This is the last day of 2006. Have you done your reflections on what you have done well and not for this year? Are you satisfied with what you have achieved? Do you have any regrets?
Tomorrow will be a new year. Are you prepared for the coming 2007? Have you gotten your resolutions ready?
If not, get your pen and paper ready to jot down your resolutions, in preparation of the new year.
Oops, I better run off to get mine done as well.
Happy New Year!
December 31, 2006
Fitted Bedsheets
Kudos to fitted bedsheets!
I cannot imagine how life was before the advent of fitted bedsheet. Changing bedsheets must have a pretty fustrating experience with the degree of fustration increasing with the size of your mattress.
I was changing my bedsheets 2 days ago. Prior to this, I have not changed bedsheets singlehandedly and unaided. My mattress is only size single but rather thick. I was having such a hard time laying the bedsheets over the protector and the mattress. By, the time, I have gotten one side straighten, the other side would have loosened. It was certainly a physically exhausting experience.
Hence, before there was fitted bedsheets, the older generation must have undergone a tougher time changing bedsheets. Sigh!
I cannot imagine how life was before the advent of fitted bedsheet. Changing bedsheets must have a pretty fustrating experience with the degree of fustration increasing with the size of your mattress.
I was changing my bedsheets 2 days ago. Prior to this, I have not changed bedsheets singlehandedly and unaided. My mattress is only size single but rather thick. I was having such a hard time laying the bedsheets over the protector and the mattress. By, the time, I have gotten one side straighten, the other side would have loosened. It was certainly a physically exhausting experience.
Hence, before there was fitted bedsheets, the older generation must have undergone a tougher time changing bedsheets. Sigh!
December 30, 2006
Hypermart
Recently, there are many hypermarts sprouting out in many parts of Singapore, from VivoCity at Harbourfront, Ikea and Courts at Tampines to the latest member – NTUC Hypermart at Ang Mo Kio.
I joined the crowd today at the new NTUC. It is indeed huge with everything under the same roof, from the normal groceries which we have seen in other outlets, cooked food (peppered roasted chicken and sushi) to electrical appliances (including LCD TV, washing machines, irons) and apparels (men’s short sleeve shirts).
I was naturally attracted to the food section. The variety offered is simply amazing. Mushrooms offered range from the smallest Endoki to the largest Portobello. Crabs offered include the normally-seen flower crabs and Sri Lanka crabs to the seasonal hairy crabs. There is even a live seafood (live prawns and fish) section. (Some of my friends are going to "tsk tsk" me for being such an auntie when they see this.)
Despite its size, it was still packed with people. Many seemed to have traveled far from other parts of Singapore to participate in opening of one of Singapore’s most familiar names.
I am pretty excited about this latest mall as it is a stone throw from my home which means I can do most of the shopping here in future instead of going to town. Hurray!
I joined the crowd today at the new NTUC. It is indeed huge with everything under the same roof, from the normal groceries which we have seen in other outlets, cooked food (peppered roasted chicken and sushi) to electrical appliances (including LCD TV, washing machines, irons) and apparels (men’s short sleeve shirts).
I was naturally attracted to the food section. The variety offered is simply amazing. Mushrooms offered range from the smallest Endoki to the largest Portobello. Crabs offered include the normally-seen flower crabs and Sri Lanka crabs to the seasonal hairy crabs. There is even a live seafood (live prawns and fish) section. (Some of my friends are going to "tsk tsk" me for being such an auntie when they see this.)
Despite its size, it was still packed with people. Many seemed to have traveled far from other parts of Singapore to participate in opening of one of Singapore’s most familiar names.
I am pretty excited about this latest mall as it is a stone throw from my home which means I can do most of the shopping here in future instead of going to town. Hurray!
In the Mood … for Shopping
Since the middle of the month (with the start of Mango sale), I have been on a shopping spree.
This is partly due to the festive mood and the many tempting sales. Generally, everyone was in the mood for buying with the impending Christmas season. The merry-go-round sales and discounts offered by the boutiques and departmental stores were determined to attract the dollars from our wallets.
I admit I am a rather cautious person when it comes to making purchases, ie I hardly go on impulse buying. Sometimes, I even go to the extent of making several comparisons or making repeated trips to ascertain that I really like the item and that it is the best value for money. I hardly go for the best with tight budget constraints. To some of my friends, this is a rather silly move as I spend more time and effort which more than offset the money saved. Notwithstanding, this actually accentuates the fun of shopping with greater satisfaction for getting the best with the least dollars.
The last time I have gone on such a massive shopping spree was 4 months ago. If you have known me for a long time, you would have known that this period is often the peak for my shopping. The post Christmas sale is when I will start ‘stocking up’ on a lot of things. It is often during this period I will indulge myself a little, especially so because during this time I can find things I like, especially in terms of the colours (more solid) and style.
This year I again have successful buys from Mango, G2000, Robinsons and Isetan. Their sales followed one another. Sigh! This also meant that my wallet will become thinner after the holidays.
This is partly due to the festive mood and the many tempting sales. Generally, everyone was in the mood for buying with the impending Christmas season. The merry-go-round sales and discounts offered by the boutiques and departmental stores were determined to attract the dollars from our wallets.
I admit I am a rather cautious person when it comes to making purchases, ie I hardly go on impulse buying. Sometimes, I even go to the extent of making several comparisons or making repeated trips to ascertain that I really like the item and that it is the best value for money. I hardly go for the best with tight budget constraints. To some of my friends, this is a rather silly move as I spend more time and effort which more than offset the money saved. Notwithstanding, this actually accentuates the fun of shopping with greater satisfaction for getting the best with the least dollars.
The last time I have gone on such a massive shopping spree was 4 months ago. If you have known me for a long time, you would have known that this period is often the peak for my shopping. The post Christmas sale is when I will start ‘stocking up’ on a lot of things. It is often during this period I will indulge myself a little, especially so because during this time I can find things I like, especially in terms of the colours (more solid) and style.
This year I again have successful buys from Mango, G2000, Robinsons and Isetan. Their sales followed one another. Sigh! This also meant that my wallet will become thinner after the holidays.
December 29, 2006
Words That Light Up Your Day
Now is the time when you will receive many SMSes from your friends sending their well-wishes for the year. There may be friends whom you do not keep in touch on a regular basis, yet their wishes still warm your heart.
Similarly, I have received a SMS from a friend whom we have not been able to meet up more frequently because of our hectic work schedules. We are also not those friends who keep in touch regularly via SMS or emails. In fact, we hardly contact each other except when we are arranging any gathering. Hence, it was a pleasant surprise when I received his SMS.
Many friends are concerned about my well-being, especially how I am settling down in my new job. He is no exception. After months of trying to get out of me where I am currently working, he seemed to finally give up. He added that it did not matter anymore as long as I was happy. This suddenly threw me off guard and I was instantly touched by his words, especially when he is the sort who often teases and "suan" me.
To this friend,
Likewise, where you are working is also not as important as knowing that you like what you are doing. No matter how tough it can get, as long as we find meaning in and enjoy what we are doing, it will keep us going. Good luck.
Similarly, I have received a SMS from a friend whom we have not been able to meet up more frequently because of our hectic work schedules. We are also not those friends who keep in touch regularly via SMS or emails. In fact, we hardly contact each other except when we are arranging any gathering. Hence, it was a pleasant surprise when I received his SMS.
Many friends are concerned about my well-being, especially how I am settling down in my new job. He is no exception. After months of trying to get out of me where I am currently working, he seemed to finally give up. He added that it did not matter anymore as long as I was happy. This suddenly threw me off guard and I was instantly touched by his words, especially when he is the sort who often teases and "suan" me.
To this friend,
Likewise, where you are working is also not as important as knowing that you like what you are doing. No matter how tough it can get, as long as we find meaning in and enjoy what we are doing, it will keep us going. Good luck.
December 25, 2006
Cozy Christmas Gathering
This is the first time I have spent Christmas eve with 3 of my closest friends - Hui, Jen and Onion (Hui's husband). We have decided to have a combined house visit cum pre-Christmas gathering at Hui's newly renovated house. *Grin.* Moreover, we had the honour of sampling the results of Hui's first culinary experiment, though I must admit I was initially abit worried.
When we reached Hui's house, she was only mid-way through the preparation of lunch. To keep us entertained in the meanwhile, Onion decided to first show us around the house. The house was quite spacious and windy. It was well-kept and cleaned with no visible mess. Kudos to Hui and Onion for being so conscientious in their household chores.
