Pages

Friday, December 30, 2011

First piece of art

I did my first art piece in class today.  Ok, it doesn't look very professional yet but it's my first try.  At least I didn't make a mess out of my model's hand.  Soon, I will be able to do a couples version!!

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

无言的眼泪

There are some times when you are free to cry but alot of times, you just need to hide your tears.  The 'behind-the-scene" works are always very difficult because behind every successful man, there's a woman.  It's not for recognition that the woman do everything she can to make her man look good.  It is not even for any rewards at the end of the day.  It is purely to exchange for a simple "I love you" from the man she loves.

Deep inside every woman, there's a need for a home.  Not just a house.  I am no exception.  Since young, I always envision my perfect home.  A place where my hubby can come home to, a place he can find solace in after fighting some politics in a war torn office, a place where I can make breakie for him every morning, bring him the papers, send him to the door, kiss him goodbye as he sets forth for work, prepare dinner and wait for him to come home, prepare the bath for him, slow dance the night away under the dim light of our living room, massage away his tiredness, match his work clothes for him....etc.  I guess that is every girl's secret dream.  But in order for that to come to past, I need a man who will embrace that kind of environment. Someone who values family time together.

Sunday, December 25, 2011

A very different Christmas

Dear Ivy,

I think of you today.  I am missing you again.  My Christmases will never be the same without you.  I actually wrote alot but decided to press the delete key.  My random doodle below should paint a thousand words :) Come tomorrow night, I should be doing what we normally do...you wait for my post yah?

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to all of you!  May you continue to be showered with lots of love as you enjoy this special day with your family and your loved ones!

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Friday, December 16, 2011

Wide awake

Arrrghhhh.....There's so much on my mind right now, I can't get to sleep. I tried warm milk, soothing music, aroma therapy....nothing is working. I kept reading the same whatsapp messages over and over again and I think I messed up my entire bio clock by just reading messages. When I close my eyes, those words starting floating around. So I dont dare to close my eyes. It didn't help that my feet hurts every time I accidentally rub them against the blanket. Those blisters have burst. I didn't know that my bus is not available at the bus stop opposite 313 so I walked one bus stop up. Wasn't a pleasant experience. Next time, bring plaster!!!

Wanted to write something but my mind is blank. Maybe I'll go read some CVs. Hopefully, some of them is boring enough to knock me out!

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Random picture

Got this from FB.  I'd say...dump him!  Coz he places his interest above yours....unless you don't mind being his sex slave and suffocate for the rest of your life under his tyranny. 2 weeks also cannot tahan...And then there are those who always say "My ex used to do this for me, buy that for me....etc" Errr...great!  Go back to her if you miss her THAT much because I'm freaking different and I don't need to do what she does just to satisfy your whims and fancies! I'm happy being myself =^-^=

Bursting the balloon

In 2010, Singapore has been ranked the 9th most expensive Asia city.  In 2011, our little island has jumped 6 places and now proudly stands in the third rank!!  As a nation who always thrive to be the top in almost everything, I think we are not doing too bad jumping 6 ranks in the span of a short 1 year!  Top spot goes to Tokyo and following closely behind, is Hong Kong.  Singapore, with such a short history in her treasure chest, takes one of the top 3 spot.  I think we did quite well.

In order to push us up to the top rank, our garmen has been pain-stickingly thinking of various ways to increase cost while maintaining our salary at its present level. Why is that so?  Well, if our salary increase proportionately with the cost of living, then we won't see products and services as expensive and thus, the whole works for helping us to reach the top of the charts will not relevant.  Moreover, increasing both cost and income at the same time might cause hyper-inflation. Then again, there's a minority chosen few who will not be affected because they have been receiving good basic salary on top of their bonuses.  In addition, they are always able to find reasons for justifying their pay increment...something like, you need to pay more to get good people...you know what I mean.

Of course, with cost increase...we need to sympathize with these chosen ones because they too need to pay more for first class airfares, top notch restaurants dining, a few more houses in different countries, private jet maybe?  So how are they going to survive when everything increases and not their salary! And because the amount increased in one person's salary might equal to the salary of about 270 low income folks, I might be able to conclude that these chosen lot causes inflation!  And since most of our services are Monopolized, I can also deduce that we are in the whirlpool of cost-push inflation. I'm afraid that I might not be able to afford a can of coke in future! 

Inflation and unemployment has always been very good friends.  Infact, they are so close that everytime inflation visits, unemployment would drop by and stay for a while...just to visit a good friend.  We are no longer looking at seasonal unemployment but cyclical! That is because our very friendly garmen loves foreign friends and invited them in hoards to come in and train us to be more competitive!  Yes, I'm talking about 60 people fighting for one job.  Don't mistaken my intention, I have no objection to having good talents to exchange pointers.  But there are just some who can't really make it.  You watch them work, you know they come from another planet...somewhere far far away in outer space!  They are not here to give, they are here to take.  Thank goodness, our garmen woke up from their deep slumber and decided that enough is enough.

The higher cost of living still worries me a fair bit. The recent wayang comes from the taxi companies increasing fares.  Just like what happen back in 2007, Comfort Delgro is the first to lead with the increase.  They state that this increase will help the cabbies take home more income.  I seriously don't see how that would help since an increase in fare (AGAIN) would deter consumers from using its services.  Those big guys said that they would not increase rental of the taxis...they forgot to add the word 'YET'.  In a recent media release, Comfort Delgro (with presence in Singapore, UK, Ireland, 14 cities in China, Australia, Vietnam and Malaysia) reported that the Q3 (ending September 2011) net profit attributable to shareholders increased by 12.5% to $69.1 million, bringing the net profit attributable to shareholders for the year-to-date to $179.1 million.  I think a small 12.5% increase is insufficient to satisfy the appetite of the big brothers.

This little balloon will burst one day if more pressure is continually being pumped in!

Monday, December 12, 2011

Naughty or nice

Ex-boss called

Received an unexpected call from my ex-boss with an unexpected request!  He said that he is looking for more staff and ask if I have friends to recommend.  He said "You know the entire background of our business, you know how our company function, you know what we do and how we do it, you know the jobscope, I think you are the best person to help us...if you are willing."  Frankly, who in the right mind would ask an employee who resigned because she can't stand your management style to recommend people???  And what was my response to him? I said yes!  hahaha....yah yah, I'm a softy.  It's not that I forgive easily, I just don't see the need to waste my energy on bearing grudges for long.  My baby wouldn't like that too!  But I guess whatever he has done to me was to make me a stronger person and I appreciate him for that.  He was tough so that I can be tougher.  Morever, I have to reiterate that he did train up alot of very good and strong sales person under him.  What shocked me most was when he said "I heard you are dating and he is from S*****l!!  This is so not fair!  How did he know?????  Has my ex-boss been spying on me since my departure from the company?  Anyway, I told him that I will help to look out and get them to contact him directly if there's any suitable one.

Oh by the way, for those who have been following my Penelope Ragdoll series, I am please to announce that the final chapter has come to a close.  Penelope has decided to be with Marculius, the Prince of Nefetara planet.  Despite what Taroki said about the people in the stars not agreeing with the match, Penelope decided that her future is what she makes it to be.  It doesn't depend on others.  I'll start new stories soon...stay tune!  Website will be provided at a later date!

