Thursday, December 20, 2007

Downtown

So exhausted from the downtown + Brooklyn hop on and hop off tour. I still have no one to help me take pictures and I'm going to repeat the downtown town again and this time, I'll be going uptown. But the uptown won't excite me as much now cuz I'm explored quite a few places. Thought I'd share some sights...

Most of these places I haven't been in there and explore them but will do so in the coming week.

M&M's World. How cool... Melts in your mouth...


This Toys'R'Us is so huge, they even have a ferris wheel in it!


You need a button?


General Post Office right opposite Madison Square Garden which is neither a square or garden...


Still haven't decided if I wanna check this out... Vertigo...


Yes, you've seen this in postcards, I know...

But have you seen this?

That is probably the only picture with me inside to prove that, I was really there. I didn't just buy the postcards!!! Then again, did I superimpose that? Go figure!

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Keep Walking

A day of endless walking and finally I'm back. I'm missing the iSqueeze in my room. I never knew I had flat feet until I met this podistrist at the wakeboarding shop few months back. So now I know my pain can be attributed to some known factor but then again, it never quite deterred me from sports or excessive walking. Maybe I just have a much higher tolerance for pain. Talking about pain, my shoulders were aching and my feet were sore but I still made myself walked from 88th down to 60th street and that is quite a long way. And being the ghay kiang person, I bought drinks and magazines on 70 something street (high 7s) and lugged it back. My fingers were cold and breaking off and I have to admit, I wasn't very bright. I was so counting down the streets as the numbers get smaller.

Went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) today. And yes, I kept walking. Took me about 3.5 hours which is considered very fast. Most people spend an entire day there but see, I don't have anyone to discuss the work with me nor to even take pictures with so I kept walking and camera whoring everything except myself, very much against the advice of Fatshark Guru but hey, my skin quite thin ok and I do look weird taking pictures of myself!

In Central Park... The Jackie Kennedy Reservoir...


Finally got myself the prepaid phone card only to find out that near where Marsk's, there's an AT&T. Just round the corner!!! WTH! At least, I'm walked more than half of Lexington Ave.

New York's been nice so far but given less than 48 hours, I already know that this is not a place I can live in. Firstly, I didn't know how much I miss Singapore's weather until I got here. It's funny how in such weather, laksa would be the perfect dinner but instead, we have it in hot sweaty tropical Singapore. I've always loved the cold but this is a little too much for comfort. Having said that, today's weather is almost perfect. No doubt it is a puny point away from freezing, the sun made it seem alot more habitable but such happiness is short-lived, by 4 plus, the sky is starting to turn really dark.

It's still early but I'm so sleepy...

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Lost and Overslept in New York

The estimated time of arrival to New York JFK was supposed to be around 9ish. By the time I left the customs, it was about 1am.

The plane had to stop over at Anchorage because some old man from China got either a stroke or heart attack. The wife was screaming and even when we were at Anchorage, the wife was still hesitant about getting down and you know, these people are possible illegal immigrants. The paremedics had to reassure her that her foot is already on US grounds so no to worry. Here a short clip on the commotion in the plane when the paramedics cam on board. Nothing juicy but well... (Due to my technical limitations, no video is up just yet... Stay tuned.)

Our friend waiting impatiently for me and was grumbling about how he has finished two magazines from back to back and I haven't arrive. Well, it's not my fault. Then again, I forgot his address and the customs had to go out and shout for him, I still owe him an "act-cute + apologetic" smile.

It's like 4pm New York time and I just woke up not too long ago. Going to get my butt of this chair and find my way around. Apparently, my plans to wander around the MET is useless. Will try wake up earlier tomorrow...

Now what shall I do... First, get a prepaid card, but where? I'm so lost!

Sunday, December 16, 2007

一眼瞬間

Were you talking about this song?



白茫茫的星光 灑在長長路上
想念的冰涼 你知道嗎
   
淺淺的微笑 深似海的眼光
突然掀起我 滔天的巨浪

妳相信嗎 這是命嗎
這次我們放棄抵抗
那怕擁抱 在身上 劃下深深的傷

只要看你一眼一瞬間 哪怕是最後畫面
我的世界 因為愛過而完美 誰都不該離太遠

只要看你一眼一瞬間 足夠我熬過千年
我不後悔 愛若讓末日提前
我們要一起 好好迎接那句點

如果相愛是錯
錯過又算什麼
這一次我們 抵死不放手
往彼此的心裡跳 跳到天荒地老


Currently transiting in Hong Kong International Airport, found a comfy space and set up "camp" here. The only things short - the fire and the tent. I'm waiting for this black guy to wake up who's taking the seat in front of me. Not a very good idea to be wearing white pants and be sitting on the ground. But hack it, this is the only power point I've found so far and I'm not going to explore with bags that weigh a tonne. My flight's is in another 3 hours' time so I'd better make myself comfortable. Ok, not a very good idea because my thigh is burning under the laptop! Obviously, not designed to be a good "laptop".

My flight started out rather rough. I usually do an early check in online ebing the kiasu Singaorean that I am so that I'll get the seat I want. I even had to make a detour on Friday just to check myself in early. So when I wobbled all the way down the aisle to my seat bearing in mind that I was carrying a shitload of stuffs, to my horror, I saw two kids sitting on my 55K. Then the Mom, did not even try to be polite, just took it for granted that I will swap my seats with her. "My whole family leh and you only one person, cannot change meh?" I went, "what?". I wasn't given much time to react... Still in a daze, the "not so bright stewardess" came along and asked if I could change to be seated in the middle of a pile of people. I told her I would if you give me a similar seat, window front row seat, otherwise I'm just terribly sorry. The stewardess just turned to tell the lady and said, "sorry but this passenger don't want to move." I'm sure there's a better way she could phrase that. Airhead! (Pun intended in everyway!)

The family started to speak in hokkien thinking that I don't freaking understand and needless to say, they spoke about everything bad they could say about me and they felt that they were talking to a wall. BUT I WAS STILL IN SHOCK??!! I just put on my sunglasses, pretended to look cool and ignored them, as if I've transformed with a cold heartless creature. Which essentially I did, depending on which perspective you're looking from. I knew I was being a bit of a fussy pot but I will not allow myself to feel uncomfortable on a flight because I do get motion sickness very easily and I'm not going to risk that especially when I still have 20 solid hours of flight to go. Tough cookie eh?

The Mom sat beside me and the whole trip, she made life really difficult for me. She was blasting about me in Hokkien, her fats were overflowing and her hands were constantly on my arm rest. I was so afraid I didn't even dared to watch my in flight entertainment because I had to lift the screen behind her calf. Naturally, I will need her to ask her to excuse her legs. After the meal, there was a bit of a musical chair and the little boy eventually sat beside me. I slowly tried bribe him with Toberone, peanuts and candies. When he was complaining of thirst after the nuts, I even got him coke. And we chatted about everything from cars to his favourite colours and within 30 minutes, we were best of friends. Smarty as I always am, I was trying to appease the father through him. You should have seen how angry he was when I refused to change seats. He could have killed me with a pinch!

The little boy told me he's going to Disneyland and I exclaimed and said that I've never ever been to Disneyland and he should thank his Mom and Dad because they worked very hard to afford such a holiday for him. Instantly, he snuggled up to his Dad and thank him. Such a sweet kid and of course, the Dad soften and smiled at me. But I genuinely feel kids should learn to be grateful and not take things for granted. Holidays are not a must for parents to provide and they look every bit like the average middle class people (not a criticism, just stating a fact and opinion) and a holiday to them must be a huge cost, not mentioning that they have 4 kids in tow and a Grandma. I'm actually glad that I made him make his Dad's day though. We all don't thank our parents enough. Even for myself, I usually just stuff some extra cash over the usual insurance payment amount for my Dad but have never verbally expressed the gratitude.

Another 18 hours before New York City and my bones are already shattering to bits. I need a tempur!

I miss the face that I missed to see this morning...

