天使の言葉

Changes.... Disappointment...

2011-09-29T19:49:00.001+08:00

Feeling really shitty right now.... Boss just announced some new changes in the staff assignments... Sigh... Again felt what it really meant by being a '2nd degree citizen'... It really makes me wonder why I joined here in the first place... I guess I was really too naive... To think that I could fit in and work on level with them... But boy, was I wrong... It just doesn't work that way. Eventually, they still win... I've expressed my wishes so many times and yet it had been ignored... They still win and get all the advantages... Perhaps, no matter how unwillingly, it might really is the time to move on...

ただいま！

2011-09-11T02:21:00.001+08:00

It's really been a while... My first post using iPhone... Hope that with this app, I'll be back more often!!!

Back Again...

2010-08-10T01:13:00.001+08:00

Wow, been trying so hard to log in! Almost forgot how to.... But well,I guess I will try to come in more often from now on!

Stress...

2010-04-29T11:52:00.002+08:00

It's only been a few days but it has started to take a toil on me... My throat is rough.... sore throat coming... Gastric threatening... Urge to smoke is back.

It has been a long while since I touch the sticks but I seriously need one now...

And my concentration at work is going way downhill....

Arghhhh.... Shit....

Exhausted...

2010-04-26T13:23:00.002+08:00

It's been really a long time since I came here... It's a wonder they have not removed this space yet.

Maybe no one is following this page anymore but it doesn't matter. I need to let it out somewhere...

Feeling really really exhausted. 5 years later, I have to go through the same thing all over again. I have to put up a false strong front but internally, I'm really bleeding big time.

Why must you do that again? Do you think for your own satisfaction and enjoyment we need to bear these? I'm really really tired. But I just can't cry.

I need to get away... RIGHT NOW....

Shoo! Cobwebs Shoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-10-19T10:38:00.002+08:00

I know I know... I've neglected this 2nd home of mine for a while.... Here to shoo the cobwebs away...

Ok, some updates.

I'm finally going to Bali this coming Friday!!!! BUT... Yes, everything comes with a big fat 'but'... I sprained my ankle (the right one this time round) just 2 days ago... I forgot I was wearing platform shoes and I went for a mini sprint from the breadshop back to my office (which is less than 1 min away)... And the unspeakable happened...

I seriously need to learn that I'm a gal and stop being so 'in a rush'... Sigh... And not to forget that I'm not in flats or slippers or sandals or flipflops everytime...

Just 1 consolation is that I can wear flipflop the whole day!!!! Sigh...

Ok Ok.. Time to stop all these illegal acts and back to work...

Sue and Linda, if you are reading this, I MISS U GUYS LOADS!!!!!!! I really need to re-org my time and fix a dinner date with u guys!!!!!!!

A Nice and Quiet Dinner

2009-09-08T22:06:00.002+08:00

It's been a long while since I blogged. Just returned from a nice dinner with James, Irene and of course, not forgetting cute little prince, Issac.

It was a simple home cooked dinner with 3 dishes and a soup. But it had been a long time since I spent a few quiet hours with a friend just hanging out. It had been fun being around little prince.

I hope I get to spend more of such time.... Sue, when are we doing dinner?!!!!

New Exposures...

2009-08-20T19:28:00.002+08:00

It's been a while since I blogged. Been really lazy lately.. Really busy at work but fruitful. I'm doing what I've always wanted to do.

Busy with product, and operations as well...

Really fun!

Currently debating whether to get the IPhone when my contract expires next month.. Sigh....

New Opening!!!

2009-07-21T23:46:00.002+08:00

Finally... I'm starting to settle down amist all the mess... It had been interesting and exciting getting involved in setting up a branch from scratch. Though different nationalities and cultures, we had managed to form a great team to prepare for the opening. It's kinda difficult to imagine that we were complete strangers just 3 weeks ago. I really love it! Though tough but rewarding and satisfying. Now, I'm hearing japanese more than chinese! Hee...

Finally, a day off tomorrow but Jap class at night. Hmm... Term test is coming... I wonder how I'll cope.... Yawn....

A New Begining Approaches...

2009-06-28T21:29:00.002+08:00

It's been a while since I blogged... Had been lazy lately... Visited Japan's Tohoku area on a family trip and just returned from Cameron Highlands Malaysia. Enjoying the last bit of my 1 month break. Work starts on Wednesday... Had to drag myself out of the house for a hair trim.. Sigh... Wonder how my work schedule will be...

Depressed Again...

2009-05-20T13:35:00.002+08:00

I have no idea what triggered it but I just hate this feeling... I'm like begining to feel depressed for no reason again. It just hit me suddenly... And I'm having goosebumps all over... Wave after Wave... Followed by feelings of fear...

Please, not another relapse!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ARGHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anyone Lived in a Pretty How Town

2009-05-14T13:37:00.004+08:00

Have not been blogging in a while.

A lot of things had happened and past. A lot of things had been done and appreciated. But I have not been blogging it in.

Been to the musical '天冷就回来2' twice. Loved it to the last minute. And a lot of emotions touched both times. the below piece was used for the opening, as well as the closing of the play. Loved it so thought that I'll share...

anyone lived in a pretty how town
(with up so floating many bells down)
spring summer autumn winter
he sang his didn’t he danced his did

Women and men (both little and small)
cared for anyone not at all
they sowed their isn’t they reaped their same
sun moon stars rain

children guessed (but only a few
and down they forgot as up they grew
autumn winter spring summer)
that noone loved him more by more

when by now and tree by leaf
she laughed his joy she cried his grief
bird by snow and stir by still
anyone’s any was all to her

someones married their everyones
laughed their cryings and did their dance
(sleep wake hope and then)
they said their nevers they slept their dream

stars rain sun moon
(and only the snow can begin to explain
how children are apt to forget to remember
with up so floating many bells down)

one day anyone died i guess
(and noone stooped to kiss his face)
busy folk buried them side by sidel
ittle by little and was by was

all by all and deep by deep
and more by more they dream their sleep
noone and anyone earth by april
wish by spirit and if by yes.

Women and men (both dong and ding)
summer autumn winter spring
reaped their sowing and went their came
sun moon stars rain
E. E Cummings

或人住在一个很那个的镇上
康明思作余光中译

“或人” 住在一个很那个的镇上
(有这么升起许多的钟啊下降)
春天啊夏天啊秋天啊冬天
他唱他的不曾他舞他的曾经

女子和男子 (也有的少，也有的小)
一点儿也不为 “或人” 烦恼
他们播种他们的不是收成他们本身
太阳啊月亮啊星子啊雨水

孩子们猜到 (只有几个小孩
而且忘了下去当他们长了上来
秋天啊冬天啊春天啊夏天)
“没有人” 爱 “或人” 愈爱愈深

当时由现在，树由树叶
她笑他的欢愉，她哭他的悲戚
鸟由雪，动摇由静止
“或人” 的一切是她的一切

“有人” 和他们 “每一人” 做夫妇
笑他们的哭，跳他们的跳舞
(睡去啊醒来啊希望啊然后) 他们
说他们的永不，睡他们的梦

星子啊雨水啊太阳啊月亮
(只有雪能够开始说清楚
怎么孩子们老是会忘记记住
有这么升起许多的钟啊下降)
有一天 “或人” 死了，我想
(“没有人” 弯腰去吻他的脸庞)
好事的人葬他们，头靠着头
渐渐靠渐渐曾经靠曾经
一切靠一切，深邃靠深邃
愈来靠愈来，他们梦他们的酣睡
“没有人” 靠 “或人”，泥土靠四月
愿望靠幽灵，如果靠肯定

女子和男子 (又当又叮)
夏天啊秋天啊冬天啊春天
收成他们的播种，去他们的来
太阳啊月亮啊星星啊雨水

(taken from http://www.iftherereseasons.com/blog/anyone-lived-in-a-pretty-how-town/)

Enjoy.....

Finally...

2009-04-17T11:01:00.001+08:00

Finally, after months and perhaps a year of talking, I had secured my most wanted wish. To get a new job and leave the current company. And after much grumbling from the close ones to get a new job, ditch the current one and get a life, I am finally doing it. After much correspondence, I had secured a new job with a Japanese Travel agency. I will be tendering next week, and hopefully get the whole of June off and go on the family trip before I start work.

I seriously hope that I will not suffer too much after tendering.... Sigh....

A Tribute to an Angel Voice... Lost Forever...

2009-04-09T17:50:00.004+08:00

Came across the news a few days back while reading one of the DJ's blog. We lost another young singer to cancer. I was shocked by the news and though I misread the post initially.

阿桑，永别了。。。

Updates.. On the 'Horrors' of my life.

2009-03-23T15:03:00.002+08:00

Well, maybe not that horrible lah...

I finally went for the 1st blind date in my life. And it was done to applease one of my colleagues at work.

Since last year, my colleague had try to matchmake me with this hotelier from Bali. And everytime I had tried to 'escape' out of the arrangement. Not because I think the other party is a freak (not that I've met him during that time) but because this kinda situation makes me feel so awkward. And I hate to be in this kinda situation.

And finally, I could escape no more. Imagine my horror when my colleague told me that we are supposed to meet them for dinner after meeting last Wednesday. I thought I had managed to get away with it when our meeting ended at 9-ish. But to my dismay, my collegaue still dragged me to Orchard (where they're staying) after that. And so we met for the first time. The formal dinner was fixed to be on the following Friday.

And imagine my shock when I go back into office from TP on Friday (I went there again to drop off some documents for my bossie) and everyone was anticipating our meeting that night (they didn't know that we met on Wednesday already). I thought it was just going to be between me and 2 other colleagues! Apparently, there was also gonna be a short meeting that night and in order for me to be in time for the dinner and to save the rest from late night, this 'blind date' was made public. Without my knowledge before hand. Nice...

And throughout the meeting, everyone was 'very co-operative' in keeping the meeting from toes to toes so that we can finish in the shortest time possible. And with the 'well-wishes', we left the office just half an hour after the meeting started. That was really speedy!

Luckily 'Ah Pa' (one of my ex-colleague who took care of us girls at the counter like a father) and the other collleague whom I'm very close with came along and I had them seated on both my sides. Ha... And 'Ah Pa' was kinda excited cos he says it feels like meeting his future son-in-law!

We exchanged name cards but didn't really talk as we were seated opposite each other on a bigh round table.

And when I came into office this morning, all eyes were on me. I think I don't really need to mention how concern they are about it.

What awkwardness....

Thank You Teacher...

2009-03-16T20:18:00.008+08:00

I went back to TP again tiday for a pre trip briefing with the group going to Beijing. And yet again, it warms my heart to be back on the familiar gounds and to be with Kubo Sensei. And once again, I am touched. By the endless love and care a teacher could ever give.

I still remember the times Sue, Liz and myself would go for Japanese class together, and during break times, we will sometimes gossip and sometimes squabble over little things and batters over stupid topics. And Kubo Sensei would always watch in amusement. And he would smile at our squabbles. Today, after collecting the balance amount for the trip, I was again having a friendly batter with one of my colleague. Again, I found Kubo Sensei, looking at us, just like a father would over his daughters during playtime.

And we went for a drink after the session with all the lecturers. Kubo Sensei then asked me about the exams and I told him that I would most prob take JLPT 2 only next year as I'm not really confident for it this year. He was very encouraging and even ask me to bring my books along when I go for the trip. He volunteered to tutor me during the coach rides and said I need to converse with him during mealtimes and during the trip. I was seriously touched by this. It's been almost 10 years since I graduated and left his care and here he is, concern with my progress in the language. I could feel strongly his passion and his care for his students, now and past.

Although it's not Teacher's Day yet but I still wanna express my gratitude to this teacher of mine.

久保先生，本とに　いろいろ　ありがとう　ございました！私は　日本語を頑張ります！

Major Surprise...

2009-03-13T20:20:00.005+08:00

Definitely not for the faint hearted.

Got a rude shock this morning. Now I know why my Japanese Teacher when I was a Temasek Poly student, Kubo Sensei, was so happy to hear that it is confirmed that I will be following on the trip to Beijing.

I was at TP collecting the balance amount for another of the student trip yesterday when my manager called to ask me to contact Kubo Sensei when I'm done. He needs me to pick up some stuff to bring back to my manager for the Beijing trip.

I am always the one to run any errands for my manager where TP is concern not just cost I stay 3 bus stops but also cos I'm very familar with the place as I was there for 3 years doing my diploma. And it was on one errands 2 years ago with my ex-supervisor that I got back into contact with Kubo Sensei.