Thursday, December 1, 2011

The deal is sealed

If not for my freaking $8K commission, I swear I wouldn't have treated this candidate so nicely!  I hate it when he ask millions of questions before agreeing to accept the offer.  And he doesn't ask all the questions at one go, he asked them on separate days.  First he said that he will let me know the answer on Thursday and then he said he can only let me know on Friday which of course he didn't.  On Monday, he came back and said that he is only accepting the offer and not the job.  WTF!!  So when I ask for one more reference as there is one guy I wasn't able to contact....he got the nerve to tell me that those two are the only reference he has and if those references are the bottleneck for my client to accept him, then he will go accept his other offers because (in his exact words) "I have many other offers waiting for me to accept!"  WTF WTF WTF!!!!  Luckily my client is ok with only one reference, else I will have to call his ex-bosses directly without having to go through him to get me the contacts.  When I told him that I have sent the reference check outcome to the client, he freaking ask me to give him an answer within one hour on what time he can go down to sign the offer in the next day!  (Shit him! My client need time to prepare the letter and it doesn't help that he was unwilling to send me soft copies of his certs as requested by the client...his reason - it is unsafe to send such things over the email -_-").  I was already at my limit.  If he pushes me any further, I would have just cancelled the deal and tell my client that the candidate is not interested anymore! I have to freaking control my temper and speak to him in the nicest possible way.  It's a good thing he signed on the dotted line today.  Case close!  I hope my other candidates are not like that!  Else, I die.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

This is the day!!

Yesh!! I manage to hit yesterday as well as today's KPI so later today, I can go out and enjoy life! Maybe I'll try to work on tomorrow's target abit so that I can have an enjoyable and relaxing Friday without worrying about the irritating targets. Told some local candidates not to call me after 10pm coz well, I need a life and I've got to create some 'do not disturb' time for him :)

Did some little changes to my public FB account and now I stop receiving so many newsfeed. How cool is that?? Some updates are annoying, some uninteresting and most doesn't really concern me so now I have less than 3 newsfeeds per 2 hours. The flooding has gone....Interesting!!

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Druid: Maple Tree

According to Druid, my date of birth represents a maple tree...

The Maple is known as the luckiest of trees. It embodies a happy spirit because it represents very desirable qualities, such as success, wealth, and general prosperity. This is a very positive and constructive sign. It is only natural, then, that Maple people are always pleasant to be around because they are cheerful, joyful, and active. These dynamic people are quite adventurous and always seek out excitement. Even when a Maple Tree person isn't the most gorgeous one in the room, he or she can easily compensate for it with an outrageous, interesting, and outstanding personality.

Maples are known to be offbeat, extravagant, and even a bit bizarre. They are always aware of all the new trends, social customs, and the most recent discoveries in the world around them. On any given day they are involved or considering any number of interesting and exciting projects. However, they rarely implement any of their daring ideas. Maples prefer to watch others achieve their goals.

Maple people have irrepressible energy; they are simply restless! They are interested in too many things at once. Sometimes Maples feel that if they stop even for a moment, they will miss out on something very important. Despite their daring personalities, Maple people are not extremely courageous. The only reason they decides to take a risk is because Maples have a very low sense of danger.

Maples are social butterflies; every day they make new connections. Because of their warm and inviting nature, people trust them with all their secrets. They know that no matter what, this sign will never reproach them or disapprove of them.

Even though Maples love to be the center of attention, they don't care what kind of impression they make on people or what kind of attention they garner. They don't follow the rules, and they actually enjoy provoking others.

Although a logical mind helps them to find solutions to the most difficult problems, Maples' path in life is never easy. They rarely achieve great success.

Maple people don't need love to be happy. If they don't ever find a "partner in crime" they manage just fine on their own. This sign will never complain about an ill-fated life or shattered dreams. Maples have a way of learning to be content with what they already have.

Maples can be quite cynical. They will notice someone's flaws, but never hold anything against that person. Maples have a many-sided personality; they are full of surprises, both good and unpleasant.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Random quotes

Not true.  That someone special got to do something.  He got to appear before me!  Being someone whose love language is physical touch and quality time, it is important that he is able to give me those.  And words of affirmation would be good once in a while to show that I matter.

Just spent some time with a lovely gentleman.  Yah, this is the final final meetup before he flies :) He asked me about Christianity and shared with me about Buddhism which I have absolutely no idea what the heck he was talking about.  Nonetheless, I told him that in Christianity, we learned that the husband is the head of the household.  Wife will need to be submissive.  With that, he asked "You?  Submissive??" Errr....well, I'm not a wife so I don't have a husband to submit to.  And he quickly added that in this case, I should remain as a Christian and learn to be submissive!  Hey!  What's the meaning of that???  I can be meek like a rabbit ok!

On a more serious note, he asked if I will be pursuing an MBA.  I told him that I'd rather not.  Maybe I'll go for a Diploma of Law to which he said that it will suit me coz I like to fight :( I don't like to fight what....I just like to stand for righteousness :p  He will be on some Hyperion course when he comes back from his trip.  I can go and disturb him for lunch since Oracle University is at Suntec.  I can go to the foodcourt and wait for him and at the same time forcing him to eat some human food.  It's not good to always eat in restaurants...he gotta learn to be normal.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

童话

Was out with my friend for a meal before he flies off for this trip this weekend.  We were in the car and told me that when we reach Marina Barrage, he would let me listen to this song.  But we were so mesmerized by the night view that we completely forgot.  So when we got back to the car, he showed me this youtube video and I told him that I would go home and listen.

I have actually heard this song a million times and already know it's nice.  But I guess he wanted to point out to me that this version is nicer?  Well, I agree....love the R&B flavor of the song.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Ivy's death anniversary (31 Oct 2011)

I miss you so much, Ivy. No one could replace you...I thought I found someone to take your place but I was wrong. You are irreplaceable. My trust had been betrayed again and again in my attempt to find a second you and yet I failed to get any closer to my target. I guess I should stop searching and just hold you close to my heart. That way, I won't be betrayed again. I have to learn to protect myself. I really miss those 9pm phone calls we used to have. I miss those handmade cards you used to make for me. I finally receive a handmade card on my birthday. It reminded me of you...and then I started to miss you again. I miss how I could call you whenever I need a shoulder to cry on. I miss crying in your embrace and you telling me that everything is going to be alright. I miss telling you my dreams and you telling me that it's not a stupid dream...I can achieve it if I believe it. I miss sharing my secrets with you and knowing that it will be kept with you and no one else would need to know. I simply miss having someone to trust. So many years have since gone by and I guess I'm still unable to move on. I couldn't let you go. I still remember looking down at you when you were lying peacefully in your coffin. Your pain has gone but that's the day my pain started. The pain of losing you....

I remembered the last dream I had of you where you shook off my hand and said with tears in your eyes 'Let me go, I need to leave now.' I'm sorry Ivy, I can't. I tried calling your number...someone else picked up the phone and it wasn't you. I was hoping with all my heart that it will be you. Wishful thinking huh? From now on, I will live my life better than before. I want you to be proud of me. I know this is what you want me to do but letting you go will take some time. Be patient with me k? I'm slow....

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Tiring Halloween

I cannot believe crouching under the table for a couple of hours can be so tiring. I mean, I didn't do anything...just sit and watch people walk into the teahouse. My friend said that I should just crawled coz even if I fall asleep, no one would know. I just think he is unbelievable but I do appreciate his errrr...thoughtfulness. Next year, I'm just going to be a Chinese Qing dynasty vampire...just need to hop around. When he heard this, he said he will bring a talisman to paste on my head.

