Random Talk (Write)

WW has been back to work since this afternoon, and me waiting at home for his work "release" before we go for a late-night movie. (Tks Minfen for the movie vouchers, otherwise we will hardly bother about catching movies.)

However, this is the popularity of Pirates of the Carribean, despite the timing:

Wah! 1225am at Tampines Mall and only the light blue ones left! Don't people need to SLEEP?

There are other show timings at 11pm and 1140pm, but don't bother trying to book those tickets online now.

Just now while at Century Square for quick shopping, I made a reservation for these sandals, specifically the one in pink. They are tranferring the available pair from Plaza Singapura branch and I can expect them in 5-7 days' time. Nice? If not I still can reject! =P

Tough working with her

You can say I’m racial-intolerant, but I just can’t stand the way she talks, pronounces her words and places her accent. Help me!! Poor me has to work with her some more, 救命啊！超级无敌机关枪！

I thought I have high tolerance and patience, but hearing her rants and non-stop highly-accented chain of words makes me cling. Add those extremely big eyes, staring right into yours, without blinking. And that finger, pointing somewhat accusingly at you or the document she’s discussing with you on. The strong “NO!” whenever an opposing view or comment is made. Don’t blame me for not able to bear with these!

But yeah, we should exercise compassion and understanding. After all, people come from different backgrounds and culturally, this could be the norm in some foreign lands. Will learn to live with it, if unable to, there’s always an escape path :)

The Good Things in Life

People want to portray themselves in a manner which they deem acceptable in others’ eyes. When faced with situations or events that portray them otherwise, they would push the facts aside and reject such scenario or character internally.

Personally, I would prefer myself to be a good driver, but now I am accepting the fact that I may not be one afterall. If put in nice words, I am an efficient driver. But in reality, I’m just a reckless driver who goes for speed and ain’t happy to let another overtake me. just don’t like men looking down at lady driver. But yah. Now I don’t crave as much going behind the wheels. Let my man do the driving and I enjoy the scenery. Hee.

This morning while still having the little remnants in my mind, a friend smsed me, telling me about her break-up and seeking some advise. I could tell her helplessness, but couldn’t help much except to be there for her.

Then I realised, how much does my piece of little unpleasantness matter? There are so many good things in my life, a bounty of them. If we keep dwelling on the unpleasant things, there is going to be no end. Instead, why not treasure what we have? Think how fortunate to have and hold, to be healthy, employed, having a warm family and a loving partner.

Even for those who dread work, don’t we have time each day to inject a little happiness, doing something you like? These days while feeling uninspired at work, I think of small treats for myself. You favourite food for breakfast or lunch; time after work to read the novel; shopping even if it’s only window-shopping … so many things you can do to feel good.

It’s easier said than done. However, life is short and there isn’t much time for happiness. So why not now?

Desaru - Project Chameleon

Back from our Technology Group offsite at Pulai Desaru Resort! It was two-days fun and experimental programs from which we learn lessons such as team work, risk-taking and communication. There was team-bonding with fellow colleagues and knowing more of one another, so the objectives should have been met afterall.

View the photos here!

Missing my Man

Boohoo. It was raining cats and dogs earlier this morning, the ominous dark cumulonimbus looming on top of our heads, the pre-storm winds blowing akin a mini-tornado, swirling the dropped leaves and rubbish and all around on the roads. Good thing I was few minutes ahead of the storm to reach the safety of the bus stop.

Rainy and stormy weather. Makes me worry about the waves out at South China seas, and fear they might rock the ship too hard. Hope it’s all weather clear over there! Otherwise WW will be puking all over L so long since we last talked, boohoo.

Life is laden with worries. Luckily humans have the ability to forget easily and overwrite worries with nonchalance.

We had a gathering with the scholars and our company’s management, CEO and Chairman just now. I’ve been here for close to two years, but rarely have such a chance for interaction with top management. Most of the time we are too immersed in our work, the day-to-day aspects, to take a strategic view of the business, to take a retrospective moment and to chart our quest for higher ambitions in the corporate world. Some management shared that even though we may chart our aim for the next ten years ahead, things may not turn out the way we have planned. Often, you would need to get ready for the next opportunities, identify them when they come along, and jump in before others do. It’s a matter of prepping yourself up, advancing in certain areas (which I know nothing of either).

So, the CEO wants to have a breakfast session with us, the ones who have graduated and started working here for 1-2 years. The 老教. Don’t know what the agenda is, but glad to be given the chance for some interaction and view-sharing. Otherwise I would just be stuck at my desk handling daily project issues and work!

Why does every item amounts to around $50?

Five Bull Mascot soft toys; three sets of 3D tic-tac-toe; mobile call charges made during the 2-days Bangkok trip; my contribution to G2000 shopping. There go my fifties, soon rolling to hundreds.

Bonus Time coming!

One of my previous blogs mentioned about creative innovation ideas and yet another one kept surfacing in my mind these days. Lots of times, I have ideas and thoughts on my mind which I want to jot down right at that instant, but lack the appropriate tools. Although I have paper and pen with me, writing does not seem such a feasible method of documenting thoughts as it often takes longer than electronic input, and requires a proper setting (try writing while on an mrt or bus). So my next clever invention will be a handheld device for blogging! One which is able to capture time and date, just that you can’t post online unless you subscribe and log in to their network or the Wi-Max our dear government is promising. This may sound like your normal mobile phone, but the new version will bring the qwerty keyboard to you!

Okay, enough of dreaming.

Anyway, bonus time will be here soon! Earliest being end August. Yippie! Before its grand arrival, I’ve list down the things I’m going to conquer!

- Omega watch ($3k) or lower-end watch ($300)
- Make-up course ($300+)
- Hand bag for work ($200)
- Fabulous meal with WW ($150)
- Treat for dear sister and family ($150)

Maybe, if I feel like it
- New wallet ($80)
- Diamond earrings ($200)

Figures are approximates.

Wahaha, the list will roll on till the day comes!

Go with your flow

Shou Bi is singing to 我是不是你最疼爱的人 and though he is some way to being a good singer, it's sweet. Sometimes thinking back, it's hard to imagine my dear brother is reaching 20 in half a year's time.

See below. I used to care how others view me and my quiet character. Especially when there were quite a fair number of entries in my Primary six autograph book encouraging me to open up and speak more so that others could know me better. These days, I'm totally at ease with myself, being absolutely comfortable with myself and my introvert nature. Only my close friends and dear ones understand me. Everyone has his or her set of strengths and weaknesses; don't force yourself to be who you are not, embrace who you truly are.