Saturday, December 15, 2007

Leaving On A Jetplane



All my bags are packed
I'm ready to go


In less than 18 hours, I'm be on my way to New York, a city full of excitement and the unknown for me. Spending time walking aimlessly in museums and being a real tourist is just part of the idea. Getting a tattoo that I've always wanted but never had a chance to do so would be an added bonus. Taking time away from work and messy stuffs, I just hope that my head would be cleared out in the subzero winds. The new year would be one I would anticipate beautiful things to happen and of course, a new car. But nothing will beat finding the right encyclopedia. I'm still clueless as of now, how I actually got myself into this journey to the unknown and why I'm so determined this time round. I've always known myself as the kind of person who would regard people/things who/which come and go as part and parcel but not actively longing for things to happen. Forcing a smile is not my forte but I'm getting better at it. Letting go has never been so tough.

So kiss me and smile for me
Tell me that you'll wait for me
Hold me like you'll never let me go


I thought I could easily walk away and pretend that things have never happened. To interrupt wasn't part of the master plan and to hang on was never a mark on the blue print. I really thought I could just leave and not be bothered at all. It's easy to be a friend and hear things out. The situation, however, prevents me from inputting. I do not want to be "the factor" but unbeknownst to me, I naturally became "the factor". In a weird way, I'm glad that I could be "the factor" but I do not wish to and how I even wish I could choose to appear at a better time. Have I not prayed hard enough?

This rainy season is probably not here to stay but we have to admit, we are living in a country whereby monsoon is unavoidable. If only the rain could clear so that I can readily embrace the sunshine. "The rain just passed. Air smells clean. A good breakfast brunch is waiting." To me, that started all the sunshine I was looking out for in this 2007 monsoon. To me, I was ready for breakfast brunch. To me, the rain will stop one day.

Then the rain started again to remind myself that I might be just deluding myself, believing in what may never happen. The sunshine may come from another source of light instead, if the sunshine ever comes. But this sunshine warms me to a point of no return. The air has started to fog up all over again and visility is reduced to before the rain began. Looking out at the clear sky and breathing in the still air now just irks me that a perfect storm is brewing and I'm going to be cold and wet yet again.

Let there be light. Let there be sunshine. Let there be a warm breeze that surrounds me. Let there be tomorrow. Let there be us.

接下来我去迎接不后退



Christmas lunch was at Au Petit Salut @ Dempsey Hill this afternoon. I was viewing some pictures from Christmas lunch last year. So much have chanced. People have come and gone and "Comedy Boss'" baby girl is now a cute little young lady. She is like an indication of how I have grew in this company because when I first came into the office, "Comedy Boss'" wife was in labour and the kid was born not long after I joined. Seeing her learn to walk then talk is like the growing up process for myself. After the very long lunch, "Comedy Boss" sent me an sms which was really touching. He has never spoken to me about any one in particular minus off those times when he was taking a piss at the guys' comments on my legs and shirts. I knew he wanted the best for me and he could see what I saw in this "legendary figure". I'm surprised he was secretly looking out and vetting for me. I must say the comments he sms-ed me, has an impact on me. I now know and can totally feel that he cared for me more than "just a baby of the office" but more like an elder brother looking out for me.

Driving round the country can be fun when the company is right. Inspiring conversations and reassuring looks are just part of the joy. Whether the silence was conveyed across as mere silence or distress due to the current awkward situation, the comforting touch from the warm fingers just seemed to announce that "everything is gonna be fine". There were no need for words. At least that was how I felt. 如果你想起我 你会想到什么 The fear of standing in amidst of a one way street and unsure what homecoming would be like in a month's time is more or less being eliminated to a firm yet shaky extent.

all i wanna do i do it for you
心里能感觉你们还在
如此靠近的遥远
想念的瞬间不断浮现
接受啊身边有点孤单
我准备每个再见面
接下来有好有坏
我只要记得起点
接下来我去迎接不后退
接下来可好可坏
有你们陪在每一天
all i wanna do i do it for you
就算啊偶尔我觉得累
是了解推著我向前
do it i do it for you
我们一起飞
飞得更远
替我们实现
梦的极限
让我看得见
我的信念

Friday, December 14, 2007

Last Words

Another 2 more hours and I will be out of this place till next year. Over the past year, I have had my fair share of grumbling and complains but all in all, I still enjoy being here in some odd way. Needless to say, stray thoughts come across my mind every now and then but thankfully, I've decided to persevere and put my head on and hopefully at the end of the day, I can emerge the winner even if it's just a milli-second ahead. In the coming year, I will endeavor to achieve more and hopefully, the sky would be brighter when I return.

Like everything else in life, nothing goes down without a fight. But like my previous entry, when I think it's time to walk away, with hesitation, I will do so. For now, I'm still happy fighting...

Thursday, December 13, 2007

The Little Black Dress

My standpoint is made very clear. Whether in time to come, I'll feel upset, I can only hope and be optimistic that I will not have to be in those shoes. I'm not trying to squeeze in to fit into a dress that I can't fit but I'm just hoping that the dress can be sent for tailoring before I buy it. The designer has to decide if he wants to alter this dress because if he doesn't, this will just be a dress that you see through the window display. Tempted as I may be to just grab the dress and swipe it into the account, it is still a fact that the dress will not be able to accommodate the flabs. So one day if the dress fits, it'll make me a happy girl but if it doesn't, I guess life still has to move on. But even then, this is not one dress that you just give up and not try because this is that little black dress that you know you'll look absolutely gorgeous in and the comfort is incomparable. It's unexplainable.

No action is required at this point in time. I'm just trying to be as positive as I can imagine myself to be.

张惠妹 - 人质
我和你啊 存在一種 危險關係
彼此挾持 這另一部分 的自已
本以為這完整了 愛的定義
那就乖乖的守護著你

相愛變成 猜忌懷疑的 爛遊戲
規則是要 憋著呼吸 越靠越近
但你的溫柔 是我唯一的沉溺
你是愛我的 就不怕有縫隙
在我心上用力的 開一槍
讓一切歸零 在這聲巨響
如果愛是說什麼 都不能放
我不掙扎 反正我也 沒差

人質在這一刻 得到釋放
相愛的純粹落得 如此下場
你滿意嗎 我們都別 說謊

What Every Woman Should Know

A little alcohol goes a long way, including putting you on a emotional bungee between the seconds.

It's funny how when I clicked for a "New Fortune Cookie" on Facebook, I got the message, "Don't Ask, Don't Say. Everything Lies In Silence". To a certain extent, silence is a reasonably fit-for-all key in most cases, especially when we would like to lay it all out and sort out the solutions.

It's rare but it happened this morning. I came in early for work and started to bury myself under a pile of emails waiting to be cleared and searches which I have given up hope on since I'll be going away for a long time and wouldn't have the time to follow up with it. But that was what I wanted to do, or rather, that was what I thought I wanted to do. After an hour of aimlessly whacking the stupid keyboard which my colleague told me that it was going to fall apart if I hit it any harder, I just broke down and stomped out of the office to get my morning tea. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't angry or anything. Just a little frustrated with myself for being unable to find the answer I thought I would find. At the same time, I don't know if I really want an answer now.

I never like to put myself in a vulnerable position which is why I always choose to leave. Coincidentally, I will be disappearing for a while, 3 weeks to be exact. This is not a form of escape like it seems to be, it is a retreat. Retail therapy... You can already imagine the grin hanging by the corner of my lips.

Just before I clicked on "Publish Post", an email from Urban Legend Wifey came it and it says,

MAYA ANGELOU'S
BEST POEM EVER

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE

enough money within her control to move out
and rent a place of her own,
even if she never wants to or needs to...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

something perfect to wear if the employer,
or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a youth she's content to leave behind....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a past juicy enough that she's looking forward to
retelling it in her old age....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

one friend who always makes her laugh...

and one who lets her cry...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a good piece of furniture not previously owned

by anyone else in her family...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems,
and a recipe for a meal
that will make her guests feel honored...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a feeling of control over her destiny...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to fall in love without losing herself...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to quit a job,
break up with a lover,
and confront a friend without
ruining the friendship...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

when to try harder... and WHEN TO WALK AWAY...
(I did not CAPS what was CAPS-ED, it was there... What is it trying to say?)

