough to apply them at work. Oh, the most interesting one that can be applied on anyone everyone had to be how to discover someone's intrinsic motivational values. Damn cool. We all did a simple exercise and I discovered I have 3 - freedom, experience and goal achievement. Am surprised with the final one actually. And out of the 3, I value freedom the most. Like a true Saggitarian haha.

Anyway, the trainer was a cool dude who boasts extended global and industrial experience. He has received training in subtle expression, advanced micro training expression etc... and he gives me strange vibes. He gives excellent eye contact and attentiveness when speaking one-to-one, but those eyes... the hard, steady vision on you... are almost Terminator/Predator scan-like. They are almost capable of reading you, your character, your hidden meanings, your secrets, your background, frighteningly quick. And accurate. You scrinch, he knows your next word is gonna be a 'no'; you look up when trying to recall something, he knows you're looking a visual memory. And you bet, he asks about your personal stuff and jots them down (what?!) - so he remembers. He is also "paid a bomb" to do counselling, coaching, to help organizations fire employees and other psychological stuff.

He talks to frontline staff and gets free hotel upgrades to suites. I am trying to describe him as a walking crystal ball. Whether you are telling the truth. Or not. What type of person you are. He works with people using their motivational values... Or perhaps he is not that intimidating - it is just a misperception because I know of his accreditations and experience?

Nonetheless, it sure is scary if the other person can read your every action or word. Not that I have secrets I intentionally hide but it's like, you know, you don't mind telling others the colour of your undies but you don't want them staring at it, you get what I mean?

Haha on the other hand, he is like any other ordinary cool dude, he's married (to Audrey) with a kid (Evan, who is 3) (hahaha applying what I learnt!).

Now, I know I wouldn't want to date someone who is psychologically well-trained. My thoughts and opinions belong only to myself, thank you very much. Even if you read me like a book, I prefer you keep them to yourself.

P/S: He was a really effective and unique trainer and I enjoyed the course.

Random pics - of old school

2011-11-21T16:01:00.001+08:00

Had 328 Katong Laksa for lunch. I think my last time there was 8 years ago!

The busy, narrow roads and the laksa reminded me of my teenage years, of which most was spent at Bedok area. My pals and I would take bus 10 or 14 down and stop at Katong area for meals, or the old-school Katong Shopping Complex for Teo Heng! =)

Omgosh, Teo Heng back then was real OLD SCHOOL. Prehistoric as compared to the smart finger-swiping touchscreen console now, back then it really depended very much on manual work. You would choose your songs from the lists filed inside a clear folder. You key in the song serial number and WAIT FOR IT. Backend in his control room, the shopkeeper would receive your feedback and then LOOK FOR, AND INSERT THE CD!!!

Lol. And you can't really skip the songs as you'd wish because that would only make the shopkeeper busy and confused HAHAHA.

____

I used to have a hobby of collecting sentimental items, for example movie ticket stubs. Only a few months ago I started to realise I have been doing that for totally no reason.

Now I need a good reason to continue keeping this stack of stubs.

I took a quick flip and realised one of my oldest is dated 2001 - Lord of the Rings.

Speaking of baseless collections, I also have a piggybank-full of old bus tickets! Haha those silly childhood tales - guillible and innocent, you'd believe whatever your mates say... Like for e.g. you know the peculiar numbers printed on the bus tickets?

If the 4 numbers at the top-right corner added up to 21, you can make a wish with it. On the other hand if they added up to 13, you can use it to curse someone... -_- oh boy.

Dining Etiquette 101

2011-11-19T17:27:00.001+08:00

Had a very enriching and practical course on etiquette that comprised of a crash course on Contemporary Dining Etiquette (theory + practical)! Our trainer is Ms Agnes Koh from Etiquette & Image International.

Contemporary means European. The American differs slightly and the trainer explained that we ought to follow the contemporary style since we were once under British rule and some things stay. But within contemporary, there are also deviations for e.g. the italian would dip their bread into vinegar.

Not very much an expert at it yet but I think I should remember some basics to contemporary dining. Here's how the dining table set up should look like:

Generally, bread on the left and drinks on the right. You use your cutlery from outside in. The glasses are arranged in a square with the water goblet at 4 o'clock to facilitate your frequent use of it.

Oh yeah, we even got to choose our main course prior. It is a 4-course dinner and you could choose from sirloin steak, cod fillet or chicken breast.

Special room with tables lined up side by side just for the training. Super longggggg set up complete with chandelier and candles it reminds me of castle and royal blood. There are also rules as to who should sit where, for e.g. apparently the guests and their spouses' are seated on opposite ends of the table.

Ha, so the gentlemen are expected to always offer their help to the ladies - when they move in and out of their chairs, check if they're comfortable etc.

You always enter the chair from the left and exit from the right.

And here comes the food!

Bread is always served first. You pick the bread from the basket with your fingers. Pinch only bite-sized pieces and apply butter onto it with the butter knife. Munch.

1st course: Appetizer

Ok, so we're not supposed to eat anything from inside the head and tail, just the body. It was my first time trying to de-shell a prawn using a fork and knife and it turned out to be super easy and not clumsy at all.

(Oh, and I played cheat, I ate the meat inside the head and the tail =P)

2nd course: Soup

This is lobster bisque btw. For soup, most of you should know that your spoon should scoop from the inside and outwards. There is a historical origination to it and it's too lengthy to share here, but it's actually quite sensible and we bought it (assuming it's true haha).

3rd course: Sirloin steak

Not too many guidelines to this but the general - always cut and eat bite-sized portions so you won't be caught in an awkward situation of talking with your mouth filled.

4th course: Dessert (Tiramisu)

Hold your fork like a pencil and slice the dessert using the longer edge.

We finished dinner with coffee and tea and Agnes advised it's always polite to say yes when they offer you any. Feel free to add creamer or sugar (brown is recommended, for original taste) and stir with your teaspoon using a figure of 8 method. Atas as it may sound/look but we later discovered it is actually not effective. Haha. I think the kopitiam clink!clink!clink! method is the best. CHEAPER BETTER FASTER, lol!

Some other pointers to note:

- no sharing of food with one another :( (we played cheat, but well, just to try the other main course)

- you only wipe your mouth by dabbing your left and right corners with your napkin. with your right hand

- you clear any misc food/non-food with your napkin. with your left hand.

