I like the writing of Jane Green. She often gives very vivid description of the characters in her novels. Her works may not involve plots that are out of the ordinary. Neither does her writing involve alot of mulling and pondering. The characters lead ordinary lives and are troubled by trivial and mundane matters just like you and I. Maybe this is the reason for the stories being especially endearing. It sometimes creates a mild ache in your heart or brings a faint smile to your face. All because we see a hint of ourselves in these characters.
Mr Maybe is about a young girl who was caught in the perennial dilemma of being with someone who was suitable for her or someone who she could connect better.
Mr A was a young successful banker who was voted as one of the most eligible bachelor. He was eccentric and was boring. However, he had a steady job, could afford to pamper the girl and even had a house ready for marriage. He pampered her greatly.
On the other hand, Mr B connected very well with the girl. He was the girl's best friend. However, he did not have a steady job. When they went on dates, the girl had to be paying for their expenses. He was unkempt and mixed around with a bunch of arty farty. Just like most girls who were good chameleons and could morph into the dream girl of any guy. She dressed down when she was with Mr B and became a socialite when she was with Mr A.
Bread and love? Which one did you go for?
Well, I shan't spoil the fun of finding out the ending for you. If you were her, which were you choose? Is your heart so malleable that you can ignore its pleas and opt for bread? Can love retain its power in the face of hunger? The balance between bread and love is different for each person. You need to make your own decision.
September 30, 2009
September 29, 2009
Abalone Feast
I heard raving reviews from some colleagues about the value-for-money abalone feast which is just across at Orchard Central. The more I heard, the more I was looking forward to eating my abalone feast. A few of use decided to check out this new eatery.
We were expecting queues for its promotional offer. We were pleasantly surprised that it was not as crowded as we thought. Perhaps it was still relatively new and few had heard about its current offer.
Of course, we had to go for the $5 offer for the second order of abalone fried rice. Initially, we were concerned if 4 servings of abalone fried rice were enough to feed 5 starving girls, especially when one of them would be eating for 2 people. We decided to add a plate of vegetables to balance our nutrients.
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The abalone fried rice was certainly more than enough to go by. In fact, we were feeling so full after the meal that we were worried that we could not stay awake for the remaining afternoon (lucky, there was no meeting scheduled). We were pretty satisfied with the meal and hoped to come back for more.
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We were expecting queues for its promotional offer. We were pleasantly surprised that it was not as crowded as we thought. Perhaps it was still relatively new and few had heard about its current offer.
Of course, we had to go for the $5 offer for the second order of abalone fried rice. Initially, we were concerned if 4 servings of abalone fried rice were enough to feed 5 starving girls, especially when one of them would be eating for 2 people. We decided to add a plate of vegetables to balance our nutrients.
The abalone fried rice was certainly more than enough to go by. In fact, we were feeling so full after the meal that we were worried that we could not stay awake for the remaining afternoon (lucky, there was no meeting scheduled). We were pretty satisfied with the meal and hoped to come back for more.
September 26, 2009
Spring Cleaning
There will be some friends coming tomorrow, so we have to do some spring cleaning before we welcome them. Although we have moved in only for 8 months, I cannot believe the amount of dirt and rubbish we have accumulated in a short span of 8 months. What initially meant to be only a minor cleaning turns out to be a half day's work of intensive wiping.
My legs and arms are aching very badly now.
My legs and arms are aching very badly now.
September 23, 2009
The Alternate
I think I am weird. Recently, When I watch dramas involving 2 guys falling in love with the same girl, I ended up rooting for the second male lead instead.
In My Queen, I was rooting for Yunhao rather than Lucas. I felt that Yunhao was a more suitable partner for Wushuang given their same background and his maturity. Lucas was too rash and too young to really understand what Wushuang was going through sometimes.
In Flowers Over Boys, I was rooting for Zhihou rather than Ju Junbiao. Again I felt for Zhihou with his silent but unwavering love for Jin Sicao rather than the huge actions from Junbiao whose stubborn love could harm Sicao more than what he foresaw.
Strange, but I actually wanted a different endings from what the producers of the show intended.
In My Queen, I was rooting for Yunhao rather than Lucas. I felt that Yunhao was a more suitable partner for Wushuang given their same background and his maturity. Lucas was too rash and too young to really understand what Wushuang was going through sometimes.
In Flowers Over Boys, I was rooting for Zhihou rather than Ju Junbiao. Again I felt for Zhihou with his silent but unwavering love for Jin Sicao rather than the huge actions from Junbiao whose stubborn love could harm Sicao more than what he foresaw.
Strange, but I actually wanted a different endings from what the producers of the show intended.
September 22, 2009
Confession of a Spinster
Spinster may sound derogatory. Bacholorette is too much of a euphemism and connotes too ideal or a rosy situation. My Queen depicted the life a single woman who has since passed her marriageable age, ie 30-year old and her attempt to fend off social pressure while seeking her ideals.
She was mistakenly preceived as an obnoxious workaholic by her colleagues. Her well-intentions often took an unforeseeable twist which resulted in some dire consequences. To survive and to excel, she had to disregard the preceptions of others so as to get her goals. After being so committed in her career pursuits for several years, she had built an armour of an aloof and even unscrupulous facade.
You may think this is sad. You may shake your head at her behaviour. I certainly can relate to her.
No matter how advanced we are in our society, we still steadfastly hold on to the ideals that all women should get married, have children and devote their lives to the caring of their family. Do not get me wrong, I agree to these ideals strongly. Yet, we never know what life has in store for us. Not everyone can realised this ideals or live out their lives in accordance to these ideals, by the drop of the hat.
Meanwhile, for those of us who have yet to attain this ideal, life still goes on. Without the comfort backing of a husband or the convenient excuse of juggling family and work, we can only strive to excel in work. It is both for survival and finding meaning in life. We need to ensure that we do well in work so that we can support ourselves financially because we do not have someone to share the financial load. We have to commit ourselves to work because success in work is the only yardstick for our meaning in life. We can never turn to having to tend to young babies as reasons for getting a bad appraisals. If we ever get bad appraisal, it is simply because we are lousy.
