In a world of Jazz & Jewel

Slithering Away

2010-08-31T23:20:00.002+08:00

out of self-defence (for fear of getting hurt) and/or due to emotionally scarred? Talks are cheap. Sincerity is questionable. Ultimately, being double-standards set the barrier.

Happened. Happening Again.

2010-08-29T23:56:00.002+08:00

Yea, WTH is happening????

Once bitten, Twice Shy....?

2010-08-22T21:16:00.002+08:00

I love the old saying, "Once bitten, twice shy". What happens when there is a "thrice"? Becomes a dumb ass.

Some people are self-defensive, hence after the 1st bite, they dun allow a 2nd time to become shy. Instead, the defence becomes so strong that they tend to form a mind of their own, sometimes to an extreme which is beyond understanding.

Some people, on the contrary, let things happen over and over again. Never mind how bad they felt when they 1st went thru the obstacles. Never mind the pain they felt after going thru the "unlearnt lessons" for the umpteen times. "Well, won't lah... this will be the last time", a common phrase (more like denial if u asked me).

When one finally start learning from the numerous "bites", they are usually emotionally battered, physically tired and perhaps intellectually challenged. Then, this is the time when they finally admit that "history does repeat". And this is also the time, when people ard them will go "Congratulations! Finally you are learning" or "What took you so long to learn?" Well, kinda demoralising right?

There's no right or wrong here, and no definite answers to whether one shoulde get smart after the 1st bite or, one should be adventurous to explore more bites. End of the day, its all about how one deals with the bite.

My case? History repeats but I am hardly defensive abt it. People come and go. Memories fade. Promises kept and broke. What's new? Just get a grip, get tough and going. after all, history equals to "routine" and experiences will teach us how to deal at the appropriate time.

...

Of ups and downs

2010-08-05T22:02:00.004+08:00

according to my last post, i was supposed to be active once again, in my blogging activity, but, i've been lazy, unmotivated and ya... in a refusal state to blog. Some things are better stashed away than to air them.

tonight, there's a sudden urge to blog and the weird thing is that i feel a lot calmer than the recent weeks, which is certainly good. Thinking back, if i were to blog during that period, the entry/entries would probably be very biased. Now, its a good time to pen down, maybe because i have been enlightened? or perhaps, i learn to see things differently. Either way, feeling "indifferent" may be the the right term.

I realised... i am a slow learner. I thot all these while, I am sharp, quick-witted, and perhaps, humorous. Oh, and I forgot to add, i thot i was strong too. But, apparently, after going thru a stony period recently, i am none of those.

SHARP?
How do you define "sharpness"? Able to understand the situation, one's likes/dislikes, in chinese, 会看人脸色, quick to sense changes in mood/environment/feelings etc? Heck, i always thot i am sharp. Acquaintances/associates say that abt me all the time. But... i failed miserably in this department. Its seems like "quote : U just never learn lor"... Maybe, its not that i never learn. Its pure carelessness or maybe... took things for granted, that pple who love/know me well, knows that THIS IS ME. But, i really want to "Just be yourself". How? very dilemma right?

QUICK-WITTED??
One would ask, "quick-witted"?? Is this a criteria or a must? Yes, it is, for me. My loved ones are very quick-witted and i do suspect they dun tolerate unconstructive or non-challenging conversations. Whatever happened to the good old term of "chit-chatting"? Its tiring, to be quick-witted at all times.

HUMOROUS???
Being humorous is such a BIG thing... at least for me. I love humor, whether dry or black or lousy. I love hearty laughter... who cares glam or not? I am not, and will never be able to learn to "cover my mouth to stiffle a giggle". My jokes are generally funny, and most love "being around me" for that one good session of humor. But, are these pple seriously enjoying lighter moments in life when i bring joy to them? Now, i wonder, my humor seems to go sideways recently. Humor becomes "..." or "not funny" or "ha... ha... ha...". and.. i will go "...... (silence)".

STRONG????
"So strong for what??"... ya... why huh? There's no special prize to be a strong woman leh? To be strong, one must learn to be emotionally detached. I am such a 'people's people", so how to be detached? I genuinely feel for most people, even those who are unrelated to me. I dun succumb to pressure nor stress, but of late, i realise its getting quite tough, bottling up. To speak or not? To do or not? And best.. instead of succumbing to just pressure or stress, i succmumbed to my productive tear glands. Only that... i fear to cry. Hence, the cry becomes quite half-F.

Well, i do honestly feel better penning out. I know there will be pple out there saying," What u writing for? To let the whole world know ah?" or "aiya... for show rite?". Not really. Writing has always been a way for me to release the pent up feelings and knowing myself... i recover faster after penning. Also, when i do look back, i know i will laugh at myself for having such negativity then (now).

I have mixed feelings abt my coming trip to PD. I hope all will turn out well. I need to get back to become the old me.

Getting More Settled Down

2010-03-30T23:31:00.002+08:00

Yea.... after some ups and downs (in the mood department), I can feel myself slowly getting back to the old momentum, i.e. to work and work. afterall, having gone on a "defiant strike" from work, its time to pick up the pieces and get back to proper agenda, i.e. making money. It is not CATHERINE to only care about my own temperament and ignore the livelihoods of many others. Hence, work still must go on.

Maybe I am getting impatient? Or... maybe its a form of nervous-ness? I just cant seem to pinpoint what is exactly "wrong" with me? Over what, u may ask. Actually, over many things. Work is certainly one of it. Its coming 8 yrs since we started Leadz. Yes, we are doing great in recent years. Not enough to declare millionaires, but thankful enough for seeing thru "not-too-bad" kinda living standards. But, my guts seem to have gone on a World Tour, and I am not sure when will this vagabond returns to settle down. Expansion plans are constantly in our minds. But, the energy to see thru the plans, is the major factor. With Gwen still young, i hardly think I have enough time nor the right frame of mind to conjure the future. Also, I cant risk having all eggs in the basket, being unprotected. I liken myself as a mother hen, always worrying about the eggs, if they will hatch well to become fine chickens one day, or will they suffer?

Well, the plan now is to let nature takes its course and of cos, with some helping hands, to take risk at the right time.

Besides work, i also find myself getting more settled down as well... actually, its more like on the contrary kinda thing. I find my "peaceful" lifestyle interrupted. I am not sure if I like this kind of interruptions, but i certainly am not against it. My mood has been yoyo-ing for the past few months. Somehow, rebellious me seemed to want to 'prove" something. Prove what huh? I also dun understand myself. Maybe things have been pretty stagnant and i do need some excitement. Gosh, the way I am describing and the way others perceive if they do read this post, seem to suggest that I am trying to "do somethhing really naughty'. Halt your sick thots. I am merely thinking that I need to be a little more daring than I already am. Doing things that I used to do when I was young, and somehow, stopped, becos I am a wife and a mother now? Hahahaha!!! Outrageous acts that hb knows and yet I havent been doing?

OK... just chatted with darling sel. time to analyse a bit. Hope i wun get overly affected like i did few months ago. Damn! I am just so cut-out for this role. Sigh

On leave

2010-03-22T16:15:00.002+08:00

Well, hubby's not feeling well. Wanted to call off my leave. But I thot better for him to rest w/o my disturbances. So I commenced my leave at 12pm sharp. Headed to suntec within 1 hr, $200 flee away easily. Damn. Hence I did the next best thing I.e. Head to haunt at millenia. Shiok!!!!!!

Spent abt 2 hrs here and still counting. 1 litre already swirling my brains. Good to chill out liddat. No worries, no frustration and best of all, no disturbances. Just wat I need. I dun need to spend my leave doing things tat I can be doing everday. I just need a break from work. I am feeling damn terrific now. Mind totally at ease. No issues, mo concerns, no worrying. But something still missing. What is it?

Well.... i paused at least 4 hours before i continued my posting cos i just din have any inspiration to update. After 0.5l x 3 and 0.3l x 2 and that heavy heavy dinner.... i simply felt TERRIBLE. totally opposite of that "terrific" word i used in above paragraph.

And, its proven. The blackies simply adore me. blardy hell!!! One blackie kept making eyes at me till i felt like flunging the mug across onto his face. Too bad, he caught me in a foul mood.

Anyway, settled the bill at abt 9pm... and stood outside Oscar's planters for a good 15mins. Pretty refreshing, to have nice breeze sweeping across that zombie face of mine. After a string of sms-es, i figure out something. Its better to blog than talk. Talks are cheap and irritating. The recipients may or not be reciprocative. And anyway, there is absolutely no reason to make pple worry or to bear with my nonsense.

Well... seems like this blog's gonna get active once again.

The escape

2010-03-21T16:16:00.000+08:00

Houdini must be my idol of late. He never fail to amaze me with his incredible ways to escape. Tortoise must be my favourite animal too. Underneath the hardy shell, is fragile body n soul, and of cos a hiding place. Ostrich is probably my mascot for we both have equally big bodies and loves to bury our heads when faced with dangers.

Why the negativity, you may ask. I find it quite hard lately, to lift my moods. I think this must be the effects of prolonged cheerfulness. It can get pretty challenging to find ways and reasons to constantly be smiling, chirping bright "hi!!!!" or throwing head back to laugh. Ya, I used to enjoy these acts cos they were my "trademarks". But maybe age has caught up with me. Or am I getting into the defiant mood? As what a fren said to me recently, "just be urself". I started thinking pretty hard. Am I not myself? Or, my innermost actually wants me to live for myself? Hv commented to me," ya, think..., think more things and make urself unhappy". Hahaha, that's mocking at me lor.

Hence, I have decided to treat myself better. Go on 2 days leave to rediscover myself. I duno what good things will arise from there but at least, hopefully this break will "give me a break" from the knotty issues that's been weighing me down. Quite nice to 偶而犹豫一下. Hahaha!!!!

Ok, I can feel myself happier now. There! I just knew myself well. Can't talk, just blog. :)

The Closure

2010-03-19T13:37:00.002+08:00

Very weird.... is that a closure? I rem i was harping abt "You guys need a closure!!! How come leave things hanging liddat??? Do you guys no good at all... etc etc....." Ya, that period of time I was Aunty Agony to a fren, and the only correct thing, logical, if i may add, is "For God's sake, have a proper closure!!!!!".

Months later, i took a back step, and reviewed the whole situation. What is a closure? I asked myself. To be precise, what exactly is a "proper closure"? Having 2 person sit down, face to face and talk? Or do the cowardly way of "e-conversations"? Hmmm....

Many times... things happened for a reason... or maybe reasons. What best way to settle? Talk it out lah... clear the stuffy air. Probably the mind was badly polluted, hence one started speaking incoherently. There is always a risk when one speaks up. The risk of "saying wrong thing" which is ever so frequent, or marring an already-awkward situation. But, ultimately, thats still a closure right?

I duno about others. But i prefer having a closure too so that I am not kept stuck to the ground. I was recently hailed "Queen of TTM". hahahaha.... TTM = Think too much. So having a closure will halt all funny thots creating knots in my mind. Its JJ that we are talkin about....

Clever vs Stupid

2010-03-11T14:22:00.002+08:00

Me: u nvr fail to make me feel stupid-ier than I already am...

Fren: dun be silly. I dun have stupid frens.

--------------------

that means not stupid but silly. Lol!!!!

untitled again

2010-03-09T00:13:00.002+08:00

stuck at the "new post" page for a good 10 mins, cos duno where to start.

such an irony, that while all these time when i was playing aunty agony, i was "brutally" exposed today. wahahaha!! pretty stunning, yet a little overwhelming. Stunned was becos too unexpected. Overwhelming was becos no one had said that right in my "face", ok, thru msn lah.

I thot i was pretty successful in concealing and very good at being positive and happy. Well, besides my previous AFI scares, since when has anyone seen a moody catherine? not often... wrong, should be never. still....

well, i like to make pple happy. i like to see people's eyes lit up, and laugh. Afterall, it takes more muscles to frown than smile. And smiling makes one becomes instantly prettier/suave. Laughter is infectious. It makes the atmosphere light and less stressful. I genuinely feel good when everyone around me is happy.