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that she can't change the length of her calves,
the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that her childhood may not have been perfect, but it's over...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

what she would and wouldn't do for love or more...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to live alone... even if she doesn't like it...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

whom she can trust,
whom she can't,
and why she shouldn't take it personally...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

where to go...
be it to her best friend's kitchen table...
or a charming inn in the woods...
when her soul needs soothing...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

what she can and can't accomplish in a day...
a month...and a year...


Argh, I did an extensive pipeline and I can't remember where I left it. Urgh!! I don't want to have to redo this.

Yet I digress...

I have so many things I'd wanna say but I can't find the right words. I was unable to string a proper sentence today and I refuse to speak to anyone on the phone just yet. It's weird that I haven't quite opened my mouth since I stepped in. I can't explain the things I'm going through now. I have no idea how to do it the "me" way and it's pointless to ramble on sounding like a headless chicken.

I'll still be here...

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

NY in NY?

It's going to be a month of NO WAKEBOARDING for me. I don't know how I'm going to cope with it so the plan is to ride twice on Saturday. The plan is to go out 10am - 2pm, go for lunch and to sit around till 5pm and I'll finish around 7pm. Call me crazy! And after planning for my flight "sleeping" schedule, I have decided not to sleep on Saturday night and if I can't take it, I'll take a short nap and force myself to get up and to board the plane super sleepy on Sunday. My "concierge" Zhoos already warned me that he's going to be very tired and wants to go to sleep. That means, do not disturb him if I'm jet-lagging. Hopefully the "hotel" is not like one of these... HAHAHA!!!

Dunas Paraiso


I told Zhoos I wanted to go all the touristy stuffs so before he goes on leave, I shall wonder around myself, check out all the museums, do all the touristy stuffs like before we plan other stuffs in the pipeline like snowboarding and what not. Needless to say, the shopping is a guy-less affair, unless he wants to entertain me. Hur hur *hint hint

What can I do while I'm there?

Any suggestions?

I've been told to be put on the waiting list after I touched down in New York if I'd like to return earlier. Initially, the itinerary is designed based on flights available and not by personal preference. With the current itinerary, I would have to get extra annual leaves from next year but that is not of an issue if I don't intend to go for another huge trip next year. And most likely, that is not going to happen. My pocket is already bleeding from this trip and I even have to get my credit limit increased like 3 times. On one hand, I just wanna complete my trip and let time roll while I'm there. Besides, if I come home in the brand new year, the world might be all new again. On another hand, I wanna spend New Year with friends and family. But considering this year's New Year is going to be different without the bunch of nieces and nephews, maybe I should just count the year down in Times' Square. I miss the Christmas tree we all helped set up last year and the Kris Kringle was so much fun.


CCM's Itinerary...


SUN 16DEC
DEP SINGAPORE 1125 CX 714 NON-STOP
TERMINAL 1 ECONOMY BOEING 777-300
ARR HONG KONG 1510 CONFIRMED 03HR 45MIN
TERMINAL 1 LUNCH

SUN 16DEC
DEP HONG KONG 1900 CX 840 NON-STOP
ECONOMY BOEING 777
ARR NEW YORK JFK 2110 CONFIRMED 15HR 10MIN
TERMINAL 7 MULTI MEALS

FRI 04JAN
DEP NEW YORK JFK 0900 CX 841 NON-STOP
TERMINAL 7 ECONOMY BOEING 777
05JAN
ARR HONG KONG 1400 CONFIRMED 16HR 00MIN
MULTI MEALS

SAT 05JAN
DEP HONG KONG 1600 CX 711 NON-STOP
TERMINAL 1 ECONOMY BOEING 777
ARR SINGAPORE 1950 CONFIRMED 03HR 50MIN
TERMINAL 1 REFRESHMENT -
COMPLIMENTARY

As much as I wanna come home for New Year, I have no idea who to spend it with. So I might opt to spend it on the way back. Besides I'll be traveling "ahead" of time, so effectively, I could skip New Year altogether. Awww, this sounds so bitter! So let's vote, should I spend New Year in Singapore or New York?

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Lousy Pick Up Line

An interesting anecdote I've like to share...

This happened to me 5 mins ago.

After sending Urban Legend Wifey midway back to her car, I headed back for office. I met this gweilo in the elevator.

GL: Nice shirt.
Me: Thanks.
GL: Nice legs.
Me: Make up your mind, shirt or legs. Haha.
GL: Haha... What are you doing this Christmas?
Me: I'm going for a holiday.
GL: Where to?
Me: New York.
GL: When?
Me: This weekend.
GL: Nice. Wanna do drinks before you leave?
Me: HUH? Don't think so, the rest of the week is very packed.
GL: How about a quick one after work today?
Me: Thanks but no thanks. Quickies aren't my preference.
GL: Haha alright. How about a nice dinner?
Me: Nope. Not interested, really.
GL: Married?
Me: Nope but still not interested. *Smile
GL: *shrug How about...
*Elevator reaches my floor on time.
Me: Nope, I'm here. See you, actually hope not. *Scrammed off.

I was laughing to myself ALOUD and wondering how stupid can he be? I know I was really bad but get the "no" on the first time dude.

Intangible Gratification


Part of why I enjoy my job so much got to be the job satisfaction I get. Monetary aspect aside, which is of course necessary for survival, the genuine gratification I get from my candidates really touched me every now and then. Earlier this year, I placed this other girl who is although super senior in her field, she's still considered a small placement. She was in Hong Kong when I told her about the good news and she got me a really nice mobile phone strap. It's not so much what she got me but the fact that she remembered me while on holiday and made it a point to show her gratitude.

Received this card a while ago. The girl who sent me the card hasn't officially moved but will be doing it in January,so it's not absolutely done and dusted but the gesture itself made me feel that I've definitely done something right. Never in my life would I imagine myself to do what I'm doing but guess what, I'm here and totally enjoying it. Over the 1.5 years, I've learnt to close my eyes and ears to some things and close my mouth on most things. Life is alot easier this way and needless to say, I'm smiling alot more. As I slowly watch my dreams unfold itself, things coming the way exactly how I wanted it, maybe not quite there yet but it's like watching a flower slowing blooming. The joy is inexplicable.

Can't wait for my New York trip this coming Sunday. I'm trying to plan my "sleep plan" on the flight so that I don't stay awake when I get there because Zhoos has warned me that he would be very tired and wants to sleep so it is implied that I should just sleep and not bug him when I land. Would be good to counter the jet lag as well. It's already Tuesday and I've barely packed. I need to make a trip to the supermarket to pick up some stuffs and not end up with last minute frenzy on Saturday since I need to squeeze in one last wakeboarding session for this year just before I jet off.

My three weeks in New York would be a good time to take a real break after a long long year and definitely a retreat for me. I haven't got a chance to stop and take a breather this whole year except for the short Bangkok weekend during National Day. It's probably a good time to nurse the soul and to be prepared for better things to happen in the new year of 2008. Speaking of 2008, previously it seem so far away whenever we talk about Beijing Olympics but merely a wink away, it's coming in 3 weeks time! List your resolutions and see them work its way in the coming year! Time to do mine...

Monday, December 10, 2007

Do Not Open Your Gifts Until Christmas

The weather's so beautiful today with cool comfortable breeze and warm morning sun. The missing pieces seem to fall into place and even as we enter the monsoon, I could see hear the birds chirping before they start on their migration journey.

The Other Urban Legend once told me we choose to see things we want to see. He even did a little test on me to prove his point. Either his theory is flawed or I didn't think that was important enough for me to take a second look. I came back to the office to pick up my phone charger yesterday. I usually live my weekends with fear that my battery might run out but since Germ has a charger which I could borrow, I'll still leave my charger in the office. It broke and I was on a "high call" weekend with Urban Legend Wifey. So as I was saying, I was waiting for an important email and it reads, "Mods Fund" or rather, that was the way I saw it. It was in my inbox and I did not see it AT ALL until this morning. I was either blind on Sunday or I had better things to do than to work. The latter would suffice as the explanation for now since I'm obviously not blind!