You Have a Melancholic Temperament

Introspective and reflective, you think about everything and anything. You are a soft-hearted daydreamer. You long for your ideal life. You love silence and solitude. Everyday life is usually too chaotic for you. Given enough time alone, it's easy for you to find inner peace. You tend to be spiritual, having found your own meaning of life. Wise and patient, you can help people through difficult times. At your worst, you brood and sulk. Your negative thoughts can trap you. You are reserved and withdrawn. This makes it hard to connect to others. You tend to over think small things, making decisions difficult.

What Temperment Are You?

Childhood Fantasies

Some of us friends cum colleagues were talking about teleports and how nice it would be to have them. This reminded me of my many childhood fantasies, of which one was to invent a teleport. Imagine the convenience of going anywhere, anytime you like. Another fantasy was to make myself invisible in front of my class-mates, with them wondering where I have gone to in the split second. Or having a time-reverser machine, going back to the moment where I wish to turn back events. I remember the desire for this invention was most strong when I failed to submit the points I’ve collected for the Scientist badge card thingy (if you recall the blue cards with various star-weighted tasks in it) on the last day of submission. Another one was to have a mind-reader (to be instilled only in my brain, no one else’s, hee) for me to understand exactly what thoughts each has.

Happy Mood Today!

It has been good since the morning, woke up on the right side of the bed (with Tian on the left side), and had my once-a-week routine breakfast of red bean pancake and teh downstairs. Yippie! On the bus to work, I was more awake than other days, reading my book and sitting semi-cross-legged. Wahaha. While walking from MAS building to office, the wind was breezing in my face, messing up my hair, but heck la coz it felt so good.

In the office, there is no meeting today, surprisingly! And my team lead is away most part of the day at a workshop, so I got to do things pretty much at my own pace, but also trying to be efficient.

At the end of the workday, before I was preparing to leave office for home, WW gave me a ring as he was nearby at Clifford Pier. So off we went to Marina South for a drink! Yay, this is like the first time we met during the weekday since quite a long while back. Impromptu yet sweet.

We dropped by Marina Coastal Pier, where Clifford Pier operations have shifted to, to check the place out. The view was good; we could see the open seas, the piers and the sunset shine. After that we had fruit juices at the food centre along Marina South then set off for home as both had dinner at home waiting.

Life is full of ironies and twists. I was still running for the Mercedes cab I spotted, with the parking offence ticket we kena at Marina South (we were there for only twenty minutes!). However, that didn’t dampen my high-spirited feelings. Then while happily seated in the Merz cab, I noticed how sad the taxi driver looked to me sitting in a clamped and limited space with his arms bent hugging the steering wheel. At the end of the day, still feel we are all out for a living, as long as we’re contented with what we have, we will naturally be happy! Nothing can’t quite spoil my mood of the day!

That Won’t Help Matters

Mama was telling me, in a very agitated way, how my Dad loses his temper ever so often these days. Firstly it was the outburst at NTUC counter at the lady (who always helps him pack the groceries onto his wheelchair) over something irrelevant; then there was the rant at the kindhearted soul at Ya Kun who was helping them buy teh. These days, I do notice Dad getting angry quite easily too, sometimes talking loudly till almost shouting at Mama.

Yes, it’s no good to get angry like that, but I believe he doesn’t want it this way either. What my mum does is detrimental in helping Dad cope with his temper, and in my opinion, may just make his temper worse. When you know you are short-tempered, the last thing you would want is to be term “坏脾气”. It’s like you knowing your greatest flaw, yet keep having someone criticising you of it. If you truly want to help someone get over his flaw, give him your encouragement and not your critical remarks.

However, in one way it’s true too that my mum has hardly any other channels of venting her bottled-up emotions. For us, we could easily go online, chat up with friends or seek retail therapy. But for Mama, she has few close friends and bases so much of her life on family, cooking for us everyday and going out only when she has Dad’s company. So sometimes I try to lend my listening ears, let her tell me her complaints and hope she feels better.

At the workplace, an initiative by the top management has gotten some of the scholars uneasy. Their direction is obvious, and my advice to the rest is not to take heart as the future lies in one’s own hands. To everything downside, there is a bright side or opportunity which we may not be able to see straightaway.

Also, these days I tend to feel less affected by the events happening around me. There seems to be this judging of things in a single dimension (the middle path?), to view things from a particular perspective (enlightment?). I think this could be the effect of believing in what I have been reading these days, on the impermanence of things and how we should treat others with compassion. This may sound boring but it does bring some level of calmness in spirits which makes me feel somewhat happier.

Here, we have to draw the line clear between immunity of feelings towards life (aka indifference which could be due to the mundane work life) and the resistance to rocky events that happen so dynamically around us. You have got to maintain your core values that serve as a strong foundation to see you through life. Like an outer vulnerable body with a metal inner core that regenerates cells and skin for the outer shell whenever it rots away. Hmm, what an analogy.

Will parents feel sad when their children start to have their independent ways of life?

Sometimes the best way to vent your anger is by acting cute! Make your arguments sound light-hearted and attempt to get your way through girly childish ways. That supposedly can diffuse the tense mood of the angered party and which lady doesn’t like acting cute? Shall try it the next time I’m about to explode.

Today is Fathers’ Day, which roused up some thoughts in me about how children drift off from their parents gradually and no longer are that close to their parents. Sometimes I have this desire to stay at home, just to interact with my parents to make them feel happier. Sometimes it’s hard to just leave them to do their own stuff and not be around them for the entire weekend. Weekdays are filled with work, thus weekends become more precious. Even though my parents have each other to go out with, and both do not have to work anymore, there are times when I thought they would enjoy going out with us children as a family. No idea how they are thinking though, do they want us to be around, or can just be as happy without us by their sides?

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Has been a great weekend! Shopping on Friday with Tian got my wallet $200 plus lighter, but in return we got a white skirt-jacket pair, two black and one grey tops suitable for work-wear, and some make-up foundation. Tian got a buckled metallic-chain Mango bag, the very hip type. On my own, I bought another white jacket for casual wear and a Phuture London lace top. Damn shiok to shop like that!

Saturday lunch was at 鼎泰峰with the babes from 98S26 – Steph, Sophia & Fang. The lucky mom-to-be still looks as great, unlike many other pregnant women who lose touch of beauty sense when carrying a baby in them. And the shopping for infant stuff after the lunch was fun! Little babies are very fortunate to be able to have extremely sweet and cute toys and clothes right from the moment they are born. Can be designer babies right from birth. Did some more shopping for clothes with Fang, got some tops (Fang, cool sexy top you’ve got ;)), and had good catching up done while walking down the malls. We both were lamenting about how lowly we’re paid and how to strive for a better future.