Soon, lunch was ready. Since it was Christmas eve, Hui has took the liberty to prepare an all-Western meal. We had mushroom soup and vegetarian pasta. For someone who is quite picky with her food, I must say that Hui has made a valiant and superb attempt at whipping up something which not only looked presentable but also tasted palatable. Although the mushroom soup was slightly saltish, it was well-cooked with no starchy globs. The French fries might be abit burnt, but they were still crispy. The spaghetti was springy but not hard. The tomato sauce was sweet and sour. Although most of the ingredients were semi-prepared when purchased (eg the sauce from Prego's, the canned mushroom soup), it was definitely still a remarkable effort. *Applause*
After a filling lunch, we have proceeded to dessert. What is Christmas without a log cake to commemorate the occasion. Knowing that I am a person who always try to avoid heaty food at all expense, Hui has decided to get smaller chocolate log cake (since I won't be eating much). Then, we popped the sparkling juice which Jen has brought to toast to good health, wealth, prosperity and, of course, world peace (Each of us was supposed to think of something to toast to and Onion took the easy way out by toasting to world peace).
Then, it was snack's time. Hui brought out "Hello Kitty" biscuits and "Famous Amos" cookies. We munched along while we chit chat about the coming new year, about the latest films and about cooking utensils and household products (eg vacuum pots, moth balls, roach prevention cabinet liner).
With Hui's very successful first attempt, we have decided that we should have such home-cooked meal gatherings more often. Jen has volunteered that she would prepare soups next time round, while I would try to make "Siew Mai". Hui has even asked her mother's friend to impart some baking skills to her and I have invited myself to the cooking lessons.
Maybe we can organise more of such gatherings, where each of us will teach the other 2 the recipes that we know so that we can be better cooks and can have more variety to our cooking. *Wink*
When we reached Hui's house, she was only mid-way through the preparation of lunch. To keep us entertained in the meanwhile, Onion decided to first show us around the house. The house was quite spacious and windy. It was well-kept and cleaned with no visible mess. Kudos to Hui and Onion for being so conscientious in their household chores.
Soon, lunch was ready. Since it was Christmas eve, Hui has took the liberty to prepare an all-Western meal. We had mushroom soup and vegetarian pasta. For someone who is quite picky with her food, I must say that Hui has made a valiant and superb attempt at whipping up something which not only looked presentable but also tasted palatable. Although the mushroom soup was slightly saltish, it was well-cooked with no starchy globs. The French fries might be abit burnt, but they were still crispy. The spaghetti was springy but not hard. The tomato sauce was sweet and sour. Although most of the ingredients were semi-prepared when purchased (eg the sauce from Prego's, the canned mushroom soup), it was definitely still a remarkable effort. *Applause*
After a filling lunch, we have proceeded to dessert. What is Christmas without a log cake to commemorate the occasion. Knowing that I am a person who always try to avoid heaty food at all expense, Hui has decided to get smaller chocolate log cake (since I won't be eating much). Then, we popped the sparkling juice which Jen has brought to toast to good health, wealth, prosperity and, of course, world peace (Each of us was supposed to think of something to toast to and Onion took the easy way out by toasting to world peace).Then, it was snack's time. Hui brought out "Hello Kitty" biscuits and "Famous Amos" cookies. We munched along while we chit chat about the coming new year, about the latest films and about cooking utensils and household products (eg vacuum pots, moth balls, roach prevention cabinet liner).
With Hui's very successful first attempt, we have decided that we should have such home-cooked meal gatherings more often. Jen has volunteered that she would prepare soups next time round, while I would try to make "Siew Mai". Hui has even asked her mother's friend to impart some baking skills to her and I have invited myself to the cooking lessons.
Maybe we can organise more of such gatherings, where each of us will teach the other 2 the recipes that we know so that we can be better cooks and can have more variety to our cooking. *Wink*
Merry Christmas
(Giant Christmas tree at the lobby of Ngee Ann City, dated 25th Dec 2006)Merry Christmas to all my friends and may all your dreams come true. :-)
December 24, 2006
A Heartwarming and Cosy Wedding
It was one of the best wedding I have attended. Best, not in terms of grandeur nor food, but best in terms of the sincerity and cosiness. It was simple and relaxed, yet meaningful and heartwarming. It was the wedding of my uni classmate cum excolleague.
The couple displayed immense support for each other for the wedding. They were planning and coordinating almost everything themselves, except with the help of one of their friends as the main program coordinator. They have to call their own makeup artists and photographers, assigned jobs for their friends, coordinated with the venue captain, contacted the registrar and even prepared their own marriage certs.
There was a short but solemn solemnisation ceremony followed by a lunch reception. There was no elaborate fanfare with the couple rushing around the tables to take photo shoots with everyone. There was no long and draggy "yum sengs" which often drew little enthusiasm from the floor. As it was a lunch, there was also fewer guests who had to leave quickly before it became too late for public transport. Almost everyone stayed on for the dessert. Some had even stayed on for chit chats after the dessert for a leisure catch-up.
The couple has adequate time to mingle with the guests and even acceded to requests from guests to take individual photos with the them. They could stop at some of the tables to give grateful hugs to their close relatives or to surrender to the pranks pulled off by their buddies.
There were several touching moments. For instance, when the groom gave a thank-you speech to both their parents and friends or when the couple had their tea ceremonies and tears flowed down their parents and grandparent's eyes.
Hence, it was simple but meaningful where they could really share the most important moment of their lives with people who mattered to them.
The couple displayed immense support for each other for the wedding. They were planning and coordinating almost everything themselves, except with the help of one of their friends as the main program coordinator. They have to call their own makeup artists and photographers, assigned jobs for their friends, coordinated with the venue captain, contacted the registrar and even prepared their own marriage certs.
There was a short but solemn solemnisation ceremony followed by a lunch reception. There was no elaborate fanfare with the couple rushing around the tables to take photo shoots with everyone. There was no long and draggy "yum sengs" which often drew little enthusiasm from the floor. As it was a lunch, there was also fewer guests who had to leave quickly before it became too late for public transport. Almost everyone stayed on for the dessert. Some had even stayed on for chit chats after the dessert for a leisure catch-up.
The couple has adequate time to mingle with the guests and even acceded to requests from guests to take individual photos with the them. They could stop at some of the tables to give grateful hugs to their close relatives or to surrender to the pranks pulled off by their buddies.
There were several touching moments. For instance, when the groom gave a thank-you speech to both their parents and friends or when the couple had their tea ceremonies and tears flowed down their parents and grandparent's eyes.
Hence, it was simple but meaningful where they could really share the most important moment of their lives with people who mattered to them.
First Time Being Wedding Emcee
It was a solemnisation cum wedding lunch. When my uni classmate cum excolleague first approached me to be the emcee for her wedding, I was honoured yet reluctant.
I was flattered that she has thought so highly of me. I was reluctant because this was not like any other presentation where a fumble only means a lost chance of promotion or a bad scolding from boss. Any fumble robs the new couple of a perfect wedding and life-time regret remains. I was even more apprehensive when she wanted me to do it in Chinese. Speaking in proper Chinese (ie with no rojaks of other dialects or languages) has proven more and more difficult. The last time I have made any serious attempt to pronounce the Chinese words distinctly was 10 years ago during my Chinese oral exams. However, after some persuasion, I relented. Since there was another emcee to help out, the assignment might not be as daunting. At least, I will not be the only one standing there facing the whole floor of expectant faces.
We have initially planned for a pre-event rehearsal but we could not agree on the time to meet. Finally, we decided to meet earlier on the actual day itself. Given my blurness, I have better had more prior preparation. Hence, I spent about 2 hours last Sunday at home reading through the script aloud to get all the pronounciation right, especially the "with H" and "no H" and "with G" and "no G" sounds.
We gathered at 9am yesterday at the venue. The groom called a meeting after all the helpers have arrived. He briefed us the program and everyone's task. Then we were off to the stage for rehearsal with the program coordinator.
It was the first time I have met my counterpart. He was the primary, secondary cum JC classmate of the groom. He and the groom were also from the same university but different faculties. He was literally the joker of the group. It was indeed a wise choice of the groom to select him as the leading emcee.
During the rehearsal, he was busy adding in sidelines, jokes and practically his own script (which involved jokes about the groom, Star Awards, etc). The jokes relaxed the tense and nervous ambience. Unfortunately, we were more occupied laughing and playing a fool than doing real work, including the groom. There was a scene where we were supposed to announce the arrival of the groom and bride. The groom held the hands of the bride and skipped down the aisle. Despite the other emcee's playfulness, he turned to serious practising of the script when the groom and bride retired to the room to change and do their make-up. We were both doing last minute running through the script to minimise tumbling over the words which happened often during our initial rehearsals.