But, i do have my yo-yo moods occasionally. However, these moodiness hardly showed on my face. But i gave myself myself away last sunday. I am a lousy snake. Ok, i blame the weather, for making me sweaty, and mind concussed. Tiredness from lack of sleep was a factor too. I felt "fake" for "litting up my face and smiles" when someone approached for work, be it my temps or emcee. And letting my eyes drooped or being blank-faced when i had my free moments. Hate that. honest.

Today, had a "business discussion" with S but naturally, its more like a wind-down session for me. With our 2 mugs of 0.5l, we did proper work discussion really fast, and ventured to relax and gabber. Well, i was stunned with his observations. Something that i did not expect. Still, no damage was done. Was good in fact. It was a heave of relief. Thot i wouldnt think abt this after my gals trip to BKK 2 yrs ago. Afterall, i made myself a promise and i have been keeping to it well.

Tonight, someone analysed Catherine, point blank. So not used to it cos I have been taking over the analyst role since last december. To be so thoroughly analysed, it felt weird. Especially when its "word for word" accurate. Did felt my eyes warm and wet, but i cant have any reactions. at least not on the face. Cannot make people ard me worry. But damn, the analysis further confirmed my suspicions, that I AM A LOUSY SNAKE. Snakes are supposedly to be good in concealing their innermost feelings, which was why I always am the clown or joker. But this period of time, my laughter seemed to dwindle quite a fair bit. sigh..... no good lah. very weak leh.

Damn... still a little speechless. mind nt workin well. i guess, my 1litre beer is swirling in my tummy, makin me a little blurrer than usual.

Sigh... sleep.... and wake up to be cheerful Cat again.

"Educational" trip to the Den with Bday Boy, Den

2010-03-07T21:26:00.004+08:00

We celebrated Dennis bday by buying his dinner at No Signboard at VV City. Dennis, a dear old friends. Always so trustable, always so reliable and ever so helpful. I always believe that u treat people with sincerity and love, you will receive the same reciprocation. Seems that Den thinks alike too.

After dinner, we headed for RWS. Dennis' 2nd trip and our debut tour. I felt a little uneasy, yet lots of anticipation. After all, I can hardly be classified as a gambler, though I do sprout my mouth off numbers, bets etc, so ever ready.

With every step i took, i was in awed. I mentioned to the boys, that this place (RWS) seemed busier than our World Class Airports. The amount of heads i saw, was certainly A LOT! white haired old folks, blonde haired cheongsters, pregnant women, smoking aunties, blue collars etc etc...

After paying the levy, we proceeded inside. Den became our "tour guide" bringing us around the premise. I can hardly describe my feeling. Now i know why most people are drawn to these legal dens. There is a mystic air around the area. Something alluring, something exciting and something beyond anyone's control. Its like the air is filled with addictives. Once inhaled, you start losing your senses, your ability to self-refrain. Maybe I made it sounds so damn exaggerating, but that what i felt.

We somehow decided to stay put at the Carribean Poker table to "look-see". S popped by and joined our "tour". He tried his darnest best to explain, tipped and advised me, but half the time, my ignorance showed on my face. When there was a vacancy at the table, he sat himself down promptly and started his adventure for the night. I parked $100 with him, and gosh, our 2nd game, was such an adrenaline pump-out! Hahaha!!! He first got a 7, and next saw a 10. The 3rd piece of card revealed another 7. We made eyes at each other, cos we were happy we had at least a 7 pair. Goodness knows, the 4th card was another 7!! I tell u, my heart was pumping extra hard and fast! and the drum roll moment!! the last card was a 10!!!! ok... put them all together, u get a full house!!! Silly me, got so excited and started grabbing his hand! hahahaha!! The "shiokest" part was when dealer opened our cards, the table went "Wahhhhh!"... such an ego booster!!!! lol!!!! Our payout was $900!!! and... S "chased" me away. Told me that i won my entrance fee back liao, so dun gamble anyway. hahaha.... he not tyrant. He din want me to "lose" money. Thks, friend!

With my winnings, I find myself getting courageously, tagging ard dennis' back to chk out on diff tables. We spent a gd 2 hrs i tink, at the Bacarrat. I tink i got most of my winnings from that table. Got to a point where I had almost 1k of chips with me. Became very "generous" and passed Den a $100 chip for him to "play" for me while i go look see at S's table.

Standing at their table, i found myself so amused with his fren, J, and his one-way conversations with his cai (opps.. ignore that term).

Shit.... no mood to continue le. Just got news that some ah neh's lorry banged into my new car. sianz.....

shall continue when my mood comes back...

Ok, minor accident. Ren mei shi jiu hao. Da ji da li!!

Ok, on topic of J and his cai. Lets put it this way, local beng and his cai and their "bickerings". very funny, very interesting and very sweet. Anyway, it felt like as if i was watching sitcom, full of fun. hahaha

We were there for 6hrs, leaving the place at 4am. Gosh! By the time we reached home, at 4.30am, i was sombre liao! hahaha... duno if i will set my foot in there again, but certainly, i know i will somehow have that courage to be more adventurous and roam round. Well, to all who visit the den, HUAT AH!

random

2010-03-01T23:47:00.002+08:00

It has been a pretty overwhelming 2 months for me. Firstly, the CNY kinda accelerated my already-accelerated lifestyle. Just when I thot I can sit back and relax a little, to recharge myself, I am dumped into new things. What new things, you may ask. Revising and studying for exams. To be precise, Daryl's having his 1st Assessments and his mother, me, is having the jitters. Irony...

Also, I am presented with a challenging task, of being Aunty Agony. I am no new bird to this role.... somehow i just have that kind of personality or face or both, to make people want to talk to me. Just like what Darling Sel always say, people always talk to Cat. hahaha

Someone I know for quite a while, recently went thru a break up. As usual, Aunty Cat went to the "rescue". This break up is equivalent to TBV drama serials. It is, if not, more interesting than the shows. The effect on the audience (me, to be precise), is "overwhelming".

Hours and hours of "counselling", numerous and humorous sms-es, mugs of beer-ing etc...I became affected. Darn. This counsellor is usless for she got carried away with the dramatic developments.

Anyhow, sincerely wished that this fren will quickly wake up and tread the path ahead, bravely, like a true blue fighter.

Come to think, I need a break too... how else do i recharge myself?

Year end Musing

2009-12-04T17:04:00.002+08:00

Its December and this has been a freaking upbeat year for me, family and business. So much so that I feel heavy heart pouncing every minute, jumping up at the slightest, overly paranoid at times. but amidst the negatives tat were mentioned, many good things befalled on me, family and business too. In short, it was and still is a highly exciting year.

Naturally, nothing can be as happy as giving birth to healthy and beautiful Gwen. I am thankful that the AFI episode was just a bad scare. But it did one thing good, cos I find myself loving Gwen a lot, a lot. Its indescribable and probably unmeasurable, the love I have for her. Thinking back, if I had been more head strong or insisted on working too hard, I could have lost Gwen, my little sunshine.

Daryl has grown steadily to become a doting and protective elder brother. Sometimes, I find it amusing, to see how much he adores his baby sis. At times, I get overly irritated at his protectiveness. I call it "Gwen-hogging". hahahaha... Either way, its his way of loving his little sis and I know for sure that someday, Gwen's horde of boyfriends will likely need to seek Elder Brother's consent before dating the Princess. hahaha... no more "Parental Objections"....

Being able to go on a trip with Daryl n Hb, was a highlight too. I refuse to compromise my love for Daryl, even thou Gwen came along. Havent we heard enough about siblings' rivalry? If I can have such a amiable relationship with my brother, so will my kids too. I also do not want Daryl to lose his "exclusive love" from Mummy Dearest, hence we planned the trip with Daryl in mind. I had to say, besides the annoying "Reached hotel by 8pm" ruling from Daryl (cos he wants to play his toys). it was otherwise a fun trip.

Family wise, we are getting more involved in my brother'customary wedding next year. All the procedures/customs etc... were reviewed time and again. I term this year as "Year of Abundance", cos we have been going out for good food almost twice monthly or sometimes more! I guess we all are abiding by the "Work hard,lay hard" rule. In this instance, we are stuffing our tummies hard too!

Well, down to work... its been so hectic and well... i cant think of any other word to describe. Its been a good year, with lotsa opportunities. And yes, we are grabbing every opportunity so tightly and dearly. i like to think of Leadz as a compact camera. Small and compact, yet so versatile and functionable. In short, despite working almost 7 days a week, we are happy. We understand the meaning of "reap what you sow" very clearly.

Well...... end of the day... it another 27 days to go before we officially say Adios, 2009. Hope all will be smooth operating all the way. HUAT AH! :)

2009-09-21T01:19:00.002+08:00

Found a new website that gives free samples and after sampling, u write a review on it. Go chk out!

Some Serious Backdating - Gwen's Arrival

2009-06-25T23:10:00.007+08:00

wooohooooo... boy!! i went MIA for the longest time! Realised my last posting was as wayback as in Jan!!! Ok.. its gonna take me ages to backdate all events and happenings during these 5 mths. Yup, by the time u are reading this, Gwen is 3mths old liao. :) Ok... sit back, relaz and enjoy.....

20th Mar - Eve of Gwen's Arrival

How can a workaholic like me stop work rite? So u've guessed it. I was scheduled to chk into TMC on the same day, by 6pm. And, the entire morning, i was in office and finally decided to declare the start of my maternity leave, at 1pm. Yup, Sel scolded me for being crazy. :)

I cant rem wat i had for lunch but i knw that i was too nua to go for a good meal. All i wanna do was to be admitted as early as possible, and nua in the hotel (opps!!!! no... i mean hospital) room. Was given an old single room since my designated room was not ready. Ok for us since we were pretty easy going. Hb took a nap while i was happily receiving and sending business emails! *Gasps* I was given a "written warning" (thru email) by Sean, to stop work and start restin for the midnight c-section.

Cam-ing while nua-ing the room,

My family members came to the room abt 10pm plus thou my scheduled ops was 12am sharp. Guess everyone was excited to meet Gwen. Daryl was such a sweetheart! Asked if i wuld feel pain if Dr Sim were to "cut" my stomach. Wahaha...

Was pushed to Ops Theatre abt 11.30pm. Dr Loo, the anesthesia, came and gave me the spinal epidural. Weird cos i gotta curl as curve as a prawn before he can jab me. At that moment, i fully comprehend the meaning of "Sending a chill down the spine". That was literal. Within seconds, i lose all touch senses down-south. My legs felt heavy and i couldnt quite make out if my toes would "crack" like how clay does. Dr Sim sashayed in just 5 mins before 12am. Her cheery "Hello! How are you?" made me felt so assured. It was an enactment of the happenings 6 yrs ago, when she delivered Daryl.

21st Mar - Gwen's Arrival

By then, i was shivering and teeth chattering. Hb came in and sat next to the ops table, in his Astronaut-turned-Clean Room suit. The entire crew got ready and Dr Sim started her "slicing act" at my bikini line. A shield was placed over my stomach and i culdnt see the process. Hb, tried hard not to see and kept talkin to me, holding my bottle warmers (cos i was damn cold - a side effect of the epidural) and my hand. I love the way I (as in ME, urs truly) was tryin to reassure hb that i was ok. GUess without my constant talkin, he would probably hv gone insane. Lol!!! With all the pushing (yes, c-sect still requires pushing.. but as in gynae literally pushing the baby from my tummy to down-south) and tugging, Dr Sim announced "She's out!". And my oh my!! Her 1st cries were loud!! Crystal clear!! At then, my tears flowed freely. After all the initial pregnancy scares etc.... it was finally over. My daughter has arrived to this beautiful world. Her loud cries assured me that she will grow up to be a woman of dignity and confidence.

The nurses and Dr Sim remained at the Ops Table, stitching me up. One nurse signalled to hb and instructed hb to take pic of the clock. Her birth time was 0005hrs on 21st Mar. Weighing at 2995g, Gwen was a little heavier than her brother, Daryl. Hb said he was further instructed to snip off the umblica cord. In 5 mins, she was brought over to me and at that moment, i was doin my thankful prayer in silence, thanking whoever who accompanied me past the stony walk to delivery. Dr Loo assisted to take pictures for us.. all these when Dr Sim was still stitching me. Was pushed bk to ward at 1.30am and my family members were already commenting my new girl's one tough cookie. Made them head home for a proper rest so that they can come over to meet Gwen 1st thing in the morning.