The tiredness was worth it because I made some new friends from SPI. Our teahouse was always full of people coming in to take pics with us. While outside the teahouse was full of screams. And there was this one time where I was texting my friend and this member of the public pointed at me saying 'look! The ghost behind is using iPhone'. The kids were adorable and I guess I should present the best PR award to the security personnel guarding our teahouse. She was heard shouting '来啊来啊,可以走过不可以错过' (translation for my non Chinese readers - come come, you can pass it but don't miss it).

Alright halfway through typing this blog, I received a text message from a friend saying 'I think I kindda like you, what is your point of view' Hmmm...my views? Well firstly, he is probably the only one who knows how to appreciate me for who I am but because I'm still in the process of emptying out my heart, it would be really unfair to him if he comes into my life at this point because I know I wouldnt be able to give him 100% love so maybe at a later stage? Secondly, I like how he asked for my point of view because it shows he cares about what I think and respect my decision. Thirdly, I would need to release his account to someone else if I choose to be with him because I don't date clients and he happens to be one of my biggest account. Fourthly, this question came too sudden!! I thought we are going on well as friends and it didn't occur to me to progress further than friendship.

My horoscope for today states: You can sense that something is ending or changing. But this is not a bad ending or anything that you will regret or pine for, Libra. This is more of a transformation. Very soon you will feel a greater sense of serenity, security, and universal love encircling your life. This change may take place over a few weeks or months, but it will ultimately take you to a better place. Soon, your prospects and your outlook will be much improved in the areas of love, financial security, and your home environment. Welcome this change, and be grateful for it.

Is this surprising question part of change? Let's see how our talks turn out on Tuesday. Too early to say anything now. Frankly, I do not have any feelings for him. Is that bad? Maybe I'll drag until after his Vietnam trip before giving him an answer so that I have the time to draw up my pros and cons chart as well as work out the algorithm?

By the way, he said that I'm the perfect one for him because I am perfectly imperfect! How sweet can a man get? Is he trying to buy my vote???  Luckily, he only said that he "thinks" he likes me...that means, he is not very sure.  So I'm just going to pose him some questions to help him understand that this might just be infatuation and nothing more than that.  

快乐的小女人

Woken up today by a really sweet text message =^-^=. 甜甜的感觉又来了! Lol. Chatted with a friend this morning and she said 你不尝试又怎么知道不行,被爱永远都是最幸福的,给你自己一个机会吧。尝试接受他,感情是可以慢慢培养的。 Hmmm...that works huh? Maybe I'll give it a try. Like what she said...if I don't try, I won't know. If it doesnt work, at least I know I tried. I kindda enjoy the slow walks after dinner, someone opening car door for me and those 'had your lunch?' text messages :)

That aside, I'm looking forward to spending some time with the girls this Saturday. Haven't decided what to watch yet...maybe we will do an overnight cartoon marathon. Hope I can at least catch a wink on Sunday when they leave so that I can be awake and alive for my jamming session Sunday evening! It has been so long since I last jam!!! I'll be on keyboard and vocals yeah!!! So exciting and so looking forward. Since someone is overseas and not around to ask me out, I'll plan my own programs lol. Like he said 'I think you are too independent!' hahaha...yah, I think so too.

Chatted with another friend asking me what instruments I play. Well, I could play the triangle real well....if that is counted as an instrument :) Told him that I know a little bit of music coz I took some courses. I learnt piano (S'pore), organ (S'pore), keyboard (Melb), guitar (S'pore but still can't play the guitar after going through 3 teachers), drums (Melb - gave up shortly coz my hands and legs couldn't coordinate), vocals (S'pore & Melb - I can't sing well, that's why need lessons), sound system setup (S'pore - I can handle the mackie and Yamaha LS-9 sound console/mixer but still can't set up a system from scratch), social dance (cha cha, rock & roll, disco rock), ballroom dance (waltz), line dance....that's all. The rest, I don't know. When my friend heard this, he said 'Maybe its easier for you to tell me what you DON'T know.' lol...Funny guy! There's alot I don't know. Hmmm....maybe I should start telling him about my personal grooming/social etiquette classes? Hahaha...

Alright, gotta clear some work and then work out some chord charts for the songs I feel like doing this weekend at our garage band. Let's call ourselves The Eastside Jammers ;p We'll start with Cranberries line up....go easy first!

Friday, October 28, 2011

Random quotes

Another random quote I ripped off FB.

It is not easy to forget someone and I guess there is no rules to say that we have to forget.  Some people are in our lives for a short period of time to remind us of something or to teach us something.  Some are there to help us through a bad patch or to share joy.  Some stays for good while others disappear after leaving their footprints. When Ivy left, I knew she left with footprints too strong to be washed off.  I can still vividly remember her woody woodpecker laughter.  She accepted me as I am - the good and the bad. She didn't try to change me through words...she changed me through her life.  Words cannot describe how thankful I am for her friendship, for always being there, for never laughing at my dreams, for ever being so encouraging....

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Weird dream

I had a very very weird dream last night.  I dreamt that I was in an amusement park in KL.  And I was chatting with a group of cosplayers dressed up as Pokemons!  wtf!!!  Who in the right mind would cos as Pokemon?  What was I reading prior to getting to bed?  This is so weird. 

What is even weirder is that when I checked my email just now, I saw an note from my ex-boss.  Yah, the chap I shouted at prior to my resignation.  But we had a good chat during my exit interview and again on my final week.  Anyway, it was just a short message asking how I am and hope I am doing fine.  Hmm....what does he want from me?  I haven't decided to reply to that email.  Maybe I'll just drop him a quick reply later tonight.  Should I tell him that my ex-colleague called and ask about the resignation process and termination clause?  It's difficult to choose between HR ethics and friendship.  Then again, since I'm no longer in that company, I do not need to protect that company anymore.  Friendship should be a wiser choice.

Yet another ex-colleague from a few years back sent me a message via FB asking if she can use my paypal account to purchase some music.  I didn't respond because it only take less than 1 min to set up a paypal account.  She can do it herself.  Doesn't need to go through another person.  Moreover, for purchases...no background checks is required.  Bank statements or utility bills and IC is only required if you are using your paypal account to receive funds due to the AML compliance.  I can do translations for her and I can assist her with other requirements but anything that concerns my bank account is out (paypal is linked to my bank account).  The last time I trusted someone with that didn't turn out too well.  The very person whom I trusted and helped was the same person who betrayed me.

3 shrimps died

Ok...no idea what went wrong but 3 shrimps died in one single day!!! I wonder if any of them will die tomorrow. If more goes, then this would be the shortest possible pass time I have ever had in my entire life. Most interestingly, not many mini shrimps left. Wonder where they go. I used the net to sweep through the plants and only found 2 little shrimps.

I guess the fortune teller was right. Cannot have water in my room because it will mess up my fire. He said that I need wood to fuel the fire. Errrmmmm....does that mean I should plant a tree in my room? If that's the case, I want a strawberry tree. Oh wait, strawberries don't grow on trees. Maybe bushes work the same! Then I can have strawberries with nutella everyday :)

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Managing Expectations

For the nth time, I have the nth person sitting me down to talk about managing expectations. That bad huh? 80% of the time, it's my bosses speaking to me about this problem. The rest are my friends. They said that I set too high an expectation on myself and I don't have to do that. Perfectionists live a miserable life. I swear I did not!!! I go easy on myself most of the times....oh ok, sometimes. I did not ask to be perfect. All I did was to set the expectation a little high so that if I don't hit, at least I won't be at the bottom. I do not see anything wrong with that.