We have to be aggressive and independent. This is our weapons. No one will tend to us when we need help, so learning to help ourselves is the only choice. Do not suggest friends. Friends who have started their own families become distant faces that you only see during major celebrations or festivities. We have to be aggressive because there is not knights to fight of the dragons. Wake up. The best way to fight off dragons is to scare them away.
Work-life-balance? We have aplenty. Our routine involves going to work, work, and going home. Social calendar? More blanks than marks. Our battle at work to ensure we emerge as victors have left us drained. Moreover, our shrinking social circle only serves to exacerbate the situation.
Do not misunderstand. This is not self-pitying. Neither am I lamenting at my own circumstances. Granted this may sound more depressing than my original intent, but I am still a happy spinsters. Let's face it, I would rather enjoy my mundane life than to learn to live with an unsuitable spouse. Meanwhile, while I hold on to the hope that my soul mate is certainly somewhere out there, I will continue to luxuriate in my freedom.
- Confessions of a fellow Spinster
She was mistakenly preceived as an obnoxious workaholic by her colleagues. Her well-intentions often took an unforeseeable twist which resulted in some dire consequences. To survive and to excel, she had to disregard the preceptions of others so as to get her goals. After being so committed in her career pursuits for several years, she had built an armour of an aloof and even unscrupulous facade.
You may think this is sad. You may shake your head at her behaviour. I certainly can relate to her.
No matter how advanced we are in our society, we still steadfastly hold on to the ideals that all women should get married, have children and devote their lives to the caring of their family. Do not get me wrong, I agree to these ideals strongly. Yet, we never know what life has in store for us. Not everyone can realised this ideals or live out their lives in accordance to these ideals, by the drop of the hat.
Meanwhile, for those of us who have yet to attain this ideal, life still goes on. Without the comfort backing of a husband or the convenient excuse of juggling family and work, we can only strive to excel in work. It is both for survival and finding meaning in life. We need to ensure that we do well in work so that we can support ourselves financially because we do not have someone to share the financial load. We have to commit ourselves to work because success in work is the only yardstick for our meaning in life. We can never turn to having to tend to young babies as reasons for getting a bad appraisals. If we ever get bad appraisal, it is simply because we are lousy.
We have to be aggressive and independent. This is our weapons. No one will tend to us when we need help, so learning to help ourselves is the only choice. Do not suggest friends. Friends who have started their own families become distant faces that you only see during major celebrations or festivities. We have to be aggressive because there is not knights to fight of the dragons. Wake up. The best way to fight off dragons is to scare them away.
Work-life-balance? We have aplenty. Our routine involves going to work, work, and going home. Social calendar? More blanks than marks. Our battle at work to ensure we emerge as victors have left us drained. Moreover, our shrinking social circle only serves to exacerbate the situation.
Do not misunderstand. This is not self-pitying. Neither am I lamenting at my own circumstances. Granted this may sound more depressing than my original intent, but I am still a happy spinsters. Let's face it, I would rather enjoy my mundane life than to learn to live with an unsuitable spouse. Meanwhile, while I hold on to the hope that my soul mate is certainly somewhere out there, I will continue to luxuriate in my freedom.
- Confessions of a fellow Spinster
September 21, 2009
Lies - Difference between a Man and a Woman
The night before Yunhao was to marry Wushuang, he was left alone as Wushuang was rushing the report to clarify that Lucas was not a murderer. He met a marriage consultant whom Wushuang had gone to previously to find a suitable match. During the conversation, his troubles were perceived by the astute marriage consultant. She shared with him that men lied to protect themselves while women lied to protect the ones they loved. The morale of the story was that Wushuang might have lied about her love to Yunhao in order to protect Yunhao given what he had gone through for the past 6 years.
Is this true? It may again a sweeping statement. Yet, we often cannot deny it being more often right than wrong.
When you go shopping with your husband or boyfriend, how often do they lie so that you will quickly grab and go and they can go back to their soccer? When you go shopping with your girlfriends, how often do they lie so as to make you feel more confident and less self-conscious?
It is certainly food for thought.
Is this true? It may again a sweeping statement. Yet, we often cannot deny it being more often right than wrong.
When you go shopping with your husband or boyfriend, how often do they lie so that you will quickly grab and go and they can go back to their soccer? When you go shopping with your girlfriends, how often do they lie so as to make you feel more confident and less self-conscious?
It is certainly food for thought.
Hooked on My Queen (敗犬女王)
My Queen is about a 33-year old career woman - Shan Wushuang who was long past her marriageable age. Despite her successful career, she was often teased for being an old spinster. She encountered a man who was eight years her junior. Although they fell in love with each other, it was not without the trials and tribulations typical of any Taiwanese drama, However, their challenges were more real and less dramatic as they had to deal with their eight years' gap as well as the society's stigma for such a relationship.
Jen and SM were strongly recommending me this series the last time we met. I never knew what they were talking about until I started watching. Then I realised I was hooked. I just wanted to know what happened next. It has been ages since I tried to watch a drama so tirelessly. In fact, I was reduced to a couch potato for the whole of the long weekend.
Shan Wushuang was so endearing that I felt like watching again even after I completed the series. I could relate to the show so much probably because I could fully comprehend the dilemma and could empathise with her plight very well, albeit minus the successful career part.
It is not just a show for single women and men. It is a show for everyone.
September 20, 2009
Love of Piano
I have almost forgotten my love for piano. Unbelievable, isn't it? How can I banish from one's thoughts that one likes? The monotony and the drudgery have banished any interests and dreams to a faraway land where I start to question whether such dreams exist even in the first place. Sad, isn't it?
Fortunately, these loves have just merely be hidden and not killed. When there is any trigger, the loves will reveal itself again.
I have played the electone before. Just like language, music is not something I excel in. I guess I have always been a more methodical person who do better in sciences and maths which are based on facts rather than talent. On music and language, I can pass if I work hard enough. Unfortunately, in this case, working hard is simply not enough.
No matter how hard I practise, I can only perfect the techniques but never the song because I just do not have a good rythmn sense. Getting the chords and beat right often is based on counting right from the start of the tune to the end it. For those people who have sung ktv with me before, you might have noticed that I tend to sway a fair bit when I am singing. This is not to show off my dancing skills (or rather the lack of). This is my form of counting the beat so that my off-beat singing will not be as obvious to make the song unbearable.