At 8am, when daryl reached, Gwen was brought into the room, and a proper introduction was made. Daryl had became a proud elder brother :) Me? I was happily enjoying my fantastic breakfast! Thru' out the next 2 days, visitors came and all exclaimed that Gwenie has a lot of hair. Hahaha... Was discharged on Monday since gynae felt that i must be doing damn well as I was up and walkin, laughing and eating and entertaining, within 12 hrs of birth. Wahaha!!!

Ok.. shall pen abt the discharge and Gwen's return to her home in next few days...

A good Start to 2009

2009-01-15T17:39:00.003+08:00

Yes, its barely 1 mth into the new 2009, and i am all excited and geared up. For the start of 2009 has proven to be challenging and brought abt lotsa good news. It has also set my momentum running and adrenalin pumping like mad.

It was a bountiful 2008, and all the hard work had paid off nicely. Our employees were happy with their 1 month bonus despite bad times, and its only right to give them their dues. Afterall, when they are happy, we will be happy, isn't it?

Also, we are seeing more opportunities coming our way, and that led us to be so thankful and looking foward to better tomorrows. Of cos, it means we are getting busier. Am kinda worried cos i was initially planning to "retire" after CNY and recuperate at home, waiting for Gwen's birth. But i guess work is equally important, especially now that with Gwen coming along, expenses will confirm shoot up.

Speaking of Gwen, its like another 2 more months to delivery and i cant help but feel jittery. I am loving every moment she stretches inside me, or when she kicks when i playfully tap on my tummy. The feeling is beyond description. Especially now, when she is growing day by day, and woth lesser tummy space for her to stretch, all her little movements can be felt. I love looking at my tummy now. The anticipating moment to see my belly do the kallang waves! Hahaha, its shiok! There was once i saw the belly "fluttering" up and down, just like ripples in the pond. Amazing.

And Daryl has been very cooperative so far. Sometimes he will just spurt out all of a sudden, asking me if Gwen is hungry. Hahaha, that darling! Gone are the times when he would grumble if i ask him to pick or retrieve some things from far or from the floor. Now, he does these acts willingly. That pleases me a lot, cos he knws that its not convenient for me to do "acrobatic" acts anymore. Also, i am happy that i understand his character well. Daryl is like an adult, who refuses to be surprised by sudden change of plans. He prefers to be well-informed so that he can "plan". Which is a good thing, cos even before i was evem pregnant, we have been preparing him in case we got pregnant. Hence, he's taking the whole pregnancy in good stride.

Oh, its almost 2 wks into his K2 and i am extremely proud that he's been promoted to become his class monitor! I dunno if the school will swop the position on a monthly basis or will this be a permanent arrangement. Either way, it doesnt matter, cos i'm happy that he's first in class to be named as one.

Its almost CNY and I think preparation's almost done. Reunion dinner has been booked at ChongQing Hotpot again! hahah... but we are dining on the eve of CNY eve, cos on 25th Jan, we are required to work. And for the 1st Day's steamboat dinner, we have almost bought most of the food, leaving the meat and vegetables till nearer CNY dates. Seafood's well stocked up. I think i have almost 2-3kg of prawns all neatly froze in the freezer.

HB likes to think i am mad, for i simply crave for CNY songs!! Hahaha. . . .whats new? Music brings about good mood and isnt that nice? Not only me, but Daryl is loving all the CNY MTVs too!!! hohohoh. . . .

ok, Hb's on his way to pick me to Ikea Tampines and Giant. Oppsss... i guess i will be splurging on CNY goodies again! :P

New Addition to Yeo's Family

2008-12-31T14:04:00.002+08:00

On this 30th Dec 2008, my family welcomes a new family member, that is my sister in law, Leah. After some years of datings, tiffs, and loves, the handsome couple pledged in front of their loved ones, to remain in love and unison, whether in times of sickness or happiness.

The solemnisation was held at Ritz Carlton's function room, followed by a sumptous buffet lunch at the Green House Cafe. Nigel is really good friend, to take up the position of designated photographer. I sponsored the photography session for dear bro, since they also have other monetary commitments. I've been thru it, and understood just how much expenses was incurred.

It is an amazing feeling, to see dear bro, standing in front of the JP, back facing us, the audience, in one of his most solemn moments, listening attentively to the JP and her speech, promising to love and honour his wife from this day onwards. What a beautiful feeling it was, to witness a couple in love, go thru one of the most important phase in their relationship.

I duno if its purely overwhelming or pregnancy simply drives one's hormone's upside down, but i thot i detected a tear drop, hovering dangerously in my right eye corner, threatening to drip anytime. Yet, my mouth could not be closed cos i was smiling smiling away. Gosh, if witnessing a marriage can deduce me to such stage, i wonder how i will react perhaps 25 yrs from now, when Daryl meets his Ms Right, and go thru the same phase as his uncle. I must be mad!!! I am thinking abt things that may or may not happen, 2 decades from now!!! OMG!

Daryl, had been very cooperative! No nonsense, no misbehaviour and best of all, was on his toes all the time. He looked exceptionall suave, with his white long sleeve and kaki long pants. I supposed a belt and a tie will complete his gentleman's look, but that will be too overkilling. He's only 5, and a 5yo should not be made to dress as if he's 25yo, agree?

Talking abt Mum and Dad, both seemed cordial and almost nervous. Dad was his usual quiet manner, making very little small talks, and mostly the guardian for Daryl. Someone has to keep him on his toes, ya? Mum? beneath the modern dress up, a floral blouse + pants, her newly bought Rolex Ladies Oyster Perpectual DateJust (Jubilee Bracelets), and her bling bling diamond ring, she was simply nervous, twitching her thumbs. Hahaha, what a sight!

From this day onwards, every end of Dec, will be a romantic affair, for 3 couples. My parents and bro + wife, share the same wedding anniversary, and myself n hb, is one day earlier. Fantastic or coincidence? You tell me. Hahaha

BackDating As Usual

2008-12-26T14:06:00.006+08:00

Firstly, MERRY XMAS and HAPPY BOXING DAY!!!

This whole week has been tiring but fun! But, i also realised that facts from pregnancy books are true! That all energy will vanish the same instant one hits her third trimester! OMG, I am beginning to freak out.

On Monday (22/12), we had a rolling good time at Sunny Island, Sentosa, for my maternity shots. We met Nigel and family at Ridout Macdonalds for breakfast before we convoyed to Sentosa. Once we hit the island, we proceeded straight to suss out spots for our shooting. In less than 10 mins, i can feel my makeup running! I was sweating buckets! We also had Sakae Sushi for lunch and New Zealand Natural Ice cream for desserts. Both Daryl and Trevor (Nigel's junior) had such fantastic time too! Ho ho ho. . . .We were done at Sunny Island by 3pm, and headed to Vivo City to chill out till abt 6pm, before we said goodbye to Nigel and family. Then my family of 3 dwelled n shopped more till 8plus. By the time we reached home, i literally snored on the bed, the instant i hit the sack.

My fav pics... (the rest in facebook as usual)

On Xmas Eve (24/12), hb went office to settle some stuff, while i busied myself in the kitchen, marinating my chicken legs with thyme leaves, ground black pepper, salt and dark soya sauce. After hb's back, we went to Hougang Point to collect my free Jolly Sakae Sushi Platter, worth $49 (Free from Harvey Norman, when we bought ourhe 42" TV). Then its off to Nik's place for our xmas celebrations! For once, no booze (unless u term beer as that. But that to us, is plain water!!). All the men, Bert, Nik, Mike, Fatboy and HB went to Sembawang Shopping Centre to do their groceries leaving the women folks and kids at home. By the time they came back, i was almost famished!!! I am impressed with our men! The food they bought were good! Bert did his debut Dried Laksa, which proved to be very yummy!!!! My marinated chicken leg was grilled to perfection, tender and moist! Unlike previous years, no gambling and heavy boozing, cos everyone's either taking care of our young ones, or din want to risk being interrogated by the traffic polices. All no stamina to wait till countdown, and left by 11.30pm. Hahaha, we admit we are old! No more stamina left.

On Xmas Day (25/12), we met up with Tunseng, Gladys and Dennis for makan. Both Tun and Gladys flew back for their health checks as well as to visit friends. We went to Huang Jia at Leisure Park for a sumptous lunch. It was like we had booked the place all to ourselves. Throughout the 2 hrs lunch, there were no other diners, and we sat ourselves comfortably right in the centre of the restaurant! So much so for being centre of attractions! lols!!! After lunch, we had coffee at Coffee Bean. Time passed so fast, with everyone updating everyone, since the last we catched up together was almost 4yrs ago, before Tun and Gladys left for Shanghai. After sending them off, we proceeded to mum's place, to nuaz and to have our steamboat dinner. All of a sudden, it feels more like CNY than Xmas!! wahahaha, we were playing MJ while waiting to dine. We had fun dining and talking. Decided that this year's reunion will be a dine out affair, since i dun think by then, i will have the energy to do the food preparation and cleaning up. Goodie! Its gonna be at Chong QIng Magical Hot Pot again!!! ho ho ho!!!

Ok, will blog again soon!!

Counting down to ... ...

2008-12-17T13:02:00.002+08:00

Falalalala.... its year end!!! This is my favourite time of the year. Somehow, days pass just so easily during this period, with excessive shoppings, parties, family outings and so many festivities to look forward to! Me love December!

20th Dec
AW x'mas gathering at East Coast!!! We had it last year at Sentosa. And this year, i suspect it will be a small intimate affair since most will be overseas for holidays or personal engagements. Nvm, we'll still enjoy ourselves anyway!

22nd Dec
My "mega-photoshoot"!!! Hahahaha, yap, Nigel has been so sweet! Cant tahan my pestering and decide to go a free maternity photoshoot for me. We have decided to go to Sentosa, with our families. Thats killing 3 birds with one "shoot". One, i get to do my outdoor shoot(something that i regretted not doing when Daryl was in tummy). Two, I have my closest kins to give me the support (most like to help me produce my mega-watt smile). Three, the kids get to play with the sand, sun and sea (provided weather will be kind).

24th Dec/25th Dec
If bert and rest are still gonna be in sin, (assuming they cant bear to leave us behind to go for their kukup trip), we will have our yearly xmas party with lotsa card games and booze!!! I love love love our parties!!! But i am so gonna miss my booze! honestly!

29th Dec
My 7th wedding anniversary!!! Hahaha, ya, i know i just blogged abt my 8th anniversary, but that was the ROM anniversary. 29th Dec is our customary anniversary. But, think we will skip the celebrations cos the next day, will be bro's ROM date. We can celebrate with free meal at the Ritz Carlton!!! wahahaha... Am thinking what should i be receiving for my anniversary pressie? Maybe, i'll ask him to pay half for my diamond earrings. kekeke.... Ya, me has been no good. Too much splurging! Dun dare to list out my expenses for this year (cant resist nt to blog: 2 holidays, diamond earrings, Spa package, new TV, new sofa, LV wallet (hb's n mine) and LV bag, diamond ring for mum and a half-sponsored Coach Bag for her). But i promised myself already, that after 5 yrs of prudence and all, this shall be the only year that i will spend. Anyway, i got what i want, all in 2009. kekeke.... i shall stop.

30th Dec
Somehow, this December is special! Besides having Gwen (lying contentedly in my tummy) around, my family has a new addition! Hahaha.. no, no, no, not another baby. My "baby" brother (he is 29yrs tis yr), is gonna move into another phase in his life - to be someone's husband. He will be having his solemnisation at Ritz Carlton, followed by buffet lunch. Well, i am determined to be a good sis! Hahaha, shall be sponsoring his photography. Well, this same day, is my parent's wedding anniversary too!! 32 years of marriage! Amazing!! Having gone thru all the storms, our family came out much stronger than before!!!

These are what i am looking forwrad to now. 31st Dec is gonna be another long blog. I guess i wun write abt it yet.... counting counting counting down!!!!!

The Rise of the AFI

2008-12-10T21:22:00.003+08:00

Went to Gynae today. The scan showed very positive results - deep pockets of water. Gynae was apparently very pleased with the scan result, for the AFI was at a new high of 14.5!!!! I think before i forget, i better record down here for reference sake.