- your arms should only go onto the table as far up as your wrists

- pass pepper and salt as an entity and always to your right

- you should eat with hand-to-mouth and not head-to-table

And this is the 101 to the art of hosting and dining! Hope you liked my sharing haha. We definitely enjoyed the course very much because of the knowledge and insights gained. The skills are very much practical and worthy to have. We also picked up pointers on how to dress and how to conduct ourselves at a social event. Thumbs up!

Random spotted

2011-11-19T13:56:00.001+08:00

Rooster in my neighbourhood. (What the ???)

I'm thinking real tender, tantalizing steamed chicken hahahaha.

A Monday off

2011-11-14T23:37:00.001+08:00

I decided to take the Monday off because I wanted to extend the weekend plus I needed to clear my leaves before the end of the year.

And it was so wonderful - your Sunday nights don't feel so blue anymore because you know you can skip work the next day! And my phone didn't ring on Monday morning so I had an undisturbed laze in bed. In fact I was already awake at 8 plus but I forced myself to sleep in haha.

Didn't have any plans for this particular off day so I chose to spend it with my parents. We went to Joo Chiat to try this Vietnamese restaurant that my mom recommended.

It's located in a shophouse at the corner. I didn't take many pics of the set-up but I must say the restaurant has a really old-school feel... the tables and chairs, the fans. They had photographs of their food all on a huge piece of wall so you can immediately identify what you want to eat. The menu was in Vietnamese alright but I was very surprised when their staff spoke in Vietnamese-English too! By viet-english I mean, you know, english with a very heavy vietnamese accent? If I had kept my eyes on the menu I would have believed I was in Vietnam. My parents and I placed our orders by pointing at the pictures in the menu, ahha.

Shrimp roll: Tastes exactly like the one we had in Vietnam. The mint leaves, the thin popiah skin, right down to the vermicilli inside.

THEIR COFFEE COMES IN THE AUTHENTIC VIETNAMESE WAY OF BREWING!!! THE FILTER!!!

THEIR RECEIPT IS WRITTEN IN VIET!!!!!

Their pho was brilliant too - clear and flavourful with a right tinge of sweetness. For $5 the serving came bigger than expectation, plus succulent pieces of beef. And like any Viet dish you'll find your food buried under lots of leaves and vege you can't even name but our pho was slightly localized - less vege haha. And cleaner and greener leaves! =P

I would recommend this place for its authentic feel of Viet and value for money. Definitely coming back again to watch my coffee being made, drip by drip :)

I really miss this place =/

2011-11-12T02:17:00.001+08:00

We were on cloud nine!

Those were our sleeping huts!

An ad come true

2011-11-10T23:50:00.001+08:00

HAHA I didn't know this could happen in real life too!

There wasn't eye contact though :(

shopping for glasses

2011-11-07T23:11:00.000+08:00

I was browsing for glasses last week in a heartland shop and the shoplady, being very service-oriented and friendly, asked for my preferences. She gave my face a quick look and advised that I would need a wider frame because, "你的脸很阔."

-____-
She actually said that using a matter of fact tone.

And like that wasn't depressing enough, she added, with much self-confidence,

" 你来对地方了"

FML.

But it actually would be hyper hilarious if I weren't myself. Haha. Stand-up self-mocking talk.

QOTC

2011-11-07T23:05:00.003+08:00

"It takes a public holiday for me to realize how much family fun I'm missing out on and made me thoroughly regret the decisions that I've made"

How true, I say. How true.

In time, my time

2011-11-07T22:51:00.001+08:00

It was a P-Holiday I had been looking forward to all week cos there was gonna be K-lunch followed by fun in the sun at Sentosa with the OG peeps but 2 pulled out at the eleventh hour, reporting sick. Aww. The weather was BRILLIANT all day - sun was up and shining, clouds were big and fluffy, sky was blue and divine. Too badddddddd. But anyway the day was well spent too - yummy home-made lunch (porridge and fried bee hoon) courtesy of Magic Mom, followed by a lazy afternoon nap totally uncalled for, but equally shioksssss.

Quickly put on a t-shirt and shorts and went to meet Jx at the ever-neighbourhood-friendly Tampines central. Smuggled a Pokka green tea bottle into the cinema for 'In Time'. A decent movie with an interesting plot - how would you live your life if your time was measured in weeks, days and seconds? If he had a century to live, Will Salas (played by J. Timberlake) said, "I wouldn't be looking at the time so much." Well, ya... does that mean you can then enjoy the luxury of living your life at a slower pace? And does that mean you will end up brutally exploiting it, knowing you have too much on your hands?

That goes the same to our youth. We know we have time, we fail to plan, we live day-by-day, and when we finally realise time is ticking down, it's always almost too late. Someone once said, "Live everyday like it is your last." That's awesome. That would be living your days to your fullest but I don't think it's possible la. If everyone believed in that there would be nobody working in the supermarket, selling fish and meat in the market, operating the trains and buses etc. I would prefer "Do one crazy thing everyday". I am not advocating you to commit crime or arson but yeah, do something you wouldn't be doing in your everyday - it could be as simple as greeting the bus uncle in the morning, opening the doors for the person behind you... or something else like going for a run, sending a hello-sms to your old pal... you know. Signing up for language courses, logging into lovebyte, planning a family outing are also great crazy things =D

Jx also asked me what the movie was about. I thought it could be applied to the widening rich-poor divide in our reality. The rich are getting filthy wealthy and have absolutely no idea of how their counterparts are doing at the other end; whilst the poor are struggling to make ends meet and seeking ways to climb up the wealth ladder.
I digressed.

After the movie we did our usual, walking the malls... then filled our stomachs with KFC haha. The only person I enjoy having KFC Buddy Meal with is dear Jx. Basically it is because both of us adore KFC and when we get down to tucking into the juicy tender chicken, we don't need to care less of our unglammity of using our fingers, or how much of skin/fats we are adding into our diet.

I went home $220 less wealthy because I would be collecting a brand new pair of (deceivingly)-smart-and-decent-looking glasses! 30% off the frame and 20% off Crizal lenses leh + my current pair is deteriorating quite badly! Happy with my purchase. Early Xmas present for myself heh. Actually, that's an excuse la. I also spent $150 last week on bespoke working pants! I don't usually splurge so much on myself but ditto glasses, my current pants are losing their shape and fraying abit - NOT NICE!