Early evening, WW picked me up and off to Esplanade and Marina Promenade we went. The sunset there was beautiful, though we didn’t sit facing it we could still see the orangish-yellow shine. Almost weekly I have my regular jogs there, but somehow sitting there with your loved one just passing time chatting about anything feels so different and special. Oh we saw this Boat Jet speeder boat racing past, with passengers on it and it driven by an ang moh. The jet had a shark’s face in front, and its body painted red. Fast and fierce, but very adventurous as it rocked from side to side and even went all the way out into the far open seas. I want a ride! Talking about rides, I suggested to WW on taking the DHL hot-air balloon high up into the air to get a panoramic view of Singapore, but he felt it a risk in case the balloon burst or the ropes broke. Must be cautious in life and avoid unnecessary exposures.

The Mobile Workforce

Congratulations to Wong Tian, on clinching a new job and leaving her current dreadful London hours work!

My power sister has switched two jobs, going into her third stable one next month, within 3 years of her graduation. And what have I accomplished? Still stuck here for close to two years, but things may not be status quo yet.

Can’t wait for later (on half-day leave), coz I’m going shopping with Tian! My shopping list:
- Shoes
- Shawl
- Suits
- Casual jacket
- Foundation
And let’s say, budget $500? Oh no, there goes my tight control!

Solitary Lives

1 – Transforming dissatisfaction at work
Be content with the work you have. So if you fail (do not get the promotion you aim for), that is where one’s attitude and the practice of contentment can make the difference between anger, resentment and frustration, and a calmer and happier attitude.

Applause to MacDonald’s, for adding (again) healthier sides to their menu! Corn, salad, apple dippers are added, all in an effort to promote a more balanced diet with added portions of vegetable and fruits in our meals. Hooray! Guiltless Beef Fantastic with its relatively low 310 kilo-calories and 3 g fats, unbelievable huh.

Relating back to my blog topic, people these days live pretty much on a solitary life. At the end of the working day when you have that sudden crave for shopping, you head off to shopping malls on your own. Or after exercising, you have your own dinner at the nearby coffeeshop or food court. During lunchtime, if you can’t find your lunch kaki you just drop by the nearest café or eatery. Taking lessons, getting gifts, checking out new places, running errands, all to be done on your own. I suppose that’s how an adult life works out to be. It is tough arranging a time convenient for all, and weekends are reserved for your loved ones. And often, you get things done more efficiently when alone, with more focus on the tasks on hand. Modern living.

Checkpoint: With more than half of 2006 passed by, have you accomplished or even on your path to achieving your goals for this year?

Town of Hallstat, Austria

Latest Book Purchase

Newest purchase from MPH bookstore. A book much in need, in tolling times in the new work economy. I’ve read the first chapter so far, and found it to be applicable and useful. It throws in a new light into our attitude and mentality, offering fresh perspectives, but which may be relevant to those who truly believes in values taught along the line of Buddhism.

Test of Integrity

Would you try to sneak out a pair of new shoes, both pieces of different sizes out of the shoe shop?

Under the encouragement of WW, I did that yesterday! To suit my feet of different sizes, I have to wear a bigger-sized shoe on my left foot, which means almost all the time I have to either squeeze the left foot or let my right one go unbound and dangling. When trying on the new pair of heels yesterday, one of us (can’t remember who) suggested mixing a pair with a right-side shoe size 36 and a left-side 37 together for purchase. As the saleslady took two pairs of shoes of both sizes for trying, I simply returned the pairs mixed up and told the cashier I wanted one of them. She took the pair, turned them around to check the size, confirmed with me if I wanted size 37 and packed them in the shoebox, without realising the jumble. We went out of the shop somewhat happily, not quite believing our luck of not being found out.

Which is a bad thing to do actually, haha. No integrity!

I suppose WW wanted to challenge my daringness at first, and to see if we really could get away with the mischief. Or maybe not playfulness only, as it would have been nice to have shoes that fit nicely thus we could have been serious about it. But honest me still went back to the shop after 10 minutes, claiming a mix-up. It was another lady we approached, who apparently was quite shocked that such a thing had happened. She told us the consequences, that the saleslady who did the hoo-ha had to pay for the pair, and might get a scolding. Quite jialat!

Heng ah. Both of us had an easier time after that, guilt-free and somewhat proud that we still have that sense of integrity in us. Heh~

Musing musings

So fast. It was one week ago when we excitedly packed for the Bangkok trip.

Not much feelings after the trip though. It has been work and more work, till at some point I was thinking of an escape route. Wednesday night it was 2am to bed, for the sake of doing an ECA at work.

Swam twice this week, the second time especially motivated by my new 2-piece swimming suit, with a halter-neck top. It’s cool to de-stress through exercising at the end of a busy workday; it lets your mind wander off and you go according to your own pace. What is even more pleasurable is the meal after the workout, be it a burger at MacDonalds or tau sa pau with teh at the nearby coffeeshop.

At what point do you decide what you are currently handling is enough and whether you are able to handle more things in your life? Sometimes faced with so many choices, will you be selective and pick only those that matter? How to tell which matter then?

Making a choice is tough, especially when the choice is tied to huge financial costs and efforts required. Decisions decisions, how to pick the wisest of them all?

Some Bangkok Photos

Well lousy blogspot couldn't post my photos all in one go successfully, thus the spoatic photos posts.

The evening view from our Hotel room at Royal Orchid Sheraton, 20th floor.
One of the myriad network of roads, which give us the 80's flavour. But rather clean, to my surprise.
Chinatown with lotsa birdnest, shark fins restaurants and yummy foodstuff from 林真香
We visited the Golden Buddha temple in the last morning we were in Bangkok. This statue kinda shines.

Together with some of my Technology colleagues, all dressed up for the retro theme at the D&D.

The public transport - buses and the ever-so-colorful taxis (spot them in yellow, pink, red, purple or blue - all in bright tones)
Thai version of the Big Sweep
Jiayun and me at the bazaar beside Golden Buddha temple (Wat Thrimitri)
Me in the hotel room. Watch the skies behind!

At Papong night market, where the dirty fun begins at night.

Back from Bangkok

First impressions:
- Old and a little dilapidated
- Bad traffic conditions, terrible jams
- Open concept living – housing and carparks which can be viewed from the highways
- Billboards advertisements – seems like their media is less controlled than our country’s

Subsequently after staying for a while more, I realised Bangkok is a quite a wonderful place to live in. The culture is kinda laid back, people simple and down-to-earth, and things generally go slow, much slower than in Singapore. To me, Bangkok is like Singapore in the 80’s, not that they don’t have modern shopping malls (Mah Boon Krong is just like any shopping mall back here), just that their streets and way of life are so much simpler. On the last morning there, Ah Yun and I rode on a tuk-tuk for a 10-minutes ride to the nearby Golden Buddha temple. Couldn’t describe how liberating it was on the tuk-tuk, with the air (and some exhaust fume) blowing onto your face, the traffic zooming by just beside you, the buildings beside the road so clear in your eyes. When the tuk-tuk driver rode past a bum, you could feel it in your bum, the joggle and jiggle of the joyous ride.