Kubo Sensei was my teacher when I took Japanese as an extra module while in TP. He was also one of the teachers who followed on our exchange trip to Japan. He is a very jolly man while a big and loud hearty laugh. He was always excited to see me, just like his eagerness to introduce me to his students now. Especially since he knows that I am still continuing to pursue my interest in Japanese Language. These little things really mean a lot to teachers.

If you had followed my blog, you would have realised that this is not my first trip with Kubo Sensei since I left TP. I lead the group up to Vietnam last September and was sort of the main in-charge for the trip. That made my dear Sensei very happy. And post trip appraisal was good with Sensei telling my manager how happy he was that I was a good leader for the group and how proud he was of me taking such good care of the group. Not just because I was an ex-TPian but also cos I was his student.

Back to the topic.

So I headed down to the tutorial room to meet him. He was having his lessons. As usual, he was happy to see me. And even before I could ask him what he needed me to bring back to office, he asked who will be traveling to Beijing. 'You?' was the next question that follows. And then a hopeful look that he will get the answer he wants. When I told him that I am indeed following, he asked again, 'Confirm?' 'Really?' And when I assured him that I will definitely be going on the trip, he wasted no time to inform his class that I will be following them on the trip and made them greet me. And he also reconfirms my attendance in the up coming briefing session for the trip on Monday. I am really happy to be able to repay my teachers this way. Especially since they are just our optional modules lecturers. Though they are not the ones who teaches us on our main modules of study, they are still our teachers and play a very important part in our life.

This morning I finally know again why he was so happy about me going. My manager dropped the bomb, casually, admist all details that she say I had to be informed about for the dinner with special guest speakers. And just as casually, she informed me that Kubo Sensei wants me to be ONE OF THE GUEST SPEAKERS. It just exploded. I have a phobia of public speaking. And when I'm tour leading, I will never pick up the mic unless I absolutely have to. I always leave the talking to the guide. And now I HAVE TO BE A GUEST SPEAKER?! No Way!!! And Kubo Sensei was sneaky enough to get my manager to talk to me after he got her approval. He knew the chances of my rejecting and backing out of the trip is lower if my manager talk to me... Ha ha ha... This is so Kubo Sensei. Cos the students on this trip are taking 'Global Citizenship'. And Kubo Sensei thinks that I fit the bill as well since I'm out in so many countries. And then I was assured by my manager that it will be a casual dialogue session. And she happily put my name in the information booklet.

And the next thing I knew, now I'm a guest speaker cum tour leader.

I hope I won't disappoint Kubo Sensei or my manager on this trip.

Keeping fingers crossed.

Basic Courtesy...

2009-02-23T14:43:00.004+08:00

I think people nowadays are seriously lacking in basic courtesy. I'm not saying that I'm not one of those but at least some care should be taken in the obvious areas. Especially if you will be caught red-handed for not showing.

If we are genuinely sleeping on the public transport and did not notice the needies for the seat, fine. But in the working world and within friends, please don't try to act like you are transparent or that your colleague / friend is stupid. We might be blur or slow but we are not clueless idiots.

If you wanna snatch my sales, or if you already have the guts to lie and snatch my sales, then please have the balls to tell me. Don't just take the call, tell pax that I'm not around, make the necessary changes for them, then casually 'forgot' to inform me about it. I know you are desperate to fill up the lack of sales while you were enjoying your live in UK for 2 bloody months then come back and hit on my pax. It's just not right. If you have the courtesy to tell me my pax called while I'm away and they had changed their plans and you wanna take over, I would let you. No hard feelings or what-so-ever. I am not that kinda person who guard my sales / pax like a guard dog. But by doing what u did, made me loath u more. And when I confront you, please don't tell me you're trying to think why you did not mention to me. That's crap in my opinion. And you don't blame me for not being friendly with you at the end of the day.

I just don't like you. Period.

As a friend, respect is very important. We are all working adults and thus are busy and time is very precious. To everyone of us. Including you. We always treasure every minute we can spend together. And if anyone of us make an effort to arrange and meet up, please make your effort too. Don't disappoint us again and again. It came to the point where we sometimes don't even bother to include you in while planning. And when I arrange to meet up, I will always try to make it on time. If I will be late, I will inform. That I believe is basic courtesy between friends. And when you advise people to be on time, you should be on time too. We are normally ok with a time grace of maybe 5 minutes? Not half an hour or even up to an hour or more. And though every one of us will tend to be late due to some reason or another, we don't make it a habit. We are not obliged to be waiting for you every single time. This is just not fair. Being buddies means we have to accept and understand every single time you are late on every single of our meeting. This is already taking us for granted. This is not friendship.

I always think friendship is a 2 way traffic. It is more tolerant than a boy-girl relationship but it does have it's limits as well. I would blame myself for not keeping in contact with my friends and buddies and will only blame myself if I lose a friend due to lack of contact. I will not blame the others for not including me into their gathering, outings and meet-ups. Cos in friendship, it still takes 2 hands to clap.

No hard feelings but dear friend, hope u really learn and grow up...

Welcome to the world Rei Loh!!!!

2009-02-18T09:20:00.003+08:00

Had a pleasant surprise this morning! Jer just called to tell me that his wife had given birth to a baby boy last night!

Welcome to the world, little Rei! We are all so so happy that you are here! Enjoy all you can!!!

Back Home....

2009-02-14T10:30:00.001+08:00

I'm back from a good 6 days break. Refreshed but unwilling to start work. Hee...

Bummer... Think someone tempered with my office's pc. I can't access my MSN. Hopefully it's just a glitch and everything will be ok when I retry on Monday. Hmm...

Will update the happenings and photos of my trip gradually....

On to My Journey

2009-02-08T11:10:00.002+08:00

I've cleared the customs and is now in the holding area waiting for my flight. Finally the day of my new adventure arrives. Still having tons of butterflies in my tummy but well, never try ever know.

I'm not sure if I can get any internet access during the 6 days but will try to blog when I see the opportunity. Got a travel journal on hand so I'll at least write in that book and post when I return.

Wish me lunck for a safe, fun and interesting trip!

*Me and myself alone.....*

Finally...

2009-02-05T13:36:00.002+08:00

Yeah! I'm done with my itinerary for my trip! Wow... Didn't think it was going to be so difficult. But now I know. Hee.. Anyway, I hope that I'll be able to follow through the itinerary and visit all the places that I want to. Hopefully, I'll be able to squeeze in more which I couldn't when I'm there.

Now all that's left to do is to reload some new video clips into my psp, pack my luggage and rearrange the selection of songs in my ipod.

I will take plenty of pictures and upload them when I'm back.

So in case I don't get to blog again before I'm gone, have fun and don't miss me so much!!!

Almost...

2009-01-30T18:05:00.002+08:00

This place almost went through an overhaul. Had this impulse to change it's skin and was already browsing through the available ones. Had even narrow down to a few choices. When my explorer experienced an 'error in loading plug in'. The the whole idea was shelved as I had lost my determination to browse through the jungles of skins again.

Hmm.. Wonder when the impulse will come again...

Think I'd better channel that determination to completing my itinerary for my trip. I am only left with 1 week before I fly. Quite ambitious to conquer some places outside the city by their mrt, train and local buses. Kinda nervous though. First time I'm doing this. Alone. But it'll give me some quality time to myself and explore the city according to my interest and pace.

But first, the itinerary has to be completed.

Will let you know when I'm done with it... And IF I'm done with it...

The New Semester Starts...

2009-01-19T12:15:00.002+08:00

Think I forgot to post about the concert.

Well, it was disappointing. In the sense that Pan Mei Chen did not perform as many songs as I expected her to. And to make things worse, most of what she sang was other singers. Zhao Yong Hua did a wonderful session with all of her own songs non stop for 1 full hour. Hmm... Wonder if I'll have a chance to see Pan in concert soon. One which is of her and her alone with her belting all of her own songs. But nevertheless, both of them was fantastic vocally.

Ok, back to the topic. I started my Jap Advance class on Saturday. It was scary. From now own, plenty of self study is required and all the explainations will be in Japanese. Luckily I can understand though not speak. However, the understanding level is only like 75%. Hmm.. I hope that I can really make it through and learn to speak confidently.

Would love to attend the conversation courses but time wise is hard to arrange as it eats into my work time. Hmm... Wonder when can I start with that course...

Anyway, がんばります。

Taiwan Trip in February

2009-01-14T17:47:00.002+08:00

I will most prob be flying alone for this trip. My leave for the original travelling period is still not approved. I had changed my dates to fly there earlier and alone. And I'll be meeting the rest of them only on the 2nd last day.

Although I have to top up quite a bit, I'm kinda looking forward to traveling alone as well. I'm really excited. Scared but excited. I will get to spend some quality time with my Godma, as well as myself.

God-mummy had secured my hotel but I've yet to find out if I'll be in Taipei the whole 5 days or in Hualien for 2. I'm ok with both though I would love to go up to Hualien to see God-mummy's house. But well, at least I'm going.

I guess I'll still be around for NATAS though I won't work that hard anymore...

Hope that my luck will be better when I come back from Taiwan.

Finally! A Concert!!!

2009-01-09T17:47:00.004+08:00

Got to know of this concert last weekend. I will feel so sad if I miss this one. There wasn't really much advertisement for this concert. I will be going for is

My Favourite Hits - PK of the Year

Featuring Pan Mei Chen (潘美辰) and Zhao Yong Hua (赵詠华).

My main aim is to see Pan Mei although I don't mind Zhao Yong Hua's songs. Now I just can't wait for tomorrow to come!

Occupied at Work...

2009-01-02T14:02:00.003+08:00

I've been very preoccupied by the Twilight Saga these few days. So much so that I don't want to go anywhere or do anything but read the 4 books. I'm now at the 4th book. But being at work used to make me restless. Until now...

Ho Ho Ho...

I've found the free online version. Now I can read it both at work and at home!!!! Ha... So pleased with myself.

Will definitely be able to return the books to Hua next week. If she wants to... Ha Ha Ha...

Okie... I'm off to continue reading!!!!!

Edit:
Just when I thought that I've found the perfect solution to my restlessness, I discovered that the online version is incomplete. Paragraphs and pages are missing here and there. BUMMER!!!! Guess I'll just have to wait... And remain restless....

Magic... I Like!!!!!

2008-12-31T10:28:00.002+08:00

I've always been very fascinated by magic. Ever since David Copperfield and the recent Criss Angel. I'm especially taken in by Criss Angel. So charming... Hee... Bag boys always captivates me more...

ANYWAY, my latest love is (not surprisingly) from Taiwan. Liu Chen,刘谦老师. He is (needless to say) charming, and his magic skills are good! I never fail to drop my jaws whenever he performs. Skillful and charming.

Anyway, below is his blog with magic clips. It's in chinese by the way... Enjoy...
http://www.wretch.cc/blog/luchenmagic

A Nice and Quiet Sunday...

2008-12-30T14:05:00.002+08:00

Plans to cycle or learn blading at ECP dropped due to the lack of participants. So Hua and I decided to rot away at the airport. Armed with my novels, psp, the blanket shaw I bought from Korea and my mp3, I met up with Hua at Terminal 3. Made Hua bring all the 4 books to the Twilight Saga and I brought her some chinese novels. Watched the show and can't wait to read the books. I'm glad I watch the movie first instead of reading the book first. The movie will be disappointing if that's the case. Finished the second book in the series yesterday and now I just can't wait for work to be over for me to grab the third book again.

Anyway, back to the reading session. We had lunch at Lerk Thai and then proceeded to Terminal 2's Gloria Jeans at the Arrival hall to start out 'rotting'. It's been a long long while since I last did it. I had almost forgotten how good it feels! We found a sofa seat right We read, gossip about strangers, read, chat a bit, read, get distracted by the people arriving from the flights, the pilots, the stewardess and the stewards then read somemore. Time past easily and I found myself more lost in the book then ever. This has indeed been one of the best Sundays I've had for a long long time!

I hope to have more of these sessions soon!!!!

Another Fight...

2008-12-27T19:13:00.002+08:00

Sigh... It's getting more and more difficult to find someone to understand you as you grow up. In the past, I used to be able to talk to my mum about anything. But recently, I realise that all our fights began with the same topic. My brother's gf. Whenever she came into the picture, we will tend to fight. Any conversation about her between us would definitely end up in a fight. So much so that I really dunno how to talk to her anymore. Even if the converstaion is not negative. This is so depressing. I always get misunderstood. I just can't find anyone to talk to anymore. And when this happens, who can blame me for being displease with her? And I don't even know if I should let my mum know of this discovery. And every time, my tears and anger just seems so unreasonable.