It's almost mid-November and very soon, the end of the year... It is this time of the year that the solitude will kick in BUT NOT THIS YEAR! Have planned something on Xmas eve and I'm sure it would be an awesome time!

And time to reflect on 2011.... I remember vividly not too long ago I was complaining the first 3 weeks into my permanent posting feel 3 times dreadful than that... and that was in February!?

In time, I say, in time.

The Arsenal I loved

2011-10-30T14:30:00.002+08:00

http://www.101greatgoals.com/videodisplay/chelsea-arsenal-15621190/

Such awesome spirit and first-class display from the Arsenal that I grew to love. Been a forgotten time since I've felt such euphoria from all the goals scored, and the ultimate score-line.

We played like a team, each player was committed in his role and many a time you saw the boys covering one another. Alex Song was at his efficient best; Santos was shaky initially but stepped in with many timely tackles and a goal; Mertersacker's height served great purpose; Gervinho the livewire is proving a great strike partner for RVP, who excels deeper and bringing other players into action; Ramsey is providing some creativity and will do better if he toughens up abit. However, there still remains much improvement for Walcott who should be doing as much impact as he is believed he could bring; Djourou is as attentive as I was during uni lectures.

RVP is still the man. God bless he stays fit.

How you spend your free time

2011-10-22T17:43:00.002+08:00

After my mom got her HTC smart phone, she has been so into Angry Birds, day and night. After venting it at the pigs, she has moved on to the aquarium game, like:

Anyway, on one of the nights I asked her, "Mom, are you sure you're gonna spend the rest of your time like this?"

She answered, "Then? You expect me to, what, take lessons? At this age?"

Haha, ya hor. How would you be spending your nights when you are in your late fifties?

Then, it hit me.

I realised.... I am already spending my nights like how my parents are! Relaxing, playing computer games, online, slacking...

Have you seen this saying that successful people are determined by how their free time is used?

It's apparent that I am not gonna be one...

I really admire my peers who can still fork out the energy to attend night classes, do assignments and projects.

HK next year....?

2011-10-21T01:24:00.001+08:00

Though we've been to Hong Kong countless times, it gives us beautiful memories everytime we are there =)

The weather, the smell, the language, the food, the familiarity and awesomeness of everything.

Do it while we can =)

天机不可泄漏

2011-10-19T00:01:00.001+08:00

It means thou shalt not divulge heaven's secrets.

I don't know if what I'd be sharing is a heaven's secret, but just felt like penning it down so 10 years down the road when I track back at this post I will know whether it had come true or not. Haha.

Couple of weeks ago I had this dream that I was playing 笔仙.

The first question I asked was, "how many girlfriends would I have?"

The answer that was returned - 3.

I then posed the next question, "how many years would I be in my current job?"

5.

Still in the dream, thereafter, something happened and I didn't 'send' the spirit off as I should have ceremoniously done so. Shortly, I woke up and felt really spooked. It felt like I was enlightened with information I shouldn't have known.

Anyway, significance of the above answers:
- My next gf would be my last
- I would be missing out of the Long Service Award.

If the answers hold any truth, that is.

Annual affair

2011-10-17T23:59:00.004+08:00

It's an annual affair that majority of guys here have to go through - to clear our IPPT window!

For someone who is as lazy and unmotivated like me I lead a sedentary lifestyle (notwithstanding the occasional soccer sessions) and I don't train until it's like 2 months to the closing of my IPPT window, ha. This time round I actually started slightly earlier, in late June, but it was only because I was training up for my Mt. Kinabalu climb.

So I'm glad I made the climb and thereafter I made it a conscientious effort to maintain a reasonable level of fitness so I can clear my IPPT. Am really really ecstatic that I maintained a Silver this year again! It feels damn good to hear your heart working its lungs out (pun unintended), you fervently gasping for every breath, your leg muscles tired from the exertion but you are so proud of your achievement because you had worked hard for it.

Like the morale behind Real Steel - it is not that you cannot do not, but you just don't want to.

That applies every morning too, when your alarm goes off. HAHAHA.

___

D&D 2011 - Winners' Night, at RWS.

Theme: Black & Bling

Massive event that started and ended with a bang! Kudos to the organizing committee for putting in some much commitment and effort into making it a memorable event.

My DIY blingbling specs and off-the-hanger red tie from one of my CO performances!

Random pic

2011-10-16T18:07:00.003+08:00

365 days ago...

2011-10-16T03:13:00.003+08:00

We had a short 3 months stint at Buses.

It was a rather enjoyable one.

Friends were playing Words with Friends like there was no tomorrow.

On a few occasions we also took the earlier shuttle bus out so we can don't mind queueing 45 mins for the awesome yong tau foo at amk market.

We tried our hands at the speed gun. Cool.

Created a poster within 2 hours for the smile campaign. I still think it looks awesome, haha.

(This picture is my copyright and should not be published, distributed or shared in any other means without the written consent of the owner)

The night site visits to the depot were also fruitful and entertaining. Not everytime you could sit in the driver's seat for a posed shot.

And not forgetting the distinct smell of the Training Room that we spent 3 months in.

Sometimes you gotta look back at see how much things have changed.

2011-10-12T23:04:00.000+08:00

Kapo-ed this from Jingxian's blog, found this super apt but true.

Marriage is signing away your right to complain about waiting outside Watson’s.

Please also include Sasa and Guardian.

Magic Mom

2011-10-11T22:07:00.003+08:00

Visited my mom's blog @ http://veronteokitchen.blogspot.com/ and was so stunned she did this by herself: a step by step pictorial guide to making cinnamon raisin roll!

It is...

2011-10-11T22:03:00.000+08:00

2 and a half more weeks to BANGKOK OMGICANTBELIEVEITWOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!

Please please please pray that the flood doesn't affect the airport and the city/town/happening areas!!

After my IPPT this Saturday (which I hope for a Silver!), I am so gonna unleash my appetite for Bangkok wahahahha!!

Tailored shirts!
Caps!
Roadside fried chicken!
Crunchy sweet mango!
200b thai massage!
Sticky mango rice!
Spicy tom yum soup!
Freestyle tees!
Fanciful shorts!
Beef kway teow!

2011-10-11T21:52:00.001+08:00

I still can't quite believe the word just blurted out from my mouth, even though it has been one and a half years since I last spoke of it. The word came out so naturally it was almost like reflex.

R.E.S.P.E.C.T

2011-10-11T00:18:00.001+08:00

Coming to 1.5 months and I think I am doing ok in my new post so far.