Finally, it was the start of the real show. There were some events which did not happen as expected which caused us to do last minute improvisation of our prepared script. For instance, the registrar went up to the stage before we invited him. Then, we were also abit lost about when the registrar would finish his speech and that we should announce the end of the ceremony. Mid-way through, it also appeared that the position we were standing blocked the views of some guests and we had to keep moving around between our speeches and the photo montage. Notwithstanding these surprises, we have managed to deliver our speeches with no hiccups and the new couple and their family were impressed and happy.
This was the first time I am the emcee of a wedding. This is also the first time I feel that I have really participated in the wedding. This is also the first time I have witnessed the support of friends and between the new couple to make the wedding really successful, not just in terms of showmanship but in terms of meaning.
It is fun and I am glad I can be of help to my friend. I am touched that she has seen me as a friend to have invited me to be part of the most important event of her life.
I was flattered that she has thought so highly of me. I was reluctant because this was not like any other presentation where a fumble only means a lost chance of promotion or a bad scolding from boss. Any fumble robs the new couple of a perfect wedding and life-time regret remains. I was even more apprehensive when she wanted me to do it in Chinese. Speaking in proper Chinese (ie with no rojaks of other dialects or languages) has proven more and more difficult. The last time I have made any serious attempt to pronounce the Chinese words distinctly was 10 years ago during my Chinese oral exams. However, after some persuasion, I relented. Since there was another emcee to help out, the assignment might not be as daunting. At least, I will not be the only one standing there facing the whole floor of expectant faces.
We have initially planned for a pre-event rehearsal but we could not agree on the time to meet. Finally, we decided to meet earlier on the actual day itself. Given my blurness, I have better had more prior preparation. Hence, I spent about 2 hours last Sunday at home reading through the script aloud to get all the pronounciation right, especially the "with H" and "no H" and "with G" and "no G" sounds.
We gathered at 9am yesterday at the venue. The groom called a meeting after all the helpers have arrived. He briefed us the program and everyone's task. Then we were off to the stage for rehearsal with the program coordinator.
It was the first time I have met my counterpart. He was the primary, secondary cum JC classmate of the groom. He and the groom were also from the same university but different faculties. He was literally the joker of the group. It was indeed a wise choice of the groom to select him as the leading emcee.
During the rehearsal, he was busy adding in sidelines, jokes and practically his own script (which involved jokes about the groom, Star Awards, etc). The jokes relaxed the tense and nervous ambience. Unfortunately, we were more occupied laughing and playing a fool than doing real work, including the groom. There was a scene where we were supposed to announce the arrival of the groom and bride. The groom held the hands of the bride and skipped down the aisle. Despite the other emcee's playfulness, he turned to serious practising of the script when the groom and bride retired to the room to change and do their make-up. We were both doing last minute running through the script to minimise tumbling over the words which happened often during our initial rehearsals.
Finally, it was the start of the real show. There were some events which did not happen as expected which caused us to do last minute improvisation of our prepared script. For instance, the registrar went up to the stage before we invited him. Then, we were also abit lost about when the registrar would finish his speech and that we should announce the end of the ceremony. Mid-way through, it also appeared that the position we were standing blocked the views of some guests and we had to keep moving around between our speeches and the photo montage. Notwithstanding these surprises, we have managed to deliver our speeches with no hiccups and the new couple and their family were impressed and happy.
This was the first time I am the emcee of a wedding. This is also the first time I feel that I have really participated in the wedding. This is also the first time I have witnessed the support of friends and between the new couple to make the wedding really successful, not just in terms of showmanship but in terms of meaning.
It is fun and I am glad I can be of help to my friend. I am touched that she has seen me as a friend to have invited me to be part of the most important event of her life.
December 22, 2006
Extended Wing of Centrepoint
Although the extended wing has opened for some time, I have not been there. For the recent times I have been to Centrepoint, I have zoomed straight to Mango. Reason? Mango is having their end of season sale now.
We were there to get the remaining gift for my boss. We have decided to get photo frame finally.
Anyway, the extended wing has a very newly painted smell. There were boutiques like Gap, Nine West, etc. We happened to stroll to Gap and we were entranced by their kids' collection. Some of the kids' T-shirt have an accompanying adult version, so that both the mum and the daughter can wear the same T-shirt. :-)
The shortcoming is that the extended wing is not linked to the main building ,except at the fourth floor via Robinsons and at the basement. Thus, it is troublesome if one wishes to move to the main part of the shopping mall.
We were there to get the remaining gift for my boss. We have decided to get photo frame finally.
Anyway, the extended wing has a very newly painted smell. There were boutiques like Gap, Nine West, etc. We happened to stroll to Gap and we were entranced by their kids' collection. Some of the kids' T-shirt have an accompanying adult version, so that both the mum and the daughter can wear the same T-shirt. :-)
The shortcoming is that the extended wing is not linked to the main building ,except at the fourth floor via Robinsons and at the basement. Thus, it is troublesome if one wishes to move to the main part of the shopping mall.
Joy of Sharing
To many of us who are on 5-day work week, today almost felt like Christmas Eve where many are already in holiday mood.
Having received gifts in advance from some of my colleagues, I have made a last minute decision (last night) to get a small gift for everyone in my unit. It was literally preparation at the eleventh hour.
As you are probably aware by now that my gift wrapping skill is perhaps equivalent to that of a kindergarden student, it will be a tall task to finished wrapping 10 presents in one night. This is on the premise that I could get presents for everyone. Being uncreative, realistic and bordering on laziness, I have decided to opt for the easiest way out.
1) To be ‘equitable’, I will get the same thing for everyone.
2) To minimize any need to exercise my rather incompetent wrapping skills, the gift must be preferably presentable by its own.
3) It should be something practical and will appeal to all ages and personalities, given that I may not fully understand the likes and dislikes of my colleagues.
Tah – Dah. I found it!
It comes in packs of 3 and with characters from Winnie-the-Pooh ‘gracing’ its exteriors. There were the playful Pooh bear, blur-blur Eeyore and funny Tiga. They were simply adorable and I fell in love just by looking at them. Alright, we should not judge a book by its cover, though we are always inadvertently drawn to cute objects. I am clueless about its taste, but I guess cookies will not taste too badly.
Once, I reached office, I started giving out these tins of cookies. My colleagues also started to distribute their gifts. Soon, our tables are piled or lined with many gifts wrapped intricately (except for mine). Having them on your table brightened the day and enhanced the festive ambience.
We also had a Christmas lunch today. Despite the food was mediocre and it was relatively quiet as many were already on leave, it was still a fun experience eating ham and log cake, singing birthday song (it was a colleague’s birthday) and having lucky dip (I got a cup and miniscule bottle of honey from Crabtree & Evelyn).
The joy of sharing and gathering was heartwarming indeed.
Having received gifts in advance from some of my colleagues, I have made a last minute decision (last night) to get a small gift for everyone in my unit. It was literally preparation at the eleventh hour.
As you are probably aware by now that my gift wrapping skill is perhaps equivalent to that of a kindergarden student, it will be a tall task to finished wrapping 10 presents in one night. This is on the premise that I could get presents for everyone. Being uncreative, realistic and bordering on laziness, I have decided to opt for the easiest way out.
1) To be ‘equitable’, I will get the same thing for everyone.
2) To minimize any need to exercise my rather incompetent wrapping skills, the gift must be preferably presentable by its own.
3) It should be something practical and will appeal to all ages and personalities, given that I may not fully understand the likes and dislikes of my colleagues.
Tah – Dah. I found it!It comes in packs of 3 and with characters from Winnie-the-Pooh ‘gracing’ its exteriors. There were the playful Pooh bear, blur-blur Eeyore and funny Tiga. They were simply adorable and I fell in love just by looking at them. Alright, we should not judge a book by its cover, though we are always inadvertently drawn to cute objects. I am clueless about its taste, but I guess cookies will not taste too badly.
Once, I reached office, I started giving out these tins of cookies. My colleagues also started to distribute their gifts. Soon, our tables are piled or lined with many gifts wrapped intricately (except for mine). Having them on your table brightened the day and enhanced the festive ambience.We also had a Christmas lunch today. Despite the food was mediocre and it was relatively quiet as many were already on leave, it was still a fun experience eating ham and log cake, singing birthday song (it was a colleague’s birthday) and having lucky dip (I got a cup and miniscule bottle of honey from Crabtree & Evelyn).
The joy of sharing and gathering was heartwarming indeed.
December 19, 2006
Sleep Patterns
I came across an interesting report in Today about sleeping patterns. Contrary to popular belief, a person's sleeping pattern is not soley determined by habit and discipline but it could be genetically encoded. Hence, it may be next to impossible to change sleeping patterns. This means that if you are a 'morning' person, it is tough switching to a 'night' person and vice versa. We can only attempt to delay sleep by exposing ourselves to bright lights or exercising before sleeping time.