My friend told me yesterday that I didn't slow down to smell the roses and is giving myself unnecessary pressure. Alright, I agree with that...but I didn't see any roses along the way so why should I stop? He then said that it's because I moved too fast that I couldn't see the roses and misses out all the good things in life. He told me to start enjoying life and not to be so hard on myself. Well, I AM enjoying life and I didn't think I was hard on myself. I was merely pushing myself to TRY and exceed my own expectations. I wasn't enforcing my expectations on people around me so it's probably ok. Moreover, I'm thinking of starting my own business in 3-5 yrs time....shouldn't I work a little harder to achieve that? I had to make sure that what I achieve now is in line with my business plan.  Friends had been encouraging me to start my own business.  I didn't agree initially because I didn't have the guts to do so.  Moreover such decisions need proper planning...you just don't just start a business without anything concrete. If you do, you will be seeing money pouring down the drain.

I don't want to join the ranks of the super rich and it was never my intention to earn big bucks. I just want a comfortable life for my family. I don't think that is too high an expectation! One thing my friend asked really tickled me. He said that since I'm always implementing structures in my work environment (I created dummy guides and flowcharts for my handover ;p), will I do that at home? Duh!! Of course not, why should there be flowcharts at home? I created an organization chart for my family once but that was just for fun. Not to be taken seriously :)

Monday, October 24, 2011

Ramdom quotes

Saw this on my ex-colleague's FB page and thought that it's quite true.
The remedy is to walk away.  Don't even turn back because the secrets you had shared with this person has probably been shared with his/her friends so trust is not available anymore.  Don't take revenge because you will not be any different from that person if you do so.  Don't start spreading rumors because there is no need to waste your energy on such a person.  Don't practice unforgiveness because it will make you miserable.  Don't harbor ill intentions because it will come back to you a hundred or even a thousand fold.  Just close the chapter, wish him/her well and move on.  Trust me....it will make you feel alot better, lighter and happier!

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Sick on a weekend

The best way to spoil a weekend is to be sick!  Woke up yesterday feeling really oozy.  It must have been the seabreeze on Friday night that I caught the cold.  Suppose to have a champagne night at my place yesterday but some of them couldn't make it.  One had a birthday party that she forgotten (decided to let her enjoy her party instead of rushing down....I mean, birthdays is only once a year, stay over can happen anytime), another said her mum and maid wasn't back yet, yet another said was tired....so it's left with just me and another friend.  We decided to go ahead with the stayover.  But instead of champagne, we proceeded with movie marathon.  It's been quite a while since I had that kind of fun.  Maybe I should do it again real soon.  This time....with popcorn! Yup, the microwavable type.

If I have my own place, such parties will be very very frequent.  I remembered how I always have herbal soup and fried rice parties in my apartment back in Melbourne.  I love boiling herbal soup and I can't finish the entire pot, so I normally make my housemate drink it.  But when  I moved into a studio, I haven't got a housemate anymore...so I invited friends to my place :) Actually, my place was always an open house.  I didn't even bother to bring my keys back when I came home for summers.  I would either leave the keys and access card to one of my neighbours or a friend and then they can use the place for their parties.  I think my studio had the best location.  I mean, its right next to little italian where the night comes alive, 24 hours supermart, cinema, window facing a beautiful garden, gym on the first floor....the best place to have house parties :)  Nonetheless, condos in Singapore is way too expensive.....I am definitely not considering local property.

Anyway, there goes my JB seafood dinner tonight!  My stupid flu is forcing me to stay at home.  JB is not very far and it's just the 2 of us.  We can always go anytime.  I tried to tell him that I can meet him in Woodlands coz it's outrageous to drive down from Yew Tee to pick me up and then to Woodlands again.  But I guess men will always be men....NO is the answer :) Tried not to talk about work when I'm out with him not only because he is my client but also because it is one of the biggest account in my portfolio.  Don't want to mix personal with work and spoil both work relations and friendship.  And if you people are wondering, NOPE we are not dating.  We are just friends and I prefer to keep it that way.  Always good to have another friend than an enemy, yah?

Now back to my movies....before I do a bit of work and then family steamboat plus Man City vs Man U.  A good lazy Sunday.......

Friday, October 21, 2011

Everything is gonna be alright

Hey babesy,

I'm blogging from bed again ;p Wanted to write this earlier but I had to finish skyping my US candidates. Just wanted to reiterate what we spoke about just now at the mall. I hope you read this and read this well.

We are all very concern about you and it pains my heart to see you tear just now. You have always been very strong. I cannot tell you that I know how you feel because every issue is different so I basically won't know. But what I can tell you is that as your friend, it is my responsibility to stand by you....no matter what the decision may be...although I seriously hope that you could see a psychiatrist. It's nothing to be ashamed of. Those who are really your friends will not look at you differently. Let's keep the main thing the main thing!! Your immediate need now is to sleep. There is no point going to a GP because he will not prescribe sleeping pills to you...I tried before :) The only way to do this is to go to a psychiatrist and share your heart out. I have not been to one so I'm not sure how it works. He may or may not prescribe anti depressant to you...it will greatly depend on your needs. Right now...sleeping 2 hours per day is not enough. You mentioned that you made a huge mistake in the office...imagine if this happen all the time.

Don't worry about how others look at you. If you prefer, you can keep it hush hush and no one would know. Always remember, your real friends will never put you down. And those who put you down (whether infront of you or behind you) are merely trying to make you look bad so that they can look good. These people are insecure...not worth your time at all. This isn't the time to wallow in self-pity. I am glad you said you feel much better after pouring out but is that enough? You probably have less than a month before you fly again and I need to know that you are ok to go. I lost a good friend before and I'm not about to lose another one.

I hope you will listen to me. Trying not to think about it won't work. Coz the harder you try, the more the memories will haunt you. Pouring yourself at work also won't work coz at the end of the day when you get home and when all is quiet again, those haunting memories will be back. Before you really get into depression, seek help first. You are lucky you found out your problems early. When it grows deeper, it will be harder. Coz my psychology lecturer used to tell us that depression is like a weeds...they spread fast and they will kill the good plants in time to come. So when you realize you have weeds, you need to pluck them out. It is only affecting you emotionally now but if you don't weed out, you will suffer physically and mentally. Will not do you any good....so please seek help early. I can go with you if you want. I'll just sit outside and wait. Won't disturb the session. Please reconsider k?

Love you very much....

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Interesting candie

Spoke to this candidate on 7 Oct to see if he is keen in a particular RF role.  Not the kindest candidate...quite rude and demanding, I should say.  He said he is interested and requested for a P1 Employment pass pay scale (ie. more than S$8000).  His last drawn basic salary was S$3200 and he has 1.5 yrs experience in my required skillsets.  I know that this little red dot is a playground for many foreign talents who are trying to enter the country but an almost S$5000 jump is way too much.  I had no choice but to delete his CV.  He can continue his dream somewhere else...certainly not with me. Please wake up and face reality!  Even my own countrymen don't get that kind of a salary jump!

And the story didn't end here....I received his sms....