Time wasn’t on our side; we had only 1¼ days on our own. Shan’t detail the itinerary here, but it suffices to say you need at least one complete weekend there to get a full picture of the capital. Shopping at Mah Boon Krong will take up almost the whole day, then the temple visits another day, traditional Thai massage and spa for 2-4 hours (not to be missed), river boat ride, Chinatown visit, bird’s nest and abalone savouring, Suan Lum night bazaar, the pubs, the thrilling night clubs (with bikini-clad pole-dancers).. endless activities. So, I don’t do away with the consideration for a second visit!

One thing I really love is their Thai dessert, lookshoop! Will show you the enticing photo later!

Beyond coincidence?

It was exactly two years ago when I was sitting beside my packed luggage, all raring to go. 2nd June 2004, 2250, on board AF0257 bound for Europe. With a freshly-baked lo po bang from Changi Airport in my hands, specially for the man whom I couldn’t wait any longer to meet being apart for four months.

Tomorrow, 2nd June 2006, will be on board SG68 bound for Bangkok. This time round, the dear man will be staying put in Singapore, and busy fire-fighting at work. I wish I were sitting in the second-to-aisle seat with him beside me tomorrow.

男人，等个机会，我们一起逍遥快活去！

A cup of hot teh to perk up my day!

Was dozing off on the bus to work, half reading through some notes from work and half struggling to keep my eyes open. Boohoo, so sad to be slipping into sleep from reading notes rather than from soothing pampers (hee).

Just now WW’s mum and sis drove by CBD to pass me their handmade dumplings! Very nice of them to take the effort to come all the way to my office, happy happy. It’s 端午节today, also termed the Dragon-boat Festival where people eat dumplings to commemorate 屈原’s noble death. An ancient story behind this festival which explains why people used to throw dumplings into the sea on these dragon-boats to fend off fishes eating屈原’s body. Can’t remember the whole story as I have a not-so-good memory!

Had lunch with sis just now. She had a salmon sandwich and me a blueberry muffin, not before we had a big cup of papaya milkshake each, which explained the half-eaten food on our plates. But such is the pleasure of dining with someone with the same taste and preference; you don’t have to care about your improper eating habits. Won’t feel bad for eating junk food for a meal, yeah!

Charting My Ten-Year Roadmap

Motivating indeed. It’s like having a new direction and big goal in life, which makes life much worth living. For the next half year, there will potentially be two major changes; will just have to see if circumstances are favourable and if courage is enough.

Do you have the courage to drive changes in your life? People resistance is an over-used term in the organisation, but not without a reason. People in general are comfortable in their status quo, wary of what a new future may bring. But as Buddhist teachings say, the only permanent thing in life is impermanence. (Last weekend I cut my hair to 50% of its original length for a change! Can’t remember when I have had shorter hair than now.)

It’s quite a wonder how important it is to make your goals visible as some things, without the eyes seeing, would not be performed by the sub-consciousness. Try writing down in your diary the things you aim to achieve and you’ll be surprised to see the higher probability of it accomplished as compared to the case if it weren’t jotted down.

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On another note, I realise how even as we progress up the same channel during our younger days, we all end up as very different individuals. I can categorise in general cliques of friends with some common personality and behaviour traits, and at the end of the day, marvel at the diversity of all and the ability to blend in even if you’re not quite one of them. Or how one is able to have such a diverse group of buddies, some sharing same values and beliefs as you, yet some having polar far ones.

I have a handful of friends who are willing to part with their hard-earned money for material objects that may elevate one’s status, or to show how capable one is. I know most men don’t believe in this kinda thing (I stand on their side on this aspect), but many women actually do crave in to this follow. As long as one is happy. =)

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Had afternoon tea with WW, as he may be deployed to help out the quake situation and perhaps will be there for a while. His job is indeed dynamic; often it is back to base for incidents resolution, or getting bags ready for an exercise or deploy. 男人, must take care of yourself!

For me, it’s Bangkok for the coming weekend with the company. If you need anything from there, drop me a note!

Little touches to brighten up my day =)

Monday morning when I stepped into the office, I saw a small packet on my desk. It’s a card from Sweden, and a gift pack with guava macadamia body butter, cream lotion, bath salts and a body sponge. It’s a gift from dear Ah Yun, specially brought back from Sweden. Tks ger! I like Sweden’s national colours – bright yellow and blue. Moreover, it reminds me of the Sweden trip, reminiscent.

This morning when I stepped into office, I saw a cup of hot teh on my desk. It’s a thoughtful move from a dear colleague, who noticed the fatigue in me yesterday. Tks woman! These few nights I had been dreaming till early morning, still deep in sleep and ended up having difficulties getting out of bed. This can be quite tiring, so no wonder the dark eye rings and tired look. So, the nice gesture brightened up my day! Hot teh to kick-start the mid-week day, and hopefully can last me till the end of today.

nottoz’s downfall – bread

Can’t resist yummy bread! I have this tendency to drift into bakeries and confectionaries whenever I pass by one, even though I’m not one bit hungry. Some women like to shop for clothes, but I simply like bread-shopping.

I think I will grow fat from eating too much bread.

Like during lunch at a conference just now, two pieces of European bread (walnut and rye) just fell nicely onto my plate. After the conference, I walked past Panaderia Bakery at Raffles City basement and ended up with $5.80 worth of loaves, rolls and buns, including my favourite cranberry roll with its hard crust.

On the way back to office, I took a break, sat down at Raffles Place open space with my cranberry roll in hand (and mouth), and just let my mind wander. A short ten-minute blank-out from work gave me some insights on non-work-related matters. Immersing in daily work really numbs one, and before you realise it, years have passed on.

I’m one who loves the sun; this is one thing an office work would not be able to provide me with. I don’t like to be bound, prefer flexibility and freedom; perhaps it’s time to consider a flexi-hours job. Frankly, long meetings wear me off mentally; is there a way to go without them? Some bells are ringing somewhere.

Last night I had a dream about this spacious HDB unit that Tian and Henry own. The dream started with WW and I searching around old Kallang Airport for their unit, then walking around the wide corridors leading to their old, yet warm and cosy unit. They had their own setup in the house – tv, furniture, deco and all. Even though the place was not fancifully done up, the openness (lotsa sunshine in the house) and the view were splendid. I remembered feeling a little envious in the dream and wanting to have own unit like hers. Thinking back, the origin of the dream must be linked to WW sis’ beautiful condo unit at Monterey Park.

Photo Diary III

Some photos from this weekend, which reflects the enjoyable moments spent.