Why is everything just so difficult and complicated?

Am I to close up myself like what I did in secondary school again? Except that this time, I'll just let the depressed feeling engulf me instead of fighting it away?

Great Weekend and Holi...

2008-12-09T09:29:00.001+08:00

Wallet is officially dying due to blood loss. It's only 2nd week of the month and I'm already broke. December's never a good month for me with all the birthdays and festivals. I have a love and hate relationship with this month. This is the month where I can enjoy and celebrate with all my friends but ever year, this is also the month where I hit an all time high with my expenditure.

I've calculated. I've already spent all of my salary.

Anyway, had a great weekend. Met up with Hua, Rac and Min on Sat for dinner and coffee. Then Hua, Rac and myself met up again. We were at Akashi for dinner on Sat and we went to Carousel for High Tea Buffet yesterday. The spread was good. Next up, Christmas dinner.

I got my bluetooth ear piece. I had been eyeing this design for quite a while but apparently it's selling like hot cakes. It has ran out of stock almost island wide. But Hua and Rac managed to get it. Happy...

I've got a lovely chocolate cake from Aman and Kiddo.. It was heavenly...

For birthday and christmas this year, I finally got myself started on some facial skin care products. And it cost me a nuclear bomb! Sigh... I've always had very good complexion which allows me to start the 'maintanance' late but I guess it's time I start.

And this time, I shall preservere...

Compensation? Or It Was Sincerely Meant To For Me?

2008-12-06T09:18:00.002+08:00

I'm going on the RCCL cruise next weekend. For 4 nights.

Everytime my M rejected my request, she will send me out on a trip. As if it's her compensation to me. Sigh... But somethimes, I need my request to be approved more than anything. It doesn't help to just send me out.

I hope she realise that point cos I might not even be around for Natas at all if all plans succeed...

Older Now... But Wiser?

2008-12-02T22:29:00.013+08:00

It's just 27 years into my life. Started this entry at 10.30pm. I know I'll take a long time to complete this. Mainly because I'm in a mess and hopefully can sort things out.

As years past, I'm no longer looking forward to this day. In fact, I fear this day. Not because of aging but the possibility that negative or bad things happening increases. Especially to the people around me. Especially my close ones. The fear gets so strong that it overwhelms me. So much so that I feel suffocated. So strong that I feel my wave of depression threatens to crash onto me again.

I just want to sleep and sleep. But even during sleep, I fear. Cos days passes as we sleep. Nowadays, I can't sleep in silence. I need at least the radio on. In silence, my mind will roam uncontrollably and I will be engulfed by fear again. No amount of assurance will help. Many a time, I tried to free my mind but never once succeed. Maybe I'm just too afraid to lose anyone around me. Especially my family. And buddies. And losing myself when the day comes.

This is a very heavy thought. Especially on this day. But this is one thing that will happen someday. And that's what scares me. I know I will not have the strength to carry on when that day comes. And I hate being unable to prevent it from happening. But it's just the life cycle that we all have to go through. I know this but just can't come to terms with it.

And the work life is not helping. I still have not resolved the problem on my leave for my Taiwan trip. And motivation level is definitely at the lowest now.

Everyone says we get 3 wishes on our birthday. 2 Of which we must announce and 1 of which we must keep a secret.

1) May the leave for my Taiwan trip be approved and for me to go on it.

2) May I find the next good job successfully.

3) ........

'Time to Let Go' from http://stickgal.blogspot.com/

And may all my wishes come true.

Happy Birthday to me...

A Great Saturday...

2008-11-24T13:31:00.002+08:00

I had been so busy and tired that I just can't muster any energy to meet up with anyone. So much so that I think my existence was forgotten. And civilisation had forgotten about me as well.

I received an SMS from Min while I was in Melbourne

Min: Ms Liew Where the hell are you?
Me: Erm... I'm actually in Melbourne at the moment. Will talk to you when back...

And this was like after not hearing from me for months. I was just telling Su that no one remembers me anymore...

So first thing on Friday morning, I sent out 4 SMSes. 1 to ask Min if she wants to go home together, which she find puzzling. Then the next 3 are mass SMSes to Min, Hua and Rac for plans on Saturday.

Sat's meet up only consist of Hua, Rac and myself since Min cannot make it. Despite of telling Hua I need to stand firm on not buying any more books, I lost my stand the moment I stepped into Kino. Hua was the one who wanted to get books since there's a 20% discount for members. She ended up getting only 1 book and me, 4. How nice is that.

We had dinner at Shimbashi Soba, which left us bloated with food. It was barely 8pm when we're done with dinner. We decided to walk the meal off and to look at the christmas lightings at the same time.

We had so much fun cracking jokes and acting like idiots and laughing at one another's sillyness. I've not enjoyed myself so much in a long long time and had forgotten how fun it was to meet up with the gals. So much so that I wished the night never end.

I really missed them loads. I missed the feeling of just getting together with my close friends even if it meant doing nothing at all.

I'm really looking forward to the next outing, which is to celebrate all 3 birthdays.

I just want to spend time with you. Even if it's just for a minute.

4 Nights in Melbourne

2008-11-21T11:40:00.016+08:00

Back from the trip. Almost killed me . Melbourne was nice just that the group was terrible.

I LOVE the weather. I LOVE the fresh air. Basically, it'll be a very nice trip if the group was better. I shall leave out the nasty things that happened.

Day 1

Took the overnight SQ flight to Melbourne and met J at the airport as she is flying off her group to Taiwan. *Envious!!!* But anyway, I don't really mind as I haven't been to Mel before. Met some nasty and demanding parents. What a start.

Day 2

Arrived in Mel at round 10 plus in the morning and head straight to a pizza joint at the QVM before heading for a school visit. Was approached by an extremely cute and charming (not to mention tall!) waiter who happened to be a Singaporean studying in Mel!! Hee.. That brightens up my day. If only I don't look like shit after a night on the plane. We stayed at Amora Riverwalk in Richmond area. My hotel room was gorgeous with a humongous balcony. I had a queen-sized bed all to myself! Not to mention the big plasma TV! Kor came to meet me but not without his wife. It was good having family in a strange and new city!

Day 3
1 full day in Mornington Peninsula! We visited Sherbrooke Forest where we see loads of cockadoos, parakeets, magpies and kookaburras. Went on the Puffing Billy, an old steam train which I fell in love with! The 20 minute ride was definitely not enough! Next was a place which I love! Ashcombe Lavender Farms! A pity though that the lavender flowers are not in season but had a very lovely chicken pie and lavender ice-cream there! Next up is the Winery (where I met the biggest horse and poodle I've ever seen) then followed by Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm. The strawberries were so so so sweet! Sigh.. In heaven...

Pictures at http://www.flickr.com/photos/raewynclover/sets/72157609660878906/

Day 4

Today's a whole day of fun and experience at Philip Island! But before that, we stopped for lunch and a quick tour at Panny's Chocolate Factory! I bought lots of chocolates from here! Hee... Oh and I had the best hot chocolate I've ever tasted! 1st experience stop is at Churchill Island where we were shown an Australian Working farm. We were brought to experience that day to day life of the farm people. Like making butter from milk, making scones, spinning wool into threads, milking the cow, how they make horse shoes, steel tools and stuff from plain metals etc. It was really really fun! Next was the Koala Conservation Park where we learnt about Koalas. We were then brought to the short treetop walk to spot Koalas! They are just so cute!!! Following which was the long waited Penguins! We learnt about the penguins' habits and were even brought on a apecial tour down to the penguins burrows. After dinner, we went down to the beach foa a long cold wait for the penguins to return home. They were so tiny and so clumsy and so cute!

Pictures at http://www.flickr.com/photos/raewynclover/sets/72157609660878906/

Day 5
GREAT OCEAN ROAD!!! But before that, it's Cheese World!!! I like... After lunch was a nice drive along the Great Ocean Road. We only managed to visit the London Bridge and the 12 Apostles. I love the vast ocean to bits! I definitely want to go back and do the whole route again and see everything! Last stop for the day was a 1 and a half hour walk at the Otway Fly treetop walk. It's so much better than the one we have here. It was really exciting! and the 105 steps Sprial Tower (counted by the students when they were going up) really offer a very impressive view of the whole rainforest.

Pictures at http://www.flickr.com/photos/raewynclover/sets/72157609660878906/

Day 6
Early rise this morning for the Melbourne Wholesale Market. We visited the fruits and fish section and it was definitely an eye opener. Quite different from the one in Tokyo though. Next was a school which I almost went to. Burwood Deakin University. Then we did some city sights with a quick photo stop at the St Patrick's Cathedral. Last stop for the trip, Chadstone Shopping Centre for last minute shopping.

We were very lucky to have very nice weather throughout our stay (though cold at times...). I definitely want to go back there again!

Time For Some Updates

2008-11-08T14:50:00.002+08:00

Ok. I knew I had been neglecting this blog for a while. Everytime I start, I get distracted and I ended up not posting.

Fine, here are the updates in my life:

1. Am flying to Melbourne next Friday since I am recovering from the recent tonsilitis (or however u spell it) scare. Not really confident as it an all girls convent school I'm leading (no offence but...) and the teacher's a problem and that there will be no tour guide or facillitator from Aussie to follow me on this trip.

2. Not really happy at work due to loads of reasons and DESPERATELY looking for a new pay check. Yes, in this wonderful start of an economic crisis.

3. I still have not settle the problem of my leave for my Taiwan trip. And thus, contributing to point 2.

4. Finally found a decent website for all the shows and learnt how to convert them into wonderful files for my PSP.

5. Absolutely hooked on the show 'Cashmere Mafia'. Similar to 'Sex and the City' kinda drama series. Watch it if you have the chance. It's really addictive. Now when will Episode 4 be available...

6. Japanese papers in progress. 4 papers in total and I just went for the oral one this morning. It lasted no more than 5 minutes and it had me in a mess. I was so nervous I couldn't find my voice and is practically mewing. And to top it up and add to my nervousness, my teacher was one of the tester. (we had to face a panel of 2 testers). I think I screw up big time.

7. I just realised in shock that my paper on Tuesday is not just comprehension but the whole full written paper with all the grammers and other shit in it. How nice. And nope,I have not started studying yet. It's the finals and the whole year's learnings will be tested. How exciting.

8. I am still not done with the translation work for Faith. Which is long long overdue. Think she might be taking me off the project silently.

9. After realising point 7, I had to scrapped the idea of asking if the girls (Min, Hua and Rac) if they are available to meet up tomorrow. Was planning on meeting them before I fly next friday.

10. I missed the girls and Sue loads. Missed all the outings and girls time. ARGHHHH!!!!!!!

There. My updates for the time in between my previous blog and this.

And to end off the week, another death experienced. One of my regular customers died suddenly of a heart attack. And we only found out a week later. Through an auto email reply. He had been nasty and demanding and irritating and... Oh well, it's all in the past. Hope he's in peace now. Rest in peace Mr Q. And my deepest condolences to his family.

A Piece of Shocking & Saddening News...

2008-10-25T09:00:00.002+08:00

Received this piece of news on Thursday night. But it all didn't really sink in till yesterday. Guess these kinda things really takes time to sink in.

J sms me and told me that God-auntie (in Taiwan) had passed away in the afternoon. I just saw her in Singapore like earlier this year! She was still so bubbly and cheerful and always making us laugh with her 'high class attitude'.

I first met her early last year when we went to Taiwan. Although that was the first time I've seen her, she was fast and ready to accept me as her younger sister's god-daughter. And ever more ready to stuff us with food and delicacies while she only drank the bittergourd soup and smoke. Afterwhich, my god-ma and her brought the whole gang of us for a KTV session. I can still remember how she sings and how we laughed as she performed.

When she was here earlier this year, we even brought her for crabs and seafood.

I'm very sad that I don't have a chance to get to know her better.

亲爱的姚阿姨，谢谢您让我有机会和您相识。和您度过的时间虽短暂却非常得愉快。我真的会好想念您。

姚阿姨，一路好走。。。

Bad Day and A Made Up Mind...