Notwithstanding my incompetence, I still love music and all musical instruments, especially the sound of piano. Some instruments will rake up certain memories when you listen to its tune. For instance, the cello tend to be more melancholic, while the viola tend to be more vibrant. The harp is soothing while the drum excites. The oboe reminds one of winter while the flute reminds one of spring. Yet, the piano encapsulates all seasons and moods depending on the tune on hand. I like its versatility.
These sentiments were ignited once again when I passed by the Yamaha music school - a place where I have spent many after school hours there for the first 10 years of my school. The lovely piano playing drew me into the school and I was once again enraptured by the piano. It may be a silly stereotype but I always feel that people who can play a musical instrument exudes a certain confidence and grace. This aura enhances their beauty.
Maybe I can learn to play a piano on leisure, since a piano is in many ways similar to electone. I know I will never reach professional standard but this may be a way to fulfil a long-time dream.
Fortunately, these loves have just merely be hidden and not killed. When there is any trigger, the loves will reveal itself again.
I have played the electone before. Just like language, music is not something I excel in. I guess I have always been a more methodical person who do better in sciences and maths which are based on facts rather than talent. On music and language, I can pass if I work hard enough. Unfortunately, in this case, working hard is simply not enough.
No matter how hard I practise, I can only perfect the techniques but never the song because I just do not have a good rythmn sense. Getting the chords and beat right often is based on counting right from the start of the tune to the end it. For those people who have sung ktv with me before, you might have noticed that I tend to sway a fair bit when I am singing. This is not to show off my dancing skills (or rather the lack of). This is my form of counting the beat so that my off-beat singing will not be as obvious to make the song unbearable.
Notwithstanding my incompetence, I still love music and all musical instruments, especially the sound of piano. Some instruments will rake up certain memories when you listen to its tune. For instance, the cello tend to be more melancholic, while the viola tend to be more vibrant. The harp is soothing while the drum excites. The oboe reminds one of winter while the flute reminds one of spring. Yet, the piano encapsulates all seasons and moods depending on the tune on hand. I like its versatility.
These sentiments were ignited once again when I passed by the Yamaha music school - a place where I have spent many after school hours there for the first 10 years of my school. The lovely piano playing drew me into the school and I was once again enraptured by the piano. It may be a silly stereotype but I always feel that people who can play a musical instrument exudes a certain confidence and grace. This aura enhances their beauty.
Maybe I can learn to play a piano on leisure, since a piano is in many ways similar to electone. I know I will never reach professional standard but this may be a way to fulfil a long-time dream.
September 19, 2009
Philosophical Enquiries and Pretentious Postulations
From the title, one can immediately discern that it is a book devoted to denouncing the importance of philosophy especially on the grounds of philosophy being pompous and pretentious.
The book started off with a humourous twists to some of the more popular sayings.
What we know: "The early bird gets the worm."
The humourous version: The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse will get the cheese."
What we know" "Light travels faster than sound."
The humourous version "Light travels faster than sound which is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak."
What we know: "Time is the best teacher."
The humourous version " Time is the best teacher. Unfortunately, it kills all its students."
There are other quotes which are seemingly meant for a quick laugh but are not without a hint of truth in them.
"Nothing is impossible if you don't have to do it yourself."
Isn't this blatantly familiar? Some of us are demanding of our colleagues or our spouses, not knowing what it takes to do something. Only when we have to do it, then we realise we have dozens and one excuses for not able to do it.
"A conclusion is a place you reach when you are tired."
How often do we give in to reach a compromise simply we do not want to argue further or we just want to keep things going?
"It is better to be poor than rich. The rich always fear becoming poor, but the poor never fear becoming rich."
We, human beings, are sometimes bringing troubles to ourselves. Even when we are happy, we worry when the day will come when we will lose our happiness.
For those of you who enjoys a pun, then the next few quotes will light up your day.
"On the other hand,.... ..... you have different fingers."
"If you have a completely open mind, will your brain fall out?"
"What happens if you get scared half to death twice?"
It certainly sets me thinking but in an extremely unorthodox way indeed on philosophy.
The book started off with a humourous twists to some of the more popular sayings.
What we know: "The early bird gets the worm."
The humourous version: The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse will get the cheese."
What we know" "Light travels faster than sound."
The humourous version "Light travels faster than sound which is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak."
What we know: "Time is the best teacher."
The humourous version " Time is the best teacher. Unfortunately, it kills all its students."
There are other quotes which are seemingly meant for a quick laugh but are not without a hint of truth in them.
"Nothing is impossible if you don't have to do it yourself."
Isn't this blatantly familiar? Some of us are demanding of our colleagues or our spouses, not knowing what it takes to do something. Only when we have to do it, then we realise we have dozens and one excuses for not able to do it.
"A conclusion is a place you reach when you are tired."
How often do we give in to reach a compromise simply we do not want to argue further or we just want to keep things going?
"It is better to be poor than rich. The rich always fear becoming poor, but the poor never fear becoming rich."
We, human beings, are sometimes bringing troubles to ourselves. Even when we are happy, we worry when the day will come when we will lose our happiness.
For those of you who enjoys a pun, then the next few quotes will light up your day.
"On the other hand,.... ..... you have different fingers."
"If you have a completely open mind, will your brain fall out?"
"What happens if you get scared half to death twice?"
It certainly sets me thinking but in an extremely unorthodox way indeed on philosophy.
September 18, 2009
Flirting through SMS
This was an interesting study that I heard over the radio. There were many people who flirted with another person via SMS and the recipient of the SMS was not their partner.
Sending SMS to keep in touch with another friend is a convenient way of sending our regards. Sometimes, the messages can be more flippant or humour depending on how you read it. In these instances, will these messages qualify as flirting? If these messages are sent to a casual friend rather than only to your partners, is this then an act of unfaithfulness?