My little gift to WW to celebrate our special day
Combination of smaller pieces. He remarked it looked like it was for shi ren, hmmf. (These are rose petals, not some chysanthemum k)
Bet you couldn't spot the 3D tic-tac-toe beads on the plate! Time to start the brain-cracking.
Evening BBQ at Monterey Park, WW sis' place
The pool and the blocks beside it
You can just lie here beside the pool, immense in the moment and forget yourself
The view from her unit's balcony, with the ships and offshore islands.
Sunrise view from my living room window. Every morning my usual wake-up time, there'll be this reddish orange shine on my wall.
Breathe in, Breathe out. Start of another day!

These two days have been melancholic somehow. Maybe it's just a seasonal thing, or perhaps it's WW residual emotions from the out-sea exercise. To everything that has to be done, I throw the question of whether it will lead to happiness or satisfaction. Realise some things we do to please others or ourselves, some to fulfill responsibilities, some as a routine exercise and some for a previously-justifiable reason. Along with time, that original motivation could have changed and it's time for a change in oneself. Do what makes you happy! Live for yourself! (First, before you can think for others.)

Cafe Vienna

Simply dread long meetings that stretch non-stop for hours. Anything beyond two hours is overkill and generally not productive, in my view. I have been sitting in such meetings for the past two days, and ended up feeling all drained at the end of the day. How can people concentrate in such circumstances? Everyone sits strictly around the meeting table, throwing ideas and opinions around, but with the body rooted in their seats. No circulation, no body movements! It is no wonder my back starts to ache by the time the meeting ends.

Today lunch was at Café Vienna at Royal Plaza Hotel with two of my colleagues, Yanti and LLP. We decided on a good treat for ourselves since the last time we had that was a while back. It was a halal buffet, thus my Malay colleague can indulge as happily in the food as us. It was a $32+++ meal with a buffet spread of the usual salad, desserts, fruits and ice-cream. On top of that, they had sashimi and sushi! Woohoo! We took 8 plates of salmon sashimi in total, simply savoring the freshest raw meat ever. The other spreads are chicken rice, Indian dishes, dim sum and some seafood.

Can you resist this?

My choices from the buffet include:
- Salad vegetable, carrots, asparagus
- Steamed sweet potato cubes with cashew nuts
- Soba mini-sized and sushi 1 pc
- Salmon sashimi (with nose-choking wasabi)
- Grilled seabass with mango salsa
- Cakes, a bite of each: passion fruit mousse, bread & butter pudding, green tea pudding
- Fruits, lot of it

Is my consumption worth the buffet cost? =P

The meal was so enjoyable that I’ve beginning to think of more indulgences to come.

Sidenote: This is super chio! Favourite!

Round-up of the Vesak Day weekend

Two years ago this day (Vesak Day), I was air-bound, flying towards Goteborg. If only.

Nevertheless, this long weekend spent in Singapore is pretty worthwhile.

Friday, the public holiday, both of us went for some exploration to some unfamiliar places. First, it was plant-shopping at the Thomson stretch. I had a longing for something more alive and green in the workplace, thus the search for an indoor plant to brighten up the grey space [void].

We had to walk in the drizzle as both didn't bring umbrella. In Candyhouse nursery, the sale-auntie was kinda naggy, following us wherever we went. Somewhat irritating, plus their plants were not that nice. The next nursery was superb - huge, spacious, clean, customer-centric and has much nicer pots and plants. So happily I grabbed this Asparagus Setacus as the mystic and illusory leaf canopy left me appealed. Presenting:

My spirit-lifter at the office (hopefully)

Next on, it was tea-time at Ritz Apple Strudel along Upper Thomson Road. This particular branch sells Italian meals as well, at pretty affordable prices and with good flavours. You can count WW a fan of theirs. And me quite enjoy the strudel indulgence too (don't be too surprised).

Ooh Lala Sweet Indulgence

Having filled our hungry stomaches, we drove up to Upper Seletar Reservoir for some relaxation. As a result of the rain earlier in the afternoon, mist had formed on the waters and even in the air. We had to battle the 水蚂蚁 (flying insects), fanning the whole horde of them and hoping they don't fly into our nose or mouth. Later on our way back one even fell into my top. Hmm. Overall, it felt as though we were back in the 80's! Cool. Me love WW for bringing me places :)

无边无际

Along the track where joggers do their exercising

WW in front of the tower which we climbed up subsequently

The view from the top. See the mist!

Did you know such a place exist in dear young Singapore?

We rounded up Vesak Day with dinner (fish soup our favourite) along River Valley Road, a place where hot babes hang out after 9pm, especially come weekends [zouk is nearby]. Why should life be so complicated when it can be so happily simple, hor?

=============================

Saturday morning we were in pretty much the same area as the day before. Yishun and their Chomp Pang Central, Bukit Timah food centre. Then Yogihub with Ama, Apa & WW where Mama was complaining many times about how bland their food was, to which we three disagreed.

Was a more thought-provoking day, realising how respect and courtesy on one side, and the lack of it on the other, could lead to self-imposed restrictions and suppression. Again, 要开心自如，就要狠心把全部事情抛开！Wahaha.

================================

This morning started off good! Had a slow and somewhat exhausting jog (I can't run in the morning!) with Jun at Bedok Reservoir, early in the morning at 730pm. Great sweatout, especially at the end of the run with the endorphins gush. More such jogs to come with Jun. :) Another motivation for us is the breakfast after the run. Today we had CoffeeBean breakfast at Century Square. Such cool relief from the hot morning sun outside, and relief for our sweaty bodies after the workout. Luckily there weren't too many people, else would have to tolerate my stinko.

Ah, so there goes another weekend. Tomorrow WW will be out to the seas, good luck and have a safe ride!

若太在意，带来的只是失望。

今天是母情节，本该是全家齐欢庆，至少与妈妈享受天伦之乐。但连平时孝顺的我训妈妈把我的饼干丢掉；黄恬也没跟我们吃饭；首“彼”忙着玩他的电脑游戏。不知妈妈心里如何想。至少昨日文与我带了妈妈爸爸去享尽一餐美食！（是餐素食，导致妈妈泻肚子。现在她正埋怨Yogihub.）

所以，要开心自如，就要狠心把全部事情抛开！

随着年龄增长，见到的事件越多，人心总渐渐变得更灰心。上班人士总想着如何赚到第一个百万（随着更有第二，第三个。。第一千个），并且超越别人，更加能够成为真才实料的Yaya-Papaya。Haha. 至如今，我未能随心选择未来之途。无可否认，无＄＄万事有阻碍。要怎么赚百万？！

There goes my Molar

Couldn’t bear with the pain and the headache that came with it, especially when they started drilling at night and before my sleep. So, I sacrificed one and a half days of work and obediently did the molar tooth extraction. It wasn’t painful at all due to the aesthesia the dentist injected. He commented I have little flesh, which means I am thin-skinned and not 厚脸皮！Boo, I’ve always had this problem with my teeth, they are never strong enough to combat the bacteria. Two years back this time I did a wisdom tooth extraction, and now in my drawer proudly sit two big teeth! At this rate (an extraction per two years), I would be bo-gay by the age of 100.