I must stress that this is NOT an excuse that I have cooked up to justify my sleeping hours but rather it is a scientifically proven fact. Strangely, there seem to be more people being genetically coded as a 'night' person than a 'morning' person...
I must stress that this is NOT an excuse that I have cooked up to justify my sleeping hours but rather it is a scientifically proven fact. Strangely, there seem to be more people being genetically coded as a 'night' person than a 'morning' person...
December 18, 2006
Clingy Girlfriends
For once, I stand on the side of the guys.
I have witnessed another episode of clingy girlfriend drama. Initially, I thought I was extremely sensitive that day to get the feeling. When I chatting to my friend today, surprisingly she shared the same feeling.
This clingy girlfriend was hugging to her boyfriend for the entire evening. It was as if she was declaring to the whole world "This is my territory. Do not trespass". I do not know if it was her usual way of showing affection or she was deliberately trying to fan off any potential threats. The most amusing of all is I cannot decipher whether she was not confident about herself or her boyfriend, especially when it was meant to be an all friends' gathering.
My friend and I were reminding and cautioning each other that should one of us caught the other in such an act, she must try to warn, scold and stop the other.
This time, I am on the guys' side as I seldom see a guy displaying such possessive behavour. Unfortunately, it is often associated with the girls. Sigh!
I have witnessed another episode of clingy girlfriend drama. Initially, I thought I was extremely sensitive that day to get the feeling. When I chatting to my friend today, surprisingly she shared the same feeling.
This clingy girlfriend was hugging to her boyfriend for the entire evening. It was as if she was declaring to the whole world "This is my territory. Do not trespass". I do not know if it was her usual way of showing affection or she was deliberately trying to fan off any potential threats. The most amusing of all is I cannot decipher whether she was not confident about herself or her boyfriend, especially when it was meant to be an all friends' gathering.
My friend and I were reminding and cautioning each other that should one of us caught the other in such an act, she must try to warn, scold and stop the other.
This time, I am on the guys' side as I seldom see a guy displaying such possessive behavour. Unfortunately, it is often associated with the girls. Sigh!
December 17, 2006
Home Gathering
I was invited to a friend's friend's (very distant relationship) home for a pre-Christmas gathering last night. I was abit worried initially as I am not exactly the most outgoing person in the world. You can tell this by my need to go for EQ course to improve my interactive skills. Regardless, a promise is a promise. If there is really no one to talk to, I will just concentrate on the food or TV.
Initially, I thought there would just be about 5 to 6 people. It turned up that there were more people and among them, one of my colleagues. This colleague was the JC classmate of the host of the gathering.
There were 2 new born babies (about 3 months old) joining us in our gathering. They were the centres of our attention for the night, especially the baby girl. The parents were busy catering to her various demands - hunger, change of diaper, sleep, etc. The baby boy was the steady one, playing the perfect host and entertaining all the guests. Not once did he cry the entire night despite seeing so many foreign faces at once. In fact, he was busy smiling and laughing at his 'girl friend' (the baby girl). They were simply adorable. However, I declined when the baby girl's father offered the girl for me to carry. I still have qualms trying to hold them in my arms, as they are so vulnerable and I am so blur. Dropping non-living things on the floor may be embarrassing but not fatal. Dropping living things on the floor will be murder.
I have not been to any home gathering for a long time. The ambience was warm and homely. Although the faces were new, they have made me feel very welcome and at home. It was great meeting them. *Smile*
Initially, I thought there would just be about 5 to 6 people. It turned up that there were more people and among them, one of my colleagues. This colleague was the JC classmate of the host of the gathering.
There were 2 new born babies (about 3 months old) joining us in our gathering. They were the centres of our attention for the night, especially the baby girl. The parents were busy catering to her various demands - hunger, change of diaper, sleep, etc. The baby boy was the steady one, playing the perfect host and entertaining all the guests. Not once did he cry the entire night despite seeing so many foreign faces at once. In fact, he was busy smiling and laughing at his 'girl friend' (the baby girl). They were simply adorable. However, I declined when the baby girl's father offered the girl for me to carry. I still have qualms trying to hold them in my arms, as they are so vulnerable and I am so blur. Dropping non-living things on the floor may be embarrassing but not fatal. Dropping living things on the floor will be murder.
I have not been to any home gathering for a long time. The ambience was warm and homely. Although the faces were new, they have made me feel very welcome and at home. It was great meeting them. *Smile*
First Ride
Although Mr Lau has gotten his car for some time, I have not had the honour of getting any ride until yesterday, despite our living about 2 streets away, according to his mum. Being blur and direction sense hopeless, I do not know how far his house is from my house. In the first place, I cannot recall how to get to his house.
Well, I must conclude that he is quite a safe driver. Despite the hot weather and the long jam, I did not get any car sickness. *Smile*
On the day he was getting his new car, Dear and I were messaged and called him several times. We were excited about it. Since both Dear and I live in places along his way home, we were dying to be among the first to sit in a brand new car. Unfortunately, he was probably too preoccupied with getting used to his new car to reply our messages or return our calls. We went home on our own, disappointed.
I heard about his car from Dear on and off (like the car getting 'kissed' twice), but I have not seen it until last Saturday when I was returning Princess Hours to him after hogging it for about 2 weeks. It was a cobalt blue (my own definition as Dear told me Cobalt is not this colour) car. He was sitting inside the car while I passed him Princess Hours through his windows. It was too hot for any small talk. Anyway, we have known each other for so long that I have never bothered with small talks anymore. Even if there is any attempt of small talk, it will most likely end up as 'suaning' and words sparring. It was mere a 5-minute event, so I did not have a good glimpse of the much-talked about car.
Yesterday, as I was walking to the MRT station, he saw me walking by in his car and asked where I was going. When it turned up to the same destination, Mr Lau offered me a free ride. Finally! A chance to have more time to admire his car!
Although his parents were around, he still maintained his usual 'humorous' self. When he made a wrong turn to the car park, he has even commented this was a lesson to be learnt, ie if I ever need to go to the car park, I must remember that that was a wrong turn and avoid making the same mistake. Sigh! Isn't this an extension of his professional self or a manifestation of his job hazard?
In short, his driving skills are good. I have previously sat in cars which I felt nauseous at the end of the car ride. His parking skills are also good. It did not take too long for him to maneuver into the parking space. *Wink*
Well, I must conclude that he is quite a safe driver. Despite the hot weather and the long jam, I did not get any car sickness. *Smile*
On the day he was getting his new car, Dear and I were messaged and called him several times. We were excited about it. Since both Dear and I live in places along his way home, we were dying to be among the first to sit in a brand new car. Unfortunately, he was probably too preoccupied with getting used to his new car to reply our messages or return our calls. We went home on our own, disappointed.
I heard about his car from Dear on and off (like the car getting 'kissed' twice), but I have not seen it until last Saturday when I was returning Princess Hours to him after hogging it for about 2 weeks. It was a cobalt blue (my own definition as Dear told me Cobalt is not this colour) car. He was sitting inside the car while I passed him Princess Hours through his windows. It was too hot for any small talk. Anyway, we have known each other for so long that I have never bothered with small talks anymore. Even if there is any attempt of small talk, it will most likely end up as 'suaning' and words sparring. It was mere a 5-minute event, so I did not have a good glimpse of the much-talked about car.
Yesterday, as I was walking to the MRT station, he saw me walking by in his car and asked where I was going. When it turned up to the same destination, Mr Lau offered me a free ride. Finally! A chance to have more time to admire his car!
Although his parents were around, he still maintained his usual 'humorous' self. When he made a wrong turn to the car park, he has even commented this was a lesson to be learnt, ie if I ever need to go to the car park, I must remember that that was a wrong turn and avoid making the same mistake. Sigh! Isn't this an extension of his professional self or a manifestation of his job hazard?
In short, his driving skills are good. I have previously sat in cars which I felt nauseous at the end of the car ride. His parking skills are also good. It did not take too long for him to maneuver into the parking space. *Wink*
December 15, 2006
Christmas Tree
There is a real Christmas Tree which has been placed at the lobby of my office. Every morning or night as I walk past it to go to or to go off from work, there is faint pine fragrance in the air which constantly remind you that Christmas is near.
I have never seen or cannot recall ever seeing a real Christmas Tree, so I never know that a real Christmas Tree can be so enchanting and heart-warming.*Smile*
I have never seen or cannot recall ever seeing a real Christmas Tree, so I never know that a real Christmas Tree can be so enchanting and heart-warming.*Smile*
Tall vs Short
Do you always feel inferior or awkard about your height? Don't be, because tall people are intelligent and short people are smart. *Smile*
The above statement was meant to be an ice-breaker at the EQ seminar. When the trainer paired us up and wanted us to decide among ourselves who was the more intelligent person, we could not decide. Being Asians, it was already not in our culture to fight to be the more intelligent person. Moreover, intelligence could come in different aspects. It was tough to assess and conclude who outshine the other for intelligence. The trainer then told us that the taller one was the intelligent one while the shorter one was the smarter one. Thereafter, he went on to support this observation with real life examples.