2008-10-15T18:28:00.002+08:00

I just received the approval for my leave for the Taiwan trip. But not the dates I applied for. Now I have only 3 choices. 1 - change the dates and enjoy 3 days alone and pay SGD 250 for the change in dates. 2 - don't go for the trip and forfeit the 300+ SINGAPORE DOLLARS. 3 - find a new pay check and resign the current one. I am swaying more towards the last option. Once I'm back from the long dreaded company cruise trip, I'm be attacking the recruitment advertisments again. I already have one contact in mind already. So I'm going to send out my R once I'm back.

Wish me luck...

A Difficult, Challenging but Fruitful Trip

2008-10-09T09:40:00.002+08:00

Still settling down and trying to get back my energy from the most recent Vietnam trip.

Tour lead a TP group to Vietnam from the Global Citizenship course. It was a group of 45 students and 3 teachers. One of them being my ex-Japanese teacher and he brought me to Japan on an exchange programme when I was still a student with TP.

It was fun mixing around with my juniors but this trip is really stressful. Their schedule was dead tight and practically everyday I was under time stress. To meet the timing of specific arrangements. And it really doesn't help that the kids were falling sick one by one.

The weather was horrid. It was hot even with all the rain. The nights were cooler but not much better.

I had one student being stalked for the full of the 10 minutes walk back to the hotel from Ben Tham night market. It was just lucky for her that A and I decided to go to the market that night. Ended up escorting her back to the hotel and staying around to ensure that all is ok. Didn't get to walk round the market but it's ok. At least everyone's safe. On the next night, the vietnamese Uni students took us to another local night market, Ky Hoa. It was definitely an eye opener.

More adventure on the following night. One of the students felt sick and we have to send her in to International SOS, emergency clinic. I was totally stone out the next day.

By the end of the trip, I was fighting back tears of exhaustion. Now I'm still recovering for all the drama and happenings from my trip.

Hope the trip to Melbourne next month is better.

A Great Movie... And My 100th Post!!!!!!!

2008-09-20T00:41:00.002+08:00

Just watched 'Mama Mia' with Sue. It was great! The scenes were beautiful, the music great and the whole cinema were like singing along! Really enjoyed the show! Will go and get the soundtrack!

Mum and Dad just flew to Vietnam and China for a 9 days tour. I'm missing my mummy already! 9 days!!! Sigh... Anyway, hope they have fun!

Suddenly realised that this is actually my 100th post! Wow!!!!!!

Hope to reach my 1000th soon!

Just Touched Down.

2008-09-18T12:32:00.002+08:00

Just came back yesterday afternoon from a 'look-see' inspection trip with my manager. We went to Vietnam. And I'm heading there for the actual group again on the 29 this month. We left on Sunday night. Ho Chi Min City really changed a lot during these 5 years.

This is the destination of my first tour leading assignment when I first entered this industry 5 years ago. Mixed feelings when I arrived.

Anyway, I lost my sunglasses and my luggage tag. Bummer. Lost my $50 sunglasses but bought a $219 Rayban poloraized one. Arghhh!!!!!!!!!!!

now I'm so freaking broke!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Well Spent Sunday...

2008-09-08T09:07:00.002+08:00

In my opinion lah, I had a great Sunday.

It's been ages since I have the time and leisure to spend some quality time with myself. I used to do that but it's been quite a hectic period for me. So I was really happy about it.

What did I do? I went for 2 movies. In a row.

1st I caught the 10.20am show for 'Wall.E'. At the new Cathay Cineplex next to Downtown East. 1st time there since it opened. Initially, I planned to watch at Tampines. But later decided to go there instead as that is also 1 of the cinemas showing 'Hanadan'. Was a bit undecided about 'Hanadan' initially. But also since I've not been there and seeing how empty the cinema seems from the online booking system, I decided to try there.

It was good in the sense that the cinema was really less than 1/4 full. And since it is newly opened, the cinemas were clean as well. Hee.. Such a leisure. 'Wall.E' is a simple and easy movie to watch. Cute and entertaining as well. A great show to start off Sunday morning.

After 'Wall.E', I finally decided that I wanted to catch 'Hanadan' as well. Part of the reason is that they take $2 off the tickets if you were to pay by UOB cards. So with like 1 hour in between the shows, I took a walk around the building but dissappointed that there were not many shops. I didn't plan on having lunch but sadly, I chanced upon 'New York New York' and in I went. So I had a pumpkin soup, Fish and chips and a White Chocolate Mocca. Sinful. Was only thinking of dinner, really.

But anyway, finished the meal just in time for a quick toilet stop and off I went into the cinema again for the next show.

It was good! Much better than the Taiwan version! No offence but that is where the series originate from anyway.

After the movies, I took a bus to Far East to meet mummy. Agreed to accompany her to the Botanical Garden for a performance. I love spending time with her. But nowadays, I'm so busy that I feel bad leaving her alone for weekends when boy and Dad is also not at home.

After the performance, we met up with boy and his gf and went down to Waraku @ Central as mummy just love the Japanese food there. On the way out, we passed by Tung Lok. I promised to bring her there for her birthday this year. But we have to do an advance one since I will be flying on her birthday. Really reluctant to. This will be the 1st time that I'm not in Singapore for her birthday.

Things just happened in office and I'm terribly, horribly PISSED.

ARGHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sadness...

2008-09-01T17:17:00.003+08:00

Andy Lau is coming. But I'm not going. Cos all the good tickets had been sold out! And in like 3 days?! ARGGHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Eye was swollen the whole of yesterday. So bad that I can't open my right eye. ARGHHH!!!!!!!!!!

Had to stop all the translation jobs. ARGHHHHH!!!!!!!!!! And now I'm so so behind schedule. Sigh...

Sorry Faith.... I will try my very best.

Have to fly to Vietnam to do some rackeying begining of next week. Hope all is ok....

Hope everything will be happier soon....

Gloomy Wednesday

2008-08-27T10:50:00.002+08:00

Zzzzzz... I have a love-hate relationship with this weather.

Love, cos it's comfy.

Hate, cos I am working and can't sleep-in in this weather. Sad.

Initially, I thought of extending my stay in Melbourne to visit Kor and Jie after the trip as taxes is so so expensive if I were to make the trip on my own. Might as well make good use of this opportunity. But as 1 is in Mel and the other Sydney, I need at least 5 days to 1 week extra. However, I was warned that it is the peak season and I will not be allowed more than the weekends as I'm needed in the office. Which means 3 days (I was scheduled to return on a Thursday). And if I was to just vist 1 and not the other, it's not fair. And if Jie was to drive down with the 3 prince and princesses just for the weekend, it doesn't make sense. So final decision, not to extend at all. Sorry Kor and Jie...

Still gloomy over the decision as I wanted so much to see them and spend sometime with them. Sigh... Now the other thing is to inform them a not. Though I most prob will to see if they needed anything. Maybe will just get Kor to meet me. Sigh... Still keeping my fingers crossed for miracles.................

2 More Trips Coming Up.

2008-08-26T18:17:00.003+08:00

I'm scheduled to fly again.

I will be traveling to Ho Chi Min for 6 days at the end of next month and another more or less confirmed one to Melbourne for 7 days in mid November. Both will be tourleading assignments with schools.

Don't mind going to Vietnam again and ok with going to Melbourne as this will be my first trip there. Been to Perth and Sydney but not Melbourne. So I'm ok. Except for 2 things: 1) I'm flying on Mum's BD. 2) No more winter countries (with possibility of snow) for me.

Bummer.

A Gift to Pamper Myself...

2008-08-25T21:30:00.002+08:00

People say diamonds are a girl's best friend. Well, I just took the 1st step to get to know it. As a normal friend. Not best friends yet.

Went to the International Jewellery Show with Min on Sunday. Interesting. I'm neither a fan of pearls, nor gems and stones, nor diamonds. But I love looking at designs. I love fashion shows. And so I went.

Looked around and decided to try some rings (at the persuasion of the sales persons.) I had been wanting to see if I will change my interest and set my eyes on any diamond rings. Ok. I am no lady. Diamond rings only look good on people with long slender fingers. AND IT LOOKED AWKWARD ON ME. Disappointed.

Then I chanced upon this white gold ring at SK. It's not a 'diamond' diamond ring. It's actually is between the guy and gal. the head of the 2 figurines are each with a diamond bit as well. That's much better. And it's going at 50%. So I bought it. And this is it...

Photos of Baby Issac..

2008-08-22T13:20:00.003+08:00

Okie... The photo link is here if you want to see the pictures of the baby (and the process)..

http://gallery.me.com/jazerstudio_00#gallery

Disappointment

2008-08-19T13:16:00.002+08:00

Not so much on the trip but on the decision that follows.

I am denied the Japan trip I was hoping for at the end of this month. Never mind that it was allocated to the Bu*** but the reason why I was denied and the subsequent 'to happen' events.

The reason I was denied was that I had been there before. My M denied my second chance again in October. I kinda expected not to be able to go for the one in Oct as she already told me I will be on course for 2 days. But was kinda sad that she didn't allow me on the upcoming one. and 4 days after he/she return from the Japan trip, My M is sending the Bu*** to another famil trip to Cherating with a part-timer. And My M was thinking of sending the part-timer on the Oct Japan trip.

I have other new perm staff at my counter but she is not sending them. Especially for the famil trip.

I know life is never fair but this is way off. Too visible. Too obvious.

I really need to leave this place.... Soon....

Baby Issac Lee Kai Jie

2008-08-18T16:13:00.003+08:00

Just went to visit my newborn 'God-Nephew'. He's just 4 days old tody. Still very red and sleepy. But can't really tell who he looks like yet. Hee. He's just so cute. But hey, aren't all ladies that way?

I'm waiting for some photos of him. Will post once I get them!

New Addition to the 'Family'

2008-08-15T20:51:00.003+08:00

Received a very happy sms this morning. I've got a new God-nephew! Baby Issac was born early this morning at 7.17am, weighing a good 3.6kg! Can't wait to see the new boy! Will be visiting them on Monday hopefully.

Congrats to the Lee family for the new addition!

Welcome to the world, Dear Issac!

Happenings Update...

2008-08-14T15:22:00.002+08:00

Been a while since I blogged. Busy with NATAS and stuff. And busy with being lazy.. End up playing games the moment I on my laptop. So here goes...

Received a very nice and flattering letter of compliments from the very nasty customer(initially) who was in my recent Hokkaido trip. He attentioned and sent it all the way to the GM of the airline who of course forwarded it out to my GM. Well, it really feels good to be acknowledged appreciated for the service level which I provide. Normally on tour leading, I don't sleep or eat well. I'm more concerned that my pax enjoy and are well taken care of by my guide. Not a lot to customers know that. Most of them thought that we are there to have fun just like them. Never the case for me. I'm normally more stressed out when I tour lead. More so if I have a guide who just can't be bothered.

Now I know I am a 'darling to the whole group'. This is also the first group whom my customers actually emailed me all the pictures they took with me. And the guide. Ha.

Went for F.I.R's concert last Friday. It was good! Managed to let my hair down a bit. Was so worried I will fall asleep but I was so high and belting out all the songs along with Faye in just a matter of minutes after the start of the concert. True that Faye was not in the best condition but well, the atmosphere compensated for it. And of course not forgetting Ian and Real. They were the best. Guess I was more mesmerised by them both. Hee.

Went for my doctor's appointment on Monday. For my nose bleeding problem. Decided to do the same treatment to burn the blood vessels in my nose to try and stop the problem. Did that once a few years ago but apparently, my blood vessels grew back and I decided on the spot to do the same treatment. However, the treatment this time round came with some complication so I'm back in the specialist clinic again the next morning. Doctor gave me another course of medication (which of course I don't take and God knows where is it now..), sent me home and asked me to monitor my condition. How nice. At least I got the day off. But still...

Anyway, Jap class is starting again this Saturday so.. Back to a 6 days week...

Wonder if my trip at the end of the month will materialise...

Bad Mood Day...

2008-07-29T14:07:00.002+08:00

All because of people around me. I had tried to contain my anger but I failed today. Maybe it's cos I'm very lacking in sleep.

Although I feel that they deserve it, I'm feeling guilty as well.

Conscience pricking...

Just Another Thought About My Romance Life...

2008-07-28T13:45:00.003+08:00

For those who knows me well will know what 'adventures' I always experience while I'm overseas. However, everything only happens when I'm out of Singapore. Flirts, flings (non-physical ones, in case you're wondering.) But in Singapore, nothing of the sort.