SMS is a useful communication tool espcially for the less verbally expressive people. In case you have not noticed, many of us are more articulate and daring when we get to hide behind our mobile phones. We are bolder than a face-to-face conversation. There is no 2-way communication. Our courage is not deterred by a less friendly body language of the other. We can always be more thick-skinned as the mobile phone also provides a shield against any impact from disapproval of the other person. We will not let down our guard in front the person as he/she will not see the hurt his/her rejection causes. Hence, many use it to profess their admiration for another or even to break up with their boyfriend or girlfriend.
To successfully flirt over SMS is also an art with the constraint of text and also the lack of body language. Yes, you have not read it wrongly. The non-face-to-face interaction can both be a boon and a bane. Many people flirt successfully through body language, from the tilt of your head, to the wink of your eyes. SMS means that you can flirt solely using words. For those who are less proficient in the language, this hampers rather than aids.
So what are you? Are you for or against flirting via SMS? Have your sent a more flippant message before to a dating candidate?
Sending SMS to keep in touch with another friend is a convenient way of sending our regards. Sometimes, the messages can be more flippant or humour depending on how you read it. In these instances, will these messages qualify as flirting? If these messages are sent to a casual friend rather than only to your partners, is this then an act of unfaithfulness?
SMS is a useful communication tool espcially for the less verbally expressive people. In case you have not noticed, many of us are more articulate and daring when we get to hide behind our mobile phones. We are bolder than a face-to-face conversation. There is no 2-way communication. Our courage is not deterred by a less friendly body language of the other. We can always be more thick-skinned as the mobile phone also provides a shield against any impact from disapproval of the other person. We will not let down our guard in front the person as he/she will not see the hurt his/her rejection causes. Hence, many use it to profess their admiration for another or even to break up with their boyfriend or girlfriend.
To successfully flirt over SMS is also an art with the constraint of text and also the lack of body language. Yes, you have not read it wrongly. The non-face-to-face interaction can both be a boon and a bane. Many people flirt successfully through body language, from the tilt of your head, to the wink of your eyes. SMS means that you can flirt solely using words. For those who are less proficient in the language, this hampers rather than aids.
So what are you? Are you for or against flirting via SMS? Have your sent a more flippant message before to a dating candidate?
Utterly Embarrassed!
I never expected myself to join the ranks of those who were constantly featured in the forum or "snap-and-tell" websites for committing socially uncourteous acts.
In fact, I often show black faces to those who pretend to be busy or asleep when a person in need of a seat stands near. Shameful to say, I have not progressed beyond angry stares to telling these pretenders off directly yet. My black faces are of little help when these pretenders are pretending to be asleep. I always feel strongly that Singapore is still far from being a gracious society. Notwithstanding how small a part, we should all work towards being a more considerate and friendly country.
Yet, I never expect myself to behave so badly.
I was on the way home from class. I was lugging my laptop and my super thick file home for study and work. My arms nearly gave way from the weight of the thick file. My 'auntie' nature kicked in when I saw a young man getting up from his seat. I immediately moved ahead and sat down. I then flipped the file open to continue my revision for the test.
Strangely, the young man should be alighting soon, but he did not get off. Instead, he hovered near the seat somewhat lost. Only then I noticed that there was a more senior lady, probably in her sixties standing nearby. Apparently, the young man gave up his seat for her, but I was so engrossed in my revision moments before that I failed to notice the elderly lady. I was simply thankful to grab a seat at last.
Now that I was seated, I was caught in between. Should I stand up and give up this 'usurped' seat or should I just pretend that I have not noticed the old lady? The latter was the more morally and socially correct. However, I was too thin skinned and embarrassed and simply froze there. The young man sitting besides me and who was the travel companion of the first young man decided to give up his seat for the elderly lady. This saved me from further action, but without first making me feel like digging a hole there on the spot and bury myself.
To avoid further embarrassment, I kept my eyes glued to my file and refused to make any eye contact with the fellow passengers. I just hoped I would reach my destination soon and alight.
In fact, I often show black faces to those who pretend to be busy or asleep when a person in need of a seat stands near. Shameful to say, I have not progressed beyond angry stares to telling these pretenders off directly yet. My black faces are of little help when these pretenders are pretending to be asleep. I always feel strongly that Singapore is still far from being a gracious society. Notwithstanding how small a part, we should all work towards being a more considerate and friendly country.
Yet, I never expect myself to behave so badly.
I was on the way home from class. I was lugging my laptop and my super thick file home for study and work. My arms nearly gave way from the weight of the thick file. My 'auntie' nature kicked in when I saw a young man getting up from his seat. I immediately moved ahead and sat down. I then flipped the file open to continue my revision for the test.
Strangely, the young man should be alighting soon, but he did not get off. Instead, he hovered near the seat somewhat lost. Only then I noticed that there was a more senior lady, probably in her sixties standing nearby. Apparently, the young man gave up his seat for her, but I was so engrossed in my revision moments before that I failed to notice the elderly lady. I was simply thankful to grab a seat at last.
Now that I was seated, I was caught in between. Should I stand up and give up this 'usurped' seat or should I just pretend that I have not noticed the old lady? The latter was the more morally and socially correct. However, I was too thin skinned and embarrassed and simply froze there. The young man sitting besides me and who was the travel companion of the first young man decided to give up his seat for the elderly lady. This saved me from further action, but without first making me feel like digging a hole there on the spot and bury myself.
To avoid further embarrassment, I kept my eyes glued to my file and refused to make any eye contact with the fellow passengers. I just hoped I would reach my destination soon and alight.
September 17, 2009
Phew! Passed!
Whoppee! I finally passed the test though not as well as I expected. The guy who sat beside me in the last module and got the highest mark in the first module now obtained full marks. Although my results had improved but marginal.
Never mind, I had passed. Phew!
Never mind, I had passed. Phew!
Burn Mid-night Oil
It has been ages since I burn mid-night oil to study. Yes, burning mid-night oil to rush for projects and presentation slides are common for my work. Burning mid-night oil to study is totally a different experience. For one, working is usually more intense and engaging, so there is no slack time for any sleep bug to take over. Studying requires concentration which is an elusive exercise during the wee hours.