21 wks exact (17/11/08) - 8.7 (363g)
21 wks + 5d (24/11/08) - 12.4 (418g)
23 wks + 5d (1/12/08) - 10.9 (535g)
25 wks exact (10/12/08) - 14.5 (560g)

29 wks (02/01/09) - (963g)

30+wks (23/01/09) - (1336g)

Anyway, we discussed with Gynae and have decided that from week 20th Mar onwards, it will be good to deliver Gwen. Made a appointment with Master ChangJue on Saturday, for him to choose the auspicious date and time to deliver Gwen, and of cos, to name her.

Cant wait for Sat to come sooner! :)

Bountiful Week

2008-12-07T04:00:00.003+08:00

I am lazy. I know since have all the time in the world now, I shld be dilligently blogging to update and keep myself busy. But, I just am avoiding sitting up to blog, cos I know with each entry, it meant having me sit down for at least 1hr to pen it.

But, having slept at almost 8.30pm today, I am now wide-eyed, at a freaking 3:40am! So better update my bountiful week. Its eventful, compared to the previous few weeks.

29th Nov (Sat)
Its Sat, and I had quite enough of staying in. I mean, I am not sick. But at the rate that I am staying in, its quite enough to make my CPU (Brain) cofused, and may actually declare a system (Body) breakdown lor. Since hb complained that the LV Damier Graphite Multiple Wallet that I got for his bday on 1st Nov, had "chipped", we decided to go get an exchange. Yes, u heard me right! What the hell is that? LV's leather chipped, in less than one month's usage??

At DFS LV Boutique, the sales associate refused to exchange, saying that we had used it. Even when we were patiently explaining to her that it was less than one mth's light usage. Hb is more gentle than me lor. It was obvious that it was not a scratch, not negligence but design fault, and the SA gotta keep refusing responsibilities. I got rather pissed and hb too. Till Hb said, downright," If u are telling me its like dat, wear and tear, even thou I am now telling you its less than 1 mth, that means we are paying so much for a quality that sucks, right?" FYI, this is hb's most expensive wallet till date, S$615. Ya, much lesser than my wallet, but still . . . ?

I din wanna speak to this SA anymore, and asked to speak to the Store Manager. He was out for dinner, and I told her that we will be going for family dinner, and that to get her Manager to call us. We would want an explanation as well as an exchange. She finally called, when i brought my mum for testin of clothings for Bro's wedding. Told her that we will only go over after our dinner. We are not that cheapskate trying to pull a fast one lor.

After dinner at Crystal Jade (Shaw Towers), we walked over to DFS. That rude SA left for home! Talk about Service??? Yes, she did inform me thou that she will be leaving work soon. But, if you need to pacify a customer, ezpecially someone who is upset, dun u need to stay on? Anyway, spoke to another SA, and this one is certainly much sweeter! Offered a one-to-one exchange. But Hb aint gonna get another DG Multiple lor. Instead, we rather we topped up another $125 more, to get another design. I did tell the SA to indicate on the receipt that we had done an exhange already, and will not be expecting to do another one. I am fair and square, and knows how to abide by the STRICTLY ONE EXCHANGE ONLY policy. Well, a pleasant surprise awaited. When I requested for a catalogue to browse thru, (in the store), I was offered instead, the catalogue to bring home!! Hahaha, I joked that tis catalogue is indeed priceless!!!

LV Damier Graphite Multiple

1 Dec (Mon)
Brought son to Ikea Tampines for breakfast (at 11plus?? Sigh). Had wanted to try and do a leisurely walk. Gynae called and asked about my well-being. Told her i was out on Sat for a mere 4hrs, and leaked quite a bit. She issued a "decree" and wanted me to go see her within the next 1 hr. Sigh . . . no choice, had to deprive Son's playtime, to set off to TMC straight. No bad news from Gynae after check up. AFI was at 10.9. Went down a little compared to previous, but she was not worried, as she was confident that the scan still showed deep pockets of water. Was assured that AFI level fluctuates anyway. Was told to see her 2 weeks later. Rushed home immediately, cos my temps, Angie and Mel, was supposed to come over to pass me some assignments as well as visit me. They were sweet, brought along ice creams!! Hahahaha

3 Dec (Wed)
Celebrated my 8th Wedding Anniversary (ROM) - 02 Dec 2000, one day belated. Not obedient lah. Went out at 12plus. Stepped into my office, after like donkey years, and was visibly glad that everything is functioning as per normal. Left for Orchard for my Mani and Pedi, pick up some stuffs from client (darn! they used to see me twice every week.. . . but now..). By 4.30pm, all my errands were settled, and we decided to have The Magic of ChongQing HotPot for our celebrations. So hb drove us to Tanglin Shopping Centre. I must have mentioned umpteen times in my previous entry that I am a hot pot gal! Gimme Hot Pot anytime!!! We were the 1st customers, waiitng for them to start operating, and walked out 2hrs later, with huge satisfaction and almost $75. I admit i was pigging out, having been left out of good food for so long!

4 Dec (Thurs)
Was a good "patient", to stay in, since I was out for almost one day. Stayed home, watched my fav SCV Channel 69, Asian Food Channel, and was constantly happy, for Juzzy msn-ed me in the morning, saying she got me the LV Galliera PM! I am happy like a bird!!!! It cost S$1930 if i were to get in Sin, but Dear Juzzy, will help me to bring back from London this Jan, at S$1600... hohoho. . . after conversion from GBP$ to S$ of cos! Thats a decent savings of $300!!!!!

LV Galliera PM (Monogram)

5 Dec (Fri)
Son stayed in the house with me, and it certainly did me good, since it means i have some form of company. But to avoid over straining, i "chased" him upstairs to watch his Cartoon Network, while i rest downstairs in the living room. My trial confinement food from Newbaby arrived at 11.30am, promptly. I like the service. All packed in nice microwavable tupperwares, and all wares stored in a transparent Toyogo box for easy transportation. This trial lunch is $30. I had braised dark pork ribs, kailan veggies, Liver Soup with Lily Bulbs, steamed rice and one bottle of Red Date Tea. I guess I will be sticking to this confinement food caterer. Anyway, my TMC's SBI (Subsequent Borned Incentives) Card will entitle me to a further 20% less from the price of $1388.

Evening time, hb came home and we drove out to SingExpo, to visit the Sports Exhibition. Lame lah, nothing much to see. Ended up, we spent more time at the John Little's Mega Sale. Got a baby cot with free mattress and bedding sets at $169, and other clothings for Daryl and Gwen, and hehehe, i got 2 Charles and Keith shoes + 1 Dinner bag, at less than S$60! Total damage as we walked out of the expo was $350.

6 Dec (Sat)
My fav day of the week. Hb works every Sunday, and hence Sat is a family day. We went Hougang Point NTUC and bought lotsa food. Wanted to do a western cuisine, having been so attentive, watching AFC everyday. Bert n gang wanted to come visit me (sweet), and hence we bought extra food, to do a massive cook-out. First time fully utilising my oven (roast/bake/sautee). We had roasted chicken leg, mushroom stew, peppery pork chop, sausages, cheesey potato chunks and poached veggies. I tell u, this dinner is fantastic!!!! Best of all, i only did the marinate and surprise surprise, i waS chased out of the kitchen. The men (Bert, Nik and Hb) whipped up a storm in the kitchen! Us, the wives, were just chatting, watching AFC (as usual), keepin a look out for Daryl and Baby Shyuen. Really damn tai tais lor...

We are blessed with hubbies who can cook (Bert n Nik), thorough housework (hb - eh, except cooking, he does all the rest), technically inclined (hb is the TECH expert!), work (Bert-High Flyer in a media company; Nik-successful Sales Engineer; Hb-owns our little humble business), and being Daddies (to Daryl and Shyuen.

Well, i guess that right!! I really took 1 hr to blog lor. Its 5:08am now, and i am still feeling awake, and yes, HUNGRY!!!!!

Bedrest 24 Nov - 9 Dec

2008-11-29T12:33:00.002+08:00

Following my pregnancy scare, the only thing I can do for Gwen and myself, would be to be as obedient as possible, to have bedrest at home. But, i realised bedresting is no easy feat, for a "chicken backside" person like me, hates to be bounded on bed, nor under any "house arrest".

So, how do i spend my days?

8am - Wake Up
9.30am - Brekkie (Out of House!! Yay!!)
10.30am - Watch Cable/Msn/Surf Net/Sleep
7pm - Dinner (hb buys back)
8pm - Watch Cable/Msn/Surf Net/Sleep
11pm - Sleep

Well, the hours in between, are (you've guess it), TV all the way, either full lying or half lying position. Its a miracle i did not develop bed-sores! hahaha... I am grateful that during this bedresting season, i am still able to head downstairs for brekkie with hubby, before returning home to "rest".

But honestly, by Day 3, i was like almost insane. With no one to talk to, and i got to try my darnest best not to walk around, i can only try to "make love" with my sofa. Sigh....

But, a long time fren, Gladys came back to Singapore for some visiting, and decided to spring me a surprise on Wed. She was in town to take care of her folks, and visit some frens (not one, but some) who were diagnosed with cancer. And when she text me, i was so happy!!! We almost were not in contact since she and Tun left for Shanghai almost 5 yrs ago. When she heard that I can resting at home, she arrived promptly in less than 45mins, from her tanglin halt house to mine.

We had such a lovely time catching up and were telling each other stories abt the past 5 yrs. To me, its a precious friendship bonding. During that few hours at my place, she was so busy telling me abt her frens and helping me replenish and boil water for my consumption. I felt bad, but very loved.

She was supposed to visit me again on Friday, before leaving for Shanghai this Saturday. But she decided to sprang another surprise visit on Thurs, and I was reallu caught by surpise!!! She came with Bak Kwas and Pork Floss (both daryl n hb's fav), and we managed to chat up for abt 1 hr, before she departed to bring her friend out for a walk.

Well, i realised her visit did me lots of good, for 1 had company, and was visibly happier than the past few days. Hb felt happy for me too. I slept better too, possibly of better mood.

Hopefully there wil be more visits from frens, though i am not like seriously ill. I am not ill in the first place too!! I guess i just needed some companion.

Who's coming to visit me?? :)

Pregnancy Scares - Low Amniotic Fluids - Part 2

2008-11-26T18:06:00.002+08:00

Well, as i was saying, after the week anxiety, we went to visit the new Gynae that my gynae introduced. Normally, i would freak out, knowing its gonna be a male gynae who will be checking me. But given the ordeal, who scared about the gynae being male or female? All i need is a 2nd set of opinion, and a definite one, to tell me that Gwen is alright.

My appt was at 3pm, but we found ourselves sitting outside at 1.45pm. I just cant wait to get this over and done with, for i am losing insanity by the minute. I was unusually restless, playing with my fingers, rubbing my pantent bag. Hb gave me a tight squeeze to calm me, and that made me feel like tearing again, instantly.

Well, we din have to wait long. Was called into the gynae's room quickly. Nice man, someone who is not overly intimidating. Fluent english and nice tones. As i laid on the bed, he started his scan. That was when my heart was fluttering. Not becos of him, but cos i was scared. I needed to hear reassuring information. As he scanned, i can see Gwen jerking, waving and kicking. Lovely sight! Gynae measured the FL and HL. And i think i must be one of his most well-researched patient. For i probed and ask things like," What abt the lungs?? Developing well?", and asked abt the kidneys, whether there's any special markers etc...

To our greatest relief, he said the organs are developing really well!! Then he measured the 4 pockets of water (water bags). After adding them up, the AFI had rose to 12.4!!!!!!!!!! Am at the normal range finally!! It was also at this moment, i can no longer fight back my tears, and allowed them to flow freely. I turned to look at hb, and saw a beautiful smile, one that speaks of paternal love and relief. Gynae showed us a side profile of Gwen, and i swear that i thought i saw a baby Daryl in the monitor! She looks like him, with the sharp nose!!! She's beautiful.

After i got dressed, we sat to discuss further. Gynae said he is very optimistic about the development. That was just what i needed to hear. Even the FL and HL increased. No alarms. Best part, instead of giving us pics of the scans, he gave us the soft copies, burnt in a CD. Aint that sweet!