It just feels kinda strange (and disrespectful, even) that I am questioning and instructing my subordinates who are old enough to be my father. I even 'tsk' at them and show them an irritated, frustrated grimace. I also slightly raise my tone, sometimes my hands perched on my waist.

I gotta do it for work purposes but everytime when I walk away, I feel kinda guilty. So I constantly remind myself to try to be polite and as respectful as I can. =)

I may be their superior but it is not easy to recognise that I actually rely on them more than they need me.

I guess this is one of the most useful tools I learnt during my intern at Kepp. =)

Why girls should have nothing to do with cars

2011-10-04T23:03:00.003+08:00

When asked to draw a car,

The awesome GUYS came up with this:

The girls churned up:

FML

2011-10-03T23:07:00.000+08:00

Everything is going against me lately.

1) Realised I have differing views with a fren regarding a bottle of wine and we didn't quarrel or had a heated discussion but I'm sure she has now formed a non-mouldable negative impression of me

2) My favourite colleague is shifting to another office :(:(:(

3) Sagna is out for 3 months.

4) Have got this out-of-the-place looking bar added to my Explorer without my knowing and it's irritating the shit outta me.

5) KTV tomorrow got cancelled.

I swear I'm coming back to this place

2011-09-28T00:10:00.001+08:00

2011-09-27T23:51:00.003+08:00

In case you've been wondering it's been a long time since my last update, yes, I don't have anything interesting to share.

Have lately been feeling emotionally detached. You know, it feels like you're in a small boat by yourself, rowing down a stream. You can't see the end but you know you just needa keep rowing. But the turns and bends seem endless... you have no clue where the stream leads you. I think I need fuel for my soul... probably some enrichment, sense of accomplishment, or... a connection.

There ought to be something I can do.

__

对的人 by 戴爱玲

＊愛雖然很美妙
　卻不能為了寂寞　又陷了泥沼

＃愛要耐心等待　仔細尋找　感覺很重要
　寧可空白了手　等候一次　真心的擁抱
　我相信在這個世界上　一定會遇到
　對的人出現　(在眼角)

Best Friends Forever

2011-09-23T00:57:00.002+08:00

To our own condo!

Ms Universe 2011

2011-09-08T23:23:00.002+08:00

Just amuses me how most of the girls fared. My favourite would be: when asked "if you could be an animal, what would you be?", the girl answered..

PLANKTON.

hahaahhahahhahhahahaha.

I mean, the common animals that come into your mind could be u know, an eagle, a deer, a rabbit... but a plankton???! It's not even an animal!

And her reasons are even more hilarious...

Reason 1: So that I don't have to think about anything.

Reason 2: Cos I can be food to a lil' animal.

______

And how to ace an interview:

http://youtu.be/h8r6l41J1ZU

The best answers ever heard and seen. Accompanied by the most composed of body language and beautiful intelligence.

From Miss Malaysia.

Xperia Arc oosh.

2011-09-08T22:35:00.002+08:00

Goodbye odd bulge...

Hello slim and sexy grooves! =D

Once a fan, always a fan.

____

That said, I have been pretty pleased with how the HTC Hero has served me for the past 21 months. Only today I realised I have NEVER sent it for repair/maintenance! Not bad... it is also quite a hardy phone... not only is it coated with Teflon to prevent accidental scratches, it has also withstood a number of heavy drops and still remained switched on!

However the shortfalls are that its processor is lagging already... I am unable to type messages quickly because the buttons tend to hang. Which is kinda irritating? Alternating between different menus/apps can take up to 2-3 seconds. Its internal memory is limited hence I am unable to upgrade it further beyond Android 2.1. Also, I must say HTC camera falls wayyyyyyyyyy behind its competitors. It takes too long to focus and the shutter speed is damn slow - which means the slightest movement of your subject results in a blurry shot. Colours are dull and yellowy. Despite the Hero's shortfalls, it was my first smartphone, and the technological upgrade from a non-smartphone had been pretty much satisfactory.

Have always been a SE fan. From K700i to K750i to K610i to W595, I have always loved everyone of them! I loved their looks, functionality and reliability. In 2009 I decided to switch to newcomer HTC because there wasn't a nice SE smartphone in the market, and just nice the Hero's specs fitted my criteria.

When the SE Xperia Arc was released early this year, it IMMEDIATELY caught my eye! Loved the slim frame, enormous screen and simply the fact that it's SE! It is the first phone that is accompanied with the Sony Bravia functionality, which enhances visuals to their prettiest, most realistic colours. After a loooong wait, my phone contract is finally up and TODAY I MADE THE PURCHASE!

AWESOME.

Newfound respect

2011-09-06T01:02:00.005+08:00

There's this colleague of mine who is in the same Biz Unit as me. It isn't very populated but somehow I haven't had the opportunity to work with him before. Even the emails from him that pop-up in my inbox had me in the c.c. list, which meant the emails were FYI and I merely browsed through them. His English isn't fantastic. He is an Executive in his 50s and dons a pair of specs that fulcrums low on his nose.

Today we had a joint site investigation. He, belonging to the technical dept, was responsible for conducting the investigation and churning up the detailed findings. Armed with a handy torch and a camera, he spent a considerable amount of time in the back of an dim, unventilated vehicle, reaching up and bending low and sneaking his head into nooks and crannys to take pictures of the components. He didn't seem to mind that the bumpcap he grabbed from the bench and put on was soiled; and his fingers dirty from handling and digging at the hoses and crevices. His specs perched precariously from his nose, threatening to fall off anytime; beads of perspiration trickled from his forehead and sideburns. When the third party officers posed questions, the answers that he replied were technically sound.

A newfound respect for him I developed. Not to say that I have looked down on him all the while (which I do not, for the record), my impression of him had been neutral. But after this incident, he has all my due respect for his commitment, attitude and competency.

Being an Engineer of a workshop now, I know how I should command respect from the ground. Especially from people old enough to be my father, experienced enough who have turned more bolts then me clicking the mouse.

1) Walk the ground
2) Technically competent
3) Dirty my hands.

I don't have a problem with the above. It's about putting them into practice. =)

2011-09-04T23:18:00.000+08:00

Sports is my new passion :)

Once upon a time...

2011-09-03T00:19:00.005+08:00

The sky was lovely.

2011-09-01T23:15:00.002+08:00

When something doesn't come for an extended period of time, you start to wonder whether it might come...