Is it because we tend to be more 'fun loving' when overseas and conservative in Singapore? Or as per all the fortune telling goes, my romance is all overseas?

After all these years, I can't help but wondering, is my life only all about flings and nothing permanent? If so, won't it be very saddening? (Not that I'm looking to chain myself down but still...)

*Ponder Ponder...*

A Great Trip...

2008-07-25T14:07:00.019+08:00

Yup! I'm back from the ever so wonderful Hokkaido. Had a good trip with everyone of my tour members enjoying it. We (My guide and myself), received plenty of compliments from our tour members.

I was under a lot of stress before I left for the tour. I have problematic passengers and non-mandarin speaking passengers. There was already a complain against me over some stupid matters even before I flew. But I was assured by A** that they have allocated their best guide for me. But still, the stress is present. I'll never know until the whole trip is over. I requested from A** to have the guide fly over and receive me in Tokyo instead of me processing the transit alone. 3 days before my departure, I received the confirmation. I will hand over in Tokyo. My guide is coming.

I was assured again and again that my guide is of top calibre and I have little to worry about. I was told to look out for a young and charming guy at the Narita airport.

Upon arrival, I gathered my group and came out into the arrival hall and searched for my guide. I have never seen him before and A** didn't have an updated photo of him to show me. So I did what I normally would. Scan the whole arrival hall for someone who looks like a guide and fits the description. But it's not easy. Cause the arrival halls are normally full of guides.

Then I sported a not-so-tall guy with the A** placard. But on it is 2 colored logo different from that of my group's. Our's yellow but only a pink and a purple logo is pasted on the placard. Our eyes met and then I realise that he's most prob my guide and him realising that we are the group he's expecting. Without time to introduce ourselves, we rush the group to the domestic check in area and proceeded with the re-check in of the luggages. After we ushered the last of the group to the escalator leading up to the security clearance then did we do a proper intro.

He immediately decided that I shall be known as Wei Wei instead. I let him be lah, since I am also used to that name as it is what I am known as to my cousins and relatives. That was my baby name since young. It is a name that my closed ones know me as.

So I pointed out the problematic couple and the special requests of the group. He immediately whip out his mobile and started making calls. First to settle was 2 vegetarian meals. Next was a request for western style room for one of the passenger. I have a lung cancer patient on hand. And she is rather weak. Her daughter had brought her out on this trip. I only knew about her condition that morning when I met up with them. He really managed to arrange for all that throughout the trip.

By the next day, I had became his '亲爱的'. He's actually a 37 year old Taiwanese who had came to Japan 13 years ago to study and work in Japan. He treated me and of course my passengers very well during the whole trip. By the 3rd day, I have passengers asking me if we're old partners or friends. One of them even asked if we're a real couple! But the truth is that I don't even know he existed before this trip. Guess we look pretty suspiciously close together...

But as per the main common character of all tour guides, he's a sweet and smooth talker. He was constantly addressing me as '亲爱的' throughout the whole trip and introducing me as his '可爱的领队' to everyone, the fellow guides, the people in the shops, the hotel staff, everyone! And he always have his arms around me, be it while waiting for our passengers to come back or even in front of them. He was very gentlemanly, always carrying my stuff and buying me things. He even brought me to have sashimi after we checked in the group into the hotel. Of course I have to drink with him in return. (Not that I mind. I had my favourite brown sugar plum wine. Which he insisted that I have 2.) We had 2 rounds of sashimi and he introduced me to the other guides and tour leaders. He also paid for some of my shopping and whenever he was treated to things like melons and strawberry ice, he never forgets to get another one for me. And at one of the shop where we normally bring passengers to buy the chocolates and biscuits at a discounted price, he refused to let me pay him for the stuff that I took as well. Saying that it's ok course '你是我最爱的'. And he emphasied that he doesn't treat everyone the same way. '我不是对每个人都这么好的哦。' So I guess I can't really blame my passengers for thinking that way.

He was really very caring throughout the whole trip. Mixing around with the passengers and making everyone feel that they're treated equally. He specially bought me fresh sea urchin sashimi, abalone and clam at the Hakodate Morning Market. And he actually notices what I like. He was really very sensitive to details and I guess that's what makes him the Ace guide in the company.

He surprised me by ordering my favourite salmon roe rice with a mini ramen for one of the lunches which is not included. When I came back from the ladies, he said that he had already ordered my lunch for me. He realised that I love the salmon roe rice and he also knows that I love the ramen from that stall. So he ordered both for me. But all in mini size. How sweet. Ha...

We had very good tacit understanding for a first time partnership and everything went surprisingly smooth. We could read each other's mind and guess what was to be expected next even without mentioning it to each other.

He taught me more about the skills of people handling and the things I should take note of while tour leading. He even made me hold the mike and do some simple commentary to the passengers in the coach in supplement to his. It ended up like he takes care of the cultural and sightseeing commentary and I'm incharge of introducing the must try snacks or food in each destination. He even made me sing a duet ('选择') with him at one of the Kaiseiki dinner event during the trip! I had NEVER given a commentary, not to mention sing in front of the group. It's all a first. I almost died. But he was by my side helping me along the whole time. He also taught me more Japanese and giving me a chance to practice it. I really appreciated it. I learnt a lot during this trip with his guidance.

Our partnership was very well received by the group and we had plenty of compliments from them.

I had a great trip and a great 'あなた' for 7 days.

Even though I've never addressed him this way but 'あなた'、いろいろありがとうね。実に楽しんだ。じゃあまた、会いますね！

Out to the Ever so Lovely Land...

2008-07-17T07:19:00.001+08:00

At the airport again. To Hokkaido this time.. Will be back in 7 days time.. Wish me luck and Fun!!!!

Thousand Knives... On My Back...

2008-07-07T18:05:00.002+08:00

I just found out that I was sabotaged. By who, dunno. Why, dunno. How, dunno.

Now I feel so angry.

My 'GREETINGS' to those who sabotage me just cos you're so free. And more 'GREETINGS' if you make my life so bloody difficult.

If you're jealous that I'm so friendly with your colleague and think I shouldn't, then MORE 'GREETINGS' to you.

Anyway, I'll be leaving at the first opportunity I have. And when that time comes, Good Riddance to all of u BI*****, BU***** and not forgetting BA******...

The Peace Before the Storm...

2008-07-02T09:55:00.003+08:00

It's like a dead town over here in office. No calls, no bookings, no enquires...

Scary.. So scary how things is going to change so drastically in a matter of weeks when the preparation for the NATAS Travel Fair will come underway...

Just hope that all will be fine.. And I will be able to avoid the start of it...

Upcoming Trip

2008-07-01T09:47:00.002+08:00

Okay. Miracles (tiny ones) do happen. I'm going to Hokkaido. 2 weekends before the horrendous NATAS Travel Fair. Thought my bossie is not going to release me but well, she did.

But 1 bummer. I'm not gonna see flowers. It's a different itinerary. SAD.... Would have traded anything to see my fields of lavenders and sunflowers but well, at least I dun have to be in office when the whole craze starts. Hopefully. Hopefully they don't wait till I'm back to start.. Keeping fingers crossed...

And looking forward to the trip with my new lavender PSP and plenty of Hotspring baths!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Other World.

2008-06-30T13:29:00.002+08:00

What is it like to belong to the other world? Is it really cold there? Will I still know what is happening here? Would I be able to see just like some say we will? Will I be able to hear? I know they will not be able to hear me but will I still hear them talking to me, talking about me? Amist all the flames that engulfed me, will I hurt? Will I burn? Or will I just see all the procession happen just like watching a movie?

What is it like to be there?

My New Toy...

2008-06-25T13:02:00.001+08:00

Yeah! Finally got a PSP! It's what I've always been thinking of.. But can't decided if I should get it!. 1 Bummer. It's not black in colour.. But thankfully, it's lavender purple so it's still nice. My first purple gadget! And a rather high tech one too!

Mountain turtle evolving.....

A Nice Catch-up Session.

2008-06-24T10:10:00.004+08:00

First thing first. I chomp off my hair. Not really a lot (TO SOME PEOPLE) but quite a bit lah. now I have shoulder length hair. But I feel good. So nice.

Met up with Jess & V last night for dinner. Think it was almost a year before we really met up. I missed Jess wedding and house-warming (feel so bad) and V's house-warming(felt just as bad).

Had dinner at TCC, did some updates, gossiped about our work place and the long forgotten accounting industry (or at least for me). It was nice. It felt good meeting up with friends and catch up. We're those kind where we can just stop contacting for a long time and then still pick up from where we left. No akwardness. This is what I call true friends. And these are the people I really treasure close.

Wonder when the next catch-up session will be...

Marriage? Single? Or Long Term Attachment?

2008-06-19T09:18:00.004+08:00

Was in Friendster surfing for friends' update when I saw A's profile. She's already ROM. With a guy she'd known for less than 1 year. That came as a surprise. SHe has always came across as an independant girl who enjoyed being pursued. All then while I had expected her to be enjoying life first before marriage. Or at least marry someone she's known for a longer period of time but... Well, life's just full of surprise.

On the other hand, V, who's supposed to get married, just can't seems to get into the discussion. She's still sore over the possible loss of her freedom and thus is finding every chance and excuse she can to delay the marriage date. She didn't really want to get married but just can't really bear to refuse the guy. So she chose to keep delaying the dates instead. She sees marriage as just a process but as the guy's in a single parent family and is the only son, he has commitment which he has to make. But she just isn't ready for these commitments and to be tied down.

For myself, I'm not even ready to get attached. Or maybe, I'm just destined to stay single for the rest of my life...

Bad Experience... And A Frustrating One Too..

2008-06-16T21:19:00.003+08:00

Wrote my first complain letter in years. Na... Read it and you'll know:

'Hi,

I would like to provide some feedback with regards to the operations and the services of the nurses and doctors in Clinic H. I more than arrived half an hour earlier for my afternoon appointment at Clinic H this afternoon. The registration procedure was smooth and in less than 15 minutes, I've received my queue number. I waited for less than half an hour before my number was called. I entered Room 2 and had my symptoms diagnose. The doctor then told me that I will need to take a skin allergy and hearing test and asked me to proceed outside to the waiting area. I then asked if I am just to wait at the main waiting area and the nurse would call for me once it's my turn. The doctor confirmed that I will just need to wait outside at the main waiting area. After half an hour's wait, I approached one of the clinic assistant to inform her that I had been waiting for quite a while to get my test done and she half hearted listened to my enquires. I explained for the second time and she just ask me to approach the nurse in charge of Room 5. The nurse was just behind and when I approached her, she just brushed me aside and told me that the nurse from Room 2 will pass my file to her and then she will call for me. She then pointed to the direction of the main waiting area and asked me to wait for my name to be called. After another 2 hours, I receive a call from the nurse from Room 2 asking when I was. I told her that I had been sitting in the main waiting area where the reception was since the time I stepped out of Room 2. The nurse then came to me and with a very unhappy tone, told me that the doctor in charge of the audio test had been calling and calling for me. I was very angry with that comment. She even showed me the times of the calls which they had recorded on my file. And to my annoyance, twice of the call was made before I approached the counter in request for the nurse and clinic assistant to check for my turn. As mentioned earlier, no one bothered to even ask for my name to check and it was also put across as I was at fault for waiting at the wrong area. I was utterly disappointed but the services rendered to me by Clinic H today.

Firstly, there was no clear instruction from the doctor with regards to the correct waiting area for the next consultation. Secondly, the nurses and clinic assistants were disappointingly unhelpful. This had resulted in us patients waiting unnecessarily for even hours in my case. Just for one audio test, I had waited for more than 2 hours for nothing. Thirdly, since there are 2 waiting areas in one clinic, if the patients did not response to the call outside Room 5, shouldn't the nurses or clinic assistants check the main waiting area as well? Is it too much to ask of them to take that few steps to check the other waiting area for the patients in queue? The clinic isn't that huge for the patients in the main waiting are to be so unreachable right?

Another disappointment is that the staffs are efficient in the wrong areas. During payment, even before consulting and asking me about it, the whole bill was apparently being arranged to be paid by my Medisave. I am actually claiming the bill under my company's medical benefit and thus I will be paying by cash instead. I was again delayed at the pharmacy as the pharmacist informed me that under their records, the whole bill is billed to my Medisave. I had to spend MORE time explaining to them that I am NOT paying by my Medisave. I was being treated by doubts on my paying method despite my explanations. It was only till I produced my credit card charge form then were my words being accepted. Though the clinic was not packed, the whole consultation took me almost 4 HOURS. And more than half of it was spent waiting for nothing. It had been the most frustrating experience for me today. I am seriously disappointed and frustrated with CGH. I hope that these will be looked into and I look forward for a favorable explaination and answer to this matter soon.