I have never been a night person. Even during school days, I never burn md-night oil to study. The few feeble attempts were disastrous with me not be able to study effectively at night nor concentrate effectively in the day. In the end, I ditched whatever mid-night oil plan and just studied in the day. Whatever I could absorb, I would absorb. Even if I could not finish studying, a good night's sleep with a fresh mind would be better than a groggy mind with 10% more knowledge. With a sharp mind, at least I could still analyse on the spot even if I could not recall the concept.
I had never learnt from those failed attempts, had I? I again tried to study in the night, but my eyes became heavier and heavier slightly past 9 pm. The 8-hour of hard concentration in the day seemed to sap all my energy and left me utterly exhausted by 9 pm. Nothing got in. I gave up and slept and decided to wake up at 3 am to continue because I still had another 100 pages more of notes to go through.
When the alarm clock sounded at 3 am, I dragged myself out of bed despite the protest from my brains and eyes. I started reading and finished reading by 4.30am. I was not sure how much has gone into the brain, but I could not care less. I was dozing off. I needed all the brain power to last throught the day and test.
Good luck to myself.
I have never been a night person. Even during school days, I never burn md-night oil to study. The few feeble attempts were disastrous with me not be able to study effectively at night nor concentrate effectively in the day. In the end, I ditched whatever mid-night oil plan and just studied in the day. Whatever I could absorb, I would absorb. Even if I could not finish studying, a good night's sleep with a fresh mind would be better than a groggy mind with 10% more knowledge. With a sharp mind, at least I could still analyse on the spot even if I could not recall the concept.
I had never learnt from those failed attempts, had I? I again tried to study in the night, but my eyes became heavier and heavier slightly past 9 pm. The 8-hour of hard concentration in the day seemed to sap all my energy and left me utterly exhausted by 9 pm. Nothing got in. I gave up and slept and decided to wake up at 3 am to continue because I still had another 100 pages more of notes to go through.
When the alarm clock sounded at 3 am, I dragged myself out of bed despite the protest from my brains and eyes. I started reading and finished reading by 4.30am. I was not sure how much has gone into the brain, but I could not care less. I was dozing off. I needed all the brain power to last throught the day and test.
Good luck to myself.
10-cent Bread
My lunch for the past few days were made up of nothing but 10-cent bread. I was not exactly scrimping and saving in particular, though I could always welcome more money. I was eating the bread purely out of cheap thrill. Do not worry, I was not torturing myself with any plain buns. In fact, I was feeding myself with high-class bread from one of Singapore's most well-known confectionery - Breadtalk.
From teriyaki chicken, cranberry and cheese to strawberry pickaboo, I was basically having a bread party. All those years of wondering the taste of these exotic bread were gone. With each bun going at 10-cent, I could afford to be adventurous. After all, if I disliked any of these exotic flavours which were less tried-and-tested, the opportunity cost was only 10-cent.
The 10-cent promotion was offered to loyal SingTel customers. A SMS was sent to these customers. They only had to flash this SMS at any Breadtalk outlets, they would be able to enjoy each bun at 10-cent. Each person was entitled to 2 buns per day. How could I let such a good chance slip? Of course I had to have my fill of Breadtalk buns.
Hence, for the last 3 days, I ate 2 buns each for both breakfast and lunch. There were some that were nicer than they looked. Some of the nicer looking buns were not quite my cup of tea. Ahh, I hope there is more of such promotions.
From teriyaki chicken, cranberry and cheese to strawberry pickaboo, I was basically having a bread party. All those years of wondering the taste of these exotic bread were gone. With each bun going at 10-cent, I could afford to be adventurous. After all, if I disliked any of these exotic flavours which were less tried-and-tested, the opportunity cost was only 10-cent.
The 10-cent promotion was offered to loyal SingTel customers. A SMS was sent to these customers. They only had to flash this SMS at any Breadtalk outlets, they would be able to enjoy each bun at 10-cent. Each person was entitled to 2 buns per day. How could I let such a good chance slip? Of course I had to have my fill of Breadtalk buns.
Hence, for the last 3 days, I ate 2 buns each for both breakfast and lunch. There were some that were nicer than they looked. Some of the nicer looking buns were not quite my cup of tea. Ahh, I hope there is more of such promotions.
September 14, 2009
Back at Six Sigma Course
Today was the first day of the module 2. It was good to see my classmates again after more than a month. However, it was also demoralising to try to switch back to the studying gear. Concentrating on the lessons for a full 8 hours is tougher than I thought.
This was especially when we kicked off module 2 with many statistical tools such as ANOVA, Chi-square and T-test. Testing for Null and Alternative Hypothesis was something that I probably had in-depth study when I was in JC and subsequently university. Yet, most of these tests were mere names where I could not remember a single thing of the concepts behind these tests. Name-dropping was certainly not enough if I were to pass the test 3 days later. It seemed like I would have a lot of studying to do in the next few nights.
Oh dear! I felt so ashamed that my grey fluff seemed to be deserting me at this crucial hour. Maybe these statistical toold were simply too complex that my brains performed an auto shut-down. Not only did I not get a single thing into my RAM during class. The worst was I even had trouble keeping my eyes open. To think that statistics used to be one of my stronger subjects. I could not believe that my brain power had degenerated so rapidly over the past 7 years.
Maybe I should seriously consider a part-time course to upgrade myself to keep my brain power exercised.
This was especially when we kicked off module 2 with many statistical tools such as ANOVA, Chi-square and T-test. Testing for Null and Alternative Hypothesis was something that I probably had in-depth study when I was in JC and subsequently university. Yet, most of these tests were mere names where I could not remember a single thing of the concepts behind these tests. Name-dropping was certainly not enough if I were to pass the test 3 days later. It seemed like I would have a lot of studying to do in the next few nights.
Oh dear! I felt so ashamed that my grey fluff seemed to be deserting me at this crucial hour. Maybe these statistical toold were simply too complex that my brains performed an auto shut-down. Not only did I not get a single thing into my RAM during class. The worst was I even had trouble keeping my eyes open. To think that statistics used to be one of my stronger subjects. I could not believe that my brain power had degenerated so rapidly over the past 7 years.
Maybe I should seriously consider a part-time course to upgrade myself to keep my brain power exercised.