We then went to our own gynae's clinic to show her the report. At her clinic, the nurses were concerned abt the report, and when i told one of them that the AFI rose, she was so happy and excited for me! With no hesitance, she shoved the report excitedly to the other nurse and said," The AFI increased!!". It was heart warming to know that they cared!

Gynae was nodding her head in approval, saying the assessment report was more than satifactorily. As i explained patiently to her, once again, that i suspect its the Ammiotic Fluid leaking, for i felt dampness still, she did a thorough check. Then she said that its probably a slight leak. Anyhow, to play safe, she agreed with me that a bedrest may be better for me afterall. If i cant prevent the leakage, i can at least slow down the leaking process. Hence, a 2wks hospitalisation leave was bestowed on me, but all i needed to do was to bedrest at home.

As i stepped out of the clinic, i text those who knw abt the past wk's trauma, and in less than 10 secs, i was greeted with all their replies! Bert even laughed and said i must drink more water and stop becoming like a camel!!! Everyone was happy. I made a call to mum to reassure her, and i can hear her sighing with relief!

I am hoping the AFI will either maintain or rise, and not dip any further. Well, seeing Gynae in 2 wks time. Crossin fingers that all will continue to be positive.

Pregnancy Scares - Low Amniotic Fluids - Part 1

2008-11-25T14:45:00.004+08:00

I am back blogging, after a torturous week. Last week (17/11), we went our our 2nd ultrasound scan, and had the rudest shock of my life. As per all U/S (ultrasound), the objective was to detect any fetal anomaly. This is where the sonographer would scan the tummy, and determine baby's weight, dimensions of the crown rump, the femur length, the humur length, all the organs and the amniotic fluid level (AFI).

As the sonographer scanned for the AFI, she asked me uneasily, with concerns in her eyes, if i were experiencing any discharge/leaking. Well, which women dun? I replied her, as a matter of fact, that yes, in a definite tone. And offered the information, saying its probably always, except that recent few weeks, the dampness level on my undergarment is more. It was only after replying her, then i sensed an air of uneasiness and hesitance. When i tried to probe more, she refused to advise more, except that she would indicate the remarks in the Fetal Assessment Report, for my gynae to further advise me.

Seeing my fears, she then relented, and explained that for a MTB (mum to be), the acceptable AFI is 16 +/-5, i.e betw 11 - 21. Mine falls at 8.7. So, what does that piece of information mean exactly?? She refused to explain further, and state that the Gynae would be in a better position to advise. Also, she mentioned Gwen's limbs are a little short, and she is kinda concerned. She proceeded to ask abt Daryl's birth weight and length, and then in a lame-ish effort, tried to assure her there should not be a prob, since both hb and me arent too tall and strong built.

With such feeble and insufficient advise, i felt instantly down. When stepped into gyane's clinic, i was different from the past. Previously, i would cheerily say hi to the nurses and all, but this time, i am just in no mood to make any small talks. In Gynae's room, when she looked at the report, she told me what i already knw, which is 8.7 AFI. When we expressed our concerns, asking her what does low AFI means eventually, she merely said, with low AFI, baby will not hv enough nutrients, for their daily nutrients come from the AF. Usually babies if under low AFI, will tend to suffer from kidneys malfunctions.

Wasted no time, and she did one more scan. She then assured me that she was not too worried, as the screen showed pockets of water and pretty deep too. Still, she wanted us to be mentally prepared, that the consequences of low AFI is basically undesirable. As i was then at the 21st week of pregnancy, if any abortion is required, it should be done before the 24th week. Hence, i was scheduled to see her the followin week.

In the car, i staretd my silent tearing. Hb kept quiet thru'out. He knows me best. Some words are best left unspoken. Still, we were still bothered abt what exactly caused the low AFI, and the consequences. At home, the 1st thing i did was to research on low AFI. The results shattered my world, instantly. The findings:

Fetal abnormalities
If you're found to have low levels of amniotic fluid in your first or second trimester, it may mean that your baby has a birth defect. If his kidneys aren't there or aren't developing properly (Potter's syndrome) or his urinary tract is blocked, your baby won't produce enough urine to maintain the level of amniotic fluid. A congenital heart defect can also cause this problem.

I surfed through so many parenting forums, and mostly, babies were aborted or auto-terminated due to low AFI. I remembered as i surfed, my tears kept flowing non stop, and its the worst time i've probably even been thru. I kept asking myself, what went wrong?? Why should I suffer from such agonies for both pregnancies? During Daryl's time, he was diagnosed without heartbeat, and i was told that i would need to abort him. But i persisted to wait, since it was still early part of the pregnancy. I am thankful, up to this day, that i persisted, for he is now a bubbly and healthy boy. But, do i need to go thru this agony one more time?? Especially after 5 years of trying??? So, do i still persist? Even though there may be a mild percentage that Gwen will be borned an unhealthy baby? That thought hurt me so badly, and my heart bled numerous time, whenever she kicked me. How issit possible that my Olympic Swimmer, with powerful kicks, is suffering inside me??

During the one week ordeal, I cant sleep, and dun eat well. Whats worse is that i find myself tearing non-stop. Cheery Catherine is gone. Still, that never stop me from making my own research, to improve the situation. I started drinking a lot of plain water, in bids to replenish the lost fluids. I did bedrest, for i noticed that when i m in the lying position, there is hardly any leakage, compared to when I am standing. Also, i forbade myself from crying, cos i cannot afford to lose more water than i am already.

It was insanity, the whole week, while waiting to see the gynae. Thru'out this week, i couldnt bear to blog, for fear of losing control. I am immersely grateful to my frens for standing by me. Close Fren was the first i wrote email to, for he went thru a similar route. Pastcivic had been nice, to talk and counsel me thru msn, and checkin on me every morning, thru msn still, to ensure my moods lifted up. Darling Sel and Juzzy, gave me the support I needed, making me feel not alone. The GES gang, after hearing from Mike, starting sms-ing and calling, either to me or hb. They even dropped by on Sat, to visit me as well as celebrate nik's bday. My greatest pillars of support has to be hb and my family. Hb, made it a point to buy back lunch and dinner, in betw works, and checked on me constantly. No words exchanged, but when he held my hands as we slept, i felt a sense of reality, and calmness. My parents, when heard abt the bad news, were disappointed but they concealed their feelings very well. They told me not to think about it anymore, and if really diagnosed that Gwen would be suffering from the anomalies, for her good, we should let her "go". Mum even woke up at 5+am the next day to go to WaterLoo Street to pray to GuanYin.

The one week torture was over, when we went for the scheduled scan yesterday, 24/11. I will blog this in the next entry. Its time for me to lie down and rest once again.

Thanks to all, for being there for me. Thanks to Gwen for showing me the determination to go thru the stony path.

11 years already?

2008-11-10T21:57:00.002+08:00

Few days ago, hb casually reminded me that 10th Nov falls on a Monday, which is our off day. I was like, "huh? anything important happening on 10th??". He glared at me and said slying then," Oh, the day i met u, with a huge hole on your tee". I was like " WTH!!!!!" and started laughing like mad!!! Ya, 11 years ago, we first met, on sunny island, Sentosa, when I was an intern and he, a contractor. The rest is history. Oh!! Ya, gotta clarify, that that hole, was actually part of my tee's design, somewhere below the neck, above the boobies.. (how embarrassing to even describe abt it). So, put it plainly, its our 11th yrs "anniversary" based on our first meeting. So mushy right?

Hence, after we dropped son in the office, we headed straight to Suntec. So boring right? Hb wanted to satisfy my Kuishinbo's craving, but since we were still bloated with our brekkie, we decided to roam ard. By 2.45pm, when we felt hunger pangs, i was dismayed that last order was at 2.30pm. i was like ," dong dong dong, kuishinbo, bye bye bye"... We ended up at Sizzler. Since VISA had this buy on meal and get 2nd meal 30% off, comes inclusive of free helpings to salad bar, we decided to nuaz there. I tell u, we should have just settled for the salad bar alone. The variety is enough to feed Gwen and myself for 1 day!! ahahaha . . . After devouring the mains, i surrendered, for fear that Gwen may decide to give me a banana kick and made me throw up all the delish sweet cherry tomatoes, lettuces etc... Stole a look at hb, and he had long since been waving his white napking in the air, to signify his surrender. Wahahahaha

As the aircon in Suntec was really too strong, we were both rubbing our arms as we walked, cos it was just freaking cold. Decided to be real romantic, to walk under the slight slight drizzle. Pretty romantic in a way, as we strolled past the office towers towards Marina Sq. But somehow, it was funny sight too. I was pretty worried that i may slipped, hence i was like walking so awkwardly, almost like a penguin, straddling. hehehe.. a fat one, if i may add.

At M.Sq, we shopped ard, and being implusive, i got myself a top and a tunic dress, from Dorothy Perkins. Why implusive? Becos there's NO REASON for me to get anymore items, when i have Old Navy to depend on. Lols!!! As we walked on and on, it was almost 5pm. Since parking at Suntec is per entry after 5pm, it doesnt matter anymore, what time we left that area. So, i made a quick call to Wellness Village at Pan Pacific, and found ourselves heading there, for a good rub.

At Wellness Village, (my 2nd visit, and hb's 1st), we were greeted with a cheery," Hi Catherine!". Very quickly, and mechanically, we were given forms to fill up, and led to the couple's room. Hb did their signature massage, while i have no other choice except a pre-natal one. Hb was apprehensive in the room, wondering what will happen, and i kept telling him to relax and let them "work" on him. Lolz... sounds so "kinky".

My therapist, Margie, was a pretty and young gal, but specialises in pre-natal. I was a little worried, as this is the 1st pre-natal massage in my life. Margie was good! Talked to me a little, to ease my tension, and explain every steps before she started her works. While hearing her out, i can also hear the crackling of hb's bones! Wahahaha, pity the therapist, for she must have had a hard time, gettin rid of his knotty problems.

After 60mins, we walked out feelin so damn refreshed. As i walked out with hb, i kept mumbling that i am gonna do this every month!! My CS Gal came over to explain her package, saying that for trial, its $60/pax, for newcomer. If we get the package, it wuld be based on $50/hr for subsequent, based on a 18hrs session, at $900. After consideration, we took the $600 package. The deal is that i can utilise any type of massage, facial etc on the menu, at $50/hr. Additional hrs, will deduct from package. Which suits me, since i assume i will need my pre-natal regularly. Tis package is suppose to last me till post natal, but knowing me, its impossible lah. I will surely utilise it before gwen pops out lor. Kekekeke . . .

Anyway, now that i am back home, i am still feelin darn refreshed and my backache seems to disappear!! Only problem is that my chilly chicken steak and tempura prawns are still not digested! Sigh

KylieX 2008

2008-11-06T14:21:00.003+08:00

Ooh, finally the true DIVA is coming to Sin for her Kylie X 2008 Concert! For a woman of her height (i heard 1.55m?), she certainly oozes charm and is extremely SEXY!! Plus, her "electrifying" songs are such a turn on!!! Oh, i mean the songs certainly get one high and hardly anyone can stay stagnant with her music blasting in the background, right?

But darn it, why must her tickets be so expensive? Sigh. . . becos its a 16 million dollars production, and becos she is KYLIE MINOGUE. That explains it all, right? I went to sistic to check, and was told her 2 cheapest ticket categories, $100 and $150, were all snapped up. Whats left are the $250, $375 and $550 ones. Oh.... i cant bear to part my monies on the tickets... And its a single sided stage. Sigh. . .

Just yesterday, i was online with Iggy and Pastcivic and darn Pastcivic said that its not worth spending money to watch an old woman dance. Hey!!! I told him flat that he cant appreciate a DIVA lor. Wahahahaha.... Who can forget the catchy "I Should Be So Lucky... (lucky lucky lucky), or the dance tune "Cant get you out of my head" (nah nah nah, nah nah nah......), and oh, Love at 1st Sight!! What else? Slow (and the MV had gorgeous and generous flesh and thongs!), and ...and... and.... Especially for You (duet with then darn blardy handsome heartthrob, Jason Donovan!!!)