It was meant to bring a smile to our face, but the message was clear. Regardless of how tall or short you are, there will always be another person who is taller or shorter than you. Hence, there will always be another person who is more intelligent or smarter than you. It is important to keep an open mind so that you can always learn from the next person who is either more intelligent or smarter than you.
The above statement was meant to be an ice-breaker at the EQ seminar. When the trainer paired us up and wanted us to decide among ourselves who was the more intelligent person, we could not decide. Being Asians, it was already not in our culture to fight to be the more intelligent person. Moreover, intelligence could come in different aspects. It was tough to assess and conclude who outshine the other for intelligence. The trainer then told us that the taller one was the intelligent one while the shorter one was the smarter one. Thereafter, he went on to support this observation with real life examples.
It was meant to bring a smile to our face, but the message was clear. Regardless of how tall or short you are, there will always be another person who is taller or shorter than you. Hence, there will always be another person who is more intelligent or smarter than you. It is important to keep an open mind so that you can always learn from the next person who is either more intelligent or smarter than you.
December 14, 2006
EQ
A few of us decided to sign up for a free seminar on EQ while the bosses sweat it out at the budget moderation with CEO.
I have been wanting to attend EQ courses before I switched jobs, but sadly, I have not been able to attend any so far. It was supposed to be experiential learning, so there were many activities lined up since the start of the course. There were also many anecdotal illustrations which were hilarious. We did not have any time to stone or to doze off.
A Missed Handshake
One of the most important message that was shared was that of a missed handshake. We may not remember what another person has said or done but we definitely remember how the person has made us feel. Alot of unhappiness or grudge can arise from a trivial "missed handshake". A "missed handshake" can include alot of acts which basically create an impression upon us that the person does not like us, for eg, when your boss does not smile at you when they meet you at the corridors.
Hence, if you notice that someone has been giving you the cold shoulders, you may want to talk to the person to determine if at some point in time, you have "missed a handshake". If yes, it is time to do service recovery and bury the old hatchet.
Love Yourself
Some people complained that they are unhappy because they are stuck in jobs or with bosses they do not like. They complained that they need to support the family so they needed to bear with the less than ideal job or working environment.
The trainer told us that this arose because these people did not love themselves enough. If they did, they would not have put up with these nonsenses. if they love themselves enough, they would value their dignity and would choose a job that may result in less monetary rewards. However, they would be happier and would be able to bring greater happiness to their family.
Listen to Your Heartbeat
The trainer has asked us to feel our heartbeat. We had some difficult time trying to find our hearts to get the pulses. It is important to feel our heartbeat as it tells us if we are feeling angry or upset. If we are, we will need to calm down. When we are going through an emotional outburst, we often end up doing things that will cause hurt to another party and which we will regret later on.
Hence, we should learn to understand the emotions which we are going through and to control them. We should also learn how to feel for others so that we will not always act in our own interests.
It was truly an insightful and entertaining half-day seminar.
I have been wanting to attend EQ courses before I switched jobs, but sadly, I have not been able to attend any so far. It was supposed to be experiential learning, so there were many activities lined up since the start of the course. There were also many anecdotal illustrations which were hilarious. We did not have any time to stone or to doze off.
A Missed Handshake
One of the most important message that was shared was that of a missed handshake. We may not remember what another person has said or done but we definitely remember how the person has made us feel. Alot of unhappiness or grudge can arise from a trivial "missed handshake". A "missed handshake" can include alot of acts which basically create an impression upon us that the person does not like us, for eg, when your boss does not smile at you when they meet you at the corridors.
Hence, if you notice that someone has been giving you the cold shoulders, you may want to talk to the person to determine if at some point in time, you have "missed a handshake". If yes, it is time to do service recovery and bury the old hatchet.
Love Yourself
Some people complained that they are unhappy because they are stuck in jobs or with bosses they do not like. They complained that they need to support the family so they needed to bear with the less than ideal job or working environment.
The trainer told us that this arose because these people did not love themselves enough. If they did, they would not have put up with these nonsenses. if they love themselves enough, they would value their dignity and would choose a job that may result in less monetary rewards. However, they would be happier and would be able to bring greater happiness to their family.
Listen to Your Heartbeat
The trainer has asked us to feel our heartbeat. We had some difficult time trying to find our hearts to get the pulses. It is important to feel our heartbeat as it tells us if we are feeling angry or upset. If we are, we will need to calm down. When we are going through an emotional outburst, we often end up doing things that will cause hurt to another party and which we will regret later on.
Hence, we should learn to understand the emotions which we are going through and to control them. We should also learn how to feel for others so that we will not always act in our own interests.
It was truly an insightful and entertaining half-day seminar.
December 11, 2006
Christmas Shopping Again
Today, it is more of a personal mission than a group mission. I sort of needed to get some Christmas gifts.
I am visiting 2 friends this weekend, so needed to get them something. For one of them, my friend has specifically warned me against getting vouchers, though I was quite tempted to do so. In the department of getting gifts, I am not exactly those whom you will define as creative or imaginative. I fall into the category known as pragmatists euphemistically.
I already have in mind what I wanted, so I just needed to walk briskly to the place, make a selection and pay for them. Sigh! There were so many selections. In the end, I spent more time deliberating what designs I should be getting. Nonetheless, I still took the whole hour of my lunch break and had to quickly grab a burger on my way back to office.
P.S. I cannot divulge what I have gotten because one of them may be reading this. =p
I am visiting 2 friends this weekend, so needed to get them something. For one of them, my friend has specifically warned me against getting vouchers, though I was quite tempted to do so. In the department of getting gifts, I am not exactly those whom you will define as creative or imaginative. I fall into the category known as pragmatists euphemistically.
I already have in mind what I wanted, so I just needed to walk briskly to the place, make a selection and pay for them. Sigh! There were so many selections. In the end, I spent more time deliberating what designs I should be getting. Nonetheless, I still took the whole hour of my lunch break and had to quickly grab a burger on my way back to office.
P.S. I cannot divulge what I have gotten because one of them may be reading this. =p
December 10, 2006
Gifts from Bangkok
My sister has came back from a short vacation in Bangkok about 2 weeks ago. This was a postponed trip because of the military coup previously. Instead of shopping for herself, she has ended up with more purchases for me.
She has bought for me:
1) 2 tops
2) 1 T-shirt
3) 1 pair of shorts
4) 1 skirt
5) 1 pouch
6) 1 bathrobe (for swimming purposes, so that it will not be so cold walking from the pool to the changing area)
7) 2 pairs of earrings (though we can share this)
8) 1 pair of flip flops
9) 1 pair of shoes (which was a size too big)
In fact, other than the shoes, everything else fits. It was almost as if I have been to Bangkok myself. Feeling abit ashamed, I have decided to reimburse her for all the purchases.
She has bought for me:
1) 2 tops
2) 1 T-shirt
3) 1 pair of shorts
4) 1 skirt
5) 1 pouch
6) 1 bathrobe (for swimming purposes, so that it will not be so cold walking from the pool to the changing area)
7) 2 pairs of earrings (though we can share this)
8) 1 pair of flip flops
9) 1 pair of shoes (which was a size too big)
In fact, other than the shoes, everything else fits. It was almost as if I have been to Bangkok myself. Feeling abit ashamed, I have decided to reimburse her for all the purchases.
Dust
I spent the last hour dusting and cleaning my room. My vacation leave towards the end of the year is not likely to be approved because of budget. Sadly, I will not get my routine break at the end of the year to do spring cleaning. Hence, I have better do abit of cleaning as and when I have the time on weekends.
Today, I have started with wiping of the cabinets, wardrobe, table top and window ledge. I have only cleaned the exterior. I guess cleaning the interior now is not especially productive when I have not cleared away the unwanted and old stuffs. I have cleaned the same places just about 4 months ago on my short break in between jobs. It was unbelievable how much dust has accumulated only in the short span of 4 months, especially at the corner areas. The water which I have used to wash the wiping cloth was murky and grey. Now, the room felt cleaner.
I still feel that cleaning is a very therapeutic process. Instead of going to spa to relax, maybe you can try cleaning. You can relax and at the same time you get some cleaning done. It is killing two birds with one stone.
Today, I have started with wiping of the cabinets, wardrobe, table top and window ledge. I have only cleaned the exterior. I guess cleaning the interior now is not especially productive when I have not cleared away the unwanted and old stuffs. I have cleaned the same places just about 4 months ago on my short break in between jobs. It was unbelievable how much dust has accumulated only in the short span of 4 months, especially at the corner areas. The water which I have used to wash the wiping cloth was murky and grey. Now, the room felt cleaner.