This morning had been filled with funny CVs. Unfortunately, Comedy Boss is away in Bangkok being asked to stay far away from his wife when she's shopping because as a "farang" aka Gweilo, he's bound to spoil the bargaining. Otherwise, we would be having a ball in here. Just for fun, one of the many interests the person wrote on her CV says that she would like to learn more about different champagnes and then to remember their names afterwards. WHAT? These sort of CVs are very risky and can go either way. If the candidate is lucky, the potential employer would appreciate her interest in champagne and might even bring her out to teach her a thing or two about champagnes. The others might just think she's a nut. On our part, we decide if the client is such a person but it would be very much taking a high risk punt. I remember mine said "Cars, Gadgets and Travel" and luckily enough, Comedy Boss loves cars as much as I do and here I am, in a job I absolutely love. Working with Comedy Boss is a pleasure that I can only wish and needless to say, it keeps me sane from the day to day insanity happening around me.

My buddies never fail to relate me to malfunctioning senses. My antennas are never in good working order or condition. Which also explains why I never assume things. What I am about to say might seem that it should not fall into the same paragraph but to me, it belongs to the same paragraph! Finding someone who can have a proper conversation may not seem like the most difficult thing in the world but to have someone who can have an intelligent conversation with you is not the easiest job on earth. When you know such a person exist, you will go on to explore if this is a merely superficial intellectual conversation you have with an acquaintance or the cute banker you've met at the bar last night and not think of getting lucky in any possible way. You know you have come across a barrel of good lager when you want to taste a little everyday yet you want this barrel of lager to last a lifetime. This lager is not merely smooth on the tongue but also tells you how the lager is different from the ale and other lagers. It teaches you how the yeast, temperature affect the fermentation process and hence, the quality of the lager. It's not just beer. It's amazing how delightful it is to not just meet your match but also someone who can hold your hand and guide you through the dark. This person seems to know all the nooks and crannies and you trust that you wouldn't fall into a huge crevice just because your surroundings are absent of any source of light. Of a sudden, the darkness disappears because there's a glimmer of light that we choose to see.

We've all heard that familiar expression, "Good things come to those who wait". Whether you're waiting for your Heinz ketchup to pour out onto your burger, waiting for Christmas day to open your gifts, good things will come if you simply allow them to come in their own time.

One day you might find your light and you will have ketchup with your quarter pounder.

Sunday, December 09, 2007

Politically Incorrect

Politics are there no matter how small a group is, even if it's just within cyber space. I hate politics but we don't have a choice because we live in such a world. I try hard to avoid and at least choose not to be involved or not to know but somehow, it'll find its way to you and it gets to you. Why can't things stay simple? Humans!

A world with lesser conspiracies would definitely be a better place and if we start to treat other people more genuinely, we would be at the receiving end of a true friend at some point in time. What comes around goes around.

How would I like it if everyone tells me the truth? Hmmm... Actually, can be very painful. What a tough compromise and balance...

I Know That You Know That I Know

People who knows me will know that I'm spaced out alot of the time and I have a memory equivalent to a goldfish. I may seem to know some things but I don't. At the very same time, I do know other things I don't either seem to know or seem to care. I choose to believe I understand and know what is going on although I'm often mistaken. I think I know what I should know... I think... I hope... All we can do is hope to know we know right? I don't know if I know. I'm lost. Or am I?

Thursday, December 06, 2007

Mental Dissection

Was chatting with "The Other Urban Legend" earlier, there were some points he mentioned that I thought he had me spot on then as I was replying bit by bit, I started to realise that my life is alot better than I initially thought. Here are excerpts of the email I sent across...

"I’m not as much a thrill seeker as you think I am. I guess I feel comfortable with people around me but quite polarised at times because I really love time alone. And I guess you are right it’s to fill the space/void in me. WB takes that few hours off during the weekend so it doesn’t seem so long and that I actually DID something over the weekend and not be rotting at home. I may not love my independence as much but do appreciate that I have them. At times, I’d rather not have this independence. It gets very tiring. But this is a catch 22 situation I guess.

In my job, it’s very easy to get lost and lose yourself. My ex-boss “Babooshka Mom” has been telling me that some people can make astronomical amount of money in recruitment but whether they are happy or not, it’s a totally different story. But the way I’m doing things, I can survive, might not be darn rich but at least, I can be happy. That was how she mentored me.

Dreams are wide and the matter of accomplishing it all boils down to perception yet again. Of course I’d be happy to drive a Murcielago but do I need that to make me happy and do I want that. We all have dreams which will remain as dreams. More often than not, that it remains a dream. Good that if it ever comes true but even if it doesn’t, there’s no real loss. Happiness may have been found somewhere else. That’s all that matters. You don't lose what you never had.

Stability in the heart and mind may not seem sorted but I know it is sorted. My life has come to a point that nothing much is changing and I actually like that. It gives me the right frame of mind to look at issues or things that might change my life with a very clear decision making standpoint."


Not realising that I actually have the capacity to break myself up into little pieces and decipher myself. After the conversation, I felt lighter because I could see more of myself, well classified. The arrow suddenly emerged from the fog and I could imagine it actually lighting up the way.

Went for dinner with Urban Legend Wifey (totally different from The Other Urban Legend) and we were discussing about relocation. There are just some things that you will need the right time, with the right people around you, the right support to make such a decision. Otherwise, rerooting for a few years and to return starting all over again can be quite a torturous exercise. As of now, only if a life long partner were to relocate to a location I can see myself starting a life and to return in a few years, I will not leave this place a lone ranger. Even having said that, if a reasonable offer comes along, the priority might have be rearranged... Unless...

This Kiss - It's Criminal

I can still remember when I first saw Shrek, I thought he was kinda cute. I thought he was cute and definitely THE eligible bachelor. Even then, he's not my kind of guy and would never in my lifetime thought I'd ever go out with someone like him. At this point when you're reading this, you must be thinking that I'm going out with him. Haha, still no. Nothing has changed. What made me blog about this was due to a dream last night I don't know if that qualifies as a nightmare but I did cringe when I woke up this morning. Honestly, at his age, Shrek is considered rather cute.

The only part of the dream I could remember vividly was Shrek trying to put his face closer and closer to mine, so incredibly near that I could actually feel his breathing. Please be reminded that this was a dream! And he kissed me. Ewwww... I woke up, on the brink of tears and I shivered. I could feel every muscle in my body cringe to the point of spasm. Heaven forbid, I have never thought a kiss from him, EVER. I'm blaming it on the stress that I'm undergoing and the indirect stress that he's putting onto all of us. This is a "punishment" I shall never forget.

This was a really weird dream for me because I seldom see faces in my dream and when I do, the name and the person I thought this person was suppose to be, will never match up. For once, I knew that was Shrek and appearing right in front of me was this supposedly handsome face with the distinctive, signature long lashes. Really, this has scared the hell out of me. I shall pop a pill and go to bed and hopefully, I will not dream of anything tonight.

Well then again, maybe a sky full of colourful numeric balloons will be nice...

I hope I can see my Grandma in my dream tonight. I miss her terribly and I want to tell her how much my life is missing out without her by my side and there are just some people I wish she had the chance to see. I hope she's no longer in pain. I still can't believe she's gone for more than a year. I can still feel her warmth and the way her wrinkled skin feels between my palms... Will I see you tonight?

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Why The Opposition Can Never Make It



This is ridiculous! Both Chee and the police. Chee is a total waste of time. He has not achieved anything to convince me that he's fighting for my freedom and democracy of this nation. In fact, I think he's just a clown, a joke and not a person I'd want to represent me on the world stage. He's a total nutter. I swear he's out of his fucked up mind. His sister is no where better. Her saga with that Elisa Soo is just plain corny and entirely wasting the tax payers' money. Why do we need to escort them cuz frankly, these people do not deserve the kind of attention that the police is giving them. Really, no one would give a second look. Ironically, the police's presence just successfully created the attention that they were craving for. Potentially giving them everything them need, media coverage/propaganda - the most dangerous weapon during wartimes. The police - With the amount of tax, I believe we can afford to hire or train smarter people. How disappointing. With that, how would you want me to defend the government/police? You just dumped my hard earn money onto that bunch of dodos standing around and not able to answer some clever questions with even cleverer answers? The reason why we don't have strong opposition because we have people like Chee, he spoils their image altogether. If only we have oppositions who carry more brains underneath their thick skin and numbskull... My thoughts might be different.