September 13, 2009
Bookstore Shopping
I was not really shopping in a bookstore because I had no intention of getting any books. I was there merely to pass time while waiting for my mum who was shopping at Daiso. As usual, a 10-minute browse soon turned to a more than half an hour wait as I could finish browsing through numerous shelves, including finishing a simple book and a glossy magazine.
Putting aside by impatience for waiting again, I was also thankful to have this opportunity to have some private time at a bookstore. Since young, I had cultivated a habit of reading as a way of passing time. Reading brought me to another world. It introduced me to different cultures and practices. It added colour to my rather boring and monotonous life.
I was shocked at how out of touch I was with reading. Now, I never knew what were the most popular books that made it to the best selling list each week. I felt abit lost wondering from shelf to shelf on the various subjects. I was also pleasantly surprised by the number of patrons in the bookstore, especially with the e-generation. Reading was a past-time that transcended all generations and seemed to in vogue in any era.
Have you picked up a book yet?
Putting aside by impatience for waiting again, I was also thankful to have this opportunity to have some private time at a bookstore. Since young, I had cultivated a habit of reading as a way of passing time. Reading brought me to another world. It introduced me to different cultures and practices. It added colour to my rather boring and monotonous life.
I was shocked at how out of touch I was with reading. Now, I never knew what were the most popular books that made it to the best selling list each week. I felt abit lost wondering from shelf to shelf on the various subjects. I was also pleasantly surprised by the number of patrons in the bookstore, especially with the e-generation. Reading was a past-time that transcended all generations and seemed to in vogue in any era.
Have you picked up a book yet?
The Traveler
The traveler was about a young boy who had everything in the world. He had doting parent, kind friends and a sweet girlfriend. However, he was not happy. He did not how he could spend his time so that he could be happy. He decided to go on a journey to find his happiness.
The young boy packed his years, months, days, hours, minutes and seconds into his suitcase. He bade his parents and friends farewell and set off.
He passed by the ocean and was attracted by the fish and the octopuses. They invited him to spend his time with them. Although he was happy in the ocean, he was not certain if he would like to spend all his time in the ocean. He said goodbyes to the fish and octopuses and continued his journey. Later, he passed by the grassland, the dessert and many other places. None of them was what he wanted to spend his time on permanently.
Finally, he went back home and saw his girlfriend. He knew then his happiness was at home. He wanted to spend all this time with his family and friends. However, when he opened the suitcase which had since become lighter, out came only a month. All the years, month, days, hours, minutes and seconds were all gone. He was now an old man.
The book was simple to read. Even if you are a slow reader, you can probably finish the book in half an hour. The book reminded me of children’s book with its nice illustration and simple words. In fact, the story line reminded me of “The Little Prince” with a rather sad ending when the traveler had little time with his happiness after he eventually found it.
If you are like the traveler searching for your happiness, please also note the time that has passed during your search. If you are interested in this book to seek your own enlightenment, you can find this book at the self-help section of Time Bookstore.
The young boy packed his years, months, days, hours, minutes and seconds into his suitcase. He bade his parents and friends farewell and set off.
He passed by the ocean and was attracted by the fish and the octopuses. They invited him to spend his time with them. Although he was happy in the ocean, he was not certain if he would like to spend all his time in the ocean. He said goodbyes to the fish and octopuses and continued his journey. Later, he passed by the grassland, the dessert and many other places. None of them was what he wanted to spend his time on permanently.
Finally, he went back home and saw his girlfriend. He knew then his happiness was at home. He wanted to spend all this time with his family and friends. However, when he opened the suitcase which had since become lighter, out came only a month. All the years, month, days, hours, minutes and seconds were all gone. He was now an old man.
The book was simple to read. Even if you are a slow reader, you can probably finish the book in half an hour. The book reminded me of children’s book with its nice illustration and simple words. In fact, the story line reminded me of “The Little Prince” with a rather sad ending when the traveler had little time with his happiness after he eventually found it.
If you are like the traveler searching for your happiness, please also note the time that has passed during your search. If you are interested in this book to seek your own enlightenment, you can find this book at the self-help section of Time Bookstore.
September 12, 2009
Back to Books Again
I am resuming the Module 2 of Lean Six Sigma next week. Before I start module 2, I better revisit what was thought in Module 1 again, especially when I have to cram all the studying to 3 nights since the mornings will be filled with lessons. This time, the studying will be more stressful as there will not be a weekend break for me to catch-up on the studying. With my rusty mind, absorbing on the spot is definitely out of the question.
Pre-course preparation has to start this weekend. This is also to ensure that I do not make a fool of myself in front of my all so intelligent and knowledgeable classmates. So, it is time to hit the books again.
Oh my, it is tougher than what I have thought. Previously, the revision was a crash-course cramming of as much information into my grey fluff of a brain as possible. It was never meant for long-term retention. This meant that I have lost almost 99% of the knowledge from one-month ago. Hence, this weekend's revision is almost as good as studying anew.
Urggh, I have lost touch and momentum after so long. Every time, I turn the page, the words float in front of me. I feel like going into la-la land. No matter what, I must persevere. I cannot be the first one to fail this course.
Pre-course preparation has to start this weekend. This is also to ensure that I do not make a fool of myself in front of my all so intelligent and knowledgeable classmates. So, it is time to hit the books again.
Oh my, it is tougher than what I have thought. Previously, the revision was a crash-course cramming of as much information into my grey fluff of a brain as possible. It was never meant for long-term retention. This meant that I have lost almost 99% of the knowledge from one-month ago. Hence, this weekend's revision is almost as good as studying anew.
Urggh, I have lost touch and momentum after so long. Every time, I turn the page, the words float in front of me. I feel like going into la-la land. No matter what, I must persevere. I cannot be the first one to fail this course.
September 09, 2009
09/09/09, 09:09:09
Once in a centennia will we get another 090909, 090909. What were you doing in that exact day, hour, minute and second? I hope you were not like me who was burying my head in spreadsheet. Before I knew it, the moment has passed. Sigh! Another uneventful spending of a significant moment.
Chiong
This is destined to be a week of chionging - dialect for rushing or charging, that is if I wish to be able to make it for a four-day course next week.