Thanks and Regards'

There. I've said my piece...

Horrid Day...

2008-06-12T21:18:00.004+08:00

Today is the day where you get blamed for even just simply being alive. You get blamed for everything that happened, you get blamed cos you breathe. Simply cos you're alive.

The morning started with me fighting with my AM. Just over 1 stupid movie screening which I don't see the point of me attending. In the first place, it wasn't even compulsory and we were RSVP-ed in without being asked. I don't watch the movie which they screen but when I knew that my TM also backed out for tonight cos there was not going to be any product brief or explaination. He said if I don't feel like going then don't. And give the chance to others. I also asked if I can be excused when my AM walked in and she started screaming at me. She said we all RSVP-ed and then we backed out. Hello.. Did we voluntarily RSVP? Did we RSVP ourselves? NO NO NO? If we need to meet a certain headcourt to show our support for the event, then why was non of my 'M's around? Not even my new TM who ought to be leading his team for this event? These people are all crap. In my opinion. So I just calmly retorted back that it's just a thought. But that bitch just went on barking. And did my TM stand up for me? Nope. He just hid like an ostrich. And pretended to me busy with his work. Fantastic. So I just again calmly told her to forget it and I will go. But I also made it clear that I will just go and show my face then off I go. She told me to just go ahead and do it. Leave when the movie is starting. How much more brainless can a person get? Ha.. So comical. Wouldn't that be even worse and uglier? But since she gave the go ahead, that's what I did. But even without her go ahead, I'm going to do that as well. Not that her opinion made any difference. So that basically started my foul mood for the day.

Nearing the end of the day, I had a fight with an auntie in my department. And it isn't even my fault. It's just cos I'll the only oldie left in the department and everything just so naturally became my responsibility. Even stuff that was supposed to be of the job of my superviors then and supposed to be passed on to this new TM of mine. But did he assume the responsibility? NO NO NO again. He just bounced the ball back to me. So I just had to take on all the responsibility while he just appears to throw his authority around a little few time daily. After the fight, he just come up to me to try and calm me down and appease my anger. And what freaking use is that? I told him to leave me alone and he just again tries to pacify me. Now I call him the 2 headed serpent. Not even a snake but a serpent. He's just those kind of manager who is just in name. And he does those little things to show that he is a good TM. But hey, grow up! That just don't happen. I hope he realise it soon.

No appetite for dinner at all after all the happenings today. Luckily I still have my strawberry shortcake from Canele yesterday.

The BITCH Is Back In Action...

2008-06-12T13:58:00.003+08:00

And she starts barking this morning. Now my mood sucks now. And it will for the whole day. All because of 1 stupid movie screening. Sigh... Incorrigible... I'm so angry...

Bow wow wow......

A Successful Tea Lauch Party.

2008-06-11T21:48:00.003+08:00

Just returned from Faith's tea launch party. It was held at Canelé Pâtisserie Chocolaterie, Robertson Walk branch. It was really successful. There were media, press, family and friends present at the launch. And once again, Ric was the MC for the launch.

I met Chef Pang, the creator of Canelé Pâtisserie Chocolaterie and the great chef of desserts and pastries. He is a very nice and funny guy. Typical dessert chef in my point of view. Great to have met him. And trust me, his desserts are good!

Met this head waiter in the shop as well. He basically takes care of the event and helped me with the lighting throughout the show. When serving refreshements, he keeps feeding me with all the finger foods as well. I normally don't eat when I'm on duty. I declined the first round. Second round came their signature drink, Honey Lemongrass Drink. He went round and instead of serving all on his tray, he came to me when he reach the last glass on his tray. 'Surely you will need a drink. This is for you.' So I took the drink. Insisting that I eat, 'You worked hard but you must eat too!' was the reply I got when I declined for the second time. He even pointed out the must-try item for me. Haa... Great service, Nice guy. How can I still decline? Then towards the end of the launch, when he was going round with the finger foods again, he came to me again with the platters. 'Now I'm sure you can eat right?' Haa.. So I took another bite. On his second round, he offered me the platter again. 'You're really determined to feed me ya?' I asked him. 'Of course!' was the answer. Haa.. So I took another bite. But their finger foods were really good! But he's just nice maybe because I was his 1st point of contact for today's launch. I was there first and so I went in to ensure that all is according to what Faith ask for. When everything is over and the remaining few of us were just sitting around and giving Faith time to catch her breath, he was also nice enough to inform offer Faith a plate of all the finger foods and pointing out those with dairy products in it after he knows that Faith can't really take them. And he offered to keep refilling my glass of drink. He even keep imsisting that I return to patronise again. Hee... Well, for the sake of good food and good service,I shall! Whose game? It's right next to UE Square!

A Truely 'Bird' Day...

2008-06-09T15:09:00.002+08:00

Visited the infamous Jurong BirdPark with Hua and Min yesterday. Surprisingly, the weather was great! As usually, we had endless laughs, act like idiots, made fools out of ourselves and did some catching up as well. It was great as we hardly have the chance to do so due to our busy schedules nowadays. Totally missed it.

Yes, I went despite my virus infection and diarrhoea. I felt week but didn't think I want to miss hanging out with the girls so I went. Tried to keep my distance from out feathered friends but well, some species just can't resist me.

It was defintely tiring given the state I was in but enjoyable as well. Looking forward to the next outing...

Off Again...

2008-05-23T06:49:00.003+08:00

The last time I posted was from Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 3. That was last Saturday. Now I'm using the same PC again to do this post. I'm flying again. To Hangzhou this time. 2 trips in a week. In Singapore for less than 3 days.

Just keeping fingers crossed that all will be well man! Boss is on this trip as well so I'll really need to step up. Wish me luck!!!

Edit: Apparently my last post did not register!!! Oh well, I was in Hong Kong a few days ago... Just for info sake...

With Faith & Music @ MAAD

2008-05-08T13:44:00.004+08:00

Spent a rather fruitful Sunday last weekend. Made Min come with me as well.

We went for brunch at Maxwell Market before heading over to Red Dot Museum for the MAAD event featuring Faith. She held a mini shopcase and booth for selling her singles. We met up at 2pm to preapre for the first showcase at 3pm. We are in charge of the sales of her singles. We had a pleasant surprise when she told us that Ric, a member of the group Dreamz FM, was coming as her MC for the day. I used to love listening to them when I was in secondary school. Think they disbanded when I was in poly. He was really friendly and I was again pleasantly surprise when he approached me and introduced himself. (Min missed the intro as she went to the ladies when he came). He also brought some of the singles produced and put together by him for the booth (he sang a part of the song as well). The proceeds to the sale of the singles will be donated to the Boy's Town.

There were 2 showcases, one at 3pm and the other at 5. Faith sang 3 songs each. Personally, I feel that the 2nd showcase is better. We had a small chat with Ric in between the showcases. So fun. He is really super duper friendly, just so is Faith. She is also the crazy kinda friend. But seriously, her music is good. So is her voice. And so is Ric's. Min was so fascinated by his voice just by hearing him hum a few notes here and there. Ha..

So happy with the new found musical fren and the meaningful day spent. I could just use a good music event anytime!

Here's our group pic for the day!

Complaints and Compliments....

2008-05-06T16:32:00.003+08:00

Too much of the former. I hate what I'm doing. So what I receive tons of the latter? No one take notes of it. And I'm not the kind who would inform the whole world of the compliments which I've gotten. Not even the emails highlighting my great service.

The world is just unfair. Period. There, I've said my piece.

ARGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I Love The Sea, The Sun and Club Med!!!!

2008-04-26T09:21:00.005+08:00

Okies, I'm back. Not that I want to. But well, I'm back. This entry is ages late again (as usual).

Never realise that it can be so so much fun at Club Med! Things are really never boring at Club Med! This resort adopts the 'all inclusive' concept. All meals are included, drinks are included and activities are included all day long! You have endless activities to choose from the whole day! And me? Of course the sea sports take priority!

The first activity I went for is snorkeling. It's always been an activity which I wanted to do. And here comes the chance. They only allowed a maximum of 20 guests per trip and they only do 2 trips daily. Once in the morning and once in the afternoon. I went for the afternoon trip. After registration and collecting all the items like the snorkeling masks and flippers for the trip, we headed to the pool for a swimming test. They made sure that all the guests know how to swim before we're allowed to head out to the sea. And of course I passed it.

The sea was pretty rough but we went out all the same. We came to this 'deserted' area on the left of the village. It was pretty far out as we are unable to see the village from where we stopped. It was a bit scary as we heard that few jellyfishes were sighted. But I jumped in all the same. It was my first time snorkeling in the open sea. I spent like half an hour with one of the guest officer. (mainly cos for some reasons, the other guests refuse to join us out in the open area and away from the main boat.) He showed me 'Nemos', sighted jellyfishes for me, showed me the wonderful corals and all the special spots of the area.

When it was time to return, I realised that I was the last one back onboard. That was when I got to know that I am the only one who stayed in the waters for so long! Cos out of the 14 guest who went into the waters, 3 already got stung by the jellyfishes the moment they got into the water. So I guess I'm really lucky. Now I'm hooked on snorkeling and can't wait for my next trip to materialise.

Tried kayaking as well but the wave was so strong that we couldn't get out to sea and so we, of course, gave up. No point trying for something so hard if you know you can't beat nature. We had already spent 15minutes trying so no point wasting more time. Cannot means cannot.

Would have gone sailing as well if all the handsomes (the GOs lah) weren't already all fully booked for the afternoon. Hey, you can't expect a greenhorn to go sailing in the great wide sea alone for the first time right? SO, assistance and tutoring is definitely required.

Next was archery. I sucked! Wonder where all my marksmanship skills went. Definitely out of practice. the last time I went into a shooting range or touched any shooting 'apparatus' was like decade ago. So, don't expect too much. We had 2 handsomes guiding the whole lot of us helpless girls here as well. Definitely fun. He commented that he just couldn't bring himself to look where out arrows went. Hmm.. I'll take that as a complement.

Breakfast the next morning was just as exciting. The GOs just approached our table and parked themselves in the empty seats next to us (we had a 6 seater to the 2 of us.) after briefly asking if they could. They don't seemed to care about the answer as they just sat down anyway. We didn't take that 6 seater with that intension. We definitely have no idea that they would do that. IT WASN'T PLOTTED / PLANNED / INTENDED. But being gracious people, we of course welcome them to join in. And my reward for that graciousness? An invitation to Mexico. See, it pays to be nice. Although it's nothing but a verbal 'fling'.

Next trip, maybe Hong Kong. If SQ decides to confirm my flight and if my boss really feels that I'm really required to go...

Greetings From Club Med Bintan...

2008-04-23T18:41:00.002+08:00

I'm now in the wonderful resort of Club Med Bintan. This is an all inclusive resort where drinks, food and activities are all inclusive in the package.

I'm still excited about my new experience earlier this afternoon!!! I went snorkelling!!!! It was so so wonderful! I saw corals and corals and more corals, schools and schools of fishes, and so many of the scary jellyfishes!!!!!

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!! K.. Gotta run!! More when I return!!!!!

Up Coming Trips...

2008-04-17T14:20:00.002+08:00

Ok... My Chatterbox is dead. And I can't access it from work. Have to wait till I get home before I can do anthing about it. Bummer. Sigh.. So hold your thoughts people. (If you have any.) I will try and get it fix tonight. Arghh..

It's been a challenger to try and blog in office recently as I have an intern understudying under me and she's like down my back.. Sigh.. So I gave up trying. This post was suppose to happen last week. But well, here it is...

Following my Batam trip, I will be traveling to some island getaway again. This time is a trip sent by my company. Will be going on a fam trip to Club Med Bintan this week. But it's only for 2 days 1 night. I did not got for the company trip to Bintan last year. I went to Taiwan instead with my traveling khakis. Not that I wanna go for the company trip anyway. Just don't like the idea. Was telling my KKs that we should plan 1 to Bintan soon as I haven't been there yet. And now came this chance for me to go and 'look see look see'.. Hee.. And we're staying in Club Med Bintan. Normally when we travel, Club Med is not a choice as it is really expensive. So this is really a good chance. Not to mention time away from office and not affecting my weekend Jap classes.