Monday, December 03, 2007

Partyworld with Sgrgals



SGRgals Partyworld November 07

He's Just Not That Into You - The Film

I've said this a million times, I'm not into self-help books. I have never read a single Antony Robbins nor Who Moved My Cheese? I read this book very much for the fun in the way they wrote it.

Taken from a male-oriented site - AskMen.com

What it says about men: In the words of author Greg Behrendt, "If a (sane) guy really likes you, there ain't nothing that's going to get in his way." This bestselling book is refreshingly upbeat, managing to focus less on man-bashing and more on women's inability to recognize a disinterested partner.

How to handle its readers:
Like most self help books, readers of He's Just Not That Into You come away highly empowered. They know if you don't treat them properly, another, better-suited man gladly will. Women like these are likely to have little patience for your immaturity, so making a good first impression is key. Authors Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo challenge their readers to avoid men who:
1. Keep them waiting by the phone
2. Are not sure they want a relationship
3. Make them feel sexually undesirable
4. Drink or do drugs to an extent it makes them uncomfortable
5. Fear talking about the future
6. Are married

Readers know you're not their only option any more, so give them the attention they deserve and let them know you value your relationship. If you don't want to pursue your relationship, be honest about that, too. Readers of this book will be committed to living a life free of excuses, and they expect the same from you.


For most of the people around me, only point 1, 2 and 6 applies and occasionally point 5 to a lesser extent.

The movie based on the book will be out very soon, starring Drew Barrymore, Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Aniston, Justin Long, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Connelly, Ginnifer Goodwin, Kevin Connolly, and Bradley Cooper; I can't wait to watch another Jennifer Aniston's show and with Ben Affleck, just ooohhh...

I have to say this everytime. This entry has no bearing whatsoever. Not referring to anyone, anything in particular. (Have to disclaim because I've already got a text asking me who I'm referring to!!) I just love the book and I just saw in Marie Claire when I was having my haircut yesterday that the movie would be out soon.

Gu Niang

Wakeboarding last week was disastrous. I didn't know riding with the pros would put so much pressure on me. The entire wakeboarding procedure is so different from our usual drill. We don't usually need to load up the boat because we're all rookies but recently, I've noticed the loading with 10litre containers. But when pros ride, the whole loading process becomes professional as well. We had to fill up 2x200kg weightage systems with the sea water when we settle around the spot we were going to ride. This process will enable the boat to create bigger wakes which in turn, encourage bigger jumps. Big wakes can be good but at the same time, when you're a real rookie, it can be intimidating. For me, I loved the wake. But somehow, my ride just did not show it.

For the first time in history, my extremely gorgeous instructor "Power Ranger Daddy" called me a "gu niang" which literally means lady and what he really meant was that he felt that my limbs were too soft, I wasn't performing and I've lost the "chilli padi" in me. Most know me by "Pedal to Metal Chilli Padi" but none of the characteristics made it's appearance on Saturday. Must say I was utterly disappointed with myself. On the bright side, there's always next week.

Woke up on Sunday for the BMWsg morning drive + picnic. Found that I was running a temperature and the body ache was killing me so I popped to Panaco & mass-texted everyone then headed back to bed. The rest did me good and by noon, I was making my way for my haircut. I love my new haircut but apparently, no one could tell I cropped them off except for the real Jewell. It's about time I do something drastic... Oh, I forgot about the bosses...

Saturday, December 01, 2007

如果你也听说

Now I wish i can cancel my bloody New York trip. I don't like and don't want to impose if I had a choice and I didn't know I'd be imposing. If I knew, I wouldn't have thought of planning to go for it. It's not fun to travel for more than 20 hours and not be welcomed. I should have just gone to Esperance.

We went to volunteer for the Children's Concert for autistic children and was surprised to see my lecturer from law school. He taught me for a few classes but despite what the rest of my classmates thought, I think he was a great lecturer then and I learnt a hell lot during his classes although I screwed up my Trust paper so badly. Or was it Tort? As for those of us who helped out, it was fun especially the conversations we overheard on our walkie talkies. Jewell was just "whipping" Jeffers De Jay between the bleeps.

Been hearing 张惠妹's 如果你也听说 in Crowsfeet's car recently over and over again and when he was sending me home earlier, I really paid attention to what the lyrics was saying and these are things that sends me going to bed in tears. I'm not up to one of my "down periods" again but I'm easily moved by lyrics that strike the right chords. I must say I really like it so enjoy this...



我发现站了好久 不知道要往哪走
还不想回家的我 再多人陪只会更寂寞
许多话题关于我 就连我也有听过
我的快乐要被认可 委屈却没有人诉说
夜半信仰丛白剥落 拿掉防卫剩下什么
为什么脆弱时候 想你更多

如果你也听说 有没有想过我
想普通交朋友 还是你依然会心疼我
好多好多的话想对你说 悬着一颗心没着落
要怎么附和 舍不得 又无可奈何

如果你也听说 会不会相信我
对流言会附和 还是你知道我还是我
跌跌撞撞才明白了许多 冷漠的人就你一个
想到你想起我 胸口依然温柔

许多话题关于我 就连我也有听过
我想我宁可都沉默 其实反而显得做作
夜半信仰丛白剥落 拿掉防卫剩下什么
为什么脆弱时候 想你更多

如果你也听说 有没有想过我
想普通交朋友 还是你依然会心疼我
好多好多的话想对你说 悬着一颗心没着落
要怎么附和 舍不得 要无可奈何

如果你也听说 会不会相信我
对流言会附和 还是你知道我还是我
跌跌撞撞才明白了许多 冷漠的人就你一个
想到你想起我 胸口依然温柔

如果你也听说 有没有想过我
想普通交朋友 还是你依然会心疼我
跌跌撞撞才明白了许多 冷漠的人就你一个
想到你想起我 胸口依然温柔
如果你想起我 你会想到什么

After I met my lecturer, it suddenly struck me... Some people are just a phone call away. This one phonecall can make a difference to your life and probably someone else's. 如果你想起我 你会想到什么

Time for my withdrawal therapy...

Friday, November 30, 2007

Rex = Beng Car?

Alot of us are guilty of hearing the mmmm psssttt and we'll just think another WRX has sprinted past. Most often than not, their ostentatious blow off valve is almost unmistakable. And we're also guilty to think that it's a "beng" car, myself included. But before you rex drivers start to blast my site, I do not think that Ah Beng drives that car but the car portrays a "beng" image. Guilty as charged?

Different cars portray different images. We often link Merc to towkays, BMWs to snob, Toyota to practicality, so on. For myself, I love my Bimmers. Some people may call me a snob. let me give you a background. I wasn't born with a silver spoon and my parents don't lavish me with expensive toys simply because they can't afford to. That does not stop me from growing to have a liking for certain material wants. There are typical girls out there who carries a couple of different Louis Vuitton bags whenever there's a new season in town. I would spend a large part of my income on my car because this is exactly what I like. That does not make me a snob. i do not look down on other cars. "Orange" drives a QQ and I think it's a great car for her, serves the very purpose she bought the car for. Everyone has different needs and priorities in life and mine happen to be warped in the minds of many of you. For me, i know I'm very clear of what I want and I work towards my goal. I don't stay back till 11pm in the office for no reason. I will not be earning big bucks just by staying in the office, working zombie hours but I know if I work hard enough, one fine day, it will be my turn behind the wheels and in particular, the rear wheel drive one.

Over the past months, I've slogged and finally, I'm seeing some results and my German ponies are glimmering slowly but strongly with hope. Please know I have earned it myself so before you judge, just think, we all love and go crazy over different things.

Back to my point, I did not and would not look down on anyone driving a rex. It's a value for money per bhp car. I don't mind driving it but really, the scooby is just not my cup of tea. First and foremost, only a RWD will convince me at this point in time. Secondly, it's the image it portrays and it's definitely not the kind of repuation I'd want to be associated with. There is nothing wrong with the image but it is just not me. We all have various considerations. Almost everone I met told me that the MINI Cooper S suits me better but based on my purposes, I have decided to shelve that.