Wahaha, I shall show you the teeth in my next photo diary post!

On another note, relaxing at home, seeing the sunset and the evening skies can be so delightful. Somehow feeling happy that I’m not cropped up in that cold emotionless office, and there’s tomorrow for more relaxation! Hooray.

Sit Back and Relax

Yepz, I started with that slogan as a motto in life.

Come weekends, it is the chance to let your hair down, breathe in some fresh air and for a while, escape the harsh and fast pace of work. These days we don't quite have plans for the weekend and just go where our hearts bring us. Sometimes we like to simply nua in the house, making afternoon tea, playing cards or even washing the car.

There's one thing dreamers like to do - staring into the skies, letting thoughts run free and wild, and feel the unlimited boundaries of space. I like staring out into the skies at WW's balcony, feeling the setting sun shine on my face and the accompanying slight breeze. Sitting on the ledge and stoning away, there's this serene feeling that is much needed for letting go of all the stress built up along the work week. Also, it provides a platform for self-reflection and some thinking about future direction.

Now the sun is setting, soon will come the end of the day. Lots haven't been accomplished as set out, such as mundane vacuuming of floor, or reading today's papers. But at least I've cast that "sacred vote" (as described by Wong Tian), drove my mama for tie da, and introduced them to Margaret Drive food centre where we had lunch. Like mama said, it's the change of a generation and it's turn for the kids to bring their parents around rather than the other way round.

Sometimes you just can't avoid it, the responsibilities and maturity come at you, and you just have to readily accept them.

The Lady who likes Car Washing

Haha that's me.

Because I look forward to washing WW's car every week, though sometime he will feel lazy and we will go for the car wash at Mobil petrol station instead. But still, I like spraying hose water on the car, playing around with water and soap. Having the knack for details, I will scrap away the tiny dirt bits stuck onto the body with my fingernails and cloth, while WW will use his mighty strength to rub away the stubborn layer of dust. I smile at seeing the blackish dust layer get swept down from the car body, dissolving into the soap water and flowing onto the grounds. After the soapy wash, there is another round of spraying, this time even merrier as what comes next will be the shiny surface. A last dry wipe will result in a very satisfactory-cleaned car! Yay!

Have not posted any photo of WW's car before, I think. Tada! The sparkling innocently-white car! (Masked out the car plate for his privacy. I don't want hot babes trailing him...hee)

Happy Holidays!

No work on May Day today, which means one more day of fun and relaxation on top of the past weekend. I’m proposing lunch out for the whole family since it’s a hard chance to get all in the family together. Hope it works out and not get cancelled due to last minute change of minds.

Friday was our Happy Hour at work, but couldn’t attend due to work to settle first. Went for late dinner with WW at Zion Road coffeeshop, and by the time we finished our dinner, we could see people trickling into Zouk. Quite happening it seems, but cheonging’s out for us.

Saturday we went 四马路观音庙拜拜. Haven’t been there for quite a while and need to pray for good health and for the smooth turnouts in life. Life can be tough at times thus need that spiritual placement and support every now and then.

After the prayers, we met Junie and Gay Yong near OG when they spotted a stylo posed man standing beside the window panels on the second storey. That was WW posing away while I was in the restroom, and that caught the attention of our couple friends at the small road junction nearby!

We then decided to pamper outselves with good food! Drove to Namly Place for L'Antipasto, the authentic Italian restaurant where the chef personally comes by and introduces to you the special dishes for the day. Theirs were wild boar meat, cod fish and some veal or something, but we opted for the safe menu. We shared portobello, WW had crayfish pasta while I daringly went for tonnarelli with black squid ink! Ended up like a witch with black lips, teeth and tongue even. But shiok it was, quite delicious. Luckily we were tucked in a corner (didn't reserve beforehand) and no one should have seen the black lips, though we suspected there were cameras.

High-class dining at Namly Place

After the savoury dinner we walked around the area - district 10. Needless to say, the bungalows and terrace houses impressed us. Some were so classy that you can't help wonder if you're in any land out of Singapore. Beside Duchess Ave there is this long stretch of slope, where the nearby residents can lie on at night to see the stars, or cycle their bicycles up (although that would be very challenging).

Duchess Ave

Sunday, we went to Town. Wahaha, got for myself a pair of shorts for $59 and an M)phosis top for close to $30, under the encouragement of WW. Take it as a treat from Progress Package =P We proceeded to Borders but couldn't find the Cambridge audio dictionary WW was looking for.

Dinner was at Clementi blk 700 plus coffeeshop, where we had a whole steamed 红斑鱼 to ourselves. Indulgence, woohoo!

Oki, gotta rush off for lunch now. Happy family bonding time ~~

The First DFM!

A trip to Borders saw me getting $82.85 worth of books:

• Sparks of Genius: The 13 Thinking Tools of the World’s Most Creative People
• I Know What You’re Thinking: Using the four codes of reading people to improve your life
• Mighty Brain Teasers published by Mensa The High IQ Society

Don’t need me to spell it out for you to know where I’m steering towards. =P

Before Borders, Ah Yun accompanied me for ice-cream at Takashimaya food court! It was Ben & Jerry’s day, but we missed the 7pm promotion time. We had Venezia ice-cream instead, on Ah Yun’s recommendation. She had three flavors – tiramisu, Belgium chocolate and black-forest; I had a simple yogurt one. But I like it! It has been ages since an ice-cream indulgence till I had forgotten the enjoyment of scoping up that ice ball, licking it off the small spoon and feeling it trickle chillingly down the throat. Tks Ah Yun for the suggestion. =)

Somehow someone knows

While crusing on ECP back home, the following songs played in sequence (it was in shuffle mood) on my mp3 player:

• The Game of Love - Santana featuring Michelle Branch
• Eye in the Sky - Alan Parsons Project
• It ain't over till it's over - Lenny Kravitz

The sequenced playing was beyond coincidence; there was an unspoken significance to me, for specifically these three favourite pieces hold their individual special meaning to me. My heart seemed to have froze with each subsequent play. I was no longer disheartened. How wonders work their ways, magical.

Bingo!

Just when I was pondering about the future direction, I came across this article in Today papers which mentioned how one lady went for a satisfying job even though it pays less. She works at YES – Youth Employment (Singapore) which helps provide career advice and services. Not much time tonight to go through all the career and personality tests, but managed to try a few and was pleasantly surprised to rediscover myself. Try out their website: http://www.yes.org.sg/

Just one of the tests I tried:

Career Inventory Test Results Extroversion 36% Emotional Stability 53% Orderliness 56% Altruism 63% Inquisitiveness 56% You are a Guide, possible professions include - career counselor, psychologist, educational consultant, special education teacher, librarian, artist, playwright, novelist/poet, editor/art director, information-graphics, designer, HRM manager, merchandise planner, environmental lawyer, marketer, job analyst, mental health counselor, dietitian/nutritionist, research, educational consultant, architects, interpreter/translator.