Imma back!

2011-08-31T00:43:00.003+08:00

I'm back from completing a milestone in my life story and I'm proud to announce that I made it happen, I did it, and I'm never gonna regret doing this.

My calf muscles have never felt so taut before; my legs have never ached so much I have problems getting up from the toilet bowl - but you know what they tell me?

That I am very much alive. And I am really grateful and thankful for being able-bodied, that allows me to lead a normal, healthy lifestyle.

An unforgettable experience that was made possible with "If not now then when?"

Damn right - if you don't do it whilst young, are you gonna do it when you're old and ur muscles deteriorated and your cartilages loose? We passed by an elderly couple at about 7.5 km and I asked the old man if he was alright. He replied, "No." This poor man was fervently catching his breath while he shuffled his feet cm by cm, inching towards the top. But I knew he wanted to accomplish what he had come here for.

A total of 8 km up and 8 km down that took us 9 hours up and 6 hours down, but a major milestone and a lifetime worth of memories it accompanied. Everyone was elated they made it all the way to the top and enjoyed this experience totally. Thank heavens the weather was gorgeous on both days!

I must say the 2 best inventions I discovered on this trip are:
1) Kampung adidas (local rubber shoes which the best grip you can ever find and at only 10 RM)
2) Walking stick - couldn't have survived w/o it

Climbing Mt. Kinabalu was no mean feat and very physically challenging - however the more difficult part was conquering it together in a group of like-minded 8. So proud of u guys! =D

"Couldn't have survived the climb without all the crap."

I still quite can't believe it's over already. The trip was confirmed in March and the climb took all but 2 days. It was kinda surreal experience. What made me happy was that the Klimbers all didn't regret doing it too and enjoyed the experience. To be frank, I was abit worried they'd find this trip not worth the $700. Steph thanked me for organising :) I'm glad this DIY trip went smoothly without cock ups, from air ticket to hotels to mountaining package to food and lodging. In fact, they are so excited over the excellent food at Kinabalu (esp the 生肉面) I believe they are serious when they say they'd fly back just to taste the top 43 food ahahaha.

Though after the trip, most commented they would not climb again, Feng and I are still quite enthusiastic about it. I would wanna explore Himalayas (heard its awesome)! Doubt I'll wanna climb Mt. Kinabalu again but IF I ever do it again, I wanna do it real leisurely this time - just to relish the breathtaking view and indulge in Mother Nature's creations one more time.

It feels damn good to be alive and healthy.

How Klimbers was formed

2011-08-23T00:01:00.006+08:00

It was more than a year ago that we heard from a friend about his climb to Mt Kinabalu. We were eager. We asked around for interest. But nothing materialised... but I managed to find out that the best times to climb are June-August.

In February this year I asked the same group again if they were still interested. What I received were lukewarm responses... I opened up the invitation to another group of frens - cooler. Then I told myself, if I ain't gonna take the initiative to plan and organise, nobody will - and I would NEVER be scaling Mt Kinabalu, and striking off a box off my 'Things to do in my lifetime' checklist.

Therefore, I started the research... I googled for airline tickets, emailed Kinabalu Park, searched for hotels in the city, asked for quotation, worked out a budget, checked against the calendar, consolidated particulars, made overseas calls to the Park, conducted telegraphic transfer etc etc. It was kinda tedious work... but eventually it worked out and very soon we had 8 of us - Klimbers.

3 days later this time I'd be finding myself at the foot of the mountain, anxious and apprehensive. I'm kinda worried I'd be under-equipped for the climb. Have heard much feedback to ensure adequate protection against the chilly wind and the torrentious rain. I'm flying in less than 48 hours time' and I have yet to pack! *frantic* Camera! Charger! Poncho! Toiletries in <100ml! First aid bag! Waterproofing! Extra undies! Thick socks!

I'm so glad I took the initiative to make this trip happen. I did train abit over the past couple of months and I sure hope the effort will pay off and bring me all the way up to Low's Peak @ 4,101 metres.

The breathtaking view would be more than worth living the lifetime. =]

2011-08-18T18:39:00.003+08:00

I kiwied my shoes, inflated my bicycle wheels. I lubricated the moving parts and gears.

All while the sun was still up.

Please let me tio tonight $3M TOTO ahhahaha. I promise to donate half to charity!

It's more fun than it seems =D

2011-08-17T00:46:00.003+08:00

Never knew I could be hitting the balls 80-90m far on my first attempt at this sport :)

Gian to hit 200 more already! haha.

Not your average Monday

2011-08-15T22:38:00.005+08:00

1) Lost in JB and found ourselves right at the Malaysian customs again. Had to exit Malaysia, go one big round and re-enter. Haha.

2) Stopped to ask for directions for lunch and was told "前面红绿灯大树，转左果条面 (in front traffic light big tree, turn left got kway tiao noodles)"

And LMAO - The name of the stall turned out to be....

...

And it really is situated under ONE BIG TREEEEE I ain't bluffing! So cute hahahaha!

3) Dinner with family at Dian Xiao Er. Groupon deal - $20 for one duck! Their duck (sauce) is wuu-oo-oo-oo-ooo-uuu-ooo-hoo-uu-woo-woo awesome.

sway mak mak!

2011-08-11T23:32:00.007+08:00

Shall we go Penang Ipoh again this December?????

I guess when I did a market check with my family just now, the following images must have flashed through their minds:

And it's 4 YES-es!!!

Can't wait already!!!!

New blogskin

2011-08-10T00:29:00.000+08:00

Yellow shines with optimism, enlightenment, and happiness. Shades of golden yellow carry the promise of a positive future. Yellow will advance from surrounding colors and instill optimism and energy, as well as spark creative thoughts.

How the color yellow affects us mentally and physically
* Mentally stimulating
* Stimulates the nervous system
* Activates memory
* Encourages communication

Source: www.squidoo.com

TH1001B Rev1

2011-08-08T22:34:00.008+08:00

Quick revision!

- Sa-watdii krap (hello, good morning, etc)
- kun chuu a-rai krap (what is your name?)
- mai ghin kao/ghin kao mai (have not eaten/have you eaten?)
- kor tot krap (excuse me)

- sway mak mak (beautiful)

- khop khun krap (thank you)
- liao saai (turn left); liao kwaa (turn right)
- koon kruu (cher)

Awesome food at Chinatown, BKK:

__

I would prefer to go Turkey anytime la -_-

Melaka gang

2011-08-08T01:38:00.000+08:00

2011-08-05T00:56:00.003+08:00

Back in 2008 when I made that decision not to take up S's and K's offer, it was for the work-life balance.