7 Oct 2011, 9.09PM
Hello madam, just now u called me for that xxx position, kindly give me your email contact to send my updated resume and plz correct my expected salary category, its P2 not P1. Regards, S

(Name is hidden to protect the victim.  For those who are not familiar with the EP pay scale.  P2 is more than S$4000...which I still think it's too high considering the fact that he doesn't have adequate experience)

My respond: OK

9 Oct 2011, 3.47PM
Hello madam, It was nice talking to you on friday regarding xxx's engineer xxx position.  I went thru the job responsibilities and found a great match to the skills i posses.  I have been working at serangoon on behalf of my previous company for similiar projects with xxx.  Please have a look at my resume and pass me your personal email id to forward you my resume!  Please acknoeledge! Regards, S

10 Oct 2011, 1.08PM
Hello madam, Have you got my previous messages? I would really appreciate if u can respond :) Thanks S

10 Oct 2011, 4.43PM
My email id: xxxx @hotmail.com Thnx

My respond: Thanks. Will send tomorrow.  Not working today

Ok sure

11 Oct 2011, 2.54PM
Hello mam, Working today? Rgds S

My respond: Yes.  Please send your updated CV to xxx (provided him with our generic email) and our consultants will contact  you id we find any positions that suits your profile.  Thank you.

Thanks mam, can I know your good name please?  I want to be considered for engineer xxx position.  We have talked abt this position on friday if u remember! Thankyou once again.

My respond: Anyone of our consultants will call you once your profile fits any of our roles.  Thanks

Thks for your cooperation, i have sent my resume on the prescribed email address.

20 Oct 2011, 8.46AM
Hello Mam, Hope you are fine! I just wanted to know about my application's progress with xxx.  Thanks, S

My respond: The position has been closed.

I chose not to represent him because well....even if he got selected for the first interview, I doubt he can get pass hiring manager coz that's where the technical questioning comes in.  How to justify the jump in that kind of salary with only 1.5 yrs experience?  Singaporeans are not born stupid!!  We don't entertain your whims and fancies!  I didn't even bother to put him into the DB.  Waste my time!

Monday, October 17, 2011

Only you

:'(


All at once,
I finally took a moment and I'm realizing that
You're not coming back
And it finally hit me all at once
All at once,
I started counting teardrops and at least a million fell
My eyes began to swell,
And all my dreams were shattered all at once

Chorus:
Ever since I met you
You're the only love I've known
And I can't forget you
Though I must face it all alone
All at once, I'm drifting on a lonely sea
Wishing you'd come back to me
And that's all that matters now
All at once, I'm drifting on a lonely sea
Holding on to memories
And it hurts me more than you know
So much more than it shows
All at once

All at once,
I looked around and found that you were with another love
In someone else's arms,
And all my dreams were shattered, all at once
All at once
The smile that used to greet me brightened someone else's day
She took your smile away
And left me with just memories, all at once
 
Chorus:
All at once I'm drifting on a lonely sea,
Wishing you'd come back to me,
And it hurts me more than you know,
So much more than it shows,
All at once
And thats all that matters now
All at once
And I'm drifting on a lonely sea......

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Life is full of surprises

Just when I thought everything was going smooth and normal, I bumped into an old friend while shopping. We chatted abit and he started to talk about his work. Before I knew it, he mentioned that his team is expanding and he would require about 150 staffs. He asked if I am ok to help them. Hack!!! Of course I am. He will get his staff to contact me after his week's long leave. He is currently the Head of a
Division in a bank. Not too bad...a few years ago when I met him, he was only a VP. After the short chat, I said goodbye to him and his wife and then left....would love to chat more but we were rushing for movie.

The movie was really hilarious!!! I hope I dont have to get to number 20!! More to write but my brain is already on screensaver mode. If I still remember, I'll write about it tomorrow. If not, then it's probably something that's not meant to be shared!

Friday, October 14, 2011

KTV Musing: Before I fall in love

Read this first: If I were you, I'd lower the volume of my system before playing the video and I wouldn't do it at night for fear of scaring my neighbours :)

Anyway, I recorded myself singing in the KTV.  Not a fantastic songbird but I guess once in a while, you just need to exercise your vocals abit and although the reverb in the bathroom is excellent, still gotta spare a thought for the neighbours.  So hiding in the KTV room is still the best.  Here goes the first of the series.  Try to enjoy, yah?


Thursday, October 13, 2011

New IOS5

I'm blogging from the new OS!!! Not a very splendid experience initially because I have no idea what I did, all apps were wiped out. I did a backup before effecting the upgrade - no idea what went wrong. I suspect it's something I did during the setup. I must have done stupid things again. Now I got to reinstall every apps that doesn't come with the factory setting. And that would be approximately 150 apps. I am so screwed. This is the interesting part about being an IT idiot...I get to do things the longer way than anyone else! This is so not cool!

Anyway, I have so many things to tell that busy guy that I created another blog for him :) Started my first letter. It will probably be letters first until I got time to complete the video...don't forget, I have 150 apps to reinstall. Nonetheless, I doubt he will ever find out about the blog hahahaha....so I can take my own sweet time. See!! I'm telling him things....just that he doesn't know :) best to keep it that way! Alright, back to my apps installation.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

New ottos!!

Went to buy new otto today. Decided to get 2 of them because I read somewhere from the Internet that they need companion of the same kind. I think it's true coz ever since they were put into the tank, they have been inseparable. Wanted to ask that guy but I think he is really busy...so busy that he had to opt out of this Saturday's activities that I so look forward to. Heard alot of stories about that place but haven't really had the chance to venture. Nonetheless, he doesn't cancel out for no reason. So whatever he is busy with must be really important. Maybe it's for his family....Anyway, since he is busy, I guess I'll just have to take things into my own hands. It's just 2 fishes, what can be so difficult right?

Brought my niece out to buy the fishes. It was drizzling and that makes it the worst time to wear flip flops!! It was really slippery. Needless to say, I slipped and fell while carrying my niece and the fishes. My maternal instinct came into play immediately when I fell. I had time to make sure that my niece fell on top of me lol. As for the fishes, I hope they didn't get a concussion looking at how the bag was flung to the floor. One guy saw me fall...I think he was too scared to do anything so he just stood there and watch. I would give him a best statue award if there's one.

Farewell card from my stash

Found a really huge farewell card from my stash and here's what some of them wrote...quite an interesting read for bedtime :)

Anna, Anna, Anna,
What can I say! Who will give me all the best chocolates!! That pretty smile always on. Hmm...I know you will do well. Wish you all the best in your new job and whatever that you do in your life. Keep sending good candidates.
Tej (my boss...heeee)

Dear Anna,
Aiya....you're leaving us all so sad! I'm going to miss all the snacks, toys, pink things that surround you all the time, and hope no matter what you do, the smile is always on your face! Good luck and take care.
Katie

Hello sweetie,
Sad to see you go but happy you've gotten something better, more promising to add into your resume! Luckily I write this after your boss did. Hee hee! You'll be missed definitely and please keep in touch.
Serene

Anna!
It's so sad to hear you're leaving! I'm sure you're only going if the opportunity (and the food) is so much better! It's been a joy to have you around and to feed these hungry colleagues :) Take care & God bless!
Cheers, Wing

Anna,
Sad to see you go...boo hoo...please don't change your mobile number and keep me updated on your schedule to the Philippines. I am always looking for good candidates from there. Remember :) Take care & all the best!
Axer

Anna,
We'll miss your big smile and positive attitude in the office! All the best in your new role!!
Cheers, Roger (my boss' boss)

Anna,
I just cried b/c you are leaving. No more snacks & smell of good food from you - Most importantly who's gonna do my urgent CVs?? Hehe. Just kidding. All the best in your new job - we will miss you!!
Janice