Having said all of the above when my eyes are closing, I hope I don't wake up tomorrow and regret what I've said/typed. I still maintain the rex is a beng looking car but there is absolutely nothing wrong 2ith that comment. Not all Rex drivers are beng just like not all Merc drivers are towkays. Besides, I will continue to go "black car and gold rims?? beng leh...". I maintain to talk whatever rubbish I want on my blog... Wooooo...

Thursday, November 29, 2007

The Cure of Wakeboarding Withdrawal - More Wakeboarding!

You have heard and seen me whine about my withdrawal syndrome. Guess who I met during my Wednesday Balaclava night?

My wakeboard instructor!


I am going to squeeze in some water time with him this weekend's evening (after all the activities...) since he wants to ride as well. So I'll be riding with the pros and that's free show for you. These guys are good enough for world class wakeboard DVDs and I'll be catching them LIVE. What an exciting thought. I swear I sounded like a broken record when I told "Power Ranger Daddy (the wakeboard instructor)" several times that I really wanna ride and I'm suffering from very severe wakeboarding withdrawal syndrome. Finally, we managed to arrange some slots on Saturday and probably Sunday too. I can't wait!!!

There seem to be an evil flu bug around. Everyone's under the weather even all the way to Sydney and London, almost everyone's been telling me that they are sick. For once, I feel stronger than everyone else but funnily, I was sneezing the whole afternoon yesterday. The sneezing wasn't funny but it was the timing. Whenever the lightning strikes, my nose will start to twitch and whenever the thunder roared, I had to let out a huge sneeze at the same time. Since then, I've been sniffly but still going strong. Trying very hard to top my fluids, (whiskeys included) and during lunch later, I'm going to grab some vitamins to keep this disgusting bug at bay. The sunshine today has worked miraculously for me and finger crossed, I'll stay healthy and be riding like a water baby this weekend.

Get well soon! - Obviously not a message for myself...

My Christmas Wishlist... As all of you will know, this will not be the end of my list haha... But right now, I really only want this.

Introducing... Liquid Force 2008 Jett 132


Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Severe Wakeboarding Withdrawal Syndrome

My wakeboarding withdrawal syndrome is getting really bad and highly unmanageable. My last session was nearly 2 weeks ago and as many of you have already found out from my constant whining, I didn't manage to ride last week. My board is sitting nicely in the living room in its edge protector. My bags are all packed and I'm just ready to go anytime. But unfortunately, this Saturday I'll have to go help out with some children's concert for a group of autistic children and on Sunday, we're going to have the BMW-sg morning drive. Seems like burnt but I'm hoping to be able to squeeze in something on late Sunday afternoon after the morning drive.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

SGRgals



The group of people who are taking up the bulk of my time now. I'm enjoying every minute with them. Life has just become alot more meaningful. Can be very tiring too...

Monday, November 26, 2007

WB Withdrawal

The wakeboarding "infection" has got me so bad, I actually felt very empty when I miss my ride over the last weekend. Totally passed out, I couldn't even hear the alarm on Monday morning and being on MSN till 6am didn't quite help things. I'm so tempted to take annual leave to go wakeboarding this week but at the same time, I wanna bill as much as I can before I take my long break at the end of the year so gotta stay in and work my arse off.

For the past weeks, I've been telling myself to get home earlier so that I can tuck myself in before midnight and never was there a day that I could actually have more than 8 hours of sleep. An activities filled weekend didn't help at all. Don't think I'll be sleeping early tonight either since I'm still working right now. But all these hard work will pay off when I finally get to polish my little ponies come first quarter next year.

Been sniffling the entire day and my nose had been itching since noon. I felt like I'm part of Bewitched's cast. I think someone must be talking about me behind my back. Or does that make your ears itch instead? Or eyes twitch? Gotta get my arse off this chair and get them to the gym so it doesn't stay this big. I need to ride some wakes!!!

Saturday, November 24, 2007

SILRA Home Needs Your Help

Pictures of volunteering at SILRA Home will be up soon.

People are often mistaken that leprosy is highly contagious and this is not true. Today, we have very effective drugs to treat this disease and we should not let the fear of contracting the disease stop us from befriending these lonely aged people. Happiness and smiles are contagious so please play your part to contribute to the society and show these people some love and concern. If time is not on your side, try to help them if your financials allow. Since 2003 after they moved to their current premise over at Buangkok Green, overheads are way higher. Any contributions would be welcomed.

We managed to collect enough money to offer them a wonderful catered spread and also took them out for a walk. We take it for granted that we can just open the door and walk out but these old people have to wait for volunteers to come during the weekends to bring them out for their weekly walk. On a personal note, I enjoyed myself tremendously and would do so again if time permits.

I just came back from "Story-telling Meister's" baby girl's full month party. We were really uncreative and all of us ended up buying him vouchers but having said that, it's probably the most practical choice. All the diaper shopping is probably going to strip this man's bank account in no time. Like any new parent, you could almost tell the joy from looking at his silhouette. And as a friend, I genuinely feel happy for him.

Attituder and myself have been sitting here next to each other msn-ing each other. When two girls are absolutely bored, they start to do stupid things and we're perfect examples. Heading out for not so early, fattening supper soon. Girls...

Friday, November 23, 2007

Amazing Race

The "Amazing Race" that I had when I was on a training trip to Hong Kong last year was so much fun. I remembered when I saw the ad on AXN calling for local participants, I wanted to join with Jem. We didn't but I knew if we did, we are just going to have so much fun.

Met "No.1 Female Alkie" and her queer friends last night after a super huge dinner with Como. Two of her friends, or friends' friends (wasn't too sure) were participants of the Amazing Race Asia, Adrian & Collin. Adrian has a hearing disability so he relies on lip-reading to understanding people. Collin, his Amazing race partner communicates with him using sign language and I bet, they used that to their advantage to the fullest. They couldn't reveal who won the competition as they are under a confidential agreement and if they did, they would have to pay millions.

You can catch them every Thursday on AXN, 9pm. Show your support for fellow Singaporeans and such unique combination. Did I mention that Adrian is a really sweet chap?

Tucked myself in the Shanghai Hairy Crab last night and got reminded of how much I actually misses Shanghai. The quality of the crab here is nothing compared to Shanghai and I must make it a point to go there again and this time, I'll bring my parents along. Nonetheless, it's still yum. I'm in danger of my cholesterol shooting off the roof right now.

Got psycho-ed by Como to get the X3 instead of the E90. Good idea, suits me but off my budget. It's the sort of car you wouldn't find yourself modding much since it's a freakin' SUV. I'll stick to my little unambitious 320. Saw a white one, a little overpriced but beautiful. If there's a similar one in January, I wouldn't hesitate.

Things at work have slowed down for me. Some things are looking good on the surface but I can sense quite a bit of undercurrents sweeping me down so I'm trying not to think about it and keep rolling on. Fingers and toes all crossed!

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Bala... Krishnan?

Balaclava at 7.30pm for those of you alkies out there. Some pictures from the night before Deepavali and as you can see, I wasn't in my formal corporate look.

Breyton's Urban Legend Wifey


Breyton almost got strangled



Rod Selling Mocca House


Charcoalx


How I Got Drunk...


CharmmyKitte

Como

The Threesome

"My Kitchen Is Over There!"

Finally Normal

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Gone With The Commuters

We're all blind to inconsiderate commuters because it has become a common sight in Singapore. I hope these are the last few months that I'll be reliant on the stupid buses and trains. To be perfectly honest, I think we have a great public transport network and system. There's nothing with the infrastructure at all. It's the people and in particular, fellow Singaporeans who are really disappointing.

People still don't give way to the rushing crowd in the morning. It's a luxury to get an unblocked and moving right lane on the escalator at the train station. Just keep left when you don't need to rush off, and that can save some other chap his job or even someone's life. On good days, I breeze through the crowd but you only need ONE person to block up the escalator and that actually creates the chain effect. No one can move after this one brainless fucking idiot. Others stop short of 3 steps from the end and when one person does so, you have a line of rushing bankers and lawyers screeching on their BBK. What the hell!