OT-tomotive reiterated

2011-08-03T01:18:00.002+08:00

2011-07-31T19:47:00.000+08:00

How my mom watches her drama while she prepares dinner

2011-07-31T19:29:00.000+08:00

I'm gonna feel desolated...

2011-07-29T00:00:00.002+08:00

2011-07-26T00:05:00.005+08:00

It ain't easy to find somebody who also knows the silly things that you recall, that nobody else ard you seem to know:

- Tronky
- Cabbage patch kids
- fai di fai di
- Jenny 娃娃
- nostalgia
- 拔萝卜
- the craving for Assam laksa

Awesome!

Melakan Makan

2011-07-25T00:22:00.002+08:00

OMG

Satay Celup

Assam Laksa

Durian Chendol

AWESOME MORESOME TO DIE FOR TTM!!!

Sa-watdii krap~!

2011-07-22T00:04:00.003+08:00

Haha! How apt a picture at BKK A&W?

It took only 24 hours to spot a super cheap budget flight deal, gather a bunch of fun-loving friends, and get all tickets booked.

$131.

Simply awesome.

I'm learning one new Thai word/phrase a week.

- Sa-watdii krap
- kun chuu a-rai krap
- mai ghin kao/ghin kao mai
- kor tot krap

I WANNA TAILOR MORE SHIRTSSSSSSSSSSSSSS HAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!

Building mY Damage

2011-07-21T00:52:00.005+08:00

Just about reflects what ppl are feeling...

Time to lay the chess board and count your pieces.

I'm sure we ain't the only ones.

___

And everyday at work I'm Building mY Damage.

Ruan more time

2011-07-19T23:54:00.004+08:00

I watched the videos of TMSACO Debut concert 2010.

It reminded me of how I picked up the ruan once more; of how the thin skin on my fingertips screamed in protest of the burn against the strings; how I had blamed the stubborn inflexibility of my right wrist.

But as the video played, I found my fingers tapping on my armrest... My right wrist itched abit - To want to strum the last few 小节 so loud so hard so passionate.

Musical Epoch IV?
Haha. No way.

5 more weekends!

2011-07-19T00:03:00.003+08:00

AM I READY!??!

- haversack check
- walking stick check
- gloves check
- hiking shoes... check 1/2!

I think I'm lacking seriously in cardio!

*huff puff huff puff*

__

4 more days!!! =D

Bom Cha Cha

2011-07-16T21:35:00.004+08:00

Sometimes I step out after a long day, look at the dark sky and ask myself if it's worth it?

I'm beginning to take to alcohol! BOM CHA CHA!

______

The wonderous colours of the sky.

Talk

2011-07-13T23:54:00.003+08:00

In future if I get called up to a 'Meet-the-Teacher' session

and my child's teacher reports that my kid is very talkative

I'll give my child a pat on the back

and tell him,

"Keep it up!"

________

Don't be overly cautious - dare to speak up.

6th July

2011-07-07T23:48:00.003+08:00

is always gonna be special day.

My 2nd year anniversary in $MRT. =)

It didn't really occur to me until N informed me about it on fb.

It is also on this date that I received a piece of excellent news from "Employee Communications". Am very very very very very elated. =)

I need to thank EVERYONE in the company for this, especially to my direct-working colleagues and superiors. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!

_______

I needed to serve Sat + Sun guard duty, 2 days in a row! I booked out on Sun morning but however couldn't make it in time to return in the evening! I was so afraid that I jolted up from my nightmare. Haha. Bizarredly I went back to sleep, feeling relieved that I'm working, not serving the NS.

Yeah, perhaps we should always look on the positive side of everything. Haha.

2011-07-04T22:27:00.003+08:00

4th July.

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Youth Day too!

I'm celebrating neither :(

2011-07-04T00:31:00.003+08:00

OK, I also may wanna get a belt to go along with jeans.

=)

The start of another week. I'm starting to be numbed by work. Something doesn't feel in place. Hmmm.

I also said I will kiwi my shoes (since a month ago) and fix up my bicycle bell (which should not take more than 10 mins). Need more me-time. Haha.

Taipei or NZ?

2011-06-27T00:01:00.001+08:00

Awesome weekend.

Had a just enough dosage of sun and fun.

I love my life right now. (till 0700 Monday)

BOH-nus is here!

2011-06-23T23:32:00.000+08:00

My much-awaited bonus is HERE!!!

I think most of us were shocked at the amount. The previous FY was not as fantastic as 2 FYs ago but surprisingly, employees were very fairly compensated. With the Gen-Y trend of job-hopping the frustration of employers here, I think the MOST effective retention methods is still monetary compensation. You can bring up employee engagement, dialogue sessions, family day, building up a sense of belonging, coffee machine in the pantry... they make one comfortable (or less jaded, depending the way you want it) but sorry, monetary compensation is what keeps people going. I feel la.

At least it sort of compensates for the long hours I've put in at work over the past 1 plus year. At least I feel that my efforts are appreciated. But now that the bonus is here.... I can't wait for the next one =P

I did not have any needs or wants but I think here's what I plan to do with the extra ka-ching, albeit it ain't alot la:

Invest in stocks. A couple of lots, maybe.

Top up my unit trusts.

A pair of loafers (Pedro FTW)

2 tailored shirts

1 working pants

Changing to a new phone in September (Ericsson Xperia ARCCCCCCC)

Wow. That brings me back to zero. lol.

Ok, now to find the time to do the above... my weekdays have been hectic, weekends filled with activities. Not that I'm complaining though - I think my life's quite enriching =)

Sentosa on Saturday, tennis on Sunday.

2011-06-21T22:55:00.000+08:00

1) Leadership Qualities
2) Creativity
2) Communication Skills.

Fully composed song.

2011-06-19T22:35:00.000+08:00

外面下的雨
提醒了我爱你
看着那一点一滴
都带着你的消息

望外那天空
吹着刺骨冷风
我闭眼紧握双手
却抓不住一丝温柔

你是否还记得
街角咖啡厅的温热
窗外人群似你乱杂的心情
你我的思绪无焦距肆意飘零

望外那天空
吹着刺骨冷风
我闭眼紧握双手
却抓不住一丝温柔

你是否还记得
街角咖啡厅的温热
窗外人群似你乱杂的心情
你我的思绪无焦距肆意飘零

不在渴望以往的温柔
从此放手让你自由
只恨脑海里的甜蜜憧憬
是废墟是背弃是触景伤情

你是否还记得
街角咖啡厅的温热
窗外人群似你乱杂的心情
你我的思绪无焦距肆意飘零

_____

Ohce ka!