The course happens at a bad timing. It is the week of financial review. It is also the week of mid-year forecast review. Given that the product I am handling and the expense item I am handling are missing the target big time, the depth of my analysis will also have to be big time. By out of action for 4 days in one of the most crucial week can be relatively unfair to my colleagues and boss.
The way to ensure that my course will not inconvenient anyone and still be able to attend the course to get my certification. There is only one solution. I will need to work doubly hard the week before the course so that I can clear as much work as possible.
So it's chiong, chiong and more chiong. It is a small price to pay in order to ensure that I can attend the course in peace.
Chionging is part and parcel of my work life for the past 7 years. In fact, I should be glad that I only have to work until 10 pm each night instead of past mid-might. I will survive!
The course happens at a bad timing. It is the week of financial review. It is also the week of mid-year forecast review. Given that the product I am handling and the expense item I am handling are missing the target big time, the depth of my analysis will also have to be big time. By out of action for 4 days in one of the most crucial week can be relatively unfair to my colleagues and boss.
The way to ensure that my course will not inconvenient anyone and still be able to attend the course to get my certification. There is only one solution. I will need to work doubly hard the week before the course so that I can clear as much work as possible.
So it's chiong, chiong and more chiong. It is a small price to pay in order to ensure that I can attend the course in peace.
Chionging is part and parcel of my work life for the past 7 years. In fact, I should be glad that I only have to work until 10 pm each night instead of past mid-might. I will survive!
September 06, 2009
Memory - Theme Song of Okuribito
I finally found the name of the theme song. The melancholic hum of the cello emphasized the sadness of life and death. Yet, the more cheerful tune lightened the mood of the song. It is best enjoyed quietly and in a relaxed environment.
September 05, 2009
The Time Traveller's Wife
The Time Traveller's Wife is a romance of a girl who has met the man who time-travelled due a genetic disease when she was a little girl. She fell in love with the man and married him despite knowing about his condition. Even when she was aware of his condition, loneliness still gripped her when he disappeared for a couple of weeks during the holiday season. Their romance was not always smooth-sailing. Her numerous miscarriages with the suspect that the foetus she was carrying could also be time-travelling out of the womb started to drive a wedge between the couple.
Fortunately, she has managed to carry a baby girl to full-time.
Their challenges did not stop there. Soon, they would be separated by death. During one of the time-travels, the time traveller hurt his leg and had to be wheeled chair bound. This caused inconveniences to him as he time-travelled. He knew his time was near.
His young daughter was also a time-traveller but she could control where and when she time-travelled. When she informed him that he would die when she was five-year's old. He started to get himself prepared.
The saddest part of the movie was the fact that he knew his death would come soon. The living towards death was so hapless. Hence, it is not untrue that sometimes ignorance is bliss. At least, it takes away the fear and the inevitable.
Fortunately, she has managed to carry a baby girl to full-time.
Their challenges did not stop there. Soon, they would be separated by death. During one of the time-travels, the time traveller hurt his leg and had to be wheeled chair bound. This caused inconveniences to him as he time-travelled. He knew his time was near.
His young daughter was also a time-traveller but she could control where and when she time-travelled. When she informed him that he would die when she was five-year's old. He started to get himself prepared.
The saddest part of the movie was the fact that he knew his death would come soon. The living towards death was so hapless. Hence, it is not untrue that sometimes ignorance is bliss. At least, it takes away the fear and the inevitable.
Quiznos
My colleagues and I have always dubbed this "Subway-lookalike". Given the recent popularity of Subway, I am sure many are acquainted with Subway and its sandwich offerings, especially with its mission of providing the fresh ingredients in its sandwich. Moreover, with the ability to customise your sandwich with your choice of bread, sides and sauce, it has been a hit among the yuppies and students.
Now, Quiznos can give Subway a run of its money with its flagship store at Orchard Central.
It has less customisation than Subway. Other than its bread, the rest of the ingredients come in sets and cannot be mix-and-match. Oh, don't we all love mix-and-match where we can impose our creativity on our sandwich? It is also part of the fun. Hence, the lack of customisation causes the sandwich to be perceived more of a commodity.
Notwithstanding this, the sandwich is still delicious. Perhaps the lack of customisation is a good tactic because being amateur means that we often ending mixing weird concoctions that ay be detrimental to our taste buds instead. Also, sometimes it is better to trust the expert. Having less choice may be the best choice.
Now, Quiznos can give Subway a run of its money with its flagship store at Orchard Central.
It has less customisation than Subway. Other than its bread, the rest of the ingredients come in sets and cannot be mix-and-match. Oh, don't we all love mix-and-match where we can impose our creativity on our sandwich? It is also part of the fun. Hence, the lack of customisation causes the sandwich to be perceived more of a commodity.
Notwithstanding this, the sandwich is still delicious. Perhaps the lack of customisation is a good tactic because being amateur means that we often ending mixing weird concoctions that ay be detrimental to our taste buds instead. Also, sometimes it is better to trust the expert. Having less choice may be the best choice.
Beauty of Lotus – a Compliment or an Insult?
Ever since Ah Peng introduced me to Flowers Over Boys, I have been hooked. Watching this drama serial becomes the highlight of the week. Even if I am out on a Saturday evening, I will rush back to catch the latest episode of Flowers Over Boys faithfully.
In the last episode last night, Jin Sicao was complimented by a monk in the temple to have the look of a lotus. A lotus thrives in a hostile environment. It grows out of mud but can purify the water it grows out of and still brings pristine beauty to its environment. It is often a compliment given to ladies who overcomes their hostile environment.
Or so it seems.
Many years ago, someone has made that comment to me. He was my uni ECA (now known as CCA, I believe) junior. We were having tuition for our students. I could not remember the details but we were talking about our alma mater. When he heard where I had graduated from, he was incredulous. He told me I was like a lotus untainted by the mud.
My first response was surprised as I had never expected this and so openly. It kept me happy for the whole session. It was only later that I felt that it was an insult. I felt guilty for being charmed into believing it was compliment and disloyalty towards my alma mater. Drawing an analogy of my alma mater to mud was definitely an insult, not only to the school but all the sisters.