Well, in the mean time, i guess i gotta wait till hb agrees to go with me? Or that i am willing to convince myself that the spending is well worth? Actually i am 100% convinced already that it is a MUST WATCH concert, since its her 1st in Singapore!!! But... procrastination is weighing me down. Any sponsors?? Any free tickets???

Hang in There, Pal!

2008-11-03T22:48:00.002+08:00

Recently, a good fren of mine met with some problems at work, and after hearing the situation, i couldnt help but feel indignant for this dear fren. Many thoughts came rushing into my mind when we were having our small talks, and mostly were siding this dear fren.

While talking to hb abt Fren's problems at work, i cant help but feel my blood boiling once again. While hb sympathised Fren's situation, he added that sometimes its just hard for the employees to go against the bosses, and that perhaps Fren should try to endure, since we are in the "technical recession".

Its been the same thing that i have told Fren too, that if can endure, just endure and lie low. But if cant, then look for ways out. Being in employment, means heavy consideration, even if one feels really upset. It is all about weighing the dollars and cents, than the pride and joy. Seriously, i meant what i say. I am pretty anal about being in tune with my principles. Sometimes, if things went too far, I would rather abide by my mantra, than to swallow the pride and go with the flow. But i know, that it is very unfair to use this same principle on my Fren. For once, i am appreciating the fact that I run my own business, and I decide my path, rather than let some idiots lead me by my nose and head for doom.

You know, the feeling sucks big time, especially when i can totally comprehend how Fren feels. I was in the same shit before, and decided that perhaps i am better off on my own. I havent seen Fren in this state before, cos most of the time, Fren would be the one consoling me or knockin me to senses or giving ever so sensible advices. Fren's in a way, my guiding light. But now, I just feel like giving Fren a bear hug, hoping all the knotty problems would go away. For once, I aint as long winded as before, pestering and asking if things alright. Maybe i came to my own enlightenment after my return trip from BKK, i.e. to just be there for my frens, listen if they need to grumble, and speak when they want to hear. Sometimes, being overly concerned can be even more traumatising.

Anyway, i have faith that Fren will rough over this situation soon. Pal, if you are reading this, hang in there. You'll see light at the end of the tunnel soon. :)

Lee Hom-The Music Man Concert 08

2008-11-03T05:31:00.003+08:00

One look at my title, you may assume that I am a hardcore fan of this talented good-looker. Nah, it is not. For one, i cant remember me being a hardcore fan of anyone. And, he don't and will not belong to me at all, so why hanker over impossibilities? Kekeke...

Got a pair of courtesy tickets from Uncle S cos his gf was unable to attend due to full day shift. When he text-ed me if interested in Lee Hom, i was like,"Yes!!!! Got free tix huh?" I figured it's been a long time since i last watched concerts with hb, and it would be good to take some hours off on a Saturday night for dating. Who says being married for a decade and when pregnant, one should forget about making merry and strive hard at marriage building? Hey, it all takes 2 hands to clap, and for this instance, 2 pairs, to be exact.

Hence, we found ourselved parked at Leisure Dome, and made our way to North Entrance leisurely. There, we saw enthusiasts strolling in, and saw clusters of StarHub temps distributing whistles. Door opened at 7.20pm, qnd we found our seats in no time. Right up the highest block, B05, Row 31, Seats 3 and 4. This is my first time sitting so high up, but i am especially appreciative cos its free, and i kinda got a bird's eye view of the left, right and centre seatings. Our seats faced the stage directly, so it was just good.

Wow, many stars graced this concert too! From Kit Chan to Stefanie Sun and her daddy etc. The show started abt 8.30pm, and man! it was just a ROCK concert to me!! Pyros, brightly litted LCD walls, real until cannot type of animation and all... and The Music Man is just DARN SUAVE!!!! his opening number was "Whats Wrong with Rock?" (Ok, direct translation ok?)... Got the floor pretty hyped up, and lightsticks were thrusted wildly in the air! The ambience was further enhanced by the whistle blowing, courtesy from StarHub.

The whole concert ended about 11pm, with us feeling like we just watched a splendid rock show... Thot he sang too little of his love ballads. Mostly are the electric versions. still, the generous pyros proved to be worth the money spent, only that i watched it free. Hb was laughing towards the end, cos we both experienced deafness in our ears.

Overall, it was a good date for us, and we do wish for more to come!! hehehe

2008-10-28T20:48:00.003+08:00

Ermm.... just as i was lamenting the lack of inspiration for my new entry, hb provided me with THE topic. Actually, he din say anything, except he gave an exceptionally loud snort, to an article he chanced upon on Asiaone.

After digesting the article myslef, (man! i almost got indigestion, reading that blood-boiling article), i found myself giving 2 times louder snorts than hubby's. Whats happening to the younger generation? No, i sincerely apologised, cos i know my statement is harsh, and not all the "Y" and "Z" Generation are birds of the same feathers.

In summary, the article talked about this first year student in our local uni, having no qualms about her extravagance, and feels seemingly no harm about her lavish lifestyle. I do agree to an extent, that based on the news article, she is nowhere near to be classified as "filthy rich". Still, with the expensive presents showered to her from her family, for instance a LV bag for school (yup, you heard me right, for school!), $500 pocket money since 16 (double "wow"!!!) and minimum $1000shopping expenses, that leaves me thinking, and probably you, too, the below questions.

1) Whatever happened to the good old then-fashionable label, EastPak? I mean, i recalled fondly that in my era, having an EastPak is so so so upmarket!

2) I have never had more than $100 as pocket money, whether i was 16 yrs old, or 20yrs old. and every end of the month, i still had remaining left, to feed my "porcelain piggy bank". How did i survive, now that i am a 30yo woman?

3) I had my first vacation with my frens at the ripe old age of 24?? And all that i spent, excluding airfare and accommodation were probably less than 5000thai bahts (approx. S$200)? I shuldda go bang toufu and die (from shame in comparison!)

Well, of cos, it may not be any issue to anyone, the way this student lives her lavish lifestyle. Much has to be blamed on the society, for being increasingly substandard in the treatment between the rich and not. Being materialistic and overly idealistic (that recession will not affect these folks) are probably the best shields for them, as the picture of poverty may be unbearable, and in my own words, disgusting, for their world.

But, the million dollar question here is, are these folks ready for whatever economy downturn that may come their way? If they are, well and good. What can be so difficult, to grit the teeth and march on, surpassing all obstacles? However, what happens if they are not ready to give up their materials, their more than too many vacations and all? Will they make hasty decisions and obtain their material needs via the wrong routes? If this happens, who is the eventual "director" directing them these routes? Their crave for a "better" (read lavish) life, their parents for sheltering them from pictures of poverty, or MONEY?

Well, one would say, "Aunty Cat, stop being a prude. We are not living in YOUR era". But you cant blame me, for besides the above questions that had surfaced in my mind, i am making solid comparisons. While this leading cast has plans to purchase a $4k bag from her first paycheck, i know of many of my temp staffs, working hard, even during exam time, just to earn meagre amounts, in bid to quickly pay off their study loan. Sometimes they even take on 2 jobs on the same day, giving their best for each job they are doing, so that more jobs will come their way. Many times, these temps, same age as the leading cast, dun lead any "glamourous" lifetsyle, and are yet not losing out, comparing to her! What they earned, are the "thumbs-up", the "well-done pats" and "RESPECT".

I guess, its really destiny, for not everyone is borned with silver spoons. But, clay-made spoons may not necessary be a bad thing afterall. They mould the character in one!

Looking at myself, i got my 1st LV wallet only early this year, to congratulate myself for turning 30, and for my past years of hard work! I guess i could have gotten the wallet at a much younger age, but it would be just so wrong. I mean, should i have gotten the label younger, i may not treasure my hardworks and all. My mum, got hers at 53yrs old! Ask me if she's considered too old for luxurious goods? NO! She deserves it more than me, for her efforts in putting up the home for us.

I certainly hope the economy will quickly turns positive, so that whether the poors, the needies or the materialistics will be able to survive. Sigh...

A Bad Cut

2008-10-26T10:32:00.004+08:00

It was a bad Saturday, for all of us. Just as we thought we can get some good rest on a free Saturday, Daryl Darling suffered a bad cut. Yes, by bad, i really meant bad.

I was downstairs surfing my web, when Daryl walked up to me, after his bath, saying," Mummy, got blood..". He did not shed a single tear, nor was he shocked, and he was so normal that i thought he was joking with me. When he held up his chin, i got the rudest shock of my life! His under-chin had a deep cut that (i am not exaggerating) besides the blood oozing, i could even see the flesh! Gruesome sight, i must confessed.

I began screaming for hb, hysterically, that hb sensed the urgency and fright in my voice, that he scrambled down from our room, to the living room. He could only spurt out a series of," what..... what.... what....". While the 2 adults were in such frenzy, the brave junior proceeded to explain what had happened. Apparently, after his bath, he wanted to walk down the stairs to show his mummy dearest, that he could imitate a caterpilar. But as he was all wrapped up with his towels, he promptly fell to the floor, without realising that he would need support to prevent his face from getting "slammed". But what got us adults wondering, was how on earth did he suffered the sharp cut, if we followed his side of the story? It would likely be abrasion if he had just rubbed his chin on the tiles. And we did a thorough check that the tiles weren't popped up, hence unlikely was a cut by the tiles. So, how his his flesh split????

We wasted no time, and rush him down to our GP. Throughout the 5 mins walk, he was so brave! No tears, just nodding of his head when asked if he's still in pain. Naturally, we had to prepare him that during the treatment, it would be pain, and he needed to be mentally prepared.

At the doc's room, doc laid him on the leather "bed", and assessed the split. From that same angle, hb n me could clearly see the split, and it was really bad! Still Daryl Darling laid as still as possible to allow doc the convenience of checking. Then, doc dapped his cotton wool with antiseptic, on the surrounding of the wound. Poor Daryl, was in such pain that his big tear drops flowed freely from his eyes. He was choking and saying," mummy!! very pain... very pain..." (gosh, as i m recounting the saga, i can now feel my tears coming back again..) HB held one of his hands, while i rubbed daryl's other hand, tellin him to be brave, and that he should not be crying, else, the tears would flow to the wound..

All this while, doc was so calmed, almost devoid of any feelings, merely concentrating on his work. As he dabbed gently again, Daryl was squeezing his eyes shut, so tightly, and crying, that i teared too... my brave Darling dun cry easily, and thats what daddy hates about him. Hb always say he's too strong for a 5yo, and thats not a gd sign at all. Kids should learn to express all feelings, and not hide them, especially when in pain. But now that Daryl's crying freely in pain, we as his dearest kins, could not take the pain. Honestly, i recalled myself comforting our son, in a half choking manner..

Hb, was tearing too, not the sissy style, but the tears of a daddy would melt any diamond. Much as daddy always chides the son, daddy knows best and loves most. With daryl's tears, cries and pain, hb surrendered. Hb turned pale, and honestly, i havent seen hb's paleness before.. I could see his jelly legs, and i told him to move out of the room first. It would be messy, if doc hasnt finished his treatment and gotta tend to a fainted man. I realised the strength of a woman, especially if she has the title of a "Mother".

By then, doc had "joined" the cut together, and taped the slit with some tapes. At that instant, Daryl seemed to be a little more comforted. Next, doc folded a piece of gauze, over the wound, as a cushion, to prevent any accidental touch, which may cause the wound to split or bleed.

Daryl Darling had his tears dried up, and was propped up, sitting on the bed now. He listened attentively to doc's advise, to keep the wound dry, for fear of infection.

Well, he rested at home for a few hours, before we depart to nik's place for another round of bbq. This feisty son of mine, was once again, playing with Baby Shyuen,, at the gardens, in the rubber pool. So much so for the ordeal... Sigh...

Its a Girl!!!

2008-10-21T10:20:00.002+08:00

Yesterday early morning, hb mumbled that he was unsure what he was excited about, that he couldn't sleep. I teased at him, saying he is probably anxious to see our baby. Ya, we went for my monthly gynae check up yesterday.

At the gynae's, my feeling was indescribable. When she did the scan, pointing out the limbs, the crown and all, i was just smiling sweetly. HB and daryl were lookin intently at the monintor. From the bedside, i could see Daryl Darling waving at the Baby in the monitor.