2011-06-19T22:16:00.000+08:00

I was conversing via SMS with my Sec 2 student. She asked whether I had unlimited sms.

I told her yes!

Her sms reply beeped. She asked, "Your parents let you sms so much?"

HAHAHA I find that really amusing.

Awesome weekend!

2011-06-12T23:47:00.004+08:00

Had been dyingggggggggggggg for the weekend since the start of the week. It had kinda been like a mirageeeeeeeeeeeee omg cos I was so tied down with work, I had nooooooooo lifeeeeeeee. And the weekend was gonna be packed with activities; that made me look forward to it even more!

So on Friday night I met my friends for dinner then somehow we found ourselves at Dempsey's! Had beer and wine and a real intriguing discussion.

On Saturday I napped the afternoon away, SHIOKS!!!!!! Then took the KTM to ohmygoodnessme Choa Chu Kang! But the journey didn't matter cos like 取西经 - the end result tastes sweeter when you actually have to plough to achieve it!

STEAMBOAT FTW!!!!

Had loads of fun cooking and eating and chatting and joking with the bunch of Club peeps! As the evening went by people left the table one by one cos were too full to carry on, but on my side were 5 无底洞 still going strong! Wahaha, we even introduced whatever was left in the rice cooker, and double-boiled it in the soup! Added streaks of crab stick meat, pork belly, egg froth and some garnishings - only lacked century egg and 柴鱼 to reach real divinity! The porridge turned out to be heavenly! Real natural sweetness from the 高汤 and every grain of rice tasted lovely and full of motherly love... haha... everyone who came over to try was like "mmmmmmm!" Thumbs up.

My Sunday was a real relaxing one and I felt like I really needed the rest. Spent most of the time slacking at home and caught X-Men with my siblings. Great movie.

And it kinda inspired me to be different.

Keep your lives going, guys!

Why I am underpaid.

2011-06-08T00:06:00.001+08:00

3rd June Friday - left work at 9pm.
6th June Monday - left work at 9pm.
7th June Tuesday - left work at 9.30pm.

BSZG

2011-06-06T23:15:00.005+08:00

Activities:

13 May - Stayover at Ra's
14 May - Butter!
15 May - Cold Stone x 2
17 May - Vesak Day holidayyyy!!
20 May - Seminar at RWS
21-24 May - PHUKETTTTT!!!!
28 May - Sun Down Marathon!
4 Jun - Housewarming
5 Jun - SENTOSAAAA!

And we're back to...

Reality.

I wanna watch Kungfu Pandaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
I wanna watch Fast & Furious 55555555555555555555555555
I wanna watch X-mennnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn

If you lead a very fast-paced stressful life everyday, can you still consider it to be mundane?

Can you say 'FML' if you have no life to begin with?

Nah... just ranting. Sometimes a change would be good... and I look forward to that.

Meanwhile, I look forward to these upcoming events (SHORT TERM GOALS keep you going!):

- 12 Jul: Steamboattttttttt omgwthbbqftw
- 17 Jul: 30 storey climb (training for Mt. K)
- No more??? o_O

I realise that 2 days of weekend rest aren't enough for me... I need an extended rest; during which I can ENTIRELY chuck work aside, my phone doesn't ring with calls from regarding work, I can feel secure not checking my work email. ARHHHHHHH HOW 35 more years to go!

BSZG BSZG BSZG!!!

__

I would like to recommend this song.

Certain songs remind me of certain times, certain people, an exact feel. This brings me back to during the Auto Retreat.

You can't imagine how much fun I had... =)

2011-06-06T00:02:00.001+08:00

It rained. The sand was damp. But our spirits were not.

It turned out to be a blessing in disguise - the rain cleared up; we had a huge lot of the beach to ourselves and the sand was not burning hot. Which meant we spent an awesome amount of time playing volleyball, soccer and frisbee!

Some were really generous and brought along food like beehoon, sausages (with cheese, please omg), chicken wings; an inflatable float to relac on, picnic mats and even an ice cooler!

Though I couldn't sunbathe, my abs are aching now from all the laughing! Haha!

Love you peeps!

Looking forward to the next gathering already! :D

2011-06-01T23:26:00.002+08:00

Do your troubles and worries fade away under the dizzling lights and deafening music?

Wanna drown them with booze and yooze. Even if it's for a night.

Mambo Night anyone?

2011-05-31T01:50:00.002+08:00

You make my world spinnin'.

Sundown Marathon - 10km down

2011-05-30T00:10:00.002+08:00

HURRAY!!!

Finished 10km in a time of 1:17:37, but must take into consideration I was like 5-10mins behind the starting pack when the timer started!

Quite happy when I finally dashed through the finishing line cos the last time I ran 10km was back in 2004. My knees felt so sore after that, but it was worth it. I am looking forward to the next 10km already. =D

Anyway, almost wanted to buy 4D today cos:
1) My race tag number = 2137
2) My bag tag number = Q137
3) My finish time = 1:17:37

Like, woahhhhhhhhh...... too much of a coincidence, don't you think??

I saved myself $1...

A year on

2011-05-28T14:40:00.003+08:00

I'm sure the Auto Retreat last year had been a very memorable one to most.

One year on, some have progressed; some have left; while some have joined. However, it now feels different.

It used to feel more like a family.

Phuket

2011-05-26T23:20:00.006+08:00

It was a great trip. Not awesome, but still very great.

A good mix of outdoor activities and thank god the weather was very very kind to us for all the 4 days we were there! =D

At least it felt like a holiday, or a more decent getaway. Patong Beach is a rather touristy place. Almost every street is lined with only 6 different kind of shops:

- massage parlour
- shop selling Chang Beer or Redbull singlets
- seafood restaurant
- tour agency
- convenience store
- pharmacy

Like, seriouslyyyyyyyy! You only have to walk 30 steps to the next convenience store/pharmacy it's unbelievable. Nonetheless, I love Patong Beach because it feels so touristy with all the ang mohs bobbing around; it reminds me of Virginia Beach.