Take Free Career Test
personality tests by similarminds.com

Well, hope to dig out more gold from their portal!

Yeah, tomorrow is DFM!

Some rethinking needed

On a happy note to start this new week, feeling refreshed and looking forward to the newly-assigned DFM - Day For Myself!

For the past week I've been thinking of where I should be heading towards. Clearly the current work has not provided me with the kind of satisfaction I'm craving for, with many pieces of hands-on work done by our consultants. I'd like to be involved and doing some of the "dirt work", enough for me to gain some domain expertise and knowledge. Thus, this inspiration to rethink what I want to achieve out of my career. But should we be tied to various factors:
- Pay;
- Time needed for another switch;
- Flexi-hours;
- Amount of time on the job;
- Passion and interest?

Tough question to be answered, but which needs to be tackled soon.

Poor WW had to handle an incident and as a result, stayed over in office on Friday night and went home only at 4 plus pm the day after. Similarly, those folks in our IT department had to stay very late (I don't know if they stayed overnight as well) and had to go 36 hours without sleep on the same day to handle a system outage. Having a fire-fighting job is damn tough and requires more than just wits and spontanity. It needs perseverence, determination and such resolve to go beyond oneself to tackle problems and have that clear mind even when going without sleep for hours. I wonder how companies reward such hard work, and if the rewards commensurated.

So, I know what I want

You scored as Philosophy. You should be a Philosophy major! Like the Philosopher, you are contemplative and you enjoy thinking about the purpose for humanity's existence.

Philosophy		100%
Psychology		83%
Sociology		83%
Mathematics		75%
Linguistics		75%
English		75%
Engineering		75%
Anthropology		75%
Biology		67%
Journalism		58%
Art		42%
Theater		42%
Chemistry		33%
Dance		25%

What is your Perfect Major? (PLEASE RATE ME!!<3)
created with QuizFarm.com

I'm still interested in taking a part-time degree in Psychology. Any recommendations on a good course, anyone?

Drop your Expectations

Coz it may just dash your chances of getting that something you want!

Like how the Be Delicious slipped from my fingers coz I was expecting myself to get it. Shoots! How could someone come up with anything more ingenious than my friendship band? And I thought I could sell the prize off for say $500.

And the disappointment when I saw my boss’ name in the slide, while waiting in high anticipation of seeing my own. Haha, kidding la. I was secretly hoping that I’m not the winner for that $2500 prize money, otherwise I would most probably faint with embarrassment.

But it’s true. If you really want something that badly, do not wish so hard for it. Chunk it at the back of your mind, think of all other things and don’t ever harbour the thought of winning or obtaining it. Then only will you get the surprise. And miraculously, the chances of you getting that thing will be higher. Call it Fate.

Hmm is it the balance equation again?

Oops. Almost half a Golden Promfret steamed, one hard-boiled egg and lots of mushrooms with rice make my tummy feel full and bloated. Feel so extremely full now! Will I grow fat?

Paranoid me attributes the recent gain in weight to the private bus to work, which “robs away” my chance of standing throughout the journey to work. But it is compensated by the 10 minutes walk from MAS building to my office every morning. How come? Or is it the multi-grain or walnut bread loaf bought at Cedele and merrily gobbled away at my desk everyday since two weeks ago?

But again, we should be happy with ourselves. At most I’ll eat more fish porridge for lunch!

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Just now I got the chance to relive the old days when we cared so much less and did things without so much consideration. I was cycling in the heavy rain from Tampines central to home, feeling the rain beat on my face, shielding it from my eyes using my hands, and at one point it even felt like in a shower.

Needing not to mind if my clothes will be completely drenched, whether I will catch a cold. One of the few times when heavy rain is fully embraced, just like that jog in the rain while making my round at Bedok Reservoir, and that time even further ago outside our loyal DHS, running from the school gate to the bus stop some 800m away.

Sometimes, not caring makes one feel so liberated.

Photo Diary II

Happy holidays! Shiok! We spent a meaningful day out under the sun and greenery, merrily connecting with the nature at Botanic Garden.

A candid shot taken while WW was still walking. It ain't a butterfly!
In front of Eco Lake, nearer Bukit Timah Road.
Eeks! Gives me goosebumps!
Scenic right? Captured by the "artistic" Wong Zhen.
Relaxing, mentally-liberating walk in the park. Nice!

The UPS and DOWNS of Life

You must agree that with every upside of life, there is the downside of it to come. The same applies the other way, things can't get worse anymore if they've hit the rock bottom.

A little disappointed for not winning any prize for the essay write-up, as being the usual Perfectionist Me, I was slightly hoping to get some extra money to spend. No la, just kidding, prize money wasn't the motivation. After all, I'm just a 小 A. Can't fight with VP.

Also, after working two years, there isn't any recognition, making me think either I'm not good enough or that you have to loud and exhibitionist for people to recognise you. What's the point of fighting so hard? Again, that escapism mentality is creeping in.

Tennis was no good either, my forehand stroke is still like a child's. It can be quite frustrating, knowing you're always in the beginner's phase and need the coach to give specific steps on executing that one simple move.

I think this world is just so cruel; you fight hard for your own survival and no one is going to care about you if you don't scream loud enough. Which is so unlike my character. I wonder if anyone is ever spurred on with the idea of working your whole life away, slogging hard and jostling elbows in the corporate or working world. Either you or I have to perish.

Couples should NEVER quarrel in front of their children

The devastating effects, not only on small children but on grown-up ones as well, are unimaginable. It makes one’s high-spirited feelings plummet, exacerbate the lousy mood one may already has, and brings everything downhill. To little kids, there is emotional impact and may lead to high instability.

That is why, as a parent, you should never ever quarrel with your partner in front of the kids.

I stepped in home after a tiring and long day going through unsmooth events in the day, to listen to them complain and speak in hash tones. Papa complained about Mama cooking too much rice and having to throw it away; Mama blamed Papa for being inconsistent in his intake and expectations. But can’t they communicate better in gentle tones? Do you have to shout like that?

So pissed off. My bro had to add fuel to the flames by being sarcastic, digging in at me and wanted me to remove the bones in his fish. Unable to hold back the irritability and anger, I whacked him with my shoe bag, then the plastic water bottle. Mama couldn’t stand her darling boy being hit, and shouted at me. Another shout huh. I got mad and slammed the bottle hard on the floor.

It has been a while since I got this mad. Sometimes I just wish to be on my own. Living in my small apartment, doing my own things, leading my solitary life. Forgo the work, the responsibilities, the commitment, the need to be in the line.