As Dr. Sim was scanning and talking, she suddenly said," This could be a baby gal. Not too clear, but should be." Whoohooooooo!!!!! Hb and me looked at each other in the eyes and smiled. Poor Daryl Darling was saying," No!! Must be a boy... i want to call him Ben!" wahahaha

And so, after i got dressed and left the clinic,m we had our lunch at Delifrance. I was so busy texting my loved ones, telling them that i am carrying Baby Gwen! heehee... from Close Fren, to GES Gang, to Sel n JC, my own family etc.. All felt happy that my wish came true. Like what Close Fren said," So Perfect!".

It surely felt good..... Baby Gwen will be her name. As for the Chinese name, i shall leave that to the experts... :P

Family Escapade to HKG 14 - 18 Oct 2008

2008-10-20T21:55:00.023+08:00

Oh my!! I am just so lazy to blog... i guess i must be still in my holiday mood.. refusing to lift my fat fingers to type. Well, i think i will give a brief summary of the trip, even though i am dyin to share all my thoughts during the trip. keke

Day 1 - 14 Oct
Darn! The flight was at 6.40am, and hence we gotta book a maxi cab for 7 of us, pick up point at our office, to proceed to T1, at 4am! Had BK for brekkie, but all were either too excited or it's just too early to fill our tummies with bacons and all.

Board plane, reached HKIA at 10.25am, as expected. Great job, Jetstar! Met Skyline, our driver at HKG. He's Leah's colleague's bf, and charged us a special rate of HKD$1150 for 5 hrs disposal. Since the Giant Buddha at Ngong Ping is at the same Lautau Island, as HKIA, it made sense to visit there first.

We had a lambasted time, taking lotsa pics at NgongPing. Am so glad i brought along the DSLR. There is indeed a vast difference btw a DSLR and digicam! Took cable car across to the Giant Buddha, toured around, goofed with our cam, and returned back to point one.

Headed to Citygate for lunch, and shopped ard. Most major brands have their "factory outlets" nested there. From Timberland to Giordano, Esprit to Le Sauda, Adidas and Nike etc... Hehehe, i bought 2 incredibly cute baby shoes for Gwen (yup, my new daughter's name!) At less than $20 per pair!!! What a steal!!!! Bro got a pair of Nike at S$60+..hehehe...

At 4pm, Skyline came by to pick us to check into our hotel. What a boo-boo!! We were supposed to go Metropark Mongkok, but he sent us to Metropark Kowloon, which is also in Mongkok... kekeke.. finally, we managed to check in by 6pm, and by then, we were tired and famished, again! Popped to the nearest Cha Chan Teng to eat, and then proceeded to Fa Yuen Street (Flower Garden Street). That is a stretch of night market and whoohooooo.... i have absolutely NO IDEA how many sets of baby wears i got for Gwen! It must be at least 15 sets? And i got 5 sets of PJs for Daryl Darling too, from Power Rangers to Ben 10, to Transformer etc... He was a happy boy! Headed back to hotel to sleep cos must replenish energies.

Day 2, 15 Oct
Decided that we will go Macau only on 3rd day, since we wanted to cover Hkg first. Patronised Xi Ji congee shop right below our hotel That was fantabulous piece of art!! Smooth and tasty, totally seduced all my tastebuds, fending off potential rivals, from getting into my mouth... hahaha... it was just THAT good!!

Got ourselves Octopus Cards at the MTR station, and headed for our 1st stop, Wong Tai Sin Temple. So talked about, that i must go take a look. Indeed, the crowd is as huge as our local Waterloo GuanYin Temple, all devoted and conveying their wishes to the "Higher Authorities".

Then we proceeded to Apliu Street, where 2nd hand electrical and electronics are sold at damn cheap price. Too bad, i cant find any SB600 (flash) for my Nikon... Just as well, to save $! By the time we had our lunch at Cafe De Coral, it was almost 2plus. well, with elderly and the young, we naturally headed back to hotel for napping session, to recharge and continue for the evening.

After R&R, we headed again, to Mongkok area to browse at Ladies Street. Another round of shopping and bargaining before we walked off with our winnings...hehe.. Had dinner at a Shanghainese restaurant.

Afterwhich, it was Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), where we watched the Symphony of Lights. I think thats pretty lame that the HKG tourism made it such a "must visit"... I mean, whats so interesting about the buildings with lasers?? We strolled around the Avenue of Stars, snapping pics and all. Then, stepped into Sogo, to use the loo. Well, an accident occured. Bro was putting on his jacket for Daryl, when he missed a step, and fell down the stairs. It all happened so fast, that we were dumbfounded. Next, we saw him slided across the floor when he landed, and knocked his head on a sharp edge of a display table... Ouch!!! He insisted he's Ok, and we proceeded back for fear he may feel concussed.

Day 3 - 16 Oct
Hb's bday!!!! Mum gave him a red packet in HKG dollars. wahahaha.... we had brekkie at another Cha Chan Teng, and rushed to Harbour City, TST, to get our Ferry Tickets. Whooaa.. the ferry ride is indeed bumpy... so much so that i was worried that my folks will start the merlion act! heng ah, nothing happended,..

When we stepped into the terminal at Macau, a swarm of those transport operators "swam" towards us, each recommending their service to bring us around. One even quoted HKD$700 for 3 hours. We brushed them off nastily, and walked to hitch the public bus at HKD$2.50 per pax. See how much they wanted to fleece us?? But one bad thing when we DIY, is that we gotta knw where to alight. We were on the way to visit Ruins of St Paul's. Well, naturally, we overshot lah.. Just as well lah, cos we had one of the most wonderful lunch. Eventually, with kind guidance, we got to St Paul's. It was breathe-taking. The architect is magnificent. after pic takings, we went and got many food products, before leaving for the Terminal. Due to time constraint, we culdnt visit the casinos, specially the Venetian.. Sigh.. next time then.

5.30pm ferry, we reached almost 7pm, to Kowloon. Everyone had bland/light food. Guess we were all tired and had no appetite. Dad even was in naseous state. We left for hotel... hoping to hop into bed to sleep immediately.

Day 4 - 17 Oct
Headed to Hongkong Island's Causeway Bay to shop, and also got our chance to try the eletric tram. What a good feeling it was! we travelled on the tram for a long time, sightseeing, and it was one flat fee of HKD$2.50!!! Had lunch at a restaurant that left us too full to walk... Then we went to Causeway's Lane Crawford to shop. And i saw THAT Kate Spade and was instantly hooked! So damn like it, but gotta give it a miss, cos no point i pay S$500+ for a small bag... the money can save for LV..oppsss.... i mean baby..wahahaha

By the time we got back, was abt 4plus already. Everyone napped, while me and hb slipped out to the nearby markets for a good 2 hrs, for our own sweet "we" time. I really needed that, to be away from the folks, to have our own romantic time.

Headed back after dinner to pack....

Day 5 - 18 Oct
Skyline's colleague picked us up at 8.45am and we headed to HKIA to board our Jetstar... reached Sin at almost 3.30pm and home by 5pm. Finally can rest our feet till 8pm, where we headed to Nik's new home for hb's post bday celebration...

Ok, more pics at my facebook... have fun viewing!

Eve of Family Escapade to HKG

2008-10-13T13:41:00.003+08:00

eh, did i mention i love the anticipation of going on a holiday? especially on the eve of the departure? I love the feeling of "rehearsing" the "procedures", from running thru the packing list, to reading up again and again on the itinerary, to doing more research than i should to suss out the "Must Visit, Must Eat, Must Try" activities. Then, i would be busy with sorting out my paperworks. Not work leh! My paperworks, as in my hotel invoice, the air tickets, my maps, etc. I love love love such busi-ness.

But . . . i seemed to lost the feeling of anticipation, for my recent trips. From my Shanghai trip last year, to my GRT to BKK with the gals this year, and for tomorrow's HKG escapade. In replacement, the anticipation turns into restlessness and with me, becoming a worriesome Cat. Now, paperworks are no longer for pleasure, but for official stuff, like last minute correspondences with clients, endless briefings for my office staff and temp staff, and worst of all, my clients. Wahaha... no wonder client commented that," hannah! just go enjoy lah... dun be so lor-sor lah...lol"

Still, i am determined to make this trip a relaxing one. Must ask the rest of the kampong to bear with me and go with my pace, for, "how can a pregnant woman go fast pace???" I figure that as usual, i wun have much shopping to do, and i would be spending most of my bucks on food, and various transports (Star Ferry, Electric Trams, Duk Ling etc !!!! Just the thot of that makes me a happy woman!), and of cos, stuff for Daryl Darling and Honey! I have decided to officially nicknamed my new baby as "Honey", becos i dun want Daryl to feel that his "Darling" title has been robbed away by the new baby.

Well, the flight is at 6.40am!!!! OMG! What was i thinking when i booked the flight?? Thats like waking up at 3plus am.... Sigh.... Still, not too bad lah. By the time we reach HKG, its only like 10plus am. That leaves us with sufficient time to visit the Giant Buddha and outlet shoppings!! I shall blog abt the itinerary when I'm back this Sat.

Ok, am gonna do more last min reading in case i miss out potential spots. Till then, take care!!!!!! Dun miss me too much. :)

Airwavers BBQ Session

2008-10-05T10:32:00.004+08:00

Its Sunday, and I am taking the liberty to update yesterday's BBQ session, in the office while HB is busy packing the stuffs for the roadshows later... :P

Met Alssionx, Jason + Vivian at Giant Tampines at 3.30pm, for the marketing session. Its funny, how the few of us always rush to volunteer for the marketing bit. Instead of feeling tired or bored, we all adore marketing. Its fun! We headed straight to settle the "equipments", like getting the wired meshes, brush etc, before getting the food. This time, i brought along my own small portable pit that i got from Carrefour sometime ago, at a ridiculos price - $8.50!!! Tell me, what a steal is that??!!! I was so elated at this good buy, and can finally let it make its debut appearance.. lol

We bought all the marinated chicken wings and meat, all costing us only less than $25. Got 2 big packets of prawns too, and oh, chicken franks and crab sticks for the kiddos. Decided to do without fish and crabs cos too leh-chey to clean up. Best part was the sweet potatoes. The leftovers at the tray were so CMI, that we were in dismayed. And, 2 swet chaps from Giant came by our way, with 3 cartons of bright purplish stuff. Before we knew it, they started pouring the contents onto the tray. YES!!! freshly flown (i supposed lah) sweet potatoes, that looked good outside and bright yellow on the inside.

We had collected $15/pax, and Duck Rice had proudly sponsored his $100 voucher from his recent Best Airwave contest. Thank you Alan!!! With $300 on hand, we were worried it might not be enough, but what a pleasant surprise it was, that the total bill from Giant was $100! Well, thats the difference in getting us to do the big job of marketing. Cheap and good!!

Reached ECP at abt 5pm, and settled nicely at a hut. Fantastic weather and cool breeze. The boys wasted no time to set up my portable pit and Daryl Darling was "supervising". Me? Journalist of the Day, started taking pics with my digicam. I lost my configuration for the DSLR and was waiting for the help. I also started posing, in a bid to capture as many pregnancy pics as possible... The others were laughing like hell, that i can be SO vain. Hey, "SO" is understatement! When Mavloo strolled into the hut, i thot i saw my saviour!!! Wasted no time to get him to check my configuration. When its done, i was like," Finally, baby!!! Time to shoot!"

Many others started strolling in by 6plus, and by then, the first batch of BBQ wings were out. BBQed to perfection! Thumbs up!! And pregnant ladies ALWAYS get the privilege, to start eating first! hehe ... When all the other OCs arrive, we retreated to a corner, sat on our portable chairs, and started the baby chats straightaway. Since all of us are young mums, our topics revolved around the delivery process, the taboos, that "what to eat/not" etc... Our juniors were already almost out of sight, running around, cycling etc... I guessed it was good fr us parents, to let loose of the kids for once, and for the kids to be "uncontrolled" too!