I have always been proud of my school, its culture, the sisterhood, the creative and free environment to develop individual personality and interest. It is in no way hostile. In fact, the friendship forged during those years becomes my strongest social support. The values inculcated were those that I often strived to constantly practise in life. It is one of the best schools to be educated in. It is an honour to be immersed in such a good school. If I ever have daughters, there is no question asked which school I will encourage her to enroll in as long as she can make it through the high cut-off point.
With hindsight, if I were faced with this compliment, I would certainly give the guy a piece of my mind for his insult to my alma mater.
In the last episode last night, Jin Sicao was complimented by a monk in the temple to have the look of a lotus. A lotus thrives in a hostile environment. It grows out of mud but can purify the water it grows out of and still brings pristine beauty to its environment. It is often a compliment given to ladies who overcomes their hostile environment.
Or so it seems.
Many years ago, someone has made that comment to me. He was my uni ECA (now known as CCA, I believe) junior. We were having tuition for our students. I could not remember the details but we were talking about our alma mater. When he heard where I had graduated from, he was incredulous. He told me I was like a lotus untainted by the mud.
My first response was surprised as I had never expected this and so openly. It kept me happy for the whole session. It was only later that I felt that it was an insult. I felt guilty for being charmed into believing it was compliment and disloyalty towards my alma mater. Drawing an analogy of my alma mater to mud was definitely an insult, not only to the school but all the sisters.
I have always been proud of my school, its culture, the sisterhood, the creative and free environment to develop individual personality and interest. It is in no way hostile. In fact, the friendship forged during those years becomes my strongest social support. The values inculcated were those that I often strived to constantly practise in life. It is one of the best schools to be educated in. It is an honour to be immersed in such a good school. If I ever have daughters, there is no question asked which school I will encourage her to enroll in as long as she can make it through the high cut-off point.
With hindsight, if I were faced with this compliment, I would certainly give the guy a piece of my mind for his insult to my alma mater.
September 01, 2009
Initiative
Strangely, one of the directors who was the most matronly among the directors, perhaps due to her senority and her constant interaction with her four beautiful daughters, would sometimes stopped by during lunch for chit-chats. I was usually the lone fighter during lunch as I believed it working through lunch so as to be able to go home earlier.
Maybe it was out of pity and to keep me company, so sometimes she would stop by my workstation to talk to me. Being a friendly and easy-going person, she can share alot of advice from her wealth of experience. My 'single' status is also one of her concerns. She shares with me some tips that she thinks will help me snare the dream guy. She says that sometimes both parties need to give each other a chance and one must take initiative. Taking the initiative is the first chance to know each other better and friendship to blossom.
I share the same statement later with Ah Peng. She holds a completely different opinion. She thinks that if the male friend holds a torch for the female friend, he will definitely has alot of initiative. Well, she also has a point.
My view is that many Singapore guys are in general a very shy bunch of guys and with especially thin skin. Many guys are also generally very laid back and take things rather easily. In fact, many success stories among my friends are of my female friends taking the first steps. Some are more successful than the others. My female friends generally take a more light-hearted approach. When their initiatives are being rebuffed, they will just share it with other friends and get other consolation before we move on. For the successful ones, good for them.
Yes, to certain extent, it is true that usually guys will take the first steps if they are interested to know the girls better. However, I observe that the shy guys in Singapore will usually take a bolder move if they feel that the feelings are mutual. Hence, some of the girls need to drop usually rather apparent hints.
However, as contemporary and independent the girls are, we are still traditional at heart. Nothing flatters us more when the guys take on the first romantic gesture. Moreover, most girls are kind at heart. Even if we were to let the guys down, we will do it with the utmost diplomacy and as delicately as possible to minimise the bruising of the guys' feelings and egos. Even if the girls do like you enough to take the initiative, there is always a threshold to her patience and enthusiasm. If the guys continue to be so laid-back, the girls are not going to sit around forever waiting for you.
Hence, my advice to boys and girls out there. It does not matter if one of you take the initiative as someone will need to kick off this friendship. Guys, please do buck up if you wish to wish the heart of your favourite girl. Love waits for no one. Just as you let go when the girl does not reciprocate, so will the girl. Taking chance and initiative is the best move to win over the girl.
Maybe it was out of pity and to keep me company, so sometimes she would stop by my workstation to talk to me. Being a friendly and easy-going person, she can share alot of advice from her wealth of experience. My 'single' status is also one of her concerns. She shares with me some tips that she thinks will help me snare the dream guy. She says that sometimes both parties need to give each other a chance and one must take initiative. Taking the initiative is the first chance to know each other better and friendship to blossom.
I share the same statement later with Ah Peng. She holds a completely different opinion. She thinks that if the male friend holds a torch for the female friend, he will definitely has alot of initiative. Well, she also has a point.
My view is that many Singapore guys are in general a very shy bunch of guys and with especially thin skin. Many guys are also generally very laid back and take things rather easily. In fact, many success stories among my friends are of my female friends taking the first steps. Some are more successful than the others. My female friends generally take a more light-hearted approach. When their initiatives are being rebuffed, they will just share it with other friends and get other consolation before we move on. For the successful ones, good for them.
Yes, to certain extent, it is true that usually guys will take the first steps if they are interested to know the girls better. However, I observe that the shy guys in Singapore will usually take a bolder move if they feel that the feelings are mutual. Hence, some of the girls need to drop usually rather apparent hints.
However, as contemporary and independent the girls are, we are still traditional at heart. Nothing flatters us more when the guys take on the first romantic gesture. Moreover, most girls are kind at heart. Even if we were to let the guys down, we will do it with the utmost diplomacy and as delicately as possible to minimise the bruising of the guys' feelings and egos. Even if the girls do like you enough to take the initiative, there is always a threshold to her patience and enthusiasm. If the guys continue to be so laid-back, the girls are not going to sit around forever waiting for you.
Hence, my advice to boys and girls out there. It does not matter if one of you take the initiative as someone will need to kick off this friendship. Guys, please do buck up if you wish to wish the heart of your favourite girl. Love waits for no one. Just as you let go when the girl does not reciprocate, so will the girl. Taking chance and initiative is the best move to win over the girl.
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