I still feel that cleaning is a very therapeutic process. Instead of going to spa to relax, maybe you can try cleaning. You can relax and at the same time you get some cleaning done. It is killing two birds with one stone.
December 09, 2006
Hui
She has seen me cry and vice versa.
She will be totally frank with me about my shortcomings and chide me when she thinks I am in the wrong.
She will stand by me when she knows I am in trouble, including dishing me advice on how to fight office politics and providing references to each other in job applications. *Wink*
Although we have been in the same school for 6 years, Hui and I have never been in the same class. We knew each other because we were friends of friends. We started to hang around each other more during JC days. We were the early birds and our classrooms were beside each other, so we have spent many mornings chit chatting to each other. That was when friendship between us strengthened.
Hui called me when she was undecided about which faculty she should enroll herself in. She called me again when she was undecided on whether she should switch firms. I could not give her the answers. I could only help her rationalize the answers which she should already have. Similarly, I have consulted her when I was undecided on whether I wanted to change job. Both she and Onion (her husband) visited me and spent half a day helping me decide.
Once, to spring a surprise on me on my birthday, she and Jen have even visited me late at night just to send her birthday wishes to me.
Many friends have gradually reduced their time spent with the clique when they became attached. On the contrary, Hui invited Onion to join us in our outings, so that Onion could know all her friends and vice versa. Simultaneously, she could spend time both with Onion and us – killing two birds with one stone. We did not lose a friend when she became attached, but we gained another friend (Onion) in the process.
In fact, Onion is the only husband/boyfriend among my friends which has become another old friend, instead of just the partner of a friend. Sad to say, for some of my oldest friends, I have only met their husbands/ boyfriends only on a couple of occasions. Other than some demographic (eg age, profession, name, etc) facts, I know next to nothing about them.
Whereas for Onion. I can be perfectly open in front of him, just like I have been with Hui. He has joined Hui in hearing about my complaints and my lackluster singing. He has joined Hui previously in rallying for me when I have finally decided to change job. He tried to stifle giggles when I went out of tune at Kbox.
Hui has stood by me for so many years and I hope I can reciprocate this support in the future years.
Afternoon Swim
I like swimming in the afternoon. Firstly, it is not as cold with the sun. Secondly, the pool is prettier when you are underwater with the sunlight filtering through.
I just came back from a swim. There were very few people in the pool, possibly because people were in town doing Christmas shopping or away overseas on vacation.
It was a very relaxing swimming. The quiet of being underwater provided similar effect to that of meditation, though I have never successfully meditated before. When I was tired, I stopped and rest at the pool side. As I closed my eyes and rest on the ledge, the warm breeze and the sun temporarily took away the hustle and bustle. It was as if I was on a beach relaxing.
There is one caveat to this though. I ended up looking more tanned because of the afternoon sun. Even an excolleague who has not seen me for about 3 months commented this when she met me a few weeks ago. Sigh!
I just came back from a swim. There were very few people in the pool, possibly because people were in town doing Christmas shopping or away overseas on vacation.
It was a very relaxing swimming. The quiet of being underwater provided similar effect to that of meditation, though I have never successfully meditated before. When I was tired, I stopped and rest at the pool side. As I closed my eyes and rest on the ledge, the warm breeze and the sun temporarily took away the hustle and bustle. It was as if I was on a beach relaxing.
There is one caveat to this though. I ended up looking more tanned because of the afternoon sun. Even an excolleague who has not seen me for about 3 months commented this when she met me a few weeks ago. Sigh!
December 08, 2006
Reconciliation Woes
Is this going to be a complaint session? Guess what? You are absolutely right!!!
One of the job hazards of being an accountant is at some point in time, regardless of which aspect of finance or accounting work you are doing, you will need to engage in some kind of reconciliation activity. It can involve tying numbers from one source to another, tying numbers among schedules, or tying numbers between years. It can come in ALL forms and formats and from ALL sources for ALL periods.
Since I started my first job about 4.5 years back, I have always been involved in different forms of reconciliation. From reconciling manual records to system records, system records to system records, sub ledgers to main ledgers, payments to statements of accounts, etc. To me, “reconciliation” is often associated with lots of headaches, nightmares and dread.
A change of working environment and a change of work scope did not relieve me of this drudgery. Now, I have to do reconciliation among similar sources, ie between manual records, between manual record and system and between systems. In addition, I have to reconcile numbers before elimination, elimination and post elimination. For someone who has not had consol experience, I practically was clueless on where I should start (Consol is a accounting term used for aggregating the accounts of related companies).
My latest challenge? To reconcile last year balances to this year’s and to quantify the financial impact of the changes in various parameters. This took me 2 weeks to do. I even had to come out with a simple example to determine how the numbers change with each parameter, so that I know what to subtract and what to multiply.
I hate reconciliation! Urrghh!!!
One of the job hazards of being an accountant is at some point in time, regardless of which aspect of finance or accounting work you are doing, you will need to engage in some kind of reconciliation activity. It can involve tying numbers from one source to another, tying numbers among schedules, or tying numbers between years. It can come in ALL forms and formats and from ALL sources for ALL periods.
Since I started my first job about 4.5 years back, I have always been involved in different forms of reconciliation. From reconciling manual records to system records, system records to system records, sub ledgers to main ledgers, payments to statements of accounts, etc. To me, “reconciliation” is often associated with lots of headaches, nightmares and dread.
A change of working environment and a change of work scope did not relieve me of this drudgery. Now, I have to do reconciliation among similar sources, ie between manual records, between manual record and system and between systems. In addition, I have to reconcile numbers before elimination, elimination and post elimination. For someone who has not had consol experience, I practically was clueless on where I should start (Consol is a accounting term used for aggregating the accounts of related companies).
My latest challenge? To reconcile last year balances to this year’s and to quantify the financial impact of the changes in various parameters. This took me 2 weeks to do. I even had to come out with a simple example to determine how the numbers change with each parameter, so that I know what to subtract and what to multiply.
I hate reconciliation! Urrghh!!!
Stiff Neck
I have been having a stiff neck and tight shoulders for quite some time. I wonder whether it is due to my sitting or sleeping posture.
To seek some relief, I have been getting my mum to rub “Yoko Yoko” on my neck and shoulders for the past few days. It is really amazing. The ointment worked so well that I slept very soundly for the entire night and I refused to wake up in the morning.
For a long while, I always have stiff neck and tight shoulders. I have changed pillows, tried to stretch around after staring at the PC for some times and even tried changing my sleeping posture. Some of these helped for a short while. Some practically have no effect at all.
Suddenly, I thought of my FYP mate who was really good at shoulder and neck message. She has only helped me message twice – once during JC days and once during Uni days. Her massage was really comfortable. Too bad, I have no kept in touch with her after Uni days.
For all we know, she may have opened her own massage palor, given her entrepreneurial spirit. *Wink*
To seek some relief, I have been getting my mum to rub “Yoko Yoko” on my neck and shoulders for the past few days. It is really amazing. The ointment worked so well that I slept very soundly for the entire night and I refused to wake up in the morning.
For a long while, I always have stiff neck and tight shoulders. I have changed pillows, tried to stretch around after staring at the PC for some times and even tried changing my sleeping posture. Some of these helped for a short while. Some practically have no effect at all.
Suddenly, I thought of my FYP mate who was really good at shoulder and neck message. She has only helped me message twice – once during JC days and once during Uni days. Her massage was really comfortable. Too bad, I have no kept in touch with her after Uni days.
For all we know, she may have opened her own massage palor, given her entrepreneurial spirit. *Wink*
December 07, 2006
Budget Grief
This is the first time I have encountered such a candid response to budget queries. Maybe they were dying to get rid of me after my incessant pestering and harrassment or maybe they were cornered and had to come clean.
For the past 2 weeks, we were busy reviewing the numbers and calling our line managers to check their assumptions. They grumbled and complained about our 'interrogation' while we grumbled and complained about their nebulous responses which seemed to say alot but mean nothing. Finally, the revenue budget is coming to its tail end. We are in the last leg of the race to do a sanity check of the numbers.
When I was doing a projection of some of the revenues from past trends, I noted some deviation between the submission and my projection. When I pressed the line to share their assumptions and to explain for the variance, the line managers blatantly told me that they were being conservative.
Hang on!
Thank you for being so forthcoming with me, but a budget is supposed to be realistic not conservative!
A budget is supposed to be providing an outlook of the next year's performance so that the company can better allocate its resources. A conservative budget can lead to wrong decisions. It is not meant to be cushioned so that one can always outperform expectations.