You would see every tour agency recommending similar tour packages to Phi Phi Island, shooting range, or to do ATV/elephant trekking/water rafting. Lucky I did my homework prior and we walked around before finally settling down on a price somewhat reasonable. On one of the trips we discovered that another grp paid almost twice as much as we did, haha.

Look at the awesome number of fish! Quite amazing to be wadding around fishes :D

I paid only $90 for the air ticket and this trip widened my horizons and life experiences, lol.

They range from:
- First time riding ATV
- First time riding an elephant. It feels scarier than it looks.
- First time water rafting. Fun TTM!
- Visited a Thai-girl show. OMGOODNESSME.
- Got food poisoning, fortunately only minor. I couldn't walk more than 10 steps without stooping down to tolerate the sharp volleys of acute tummy ache. In the end I had to curl up in bed for about 1.5 hour and downed some medicine (thanks to the pharmacy that can be found at every street corner)
- Our tour guide was a pretty ah-gua and he/she was super entertaining, haha!
- Took beach-related pictures using a water-proof camera. Btw it is now not working.

Anyway, I would highly recommend Rayaburi hotel. The rooms are clean and spacious and has a rustic feel; the hotel's amenities are great (got Jacuzzi + swimming pool), breakfast is decent and the staff are very friendly! Anyway the Thais are all very friendly! =D

I had my decent share of cheap booze and seafood.

See:

Like seriously, who wouldn't pay 2 Baht more (roughly 8 cents?) for booze!
Haha.

Some other interesting finds:

Arsenal shop!

I walked out empty handed cos too disappointed with them for the past 6 years.

Signboards by the beach:

2011-05-20T00:32:00.001+08:00

The wings speed along the runway. The seats tremble.

Countdown - 30 hours to take off!

2011-05-15T16:56:00.002+08:00

Certain songs remind me of certain someones.

一眼瞬間

2011-05-15T16:56:00.001+08:00

Certain songs remind me of certain someones.

2011-05-15T15:21:00.001+08:00

I look more 富有 now, don't I?

Rock your life

2011-05-11T23:35:00.006+08:00

AH!

I feel more relieved now, that all preparatory efforts paid off. The big day is over and successfully. Phew! Thanks to all those who chipped in to help! Really appreciate the help. One major lesson I learnt from this event is that my Mandarin is really substandard man... I can read well but slowly losing my writing skills due to lack of practice... and my spoken is the worst of all. Guess I need to pick up a Chinese book to brush up brush up. I've wondered whether it's better to:

1) Be good at only one language - English/Chinese.
2) Be Jack of both but master of none.

I think in today's world, one can neither be 1 nor 2. If you can speak like ang moh but Chinese CMI, you'll click well with the other potatos but will face difficulty with the Cheena speaking. On the other hand, if you are mediocre at both languages, you'll probably pass off okay most of the time but have limitations when communicating with foreigners?

Anyway, now with today gone by, I can now return to my main portfolio and settle all the red flags in my email inbox. Have soooo much things to follow up on. Yes I enjoy a not-so-deskbound job but sometimes I appreciate the days when I have the entire day to sit in front of my computer to concentrate on working productively. Running a mobile schedule is inefficient and messes up the already loaded checklist in my failing memory.

Am looking forward to the next few weeks of events already! Rocks!

13 May - Stayover at Ra's
14 May - Butter!
15 May - Cold Stone x 2
17 May - Vesak Day holidayyyy!!
20 May - Seminar at RWS
21-24 May - PHUKETTTTT!!!!
28 May - Sun Down Marathon!
4 Jun - Housewarming
5 Jun - SENTOSAAAA!

WOOHOOO!!

The very looooooooong awaited until neck long like giraffe Phuket trip is finally round the corner!! It was booked... last September! Our proposed itinerary includes thai girl show, elephant riding, white water rafting, ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) riding, snorkelling, sipping cold cheap beer along the white sandy beach... OMGOSH LIFE ROCKS.

Short term goals keep life rocking! Rock on, my friends!

_

I was thrown a question today - "What do you think of Singapore's public transport landscape?"

I was... dumbfounded. And amazed that nothing came into my mind, absolutely nothing. Despite being in this industry for almost 2 years, I realised this question really caught me off guard. Good thing was that I wasn't seated in front of an interviewing panel. Anyways, I came to this possible conclusion:

I am still fresh to this industry, what possible comments would I have?

Sorry, that was an excuse. 2 years is a long enough time for you to at least speak something. Complain about the rising fares. Complain about the fruitless wait for the bus or the taxis. The squeeze in the MRT trains. Anything!

But I think I belong to the kind who is most of the time, neutral and happy-go-lucky, even in real life. I seldom have deep intriguing thoughts or emotions or perspectives. Say, even for the recent GE. I didn't vote; but I am actually quite neutral.

I don't think it's actually a good thing in the corporate world. People sitting on the fence are usually the ones who can be physically seen, but not remembered or formed impressions of.

How do I get my thoughts to whirr and stir up more?

2011-05-10T00:47:00.001+08:00

I'm giving up my dear 3 year old Kelly to my mom.

I realised I love Kelly alot. I'll miss her. It has served me so well.

Good thing is that I'll still be able to see it everyday :)

Thanks for everything :)

2011-05-07T22:01:00.000+08:00

Am so busy with work recently.

Suddenly my portfolio is transforming to that of collating information, putting them into powerpoint slides, editing the data, printing them out, and on the actual day, I'm a slides controller.

Blurred. I am at a loss as to why I'm spending my hours at work doing such things.

I am moving office to god-damn Woodlands Depot soon. Like next week. Poor soul me.

I am so occupied and bothered by work that I realise that maybe it's a good thing that after a loooong day of work, I do not have to check my phone and report how my day went; nor do I have to remember to ask how her day was. I just trot towards the cinema/beer place and Cheers, friends for life.

I'm dreaming about....

2011-04-28T23:15:00.001+08:00

You got me addicted.

Heart BKK

2011-04-27T23:10:00.004+08:00

I was reading Jingxy's blog post on her short trip to BKK.

It made me miss BKK more!

Like...

Power Authentic Tom Yum soup...

Cute trademark pink taxis....

A&W Root beer float!

Cheap and good quality tailored shirts...

Zipping through the incessantly-jammed streets on a tuk-tuk...

Hustle and bustle of Chinatown.

I need to go back!!!!!