After which would be a trip to Hong Kong mid May. A major working trip. My Manager said that it's high time I 'drop by' to see how much it has changed since my last trip. (Which was like when I was study an innocent young P6 gal.) But I doubt this trip will do much help. I'm really lucky if I can really spare time to go venturing around on my own. Sigh. Maybe I'll only have time to enjoy the hotel. But well, we'll see. Anyway, the trip will not be confirmed till the day I fly off anyway. That's how business trips are.

Had a fight with mum this morning. It sucks. And hurts. Really dampened my day. ARGHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Back From Another Break...

2008-04-01T14:55:00.002+08:00

Yup.. Day 2 since I'm back from my well deserved break. Ya ya, I know I'm always taking them but with a job like mine, I really need it...

Went with J, R, J's sister, Sie and O. It was good. And the hotel's Spa is fantastic.. We stayed in Holiday Inn Batam by the way.

The suite rooms were great, the pool is good and basically I really relaxed.

So where's our next trip? *Ponder Ponder...*

A Small Quiz About Me...

2008-03-31T11:14:00.001+08:00

Just did up a mini quiz about myself. the link is below:

http://www.quizyourfriends.com/takequiz.php?quizname=080330231116-697670&

Have Fun!

A Brand New Experience...

2008-03-23T22:06:00.008+08:00

'Curiosity kills the cat' they say. And I'm an ENORMOUS one.

It's been a while since I seriously blog. And this blog I must write.

Just did something which is out of my comfort zone and normal practice.

Woke up at 10 this morning and started getting ready for an appointment which I agreed to last night. I agreed to attend a CHC service and Easter Drama event. An invitation from non other but my 'Bro', J.

I think I mentioned in one of my previous blog that I embrace all religion. I even attended a christian kindergarten when I was young, say the daily morning prayer at the beginning of every school day, sang kiddy christian songs like 'Jesus Loves Me Yes I Know' (and it's still my favourite.) amidst all the rhymes. I was learning Speech and Drama under a dear Sister, Sister Josephine, for years after that and recite prayers on a weekly basis.

However, I just don't like CH. They came across as very materialist. (No offence to the believers.) And It appears to be a very dark group when I was in Secondary school. Little did I expect that my dearest 'Bro' would be eventually be one of them as well. But well, life is always full of surprises.

My first actual encounter with CH is on my 'Bro's' wedding. It was the first church wedding I had attended and I knew I had to for him. CH came across as very modern and all the followers really look very 'Atas'. That further reminded me of the 'material' factor. But their songs are very 'hip' and sounded more like a pop song than a prayer.

And so I went. Because and because I had made my promise and I'm a Big Enormous Cat who just can't wait to get killed. I'm just so curious about what happens at the actual service and so I went.

The drama was good and the stage setting and probs were impressive. An for a normal Mass, it looks more like a rock concert with all the rainbow lightings and seats setting. I guess I'm 99% correct at the purpose of the whole believe. First time I see a service so fanciful. And they actually have an envelope for donations on every seat and the pastor actually reminded the people at the service about it. But I hope the contribution really goes forth to the needies and not just another NKF.

They sang the nice songs and I have to say the lead singers really have great voices. Their teaching is also quite positive and convincing. It's all about forgiving. Take away the Christianity parts of it and it's just like a Buddhist teaching which my mum always tells me about. Inspiring. The drama satisfied my curiosity about how Easter day came about in detail. And this cat remains unscathed.

And I managed to spend 1 full day with J and his wife. We even went to watch Horton.

Horton is a must watch. It's really cute and funny. And I totaly fell in love with Katie! A small cute yellow fluff.

In my world, Everyone is a pony. They eat rainbows and poop butterflies!

A Concert to Remember.

2008-03-18T18:27:00.002+08:00

Went for Jeff Chang's concert on Saturday. It was really fantastic. I loved they way the stage had been designed. There's a chandelier in the middle of the stage and 3 large picture frames at the back of the stage. And throughout the concert, he played the famous artworks and paintings of the famous painters like Monet, Van Gough etc. His voice is still as great though age had caught up and he was unable to perform the original rendition of a few of his older hits without breaking his voice.

But it was still a very fasinating concert and a concert worth every cent of my money...

Next up... Maybe Aska or Harlim Yu? Or better still, FIR or X Japan!!!!

Death Note Spin Off: L Change The World...

2008-02-24T03:00:00.002+08:00

Just a short post... Not gonna elaborate the story. You just gotta go watch it yourself!

It's another story with a highly intelligent plot. Although there are some overlap in the story with the first 2 season of Death Note, you don't need to watch the previous series in order to catch the story. It has an independant plot of it's own.

I'm so glad to had catch the midnight show instead of waiting till the afternoon. It really brought a great ending to my day!

So do go and watch it!

A Great Night of Booze and Dancing... 16 Feb 08

2008-02-19T17:08:00.004+08:00

OK, I'm a procastinator. I've done it again. This post was supposed to be up last Monday. But, oh well, here it is...

It's been a long time since I had so much fun and enjoyed myself so much. I guess the company you're with is really important.

I made a table reservation at Dragonfly on Saturday cos Xiao Bai said that he had never gone clubbing in Singapore before. So I recommended Dragonfly. I had been watching movies practically every night of last week and I was a bit skeptical about partying on Saturday night after a full day at work and class without falling asleep. Boy was I in for a surprise..

I went home after class to put down my stuff and to change and make up. Managed to catch a 45 minutes nap though. Met up with J and R at 7pm and we shared a cab down to Vivo to meet S. After dinner, J and R wanted to check out some stuff at Starhub so S and I went down to Dragonfly to claim our tables. I reserved the standing table so we had to claim it by 8.30pm. But as it's still Happy Hour, we didn't have to pay the $15 cover charge so we're happy. Xiao Bai and his group of friends came just 2 minutes before 9pm. He brought a total of 6 friends (2 came to join us much later.) J and R joined us just before all the actual show and fun starts.

The theme show for the night is Hong Kong Movies. They started with an chinese oldie and stupid Xiao Bai started waltzing alone and then slowing facing me. And that gave them a chance to start the fun. On my expense. Steve, Xiao Bai's friend, 'proceeded' to pulling me towards him and no matter how I object, I still was 'made' to slow dance with Xiao Bai. And... So... I... Did. Sigh.. For those who had already started going 'Ohhhhhhhh......', STOP. Cos his younger and he's like a little brother to me. It was weird and nice at the same time... I call him Xiao Bai and he calls me Xiao Wen so, yah, we're ok friends.

Ok Back to Dragonfly. We had such a laugh at one of the skits of the 'Young and Dangerous'. There were also a lot of dancing. I don't think I've danced so much and long ever before! We were there from 8.30pm till round 3.30am and I was dancing like almost 70% of the time! Thanks to Steve again for pulling me and Xiao Bai together for countless times and pulling me into the dance floor and dance circle the minute I tried to rest. Had quite a bit to drink as well. No worries as I can still manage a nice straight line after all that alcohol in my blood. J, R, O and myself went to Geylang for the famous soybean milk and supper after leaving Dragonfly. That was the best party night I had so far!

Certainly hope that we'll have the chance to club together again soon!!!!

Happy New Year!

2008-02-06T10:48:00.000+08:00

Will be going down to Chinatown tonight with Min and hopefully Hua as well... As per usual tradition.

Hope the crowd is not as crazy but well, it's only once a year!!!

Anyway, Collect more angpows people!!!!

27 Dresses...

2008-02-04T14:48:00.000+08:00

Went to catch the movie on Saturday night. A midnight one. It's good. Not the usual chic flick but a real good one (or at least in my opinion.) It's a story about learning to say no and a story which tells all the singles out there that someday, your turn to be someone's bride will come. Quite inspiring in some ways. But hey, movies are for you to enjoy.

More movies to come which I absolutely wanna watch: L - changing the world, P.S. I Love You, Kung Fu Dunk, The Waterhorse...

Too much to.. And not to mention the concerts... Sigh... *sayang my wallet...*

Aftermath....

2008-01-29T18:18:00.000+08:00

Back from my trip. A much needed one but not a very good one.

Firstly, the hotel in Pattaya can be better. It was old and dirty. R and I got bitten by bed bugs. Arghh.. The service and breakfast of the hotel was horrible. The counter and conciege people were fierce and terrible!!!! Extremely poor service!!! A definite no-no for people planning the trip. And the name of the wonderful hotel: Beverly Plaza Hotel. And to make things worse, the counter staff actually scold their customers! So my advice: Stay at your own risk!

Next comes our very own budget carrier and terminal. I know what we pay is what we get but basic neccesities will still be very much appreciated. From the plane back to the immigration hall, it would be good if luggage trolleys are provided. Especially if the plane was parked at the very end of the hall.

From my understanding, air and items insurance premium undertaken by the airlines would be partly paid by us under the airport taxes, fuel and insurance. And this amount paid to TR is not cheap and comparable to that of a normal carrier. Yet when the handle of one of our luggages was completely torn off, TR brushed us aside saying that they don't cover damages to handles!!! Wow... Now I know...

And not to mention I got sick on the 2nd last day of the trip... Bleah...

But we had our fair share of fun. At Pattaya, we went for the famous Alcasa Show. Plainly put, lady-boy show. It was really good! And the leads were all really very beautiful. The costumes and sets were very impressive.

Coral island was fun! The water was clear and cool. We had tons of fun with para-sailing and banana boating.

The walking street was also very interesting with all the pubs and discos. It's really interesting.

We went for massage sessions at this lavish place 'Health Land' almost everyday. And not forgetting our dear shop at Silom for foot massage.

Now is time for me to start planning our next trip!!!!!!!

Pattaya, Thailand...

2008-01-24T12:12:00.000+08:00

Arrived in Pattaya... Waiting for room and since there's free access, I'm back..

I'm off... Cos the keyboard sucks!!!!!!

But I'll be back!

Awaiting For Take-off...

2008-01-24T05:36:00.000+08:00

At Singapore's Budget Terminal now..

Yup! Flying to Bangkok for my long awaited holiday. Will be going to Pattaya before ending the trip in Bangkok. Sooo Looking forward to it.

Jya Ne!!! Be back in 5 Days!!!!!

Beauty World ~ Cha Cha Cha!!!!

2008-01-16T13:12:00.000+08:00

Ok, I've been procastinating again... I was suppose and wanted to do this entry on Monday. But well, hee..

Anyway, as the title suggested or hinted, I went for the play. It was funny, witty, nice. For a local production. But Darren was a bit disappointing in my opinion. His singing sounded a bit flat to me.. And the 2 guys lead in the show stumbled slightly on their lines. First time any of that had happened on the productions which I had watched.

Maybe due to the night being OCBC night, there was a post performance autograph session. I got the main leads to autograph the soundtrack.

Edit: But I have to give credits to Darren for tearing at the end of the show. It's really surprising. And it's not easy to be 'tearing on demand' or how at least that's how it seems to be!

Started my Jap classes. Weird loh. But well, ok lah..

There is supposed to be a dinner gathering this Friday but I don't think I'm going. People I dun like are going. SOooo... I'm not. Yup! I'm being difficult. Anyway, it's gonna be a long Saturday for me so I need the rest. 9~1pm work. 2~4.15pm Jap class. 4.30pm catch the ride to JB, overnight in JB and back only on Sunday. Soo.... Well, I'm Not Going For Dinner....

Happy Bitchy New Year.

2008-01-02T13:18:00.000+08:00

Yup! Someone got me in the mood again. First work day and I'm already exchanging blows with the bitch of the office. Wow! ARGHHH!!!!! And to make things worse, she's the ever so wonderful AM. Double Argh!

Had a good NYE... Nice rest yesterday. Work up at 11+ am to prepare as I need to meet James for lunch. Reach home like 2ish and start sprawling across my bed. Was like multitasking, playing games on my phone, watching Taiwanese drama on my comp and keeping track on whats on on tv.

Yawnz.. Better get back to work before a bitchy fight starts again!

Xmas Comes and Goes.... And I'm Still Alone...

2007-12-27T14:17:00.000+08:00

My xmas celebrations started like on the Saturday before Christmas. Korea was fine but I still prefer Japan or Taiwan.. :P

Was like real busy since I came back on Thursday and I'm really tired. So's my wallet and bank account. Wonder how am I gonna survive my January.