Sigh! I must really drill down more...
For the past 2 weeks, we were busy reviewing the numbers and calling our line managers to check their assumptions. They grumbled and complained about our 'interrogation' while we grumbled and complained about their nebulous responses which seemed to say alot but mean nothing. Finally, the revenue budget is coming to its tail end. We are in the last leg of the race to do a sanity check of the numbers.
When I was doing a projection of some of the revenues from past trends, I noted some deviation between the submission and my projection. When I pressed the line to share their assumptions and to explain for the variance, the line managers blatantly told me that they were being conservative.
Hang on!
Thank you for being so forthcoming with me, but a budget is supposed to be realistic not conservative!
A budget is supposed to be providing an outlook of the next year's performance so that the company can better allocate its resources. A conservative budget can lead to wrong decisions. It is not meant to be cushioned so that one can always outperform expectations.
Sigh! I must really drill down more...
One Musketeer Away
Ah Peng just flew off to Taiwan for her holidays about 4 hours ago. She will be out of action for a few days. We are one musketeer less for this week. Ms Chan will also be flying off for her holidays end December. I am the only one stuck here. *Sob, sob*
Ah Peng, enjoy yourself. See you next week.
Ah Peng, enjoy yourself. See you next week.
December 06, 2006
Christmas Shopping
I admit we were slightly atrocious today, but it was all done for a good cause. The 6 of us took a 2.5 hour lunch break today and wondered all the way to Takashimaya.
We were on a mission.
We were getting Christmas presents for our bosses and the Junior Officers (JOs) in our Department. In total, we needed to get 9 presents with a budget of $10 per person.
The Event Hall of Takashimaya was bustling with the pre-Christmas crowd. There was so much selection and many were simply so adorable that we were more occupied looking at things we liked rather than what we should be getting as presents.
We finally decided we would get some rather glamorous looking handphone pouches for some of the Junior Officers, it was yet again a difficult round of deliberation - what colours to get, what sizes, what handphones they were currently using. Some JOs were more practical, so handphone pouches might not be a good choice for them. It was tough decision on whether we should get them towels or mugs. Apparently, Aussino towels come in a set of hand, facial and bath towels for slightly above $10. In the end, we decided on cups for the rest of the JOs. For one of our bosses, we have decided to get hand cream from Crabtree and Evelyn.
This was actually the promotion period for Takashimaya, so we saved about 10% when we used Takashimaya card.
Sigh! For the other boss, we have yet to decide on what to buy because he seemed to have everything. Maybe we could brainstorm while we wrap the presents during lunch on Friday. ;-p
We were on a mission.
We were getting Christmas presents for our bosses and the Junior Officers (JOs) in our Department. In total, we needed to get 9 presents with a budget of $10 per person.
The Event Hall of Takashimaya was bustling with the pre-Christmas crowd. There was so much selection and many were simply so adorable that we were more occupied looking at things we liked rather than what we should be getting as presents.
We finally decided we would get some rather glamorous looking handphone pouches for some of the Junior Officers, it was yet again a difficult round of deliberation - what colours to get, what sizes, what handphones they were currently using. Some JOs were more practical, so handphone pouches might not be a good choice for them. It was tough decision on whether we should get them towels or mugs. Apparently, Aussino towels come in a set of hand, facial and bath towels for slightly above $10. In the end, we decided on cups for the rest of the JOs. For one of our bosses, we have decided to get hand cream from Crabtree and Evelyn.
This was actually the promotion period for Takashimaya, so we saved about 10% when we used Takashimaya card.
Sigh! For the other boss, we have yet to decide on what to buy because he seemed to have everything. Maybe we could brainstorm while we wrap the presents during lunch on Friday. ;-p
December 04, 2006
Slow Culinary Skills
I am well-known in my family for being slow and blur. Maybe this is a chicken and egg issue. I am slow because I am blur. As I am slow, I appear more blur. It is pure vicious cycle.
I treated my mum and sister to dinner yesterday to cheer them up. After the dinner, I asked my mum whether she has found the dinner satisfactory. She replied positively and added that food would taste especially delicious when someone prepared for you. Sensing the BIG hint, I willfully replied that if she liked, I could cook for her.
Suddenly, my "beloved" sister interrupted that if I were to cook, they could probably have the first dish at 9 pm and maybe the second dish at 10 pm. I am not blind to the sarcasm that she was driving at. I retorted that if she wanted the first dish at 9 pm, I probably would need to start preparation from 12 pm.
She was not exaggerating and neither was I being humble. I am really that slow, forgetful and blur - an extremely potent combination in the adverse manner when in the kitchen. My mum has become so exasperated and has literally given up on me the few times she has tried to teach me how to cook. She ended up watching out for me instead of taking a break.
My best friend - Dear, has informed me today that one of our friends has fallen ill and alone at home. He was too weak to go and pack, so he has to cook instant noodles for dinner. He happens to live in my vicinity, so Dear was hoping I could help him a little. It was definitely beyond my expectation that when I jokingly asked Dear if I should cook for him, she has actually felt that it was a good idea. My first response was no way was I able to achieve that. In fact, I said the same to the unfortunate friend as well.
Apologies to him for sounding so callous, but think he will end up in a more dire state waiting for me to finish cooking. He probably would not get his dinner even by tomorrow morning and this was provided the "dinner" was edible and poisonless in the first place.
I am really quite hopeless and slow when it comes to cooking. I guess the best I could do is to pack for him. The caveat is I have better not lost my way in reaching his house, given my blurness and poor direction sense. "Sheepish Grin"
I treated my mum and sister to dinner yesterday to cheer them up. After the dinner, I asked my mum whether she has found the dinner satisfactory. She replied positively and added that food would taste especially delicious when someone prepared for you. Sensing the BIG hint, I willfully replied that if she liked, I could cook for her.
Suddenly, my "beloved" sister interrupted that if I were to cook, they could probably have the first dish at 9 pm and maybe the second dish at 10 pm. I am not blind to the sarcasm that she was driving at. I retorted that if she wanted the first dish at 9 pm, I probably would need to start preparation from 12 pm.
She was not exaggerating and neither was I being humble. I am really that slow, forgetful and blur - an extremely potent combination in the adverse manner when in the kitchen. My mum has become so exasperated and has literally given up on me the few times she has tried to teach me how to cook. She ended up watching out for me instead of taking a break.
My best friend - Dear, has informed me today that one of our friends has fallen ill and alone at home. He was too weak to go and pack, so he has to cook instant noodles for dinner. He happens to live in my vicinity, so Dear was hoping I could help him a little. It was definitely beyond my expectation that when I jokingly asked Dear if I should cook for him, she has actually felt that it was a good idea. My first response was no way was I able to achieve that. In fact, I said the same to the unfortunate friend as well.
Apologies to him for sounding so callous, but think he will end up in a more dire state waiting for me to finish cooking. He probably would not get his dinner even by tomorrow morning and this was provided the "dinner" was edible and poisonless in the first place.
I am really quite hopeless and slow when it comes to cooking. I guess the best I could do is to pack for him. The caveat is I have better not lost my way in reaching his house, given my blurness and poor direction sense. "Sheepish Grin"
Christmas is Around the Corner
Christmas will be here in around 20 days.
Have you bought your presents? If not, you may need to start thinking and acting real soon to beat the crowd (thought my friend felt that it's more like joining the crowd instead).
Have you already made plans on how you are going to spend Christmas eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day? If not, you may want to start planning for the slightly extended weekend.
Have you seen the Christmas lighting along Orchard Road (stretching to Cityhall)? If not, you may want to pop down for a stroll this weekend (personally, I prefer a stroll for admiring the lightings than by driving through).
Christmas is just around the corner. :-)
Have you bought your presents? If not, you may need to start thinking and acting real soon to beat the crowd (thought my friend felt that it's more like joining the crowd instead).
Have you already made plans on how you are going to spend Christmas eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day? If not, you may want to start planning for the slightly extended weekend.
Have you seen the Christmas lighting along Orchard Road (stretching to Cityhall)? If not, you may want to pop down for a stroll this weekend (personally, I prefer a stroll for admiring the lightings than by driving through).
Christmas is just around the corner. :-)
December 03, 2006
Peace
In war, no one is a winner, regardless of whether you have managed to protect or extend your interests.
This was a strong message brought across in "A Battle of Wits". In summary, "A Battle of Wits" is about wars between a big and a small country. Ge Li helped the small country put up a strong defence. However, his success and the trust and respect which he has garnered from the people attracted unwarranted jealousy from the King of the country. His opponent decided to put up a last fight which has resulted in more deaths among the people. The opponent opined that whoever lived to see the next day is the winner. Yet, Ge Li felt that many innocent lives were taken when they became the pawns of the generals. In war, no one is a winner. If peace has ensued, no one needs to die.