Getting in and out of the train is still a fucking pain in the neck. People refuse to move to the centre of the train and you see people jammed up at the entrance. I don't have that problem since I always have a seat (benefit of staying near the end of the line) but you'll fume just by watching them. ROAR! For more than twice in the past week, I could hear this Filipino voice through the thumping music blasting from my nano, begging the people to move to the centre of the train.

Exiting the train is worse! People rush into the train like they were afraid that if they were a second slower, the door is either going to squash them or the train might leave without them and not coming in the next 20 long hours. Makes me wanna scream... "Let me out" in the 162 types of dialects that might not even exist.

The least infuriating of these frustrations got to be the leaning man of MRT. These people strategically place themselves leaning against the pole so much so that if they put any more weight, the pole is just gonna bend. As the trains screech itself to a halt, forcing us to bang onto the smelly arse in front. All of you may have thought that all you could do to save yourself from this embarrassment is to hold on tight but because these blob of fats is leaning on the strained pole, within the split second, you can really can't grab anyway and in seemingly slow motion, crashing onto the next Ah Peh's fragile set of bones (BTW, no one seem to offer these poor seniors any seats). Don't flame me, I did gave my my seat on countless occasions, as long as I see someone who needs my assistance and in this case, my seat.

So stop complaining about your ERP unless you think paying for your transport and still suffer the stuffy cabin with malfunctioning A/C filled with people with terrible body odour is a better option.

Tomorrow shall be a cab day...

Hey Mom
Why didn't you tell me
Why didn't you teach me a thing or two
You just let me go
Out into the World
You never thought to share what you knew

So I walked under a bus
I got hit by a train
Keep falling in love
Which is kinda the same
I've sunk out at sea
Crashed my car, gone insane
And it felt so good
I want to do it again

Hey Mom
Why didn't you warn me
Coz about boys is something i should have known
They`re like chocolate cake
Like cigarettes
I know they're bad for me
But I just can't leave 'em alone

So I walked under a bus
I got hit by a train
Keep falling in love
Which is kinda the same
I've sunk out at sea
Crashed my car, gone insane
And it felt so good
I want to do it again

I wanna do it again
Oh, felt so good

Hey Mom
Since we're talking
What was it like when you were young
Has the world changed
Or is it still the same
A man can kill and still be the sweetest thing.

So I walked under a bus
I got hit by a train
Keep falling in love
Which is kinda the same
I've sunk out at sea
Crashed my car, gone insane
And it felt so good

So I walked under a bus
I got hit by a train
Keep falling in love
Which is kinda the same
I've sunk out at sea
Crashed my car, gone insane
And it felt so good
I want to do it again
I want to do it again

Monday, November 19, 2007

Not Just Running

If you're a little more observant, you would have noticed the new ad on your right. It's an ad on the Nike Charity Run. There's no date or physical run but you've got to have one of the Nike Sport Kit or visit the official site by clicking on the logo. If you do not have one of those kits, do not fret. Email giveback@nuffnang.com. They have 20 Nike plus sports kits to give away! Tell them how far your plan to run, in an innovative manner and we will send one on to you! For every 1KM run, Nike will donate $5 worth of products to underprivileged children through the make-a-wish foundation. I know it's a tad troublesome right? I would love to run but I don't think I'll run out there and buy a kit. I also doubt I'd come up with something creative enough to win the kit but hey, if you really want this, I think they genuine have these stuffs to give it away, so do go for it! Oh but please check if your shoes are one of those Nike+ shoes with the little hole for the sensor, otherwise, you'll find yourself buying new Nike shoes, new kit and new iPod nano. Gotta check my running shoes...

But my zero point two cents to Nike, maybe do a real tie up to sell the 3 items at unbelievable good prices. Maybe I'll consider buying the shoes and Nano at the same time... Maybe should ask if Nuff-Nangers have any discounts... Hmmm... *scheming look across my Monday face.

This reminds me of the Sony Blu-Ray disc. You need to have the other products just so you can use the others. Headed for doom... Speaking of Sony, they have really been disappointing. I think I qualify as a Sony fan. I have a Vaio lappy, the T10 cammie, swears by Sony Ericsson phones but really, if you ask me now, I'd get an Apple lappy, a Canon cammie instead. The picture quality of the T10 have been disappointing. The only saving grace is that it has really quick shutter speed so you take is what you saw. Just the quality being compromised when lighting isn't in its best. The lappy... Sigh... Let's just say, it's awfully painful to be still paying for the installments.

If you really wise to help some poor souls without spending money nor leaving the house, here's a way for you to help. Play now...

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Men - O - Pause

I know I haven't been blogging like I used to, going on and on about everything and nothing. Recently, I've been taking a bit of a break from blogging because there's just so much going through my head and work, I'm on the verge of breaking down.

Things on the outside may seem ok and I'm still wakeboarding on the usual weekends except for this one. I took Friday off because I didn't feel like I was able to get myself to work. Physically and mentally, I was weak and exhausted. Sometimes I just wish for a shoulder to cry on but it's not fair to look for a shoulder when you only need a shoulder so I could make do with my trusty comforter. You wouldn't even believe that I was even less than active on Facebook.

The way some people handle things may put me off but I have to emphasize that I'm not unhappy with those people but some things could have been handled in a better way. But of course, in some specific situations, it is undoubtly the person. End of the day, I'm just glad that someone kinda stood up and believed in me and in the coming week, I only want to prove that I can do something to make this already amazing quarter into an unbelieveable one. Things can only be better...

If only life has a pause button...

What Car Would You Be?

I'm a Porsche 911!



You have a classic style, but you're up-to-date with the latest technology. You're ambitious, competitive, and you love to win. Performance, precision, and prestige - you're one of the elite,and you know it.


Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Whacked Left Right Centre





Some of you may have caught this video from several other places. Thought it's about time to put in my 2 cents worth which is very different from what most of you might think but to avoid getting murdered by some lunatic at this stage, I shall not blog about it yet.

Well, these are all but excuses. The main reason being I haven't been in the best of shape, physically and mentally to write anything. Life sucks at this juncture for me... I just need someone to tell me that everything will be fine...

Thursday, November 15, 2007

My Little Germ

This song by Lily Allen reminds me of my baby brother. We've been fighting ever since my memory started serving me and when I say fight, I mean we get physical with the fists and punches. Growing up with bruises and broken tooth comes as no surprise to me. Now that we're all grown up, we're still closer than most siblings. I've always felt bad that he's been growing up in my shadow and that wasn't fair to him... Not that I'm fab though.

It's quite upsetting to see that he's still not getting anywhere but I really wanna help him as much as I can. It's not easy growing up in our family so nothing can change the fact that he's my baby brother and only one at that. Grow up soon and I love you, little rascal!

Oooooooh, oh deary me,
My little brother's in his bedroom smoking weed,
I tell him he should get up 'cause it's nearly half past three
He can't be bothered 'cause he's high on THC.
I ask him very nicely if he'd like a cup of tea,
I can't even see him 'cause his room is so smokey,
Don't understand how one can watch so much TV,
My baby brother Alfie how I wish that you could see.

I only say it cause I care,
So please can you stop pulling my hair?
Now, now there's no need to swear,
please don't despair my dear, mon frere.

Oh Alfie get up it's a brand new day,
I just can't sit back and watch you waste your life away
You need to get a job because the bills need to get paid,
Get off your lazy arse, Alfie please use your brain

Surely there's some walls out there that you can go and spray,

I'm feeling guiltier for leading you astray.
Now how the hell do you ever expect that you'll get laid,
When all you do is stay in playing your computer games?

Oh little brother please refrain from doing that,
I'm trying to help you out, so can you stop being a twat.
It's time that you and I sat down and had a little chat,
And look me in the eyes take off that stupid fitted cap.


I only say it cause I care,
So please can you stop pulling my hair?
Now, now there's no need to swear,
please don't despair

Please don't despair
My Mon frere

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

I Prefer Drinks Today...