Lying idly on the satin-comforter-laid bed, head on the equally-satin-colored pillow. Golden yellowish light from the lofty lamp embracing the otherwise dark room. Jazzy Bossa Nova pieces amplifying through Altec Lansing.

Oooohh

Fully maximising my leave day

By swimming 16 laps and doing some shopping!

Mid-morning Wong Tian and I set off to Tampines swimming complex, which has reopened since last Friday after what seemed like ages long of renovations. The new designs are not bad; we both particularly enjoy playing under the mushroom structure at the baby pool that sprays water down like waterfall. And we went on the long curving slide, one similar to the ones in theme parks or in Downtown East. Both times I tried, and got stuck near the end of the slide. Wong Tian was laughing away at me, but aiya can’t blame me for being light-weight.

So it was a good 16-lappie swim, though we could have done more but we couldn’t ignore our growling stomachs. So hungry! So off we went to a coffeeshop for the standard breakfast set (for Wong Tian) and teh (for Wong Zhen). Amazing TP can have 2 whopping huge half-boiled eggs at one go, quite something huh. Mousy me ate away the corners of her kaya toast bread. =P

After lunch at home, I had that instinct to run away from the imminent (thunder) rain. Ain’t like this wet weather! Hence I hopped on the bus and headed to Marina Square for shopping. I haven’t had the chance to fully explore that shopping haven after its major renovations, though had walked around parts of it before. At the end of two hours, I got a pair of black covered heeled shoes and two knit tops from Bysi. Super hard to get nice working tops these days that I had to compromise the quality. Don’t think these tops can last more than half a year.

Conclusion: Marina Square does not quite live up to its mark and is not as fantastic as it first seems. When it comes to shoes though, the choices are quite aplenty. Can try Gripz or Ink for sweeter designs. There was this pair of pink pumps with a cat outline on its front cover, very cute, which I almost wanted to buy.

There goes my day on leave, happily and satisfactorily spent! More leave days for me please!

What If

Unstable IE lost my previous unposted entry. I was saying, I can't help but think of how different life may be with it was led in another way.

What if I took up psychology instead of IT? How about holding an outdoor job versus an inbound office work? How would life be if it were a married life now, being able to "retire" into the warm lovenest at the end of everyday? And if I were earning twice my current pay and could afford to conquer LV or Prada bags without batting an eye, would I have gone around on this kinda extravagant shopping?

Thoughts aside, yellow has crept into me recently with my self-consciousness on what other than the weight issue. Beef, pork, duck are to be gouged. Eeks.

Feeling tired after a 48-min run along Marina Promenade, in need of a massage from dear WW but will have to wait till tomorrow. Getting a massage on your tired muscles is one of the best gifts you could get, especially when back from a long day. If you fear you lack strength, make good use of your pointy elbows.

On another note, I'm missing something (where) again...

Don’t kill us with your cooking!

I get excited over small things. Like the dream about getting my DBS Woman’s Card, and another dream about me winning the contest along with a prize of $2500. Also, the Cedele bread shop at Temasek Tower which sells European-styled bread loaves. That means multi-grain bread, walnut bread or baguette for breakfast & tea everyday from next week onwards. Woohoo!

Just now for lunch, we ladies went to an eatery along Boon Tat Street and tried some of their many dishes. I got to say, their food sucks! So salty and oily, must have poured in MSG like there are mountain heaps of it. I wonder how they could bear to do so to the innocent patronisers, and if they will ever cook such dishes for their own consumption. Now not only does food have to taste good, it has to be healthy as well, whipped up with a heart. I don’t mind paying more for a hearty dish, like the ones at YogiHub, done up with customers’ health and well-being in mind.

We all like pretty things

Fluffy got no dotes from us that period of time she was bald (shaved botak), but now that her fur has grown back, we like stroking her and giving her baobaos. I feel the same applies to humans. If you want your boyfriend to hug you more, dress up and be pretty!

It’s quite amazing how companies are willing to fork out big amounts to impress their customers. This morning I went for a talk by a software company with my colleague. The breakfast talk, which took up the whole morning, was held in Pan Pacific ballroom and we were served full breakfast sets while the speakers went about their presentations. I’m going to delve into the food: to start off, we were served bread (my favourite! Especially the European-style bread. Oh my, Europe oh Europe!), followed by a plate of fruits (honeydew, watermelon, papaya, grapes, blueberries, rock-melon – so many!). After that was American breakfast set – scrambled egg with smoked salmon, sausages, hash browns, baked beans, and pickled vegetables. (Note that I like jotting down lists of food.) All these made my breakfast calories hit around 450kcal. Hoho. Just cut down on lunch with fish porridge, and jog 50 mins in the evening at Esplanade. Yeah!

A photo of me at workplace with the nice view of the seas, towards direction of Benjamin Sheares Bridge, at a bazaar organised by our Technology Group.

Ho Ho Ho

---

You Are Cream Pie

You're the perfect combo of simplicity and divinity Those who like you life for understated pleasures

What Kind of Pie Are You?

What is your addition?

Can’t help but sniff in the air-con smell incessantly, breathing hard and long to take in as much as my lungs can absorb. Especially, the air-conditioning in the car when it just started up. Recently, that in my office building as well.

Some can’t live without a coffee each in the morning and after lunch; some can’t sleep at night without his/her partner’s hug. Wong Tian and her HL have to meet each other everyday. I can’t live without my steadfast soul support, that him in my life.

Have you ever considered, just what, in your life, you can do without?

Dream Dream Dream

It’s a super nua day! Did yoga just now and slipped off into a light slumber when resting in corpse pose. The modern man and woman are always tired.

I feel bad seeing WW so tired after sending me home. His sleepy droopy eyes while driving, the lack of energy in his body and his face full of yearning for the bed – all adorable yet somewhat heart-wrenching expressions. But I’m definitely grateful for the rides, as that do provide us with more interaction time. However, next time I shall have greater resolve to travel back home on my own especially if he has his work to finish up.

Yesterday afternoon we were at National Library, which turns out to be a very cool place indeed. One major plus point is the full-length windows, which give visitors a splendid view of the surrounding buildings, including Suntec and Shaw Towers, and beyond. We could even view part of Benjamin Sheares Bridge with its glory. The seating arrangement within the library is spacious and portrays a neat feel. The sofa seats are comfy too, providing back rest for our back support. Next time it can serve as my hangout place when I have spare time on hands, as reading even one reference book in there can take up my whole afternoon.

The start of another workweek is impending. Not that keen to kick-start the week for this round, as there isn’t much work recently. Plus I just can’t miss this kind of hazy stuffy weather enough. Just wanna spend the day outdoors, feeling the breeze in the face, the sun on the head and dreaminess in the air.