Sometimes I felt that people in the current era and generation seem to have a better life. To some extent, we seem to take peace for granted at times. The biggest takeaway from the movie is that there is a high price to pay when we go into wars.
P.S. Fortunately, this time round the dialogues are in simpler Chinese which I still can understand. This time, I watched it at GV North Point. Frankly speaking, I have not been to North Point since it first opened many years ago. *Wink*
This was a strong message brought across in "A Battle of Wits". In summary, "A Battle of Wits" is about wars between a big and a small country. Ge Li helped the small country put up a strong defence. However, his success and the trust and respect which he has garnered from the people attracted unwarranted jealousy from the King of the country. His opponent decided to put up a last fight which has resulted in more deaths among the people. The opponent opined that whoever lived to see the next day is the winner. Yet, Ge Li felt that many innocent lives were taken when they became the pawns of the generals. In war, no one is a winner. If peace has ensued, no one needs to die.
Sometimes I felt that people in the current era and generation seem to have a better life. To some extent, we seem to take peace for granted at times. The biggest takeaway from the movie is that there is a high price to pay when we go into wars.
P.S. Fortunately, this time round the dialogues are in simpler Chinese which I still can understand. This time, I watched it at GV North Point. Frankly speaking, I have not been to North Point since it first opened many years ago. *Wink*
December 02, 2006
National Library Tours
Last week, I went to Central National Library. This week, I went to the new Bishan National Library.
It was not the first time I went to Central National Library. The last time I was there was a few weeks after its official opening. Thereafter, I have never been there again. It was by chance we have decided to visit it. Our original destination was Raffles City but the long traffic jam caused us to change our minds and we made a turn to National Library instead.
Today, it was yet another "accident" that we landed up in Bishan National Library. We have wanted to go to Causeway Point but a wrong turn made us change our minds. We have decided to go Junction 8 instead. While there, I decided to pay the National Library a visit. Afterall, it was brand new and I have never been there. It was a 4-storey building which was bright and spacious, with many drop-floor glass panels and ample sitting areas.
Maybe tomorrow I should drop by my nearest branch to see if there is any interesting read. =p
It was not the first time I went to Central National Library. The last time I was there was a few weeks after its official opening. Thereafter, I have never been there again. It was by chance we have decided to visit it. Our original destination was Raffles City but the long traffic jam caused us to change our minds and we made a turn to National Library instead.
Today, it was yet another "accident" that we landed up in Bishan National Library. We have wanted to go to Causeway Point but a wrong turn made us change our minds. We have decided to go Junction 8 instead. While there, I decided to pay the National Library a visit. Afterall, it was brand new and I have never been there. It was a 4-storey building which was bright and spacious, with many drop-floor glass panels and ample sitting areas.
Maybe tomorrow I should drop by my nearest branch to see if there is any interesting read. =p
Bilingual?
Singaporeans are becoming more and more bilingual. In the past, distinction between the mother tongue and our first language - English was clear. This was evident from the media which we were exposed to. On Channel 8, you would hardly see anything in English, except for the subtitles. In the Chinese newspapers, you would not see any English article.
Nowadays, the distinction has blurred. Sometimes, we will see Chinese show trailers (in Chinese) on Channel 5 or English show trailers (in English) on Channel 8. We will also see English articles in Chinese newspapers or Chinese articles peppered with English words. Some columnists can write well both in English and Chinese.
Singaporeans sometimes have been criticised for speaking improperly, especially when we tend to mix a language into another in our conversations. This was sometimes perceived as inappropriate especially in more formal settings or in front of foreign delegates. There seemed to be a shift towards mastering one language rather than attempting to be bilingual which was encouraged when I was still in school.
Personally, I still feel that I have benefited from having English and Chinese as my first languages in secondary school. In daily conversations at more casual settings, sometimes a certain situation or feeling can be more aptly expressed in one language than another. For instance, when we want to encourage someone, we often use "Jia1 You2" in Chinese. If we were to express this in English, despite wracking through my brains for a long time, I cannot find a synonymous phrase. The closest I can think of is "Keep it up!' but somehow it lacks the punch as the Chinese version.
Or maybe my failure to come out with an appropriate term in English is a sign of my poor grasp of either language?
Nowadays, the distinction has blurred. Sometimes, we will see Chinese show trailers (in Chinese) on Channel 5 or English show trailers (in English) on Channel 8. We will also see English articles in Chinese newspapers or Chinese articles peppered with English words. Some columnists can write well both in English and Chinese.
Singaporeans sometimes have been criticised for speaking improperly, especially when we tend to mix a language into another in our conversations. This was sometimes perceived as inappropriate especially in more formal settings or in front of foreign delegates. There seemed to be a shift towards mastering one language rather than attempting to be bilingual which was encouraged when I was still in school.
Personally, I still feel that I have benefited from having English and Chinese as my first languages in secondary school. In daily conversations at more casual settings, sometimes a certain situation or feeling can be more aptly expressed in one language than another. For instance, when we want to encourage someone, we often use "Jia1 You2" in Chinese. If we were to express this in English, despite wracking through my brains for a long time, I cannot find a synonymous phrase. The closest I can think of is "Keep it up!' but somehow it lacks the punch as the Chinese version.
Or maybe my failure to come out with an appropriate term in English is a sign of my poor grasp of either language?
December 01, 2006
Horoscope
“A chance encounter will bring you wealth. Take advice from your family before going into business ventures”
“Tensions between you and your loved ones are likely. Keep calm and refrain from acting on impulse.”
Sounds familiar?
Are your days guided by these snippets of advices dished out for your signs daily? Do you fervently search for the latest prophecy when you grab hold of the papers or a glossy magazine? Will your mood be affected by whether it has been a “happy” or “sad” day prediction?
Some of us steal a glance at the latest prediction covertly out of curiosity. Some of us openly read the predictions as if our success or failure of the day depends on the forewarnings. Our interests are often piqued when we come across the horoscope section, be it the Chinese, the Western or the Tarot. Regardless of whether you are a believer of the horoscope, your smile will inevitably be wider when a lucky day is predicted.
I used to be an ardent fan of the horoscope, always wanting to know what the stars have to say about the current day, week, month or year. Be it growing maturity or increasing cynicism, nowadays I take such predictions with a pinch of salt. This does not mean that I discredit the accuracy of the predictions, but that my mood and decisions will not be driven by the predictions, ie adopt a more blasé attitude.
Sometimes, the predictions become self-fulfilling prophecy. For instance, when you read that you will have a bad day, it somehow gives the day a gloomy start. The low morale adversely affects your confidence which also leads to higher tendency of errors and misjudgment. This compounded the likelihood that something will go wrong. When things go astray, we then blame it on the bad luck as predicted by the astrologers.
Once you read the horoscope, it is almost impossible not to be affected by the predictions. The solution to ensure one’s mood is not influenced by any prediction is to avoid reading any horoscope. If you still have a dying urge to know what the stars are forecasting, read only at the end of the day, unless you have so short-term memory that you forget the minute you read it. "Wink"
“Tensions between you and your loved ones are likely. Keep calm and refrain from acting on impulse.”
Sounds familiar?
Are your days guided by these snippets of advices dished out for your signs daily? Do you fervently search for the latest prophecy when you grab hold of the papers or a glossy magazine? Will your mood be affected by whether it has been a “happy” or “sad” day prediction?
Some of us steal a glance at the latest prediction covertly out of curiosity. Some of us openly read the predictions as if our success or failure of the day depends on the forewarnings. Our interests are often piqued when we come across the horoscope section, be it the Chinese, the Western or the Tarot. Regardless of whether you are a believer of the horoscope, your smile will inevitably be wider when a lucky day is predicted.
I used to be an ardent fan of the horoscope, always wanting to know what the stars have to say about the current day, week, month or year. Be it growing maturity or increasing cynicism, nowadays I take such predictions with a pinch of salt. This does not mean that I discredit the accuracy of the predictions, but that my mood and decisions will not be driven by the predictions, ie adopt a more blasé attitude.
Sometimes, the predictions become self-fulfilling prophecy. For instance, when you read that you will have a bad day, it somehow gives the day a gloomy start. The low morale adversely affects your confidence which also leads to higher tendency of errors and misjudgment. This compounded the likelihood that something will go wrong. When things go astray, we then blame it on the bad luck as predicted by the astrologers.
Once you read the horoscope, it is almost impossible not to be affected by the predictions. The solution to ensure one’s mood is not influenced by any prediction is to avoid reading any horoscope. If you still have a dying urge to know what the stars are forecasting, read only at the end of the day, unless you have so short-term memory that you forget the minute you read it. "Wink"
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