Dearest Anna,
Why this time??? Lost for words...still have to let you know...You'll be dearly missed...gossips...laughters....boyfriends....good food...All the best in whatever you endeavor! May the good Lord continues to keep & bless you always! Take care buddy, Tryphena

Ya, no more snacks and Filipino candidates....so sad...And to make it worst, you are leaving too...Will miss your smile and you of cos. Stay happy!
Frank

Anna,
Now I have to find a new candidate for my constant pestering. And what about our Hindi lessons. Remember to ask me for help anytime for your Hindi lessons. Will miss you & the food & maggi & everything about you. Keep in touch!!
Sandeep

Dear keiyu,
They didn't left enough space for me to write...hehe...How can u leave us all? Who is going to help me with the scanner, copier and fax thingy? & all of those 'scary' electronic things. Ha 5x! Anyway, I'm sad that ur leaving but at the same time happy for you because I know that ur going to have so much 'fun' going forward. All the best dear. God bless, Esther

Anna
Happy birthday
Jeremy Loy

Ok the last one was really classic. I made fun of him for the entire remaining time I have with the company.



I have a feeling that they weren't really missing me. They merely missed the snacks and smell of food *sigh*

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Booked and ready

Yeah!!! 7-12 Feb 2012 booked!! Not sure who's interested to go with me :) I don't really have the habit of planning for trips THIS early but since I got nothing better to do, I did some surfing and accidentally book it. I might accidentally book another one later but let's see how things go. I'm still working on my secret project and taking a little bit of time out to blog.

Oh by the way, a bird died near my place...RIP

Sunday, October 9, 2011

Otto died

Quick blog before my phone battery dies and I hope it can sustain till I complete the blog!! Alright, my lil Otto died. When I saw him this morning, he was already at the surface of the water trying to get fresh air. I think my tank is getting really messed up. Snail ran away in the arvo and Otto died. I swear I didn't put anything out of the ordinary in there. So how come my pets are not happy :(

The sky is probably crying because of the passing of my Otto. I'm not a very good steward of thing people gave me. I can't even look after one small fish, a snail and some shrimps *sigh*.

The good news is :)....ok, I'll share the good news if it comes to past. 9% battery life left...I think I'm doing well with speed blogging!

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Libra and Leo

According to my iPhone app, this is how compatible I can be with a Leo....hmmm...ok, at least we can be friends :)
----------
Compatibility Overview

Libra has a very sociable personality and is mostly surrounded by people, sharing their company and liveliness. Libra's view of life is extremely wide and this makes it easy for them to fit in with people from different places. Libra is also able to adapt to any environment that they may find themselves in. It is because of these qualities that Leo finds it difficult to resist Libra. A strong union is bound to grow from this pairing. For Libra, arguments and confrontations are out of the question, because Libra values diplomacy. Leo is different from Libra in this regard and is likely to get involved in a confrontation at the very slightest provocation. Most of the times your diplomacy will lead to a peaceful resolution quite easily. Leo is usually honest, but has a crude way of presenting issues, and this is likely to put Libra off. This romance has a potential to grow into an excellent long-lasting relationship. Libra has a charisma that will easily draw Leo in. Partnering with Leo either in business or on a romantic level is likely to produce positive results. The more you interact with each other, the more you discover the unique traits each of you have. Some of the things that you share in common include going out to dinners, hosting parties as well as other social functions.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Passing of the Apple God

Dear Ivy,

I envy you so much....you are going to have all the latest Apple technologies from today onwards! And down here, we have no jobs anymore. So sad.....

A Libra's day - 6 Oct 2011

Copied from a horoscope app on my phone. Hmmmmm.....

Thursday Oct 6 2011

You have either recently celebrated your birthday or you will soon. This is a great time of reflection, Libra, and it offers you the chance to assess where you've been and where you're going. Don't underestimate the progress you've already made this year. You have a tendency to set the bar very high, and you often judge yourself and your progress very harshly. But even if most of your growth so far these last few months has been in the planning of what you hope to do rather than implementation of a plan, that's still a step in the right direction. You can have a great year ahead if you go easy on yourself and keep looking forward.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Dear Ivy....

Hi Ivy,

It's that time of the year again to remember you :) Not that you are ever forgotten...you never will be. People said that time can heal. Maybe yes, maybe no. No one could tell. But I thank you for the wonderful footprints you left in my life. The memories live forever. If a genie appears and ask if I have any wish...I would ask for all those memories that are so deeply inscribed in my mind to never get erased off. I never want to forget you. Come this halloween, it will be a decade since you're gone. I always wonder where our friendship would take us if you are still around. Would we have drifted apart or would our bond grow stronger? I miss you Ivy...so so very much.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Old Changi Hospital

Went to recce OCH today with bro. Main gate was locked and the side gate was fenced up....so we couldn't go in. Actually, a friend has already told us that the authorities has already installed CCTVs in the compound. Having worked in a security company, I guess I more or less know how it worked. Yes, security guard is not needed. CCTVs are ok provided they don't have intrusion detector. Once the detector detects an intruder, signals will be sent back to the security company managing the compound who will then contact the owner. Once intrusion is confirmed, police will be called.

Anyway, since we can't enter the compound and I was craving for roti prata, we went for supper instead. Actually, I was craving more for laksa with see hum (aka. cockles) but having laksa for supper is pretty strange. So I dropped the idea.

Prior to all those Changi activities, he came to my place to help me fix up the black background for my little tank. If I were to do it myself, I would create a big mess. I don't even dare to tell him that after we parted, I tried to fix the filter on my own and the base loosen allowing the water to come gushing out on my table. As if wetting my stationery once wasn't enough, I tried it again and wet my stuffs the second time! But I'm not giving up....I'll surely try that again some other times. Someday, I'll succeed in fixing the filter....I'm sure.

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Zoo Zoo Zoo

It's been a long time since I last step foot into the zoo. Since there's free corporate passes from a friend, I thought why not take the opportunity to see if there's any changes. I even baked some cookies for the trip :) Not my best because the oven is new. It was my first time using it today and the temperature control is abit weird. Nonetheless, managed to take them out before they burn. Next round, cupcakes...but mum wanted creampuff. Hey, I'm not a baker you know! I kept one box for a friend who insisted he wanted the cookies even the left overs. Alright! You got it!

Invited my bro on Monday (coz I remembered him asking me why is it that I have never ask him out ^_^ so I thought since he likes trekking, we can trek in the zoo). Anyway, he said that he is not comfortable with the group but added that he will let me know the answer on Tuesday. Hearing that, I know his answer is a NO. But I prefer to hear it from his own mouth. It's already Friday and I still haven't heard from him. LOL. I think I am darn good reading him :p Anyway, at least he can't say that I don't ask him out anymore, coz I did!

Got to get to bed now....if not, 9.30am at the zoo will not be possible :>

Thursday, September 22, 2011

A rose by any other name....

'Tis but thy name that is my enemy;
Thou art thyself, though not a Montague.
What's Montague? it is nor hand, nor foot,
Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part
Belonging to a man. O, be some other name!
What's in a name? that which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet;
So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call'd,
Retain that dear perfection which he owes
Without that title. Romeo, doff thy name,
And for that name which is no part of thee
Take all myself.