Been snowed under and haven't got time to blog. I'm heading down to Balaclava to wind down... Don't think I'm in the right mindset to blog so might consider doing so when I'm a little tipsy tonight. Join me!

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Lunch @ Raffles' Place

Lunch is always a pain in Raffles' Place.

I hate the tissue packs culture and have never done anything of the sort. A joke based on "Mao Meen's" personal experience - His colleagues and him left tissue packs on the table to "chope" the seats while they went to get their lunch. When they return to their seats, he found an "ang moh" couple sitting on their "reserved" seats and were wiping off perspiration with the "free" tissue "provided" on the table. They were obviously tourists.

I can never find people to lunch with me and the reasons are as follows:

- somehow the timing are never good
- very few works in Raffles' Place
- we usually have to rush off
- last minute meetings
- preference to dine in the office where we don't have to squeeze with the crowd
- they are simply not in Raffles' Place

Friends who drop by Raffles' Place once in a while will call me for lunch and I really appreciate the gesture. "Ex-Sir" couldn't make it for lunch today but very pleasantly surprised, Como called around lunch time and asked if I wanted to do lunch. But was coerced into taking another day of annual leave for wakeboarding. Let's see.. Just thankful that I don't have to do a ta bao and have lunch with my computer and stare lovingly into the monitor.

And for the rest of the week, I'm filled with lunch meetings. Lunch is a little less painful this week... Come next week, the pain process starts all over again.

Monday, November 12, 2007

Micro Management

Have anyone of you ever been a victim of micro-management? Ever worked under a boss who's a victim of Stockholm's syndrome, totally in love with the man right on top of us? All I wanna do the entire morning is just to scream, "Get out of my face!". Please see that micromanagement does not solve problems but create bigger and potentially back firing ones. To the people who are bottom dwellers, this is just plain evil and disabling. I need to scream!

Feeling so lazy today, I didn't wanted to wait 5 mins to get the Daktacort and now, I'm itching to death. The queue in the pharmacy was crazy. Welcome to Raffles' Place. Th laziness extends itself to a dangerous level. Just received an email from Comedy Boss that I haven't been making enough phone calls. Now, not one but two micro managing bosses. All the more reluctant to turn up for Family Day this coming Saturday.


Got these today and took me quite a while to figure out who's the sender. Thanks. My Monday was really blue although there's nothing much anyone can do to help, it did take some stress off my mind for a while.

Feel like strangling some idiots today. Think the lack of sleep is getting to me... I should cool down and not do anything rash that I'd regret. Not murdering someone of course..

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Jumble Jumble

After a day of lying in bed, I'm now disoriented from an overdose of sleep. Yesterday was a really long day. Started with wakeboarding which I was exhilarated from managing a bigger jump but not quite the two wake jump yet. My instructor did mention that judging from the way I ride, like a rocket shooting in various directions and I don't really ride like a girl or how a girl should be riding, I should be able to attempt that soon. *secretly happy

Celebrated "Balloon Sculptor's" birthday over at Boat Quay's Mind's Cafe. It was a surprise party not exactly well planned. We lit up the candles on the birthday cake like 3 times when his girlfriend first gave one of our buddies a missed call. And he thought we had forgotten about him. Hey buddy, to be very frank, I never could remember birthdays but I'll always be there whenever I'm needed. The place was fun but definitely not the perfect Saturday night choice of destination. The rest of the boys went on to have their regular beers and I adjourned to Velvet to meet up with Como, his friends and our wakeboard instructor who was later bugged the entire night to buy condoms from this girl who was having her hen's night, which really cracked me up until I was pissed that is. We were going from tables to tables selling each condom for S$20. Darn steep but that's where the fun is. Some regular from Velvet who calls himself the last bachelor in Singapore even bought us a bottle of Moet.

Over at Mind's Cafe, we played a couple of games but the best one is still the one they played during chalet in January this year. It's called Jurassic Jumble and it's a trading game. The objective is to get a hand of similar cards. When you do, you can grab a "bone" from the middle of the table and when someone has done so, the rest can get their bone. There will be ONE player without the bone and that's the loser. I can't believe that no one realise that I've taken the bone for like one whole minute until "Ballon Sculptor" played busy body and found out that I've actually gotten the bone.

Now now now... I've got to try to get back to sleep so that I won't be a zombie at work tomorrow.

Friday, November 09, 2007

Personality Test

This personality test is used by alot of the HR department to gauge the candidate's personality and it really works.

1. When do you feel your best?

a. In the morning
b. During the afternoon and early evening
c. Late at night

2. You usually walk

a. Fairly fast, with long steps
b. Fairly fast, with short, quick steps
c. Less fast, head up, looking the world in the face
d. Less fast, head down
e. Very slowly

3. When talking to people you

a. Stand with your arms folded
b. Have your hands clasped
c. Have one or both your hands on your hips
d. Touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e. Play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair

4. When relaxing, you sit with

a. Your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b. Your legs crossed
c. Your legs stretched out or straight
d. One leg curled under you

5. When something really amuses you, you react with

a. A big, appreciative laugh
b. A laugh, but not a loud one
c. A quiet chuckle
d. A sheepish smile

6. When you go to a party or social gathering you

a. Make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b. Make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c. Make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed

7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted. Do you..

a. Welcome the break
b. Feel extremely irritated
c. Vary between these two extremes

8. Which of the following colors do you like most?

a. Red or orange
b. Black
c. Yellow or light blue
d. Green
e. Dark blue or purple
f. White
g. Brown or gray

9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep, you lie

a. Stretched out on your back
b. Stretched out face down on your stomach
c. On your side, slightly curled
d. With your head on one arm
e. With your head under the covers

10. You often dream that you are

a. Falling
b. Fighting or struggling
c. Searching for something or somebody
d. Flying or floating
e. You usually have dreamless sleep
f. Your dreams are always pleasant


Points:
1. a. 2 b. 4 c. 6
2. a. 6 b. 4 c. 7 d. 2 e. 1
3. a. 4 b. 2 c. 5 d. 7 e. 6
4. a. 4 b. 6 c. 2 d. 1
5. a. 6 b. 4 c. 3 d. 5 e. 2
6. a. 6 b. 4 c. 2
7. a. 6 b. 2 c. 4
8. a. 6 b. 7 c. 5 d. 4 e. 3 f. 2 g. 1
9. a. 7 b. 6 c. 4 d. 2 e. 1
10. a. 4 b. 2 c. 3 d. 5 e. 6 f. 1


Now add up the total number of points.

Over 60 points: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care" You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you.

51 to 60 points: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.

This is me...
41 to 50 points: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.

31 to 40 points: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful and practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest...Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over it if that trust is ever broken.

21 to 30 points: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.

Under 21 points: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions and who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything. They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you're boring. Only those who know you well know that you aren't.

Rollin'

Just came back from lunch with Breyton's "Urban Legend Wifey". Family planning was discussed at length among all other girly giggly stuffs. I'm sure there are advantages and disadvantages in planning in advance but we came to the conclusion that it's all useless to plan ahead because our lives will end up revolving around it. And more often than not, things never ever go according to plans so why bother.

Things are definitely looking up and I really have to admit that luck plays a huge part. Take for example, I sent someone out in February this year and since then, nothing has progressed. It could be the turtle speed Bangkok is working on that we're not used to but trust me, it's all luck. The client dropped me an email today and said that they'd like to meet up with this guy and although this fellow is in amidst of finalising a deal with another prospective employer, he was still keen to meet my client. You have no idea how much this took me by surprise and unlike all my other roles, I have zero expectations on this one as any excitement would have been watered down over the months. Must say that I'm very pleasantly surprised. I'm just flying way ahead of everyone in the office and I'm darn pleased. On a roll!!!

Tonight's the CarTimes Dinner thingy and frankly, I'm not superbly keen but will do whatever to help the forum. Volunteering the weary soul, I shall make my way for some scrumptious food.

Take a poll - E90 320i or the Mini Cooper S? Just found out, the MCS can carry a wakeboard. I have no more excuses...

Wanted to put in the MTV of Ridin' by Chamillionaire but the smarty pants managed to disallow embedding so just imagine Snugloft singing along to the song...