The airline still owe me my allowances for the Korea trip though and I seriously wonder when am I going to see it. I'm broke. And more so since I was forced to get my handphone cos my old one seems to be threatening to crash if I push it to work further. (But I later suspect that it's actually my SIM Card but oh well..) But at least now I'll be contactable even in countries like Japan or Korea.

Ok, back to Christmas Celebration. Met up with part of the NS gang for a christmas buffet dinner. Then me, J and her bf R went to catch The Warlords at PS. By the time I reach home that night, 2am.

Sunday is a meet up with Eugene and Lin. Went to see Ymond to fix my hair before meeting up with Lin. We went for some last minute shopping then decided to proceed to our dinner place first as we were tired of walking around. Had Genki sushi at Marina and followed by a few drinks at Harry's, Esplanade. Left pretty early, like 11 ish as I still need to wrap up presents for the exchange in office the next day.

I got a few stuff and vouchers from office but the best of all is the Esprit bag from Su.. Thanks DEAR!!!! I promise to use it for 1 full year....

Went to get my phone after the Xmas party in office. The wait was so long! And the person didn't even bother to check with me if I already knew what I needed and gave me the normal Q instead of the express one. Only when Su saw the flash on the TV in the shop then we knew. So I march up to the counter again and demanded for the express Q. Waste time sia...

By the time I got the phone and reach home, almost 4pm.. Laze a round a bit before leaving home to run some errands before meeting up with Hua, Min and Rac for KTV session and to celebrate Rac's birthday. We left at 2.30am and reached home only around 3am.

I spent Christmas sleeping, needless to say, and setting up my new phone but figured out that there's something wrong with the software so planned to go down to East point to get it fixed this coming Saturday.

Got a call from James this morning and guess what? I'm going to be an 'Auntie' soon! Ok lah, soon is August lah.. But still! I'm so happy for him. Ok lah, excited also lah.. Wonder if it'll be a boy or gal... Hard to imagine James a daddy though but I guess he'll survive. Appretiate that I'm one of the first one to hear the news. I'm really happy for him though some other issues exist.. :P

Going to play some games.. Hee.. Oops..

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T10:15:00.000+08:00

Merry Christmas people!

Away from Home...

2007-12-15T21:09:00.000+08:00

I'm now at the airport waiting for my flight. I will be on my way to Korea in a few hours time. So far so good. First time to Korea and boy, am I nervous. I told the taxi driver to take me to Changi Hospital, Terminal 1 just now! See how distraught I am!

So far the group members look friendly and nice and I hope they are still after 5 Days!!!

I will try and blog to keep you guys updated as often as possible. If not, see you guys in 6 Days time!!

Dun Miss me too much!!!

More Birthday 'Celebration' Meetups...

2007-12-08T12:32:00.000+08:00

Spent my birthday with Huimin in Orchard. Went shopping, got my winter clothing and contributed more money to Kino. But it's really fun as we had not met up for almost a year or 2. But things still very much feel the same. We are the same 2 giggly girls who couldn't stop giggling throughout the whole time we're together. It's as if things are still very much like we are in Secondary school. It's a really wonderful feeling. It's great to have friends whom you really dun have to keep in touch always but can pick up where you left it immediately. That's what real friends are.

Met up with James last night for dinner and boy, he really spoils me. First a dinner treat at the Jap-French Restaurant at Ma Maison at Bugis. He made the effort to drop by to make a reservation before we met up as he got to Bugis earlier. Luckily for that as there was such a long queue at the restaurant! And needless to say, due to work, I was late to met up with him but we managed to make it to the restaurant by the reservation time.

Had to fight with him for the bill but I lost. He just wouldn't let me get it. He not only got me a wombat from Australia as promised (or forced) but a nice travel wallet as well! I really enjoyed myself and the good food! Thanks again Bro! And the new additions to my pressie collection...

Early Celebration.. As usual.. Hee

2007-12-01T22:56:00.000+08:00

Yes, I will turn another year older but only in 2 more days. However, I had started my celebration since Thursday. And thanks to the lovely people around me, I had been showered with gifts even before my birthday arrive!

I went for dinner with Casey on Thursday. Thanks for the seafood feast!

Friday, went out for dinner with Gina, Uncle William, 'Ah Pa' and Su. Visited the 'Manhattan Fish Market'at PS. The concept and food is similar to Fish & Co but I like Manhattan better. After which Ah Pa treated us to ice cream and I got a slice of strawberry ice cream cake. And that big, cute & cuddly Pooh is my first pressie for the year!

This comfy and cuddly cushion is a present by my 2 interns. They are really so nice. Not only the cushion but they even wrap it in a blue wrapper! My favourite colour!

Tonight is the gathering dinner with my ex-colleagues. Thanks Susi, Joey, Roger, Rachel, Agnes and Hubby, Triston for being there. Had a great dinner at Waraku, Central. Thanks for going through the trouble for getting me a 'Doraemon'cake and the wonderful effort of preparing the whole lot of 'pressies'! Really had so much fun! Thank you all for the Clinique make up kit. Thanks Desmond Ge Ge, Tatoo, Ah May May, Ah Na and Alicia. Thanks for chipping in to get me the kit. Just a few photos first. Will upload all into my Flickr photos...

And of cos I couldn't resist getting the blue 'sotong' for myself when I pass by Mini Toons!

Will be meeting up with Min, Hua and hopefully Rac tomorrow!

Happy Birthday to Me!

Rest in Peace Boys...

2007-11-29T21:07:00.000+08:00

Today is the funeral of our 5 young outstanding gentlemen who ended their journey doing what they love best. Just watched the wake on the news and tears streaked down.

I really feel for their families and frends.

My deepest condolences to all who knew, loved and worship them. All of you will definitely be deeply missed.

I salute you all and dedicate this post to you. Continue to shine and carry on your passion and look after all your loved ones from up above.

I take a moment... For all of you....

Sleepless...

2007-11-15T16:52:00.000+08:00

Wah.. Had a horrible night last night.

Wah.. Nightmare. Dreamt that my office is so haunted. And the ghost sent me a very clear message. 'I'll leave only if you do'

Meaning? Mummy says that its a strong and wicked sign that it's time I leave. And that my office is really full of 'ghosts' (or I normally call them b***h*s... Hee).

I'm just waiting for my M to find someone to work at the counter permanently then i'll start looking for alternatives. But then again, if the opportunity comes earlier, I might just..

Well, we'll never know. Maybe something might happen and make me fall in love with this place again and master the courage to stay on? Hee..

Angry again this morning over some B***h again. Sigh.. It's kinda turning routine...

Oh! And I managed to load in my photos from my Taipei trip in July in my album.. Erm... The rest are coming.. Cos I need to free up all my SD cards! I've fully utilised all 5+ GB of it!!!

A Very Tiring Weekend...

2007-10-22T12:13:00.000+08:00

It's really been a crazy week.

The trip was nice, except that I think I almost broke my wrist with knowing it and now it still hurts.

Flight delay on the way back. Ended touching down only at 12.05am. More than half an hour after the schedule. By the time I reach home and settle down, it's already almost 2am.

Reported at Marina Square at 9.30am on Saturday for the Adelaide Consumer fair. Then this morning, reported at 5.30am at the Airport to do a grouo check in for my Manager's group. Sigh.. I'm so deprived of rest!!! ARGHHH!!!!

Will upload the photos and the details of the trip in a while so stay tuned!

Another Blog Before I Fly Again...

2007-10-14T08:43:00.000+08:00

Back from the wonderful massage chair... I can even off the lights of the room!

Will　be boarding for the domestic to Sendai in 10 minutes. So a quick blog.

Will defintely blog whenever I can on this trip. Makes it easier to write my report when I'm back as well.. Ke...

Take care and stay tuned!

Arrival In Japan...

2007-10-14T07:32:00.000+08:00

Finally in Japan Narita Airport after 7 Hrs of flight. I'm now in the Club ANA Lounge in Narita. It's really big as compared to the Singapore one. They even have shower rooms and massage chair rooms!

Okie.. that's for now! I'm off to the massage chairs!

Basic Courtesy...

2007-10-09T10:38:00.000+08:00

An intern from a rather 'prestigious' school SHA*** just tendered in a very ugly way. Not that I was sad to see him go. Happy actually but angry over the way he did it. He just came into office very early in the morning to do his so-called handover and just slip his resignation under a stack of papers on my Manager's desk. How courteous is that?!

And to make things worse, he didn't even inform anyone of us. He just left.

Ha! Good riddance man..

At least I won't need to throw up blood just by looking at him...

International Blogger's Day - Free Burma...

2007-10-04T14:18:00.000+08:00

Was sent to Myanmar for a short trip a few years back. That was the most peaceful place I've ever visited. And the Shwedagon, it's really really nice and grand. Myanmar's Life seems to be evolving round this grand holy place.

Seeing the place being the center of the protest really saddens me. How can such a nice and peaceful place transform to a place of fear and uncertainty just in a few days?

So here is my 'contribution'...

I really hope we will have back the Myanmar I so missed... Soon...

A Fantastic Concert... Cheers!

2007-09-30T00:46:00.000+08:00

... A Piece Of You...

Cheers! That's the name of the singer whose concert I went to today. Just came back from Cheer Chen's (陈绮贞) concert.

I had a really bad morning. So bad and frustrating that I teared again. Thanks to work again. Sometimes life can be so unfair and torturing. Nothing made me feel better. Not even when my Manager called to 'sayang' me.

OT till 6 plus today. On the way, had a fight on sms with a sec school fren of mine. People just can't understand they kind of frustration and stress I'm under.

Anyway, by the time I reach home, it's already 6.30pm. Rushed through shower and dinner but still only manage to leave my house at 7.30pm. Took a cab down to Max Pavillion in fear of being late for the concert.

Was really glad I went for it. Though alone. I truly enjoyed it. Her vocals is really really good and her life performance is really exactly how she sounded on CD. Totally no regrets. It really help me relax and destress. Halfway through the concert, everyone rushed to the front. I managed to get a place very near to the stage. She is really so pretty and sweet looking. And her dedication to original and un-comercialised music is really so touching. I'm really refreshed by the concert. This is definitely the best concert so far. Now I realy know how the tickets to her Taiwan concert sells out within 3 days and even before publicity starts. It's really good.

The stage layout's fantastic too. One main screen and 2 vertical rectangular screens lined out next to both sides of the main screen. While she sings, we started with having animated sky with shooting stars occasionally, then as the concert progresses, we see a house in mist of the green field then followed by video clips in relation to the songs. It's the first time I've seen this kinda set up. and to top the experience, guess how many Encores? At least 4 - 5! so many I lost count. The most in all the concerts I've attended. We just didn't wanna let her go. We keep wanting to hear more. How many songs she sang? Lots! I really lost count. Cos she doesn't talk much, she just sang and sang for full 3 hours. Bravo!

I got quite a number of photos and some clips from the concert. Will post up once I've 'copywrited' them. So stay tuned!

Below are some net extract of the concert:

陳綺貞巡迴演唱會

「陳綺貞2007 台灣巡迴演唱會 A Piece of Summer」忽然懷念起沒有電視沒有網路的日子忽然懷念需要提筆寫信給你的日子單純的音樂穿越時空的記憶凝結在對美好夏天的期待與思念Live 幾乎已經成為陳綺貞的代名詞了這個幾乎不上電視節目不炒新聞平均2~3年推出一張專輯的陳綺貞卻低調而堅持的選擇以Live演出作為與觀眾溝通的唯一方式在她時而溫柔時而爆發的歌聲中你聽到了自己也幾乎愛上那一個傾心融於綺貞音樂中的自己2005年陳綺貞花的姿態演唱會門票在三天之內銷售一空創下台灣有史以來演唱會門票銷售速度最快的紀錄讓許多來不及參與的歌迷們至今仍抱憾連連我們已不需要再探究陳綺貞演唱會的魔力究竟是什麼應該問問自己需要的是什麼?你期待的夏天是什麼?在那個夜晚在綺貞的LIVE 相信你會得到解答不要再有遺憾2007年這個夏天演唱會是陳綺貞給你的一個片段希望它能填補你正在找尋或是曾經失落的那一塊 A piece of summer a piece of you...

WooHoo!

2007-09-18T23:34:00.000+08:00

At last! A little bit of motivation..

Might be flying off again next month... Where? One of my favourite place on earth.. But an area I've never been to before..

Only thing is that I might have to share a room with someone I dunno... Bummer..

But still, no complains.. Cos... I'll be on the 'big metal bird' again!!!

Yeah!!!!!!!!!