Romeo & Juliet (William Shakespeare)

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Picture Archives: A Cat's Life

In a cat's life. We get a rubber mouse,
a shoe string, or a butterfly to play with.
In a cat's life. We get names like Sylvester,
Felix, Tom And Jerry, Morris, and Garfield.
In a cat's life. We chase hamsters, mice, and
rats, anything loose, with a string attached.
In a cat's life. We like a big bowl of warm milk.
Crunchy cat food nuggets. All filled with love.
We like tuna oil, and tuna fish, and goldfish.
Straight from the living room fish tank.
In a cat's life. We like to curl up next to our master,
like a fluffy pillow, weeping willow on a sofa bed.
In a cat's life. We take off our mittens and botties.
As we leave our paw prints in the muddy soil.
In a cat's life.

By Kim Robin Edwards
Copyright 2011

Libra and Scorpio

I was trying to find the reason why we broke off last time. So I thought, horoscope would be a good platform to start. This is what I got...according to my iphone app.

-----
This pairing can be described as dynamics, with the ruling planets Venus and Mars creating a love match. Scorpio has a tendency to be attracted to the sensual side of Libra's personality. Libra, on the other and, will instantly recognize the more introspective side of Scorpio. However, there will be some obstacles to overcome in this union. You prefer open social arrangements, while Scorpio is possessive and could have problems with certain social interactions that you may be interested in. You may also feel that they demand too much out of this relationship. You will have to deal with the jealousy of Scorpio and you will need to apply your diplomacy skills heavily in order to deal with it. Scorpio is intrigued by the essence and paradox of human nature, and complex Libra will usually attract Scorpio, nevertheless this does not mean that this combination is particularly successful. Libra though is probably the only sign that is able to penetrate and stimulate the tough exterior of Scorpio. This pairing is bound to have a certain amount of financial security. The two of you are quite adept at making and investing money appropriately. You should also be aware that Scorpio can sometimes break into periods of silent treatment, which can be quite agonizing for your nature.
-----

Totally agree with the break into silent treatment part. And mind you, there's absolutely no reason for the silent treatment! He just disappears and comes back as if nothing had happened. I can deal with the jealousy and the possessive part. I mean, just pamper him abit every now and then and all's fine. BUT the disappearing part definitely drove me nuts!

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Picture Archives: The Microphone


This is the symbol of an artist that expresses their soul when they recite
Lyrics, harmonies or melodies when they touch a mic...
Legends & Icons gave us their greatest talents and ideas into songs
Which transformed into memories that can forever live on...
Speeches of leaders that immortalized them into history
With such words to inspire their audience spiritually...
Or emotionally uplift people, to make them apart of your artistic movement
Whether if it is for a purpose or just to touch us through their music...
With the voices of charisma that can move the crowd
The microphone amplified that message through the speakers very loud...
Loud enough to grasp the attention of their listeners
A true lyricist get a peaceful feeling that flows through them that lingers...
Just like the butterflies that are in nervous singers
That heart that beats that anxiety and they start to whisper...
Then they touch the microphone and feel that sense of clam
Once that microphone is clutched in their palm...
The microphone is the symbol of an artist or a leader to express their soul when they recite
Lyrics, harmonies, melodies or speeches when they touch a mic...

Rebelwisdom1071 aka Mr. Best
© Poetikanimashun 1BC

Mama shrimp gave birth to mini shrimps

Yeah! I've got mini shrimps now! They are really small and difficult to find. I was actually searching for my snail when I saw those tiny ones. So happy!!! Of course the sad thing is, another is gone. It's hiding in the bushes and not moving so I reckon it's dead. Worst of all, there are lots of odd looking worms in all shapes and sizes in the tank. I think Coco, my water slug, brought friends. Though not alot, I cannot guarantee that they won't grow. Hope they don't harm my shrimps coz I don't know how to get rid of 'em worms :p

Picture Archives : Rows of chairs

Found some photos in my archives and thought I'd post it here for the amusement of my readers. I'll try to find some poems or inspirational notes to tag along with the pics. Enjoy the first of the series :)

Never did I feel a pull to your people
as I sat in straight rows of chairs,
absorbing the litany of my elders
as they passed judgment over you.

Never could I feel the pain
your people felt from the many
straight rows of words
that robbed you of your past,
your present, your future,
as they passed into law.

Never can I think of your people again
in our cold and linear way,
knowing that my reference has been
on a bias sloping downward,

Since I sat in and listened to
your circle of chairs
and heard from your own lips
your honest voices, without malice
and saw on the leaf strewn floor
the panorama of your spirit.

by TimJ

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Northern Island tour

Back from a series of northern island tours. First we were at Sungei Buloh and then some farms nearby which I forgot coz I wasn't able to check in as my beloved phone set my network to Celcom and I wasn't able to change it back to a Singapore network. Dying to visit the goat farm but we arrived too late and it closed operations for the day. I guess I'm probably the only Singaporean who hasn't been to the goat farm. Pathetic right? *sigh*. I think my favorite guy pitied me and is trying his best to tour us (specifically me) around the island that I grew up in.

There's alot of firsts for me today. First time to Sungei Buloh, aeroponics whatever farm, farmart, ampang yong tau fu, mandai trek. If there is a suaku award, I'll definitely get it. For the sake of my non-singaporean readers, Suaku (adj) is in reference to someone who is a country bumpkin. Eg. You've never taken an aeroplane before? Very suaku! Anyway, today's trek was a comfortable one...not very tiring also. With so much talks about Sungei Buloh, I was actually expecting more but other than trees and huge lizards, there's absolutely nothing to boast about. Ubin would be a better choice to look at nature up close and personal.

3 cheers to my awesome bro for arranging this. It must have been hard thinking of where to go on this tiny island...but he did it with flying colors. So proud of him.....*big big hugz*.

Friday, September 16, 2011

My favorite is gone

The biological functions of my Neocaridina heteropoda has been terminated pre-maturely this morning (ie. my shrimp died). And it happens to be one of my favorites. The very pretty one. Shrimps are dying one after another and even my snail ran away from home. Am I that bad? :( I feed them regularly. At an appointed time, some will gather at the front of the tank to wait for food. Did I over feed? I only feed them once a day and I didn't even touch the water. Not sure what has gone wrong. I hope there's no more death from now on. What is worst is that mamas are not breeding. Babies has been inside them for quite some time already :(

Anyway, it's Sungei Buloh trekking tomorrow!! I have cancelled my 2pm appointment. I love trekking so anything else can wait. I should probably sleep early today...hmmm......

Weird boy

I met a very weird boy recently. I am beginning to wonder if he is working too hard or he has so many friends that he don't remember what he actually said to me. Whatever it is, I prefer to believe it's the first reason....worked too hard.

On Sep 14 (4.09pm), he asked if I want to go for night trekking. At 4.15pm, I replied that I want. Hearing no news from him, I texted him again at 8.06pm asking if there is any more trekking. He responded at 8.06pm saying that a certain friend said that if it's Saturday night, he want. This weird boy added at 8.09pm that it's confirm Saturday and maybe we can go for dinner too if we want. I responded at the same time that I'm ok with the arrangement and that he discuss with that certain friend.

On Sep 16 (12.27am), this weird guy asked what I'll be doing on Saturday. (My heart skipped a bit. And all those questions marks on my head almost smashed down and killed me. I wanted to respond with 'What do you mean what I'll be doing on Saturday??? I thought we had a confirmed activity???' But I didn't want to be nasty and I guess, my existence only came into place when the coach decides to get the reserves (which is me) out in the field to replace the main player who is tired. Anyway, I replied at 12.28am that I'll be trekking with him (hopefully that will ring a bell...but well...it didn't..lol). He responded almost immediately that they are going to Sungei Buloh and asked if I'm keen to join. (Narrator: this is the part where I get really confused because as far as I know, Sungei Buloh does not open at night. So just to make sure that I catch the ball, I went on to ask if it's a pre-night trek activity or that's the trekking activity itself). Anyway to cut the story short, I reminded him that the other time when he was talking to me about the trek, it was a night trek. He replied at 12.30am that it cannot be coz Sungei Buloh is not open at night.

The entire conversation really made me look stupid. As if I made the whole thing up. This is one character flaw of mine I need to change. I always take people's words seriously....I believe it's time I learn to take words like a pinch of salt. Else, I'll end up miserable and I'm not suppose to be miserable.

Anyway, for this case...I choose to believe that he didn't forget about me or about what we communicated. He was just teasing me. I'm his sis, how can he possibly forget me right? I'm suppose to be his confidante!!! I'm giving myself up to 11am to be upset and petty. When I open my eyes later, I must already let this issue go.

I'm a Yellow

Did a Color Code Personality test the other day....yup, I can't remember which day but someday...and got this result. Quite interesting, I should say. But not sure how true this can be. Anyway, here's the result.

Yellows (Motive: Fun)

Yellows are motivated by Fun. They are inviting and embrace life as a party that they're hosting. They love playful interaction and can be extremely sociable. They are highly persuasive and seek instant gratification. Yellows need to be adored and praised. While yellows are carefree, they are sensitive and highly alert to others' agendas to control them. Yellows typically carry within themselves the gift of a good heart.

Yellows need to look good socially, and friendships command a high priority in their lives. Yellows are happy, articulate, engaging of others and crave adventure. Easily distracted, they can never sit still for long. They embrace each day in the "present tense" and choose people who, like themselves, enjoy a curious nature. Yellows are charismatic, spontaneous, and positive; but can also be irresponsible, obnoxious, and forgetful. When you deal with a YELLOW, take a positive, upbeat approach and promote light-hearted, creative, and fun interactions.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Lost and found: Snail Episode

My snail ran away from home last night when I slept. I panicked when I realised that it wasn't in the tank anymore. The first thing I do when I wake up everyday is to go to my tank of seafood and say hi. Imagine my shocked when I did a roll call and one item went missing. Thank goodness I activated my rescue party (ie. my dog) who found my snail stuck to one of the drawers. My dog is a fantastic hunter dog for lizards, roaches, bugs...etc but this is the first time she need to hunt for snail and I'm impressed! She deserves a good pat on her head for a job well done.

I think it's very happy to be home. When I finally put it back to the tank, it was happily hugging the sand. It was trying to grab as many as possible. I thought it was trying to kiss home ground. The grass is not always greener on the other side. I hope my snail learns it's mistake. Home is still the best.

As if not enough snail story for the day, I had Escargot for dinner. I'm not really an Escargot person but since someone ordered, I'll just take. I'm a libra so I'm better known for doing all I could to maintain peace. You will never see me in a big argument. So if majority orders something I don't like, I will still eat :) Still not a fan of Escargot though....I felt like I was eating my own pet.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Movie: Bonjour Monsieur Shlomi

It's the 19th Israel Film Festival so a friend suggested watching Bonjour Monsieur Shlomi. I was quite apprehensive initially because it's in Hebrew and of course, that's the hardest possible language to learn...which means, I didn't learn it! Which also leads me to not being able to understand...and so I thought. I chose to go in the end coz I was dying for group outings...oh alright, high I people are too sociable to be left alone. Anyways, the movie proves to be worth watching and best of all, it came with English subtitles after about 10 minutes into the show. The fella in the projection room forgot to on the subtitles. Love how humor was injected into the show at the right time and it got teary towards the end when grandpa died. The entire story unfolded steadily. It is no wonder that this movie has a list of Nominations and Awards to it's name: Nominated for Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Film, Best Music, Best Screenplay, Best Sound, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress at 2003 Israeli Film Academy Awards.

Anyway, I found a cute guy sitting next to me on my way to the movie theatre. As I couldn't resist cute guys, I was so tempted to give him a big big smooch if not for the fact that he is my bro! hahaha....shucks isn't it? Oh well, that's life *grin*....*BIG GRIN* Damn, he looks good in office wear...white top somemore!

Disclaimer: Face not revealed to protect the victim and no animals and/or cocoa beans were used in the production of this photo.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Shrimps new changing room

And so, after less than a week, my cute little pets have found a place they could change. Not sure why but most of them prefers that corner of the tank. I saw one fella molting earlier today but I was too late. When I manage to get the camera, greenie finished molting! Nonetheless, I took a picture of their changing room.I even caught a picture of mama shrimp playing with the eggs in her tummy. It just went up and down her legs. I wonder why she does that.The shrimps are so cute. It is just so awesome watching them eat, fight and dart from one end of the tank to another. Nope, it's not a huge tank...it's a nano tank. I've even put a low chair infront of the tank. It's my viewing gallery :p

Contagion - Bacteria Billboard


This is one of the largest petri dish I've ever come across!!! Pictures Canada teamed up with microbiologists and immunologists from around the world to create a one-of-a-kind bacteria message board located at 409 Queen Street West in an abandoned store-front window. On August 28th, two large Petri dishes were inoculated with live bacteria including penicillin, mold and pigmented bacteria and almost overnight have revealed the true Contagion -- an artistic interpretation of the spread of a virus as depicted in the film. Yucks!!!!!

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Passing of a shrimp and new shrimps on board

One of my shrimps passed away today. I don't know why. It could be because I wasn't a good owner. I mean, if my terrapin, hamster and cactus could die on me...why not a shrimp? It's quite discouraging that my shrimp died a day after being in my care. Nonetheless, the more I look at it, the more it reminds me of prawn noodles. Except that this would be a really tiny bowl.So to encourage me and to replace my dead shrimp, my favorite guy gave me 8 more shrimps and they are green...abit translucent too.On top of the new shrimps, he also gave me shrimp food. I tried to give to my pets and they love it. This picture shows them feasting.
They love to share. Look! They are sharing foodLearn something new today. So a shrimp changing clothes is called Molting! I always thought that molting has got something to do with melting. Today's the 2nd day and I've found 2 transparent clothes.

Upon the arrival of the shrimps, I have started to read up on other shrimps. Some links were from that cutesy bro (yah, my favorite guy...the one with the dimples) and some were from my best friend, google! I hope they survived and breed so that I can have a whole tank full of colorful shrimps! I've even got Christmas decorations for the tank :) My pet shrimps are going to celebrate Christmas ^_^

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Shrimps have moved in

He delivered the shrimps and their friends to me today!! Now my tank is complete. I was given otto the algae eating fish, bumble bee snail, rili shrimp, cherry shrimp, sakura shrimp and fire red shrimp. 2 of them are preggy so in a week or 2, I will have cute shrimplets in my tank! Thank you 哥哥! I will surely give you the best brother award for giving me such a well-thought and interesting advance pressie :)

Wanted to give them names. Infact, I have got names for 5 shrimps already. But because you outgive the number you told me initially, I couldn't name them anymore. There were too many of them and I can't recognise which is which as some of them were really similar. Just love watching them torpedo from one side of the tank to the other end...and the shocking look on otto's face. So cute!