Then, our group of DSLR freaks, started the snapping. In 2 minutes, at least 3 DSLRs (2 nikons and 1 canon) appeared and lights started to flash. Then, they got busy ith taking pics of my bulging tummy, and me? gladly posed for them lah! Even told them i can be their model if they want to take pregnancy pics!!! Got them puking quite a bit thou. hehehe

Time passed damn fast, and we started to pack ard 10.45pm. Its so auto!!! Everyone simply just knew what to do. Some packed the leftover food, the guys settled the 2 portable pits, others kept the portable chairs etc. By 11pm, all got into the car and departed for home.

Well, i reached home, feeling dead tired, but still managed to upload pics into our web gallery, as well as my facebook. I will put some pics in the blog tonight. For now, if you wanna see the pics, its here in our gallery : http://picasaweb.google.com/sg.airwave/BBQSessionEastCoastPark#

The Night Race - F1

2008-09-28T10:43:00.002+08:00

Congratulations to Singapore for having an opportunity to showcase what this Little Red Dot can do, to put up a world-class event - The Singapore Grand Prix F1 Night Race. With some millions of dollars put into creating the perfect daylight effects for the nightrace, and the masses of volunteers, not forgetting the numbers of roads closed for the event, it is truly magnificient.

Just a week before the wkend events, i have been seeing so many new status updates in facebook and on friend's msn nick. You guessed it! All expressing their excitement and eagerness to be part of this grand event, watching from Grand Stands and all. Funniest is how the frequency of these words,"Race", "Vrooooommmm", "F1", etc pops up almost everywhere online. Even close fren, whom cant be bothered to update his facebook status, too, joined in this F1 frenzy, expressing his happiness to "go to the race".

Me? Not a racing fan. Dun know how to appreciate the "Fast and Furious", cant understand the rationale of risking lives to compete (hey! I heard these racers are uninsured!!), but am extremely interested in the logistical aspects. Funny for a woman? Not quite, having come from a logistical background, it makes sense for me and hb to be bitching about the type of lightings and generators used, the contractors used for building the grand stands etc. I remembered i casually asked him, if Old Man was still alive, would hb forsee an opportunity for the old company to dabble in this multi-millions productions? His short and definite reply, was a firm headshake. That speaks all, isn't it?

And so, we found ourselves, non-avid fans, eyes "glued" to the TV screen, watching the "Live Telecast" on Ch5 for the Formula 1 Race. Damn! I missed the flag-off! Actually am not sure if it was even broadcasted, the flag-off i mean. Why? Cos i am a woman! I wanna see and decide for myself, if the costume was indeed like the SingTel Grid Gal had mentioned, tennis gear rather than sexy outfit. No luck! Maybe someone who's been there, seen it all, can give me a fair share of your comments??

For the next 45mins, all that i can say, is "give me a break?" Took me a long time to understand the assessment results of the race. For once, "HAM" is no longer my favourite food!! It is the short form for Lewis "Hamilton", the Mclaren Mercedes Racer! Dammit! Young and a little cute looking too! Wahahaha... But I did learn something from this short 45mins. That one indeed, cannot be too complacent huh? The comperes were discussing at how HAM had fallen into complacency and emerged "almost" last, in Qualifying Round 1. Seems like he swerved off racing track, and had some timing added as penalty? Something like dat??? Actually, i thot i heard the comperes used the term "Cue 1/2/3" to describe the race. Did i get it right? I really am no good at this type of racing lingos lah. But, HAM has his strong fanbase for a good reason! Following his disappointing Cue 1 results, he certainly did much better for the next 2 cues! And I found myself mumbling," This chap is incredible!!" when he sped up and overtook 2 cars, and got himself into the 2nd spot.

Oh!! And oh!! I have to mention this. During one of the cue, Racer Fernando Alonso, was doing his daredevil swerve when the speeding machine banged into the barricades!!! Breathe-stopping!! Literally! And, hb missed the act!! He was multi-tasking between hearing, watchin and flipping his newspapers! What amused me initially was that he had banged into the barricades and there was an ING banner advertisment hung there! So apt! For he is representing ING Renault F1 Team! Then, it was horror, as i detected smoke gushing out from his machine. That bang, got him into 15th place. He could have been in the top four!! What a shame! And, suddenly, my heart goes out to him, when the media zoomed in onto him, climbing out of the racing car, clenched his fist and hit the air blindly, in a bid to vent his frustration. He then hung his head low, and walked away. It must have been a terrible feeling, I'm sure. To have high expectations and realised he could not excel. Never mind, he still has a chance tonight, though it would be tremendously tough to start the race at the 15th place in the grid.

Well, its the finals today, and yes, unfortunately, just like the Table Tennis Final Match in the recent Olympics, I have no chance to watch, for i will be working. Anyway, hope all racers are safe, and have a good time competing their guts out, at the Singapore GP.

Back to Good Old Days

2008-09-25T13:29:00.007+08:00

Woke up yesterday morning, feeling refreshed, and first thoughts to my mind was," I HAVE to meet my darling Sel and JC tonight!!" JC couldnt make it cos she has yoga class, and Darling Sel replied, short and sweet, "GOT!!" to my question of "Got time for dinner tonight?"

After some work, left office at close to 7pm. Did a 8pm reservation at Stewhouse Internation, along Siglap area. Hb sent me there, and i snacked with son at Mac, since i had skipped lunch and was feeling famished. Darling Sel called at 7.30pm in her usual bright and cheery pitch of "I'm here!!".

As i walked towards her, she gave a "whats up??" hand signal. I was amused! When standing right in front of her, she was squeezing my arms, lifting up my sleeves and asked why on earth did i slim down?? Oh, sweet!! Her alarming look gave away her concern for me!! hahaha.... me, being me, wasted no time, and started my "sai nai" to her...telling her gynae also said i lost weight etc etc...

The restaurant was quiet, with only 2 existing diners, as we walked in. Placed our orders. We shared an aglio fusili, half german pork knuckles and stewed mushroom. Well, throughout the dinner, we talked abt my pregnancy, her beau, our business and of cos, bitched about pple who pissed her off... Hours passed up, and we left the restaurant at abt 9plus, after footing a $52 bill. CHEAP and nice!!!!!

Woody Mushroom Stew (assorted mushrooms including golden needles mushrooms!!)

Seafood Aglio-alio Fusili (Yum yum yum, but i prefer the ones with streaky bacons!)

Half Pork Knuckles with Mashed Potatos and "Achar??"

Darling Sel absorbed in her photo-taking, to show Ah Pin

Posing for Sel to send pic to Ah Pin to see what a Hiao Mummy i am!!

As we walked along Siglap, to head to our good old coffee joint, Coffee Club, we were feeling so at ease! Reminiscing about our Good Old Days at poly. That was at least 10 yrs ago!!!! Gosh! She forbade me to use the word "ten yrs ago"...wahahaha.. Ya,she used to stay in siglap, and we had so many dinner and supper sessions at tis place. Oh, and she used to hang around with hb n me, on our dates. Not that we minded at all! Having her around was good fun, and still is, though she would always lament that she must be my biggest and brightest lighting bulb ard..

The feeling of us, strolling around, brought back lovely memories and we cant stop to exclaim how we love the serenity of the area. Lush of greeneries everywhere, and quiet coffee joints with pple of all ages, and slight saltiness in the wind (east coast is just ard lah). We love this neighbourhood!

And so, we stepped into Coffee Club, got ourselves a comfortable place. Then i gave a huge sigh!!! The renovation took away all familiarities of this place! In the past, there were couches every where in the cafe, and lightings were cosy and comfortable. Now, it seems like its so bright and made me felt stark naked. Still, who cares, when you have got the best companion in the world??? She had her Java Coffee and me, a Strawberry PassionFruit Freeze and we shared a fruit platter fondue. Thats a lot of food, considerin we had huge helpings at Stewhouse.

And so, it was more bitching and laughing. And we talked about our respective impending trips in oct. Left at almost 11plus, and shared a cab home. Well, it was certainly a good night, becos its been a long time since i felt so good, out with her, as a preggie. She kept stroking my tummy and apologised to the little one inside, to excuse her over sprouting of "uncleaned" language. Got me into laughters too...

I am hoping for more of such nights, especially with JC involved... Better have more fun in my 2nd trimester, since i will want myself to have ample rest during the final trimester.

2008-09-23T14:42:00.008+08:00

Well, with such sumptous dinner, i should be able to put back the pounds i lost, hopefully????

Too tired to blog last night, after loss of blood and a terribly "Sedap" Dinner. Hit the bed at 9pm, and woke up this morning 9.30am!!!! Wa lau!!

Went for my OSCAR yesterday morning. This is an option offerred to all pregnant mummies during the 1st Trimester, for early and accurate detection of fetal anomalies, in particular, the Down Syndrome(DS). Actually, gynae did say that I fall between the lowest risk possible group, and the OSCAR is totally optional. But, as all mummies, I am kan cheong abt my baby.

The OSCAR involves:

1) Ultrasound (clear scanning of baby)
2) Blood Test (for DS, as well as for other future tests)

Reached Thomson Medical Centre (TMC) later than my appointed time. Lucky for me, that we din have to wait for a long time. In betwen the waiting, i was literally doing the water parade thingy, downing so many cups of water, to ensure full bladder for a clearer scan result.

A lady called out for me, and we proceeded into the Ultrasound Room. Hb was told to sit next to where i was lying. I love scanning!!! And damn! The baby's so active, that it was jerking and moving abt. What a joy! I stole a peek at hb, and saw him with that brilliant smile, eyes glued to the monitor, observing his little champion thrashing about. Back to the monitor, i saw Baby was kicking and wahahaha, has one little hand placed on the head, as if doing an "OMG!!!" signal!! Oh my precious love! The scan lasted at least 15mins, with me interrupting the scan due to a bout of sudden coughs.

Next, was called into the lab for my blood test. This is the one that has gotten me all jittery the day before. Din help that hb chose to go to the loo, seconds before the nurse called my name. Braved myself and walked into the room, and the nurse was amused to see my nervous face.

JJ: Hello. How much blood are we drawing this time?
Nurse: oh, not much, 3 tubes.
JJ: Huh, tubes???
Nurse: (Smiles), dun worry, now clench your fist...

She was still talking to me as she poked the damn needle into my arm. I had wanted to take the pics even before i reached TMC, and as the needle went in, i totally forgotten abt the pics! kekeke.. After she's done, i pulled open the door and as i stepped out, saw hb's shocked face, that its over while he's out somewhere relieving himself.. darn!

Well, the report would be out the next day, and I just received the call to inform me that all's normal... sigh, spend $400 over just to have that assurance...

anyway, after the OSCAR, i proceeded to my gynae's clinic for the regular checkup. The 1st thg she said to me was" You've lost weight. Have you not been eating?". This must be the 1st time i dun feel happy when i heard this sentence... waHahaha... After another round of scan, she confirmed that the gender of the baby's not determined yet, since its still early. Pray i will get to find out during next visit lor.

Left TMC, and went Balestier for a good fishball noodles at the Whampoa Market.. and we went to catch Mamma Mia, at Balestier Point. Oh, i simply love weekday's movies! No crowd, no queue!!! And i realised, I love musical shows!!! I mean, Mamma Mia is a great show! Old storyline, but with Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan, it simply is MY show... and not to mention the lovely songs! You know, i was clapping and swaying to the songs in the cinema... all becos the songs' so good, and no spectators!! wahaahaha...

http://www.mamma-mia.com/movie_trailers.asp?sec=movie

CLICK BELOW for BEST of BEST

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v3yIVk61160

Had dinner with my family at Seafood Paradise at Defu Lane 10. Have been hearing raves abt this place, and hence decided to try out. Their flagship store's at the Singapore's Flyer leh! Wa, i tell u, the food is delicious and their service is thumbs up! I dun want to elaborate how good the food and service is, but u go try out for yourselves.

In all, we had 2 types of crabs (all really good!!), coffee spare ribs, mushroom veggies, toufu treasure etc... 7 of us at only $145!!! Cheap and good! Whats best is that despite having excellent service, they dun impose service charges!!! Can you beat that?

Fav Webby - CozyCot

2008-09-19T15:44:00.004+08:00

I realised I have been ultra boring of late!! No interesting websites to surf. But I have remained faithful to this super cool site, that is enough to occupy my good 4-5hrs of lazing!!

CozyCot - Where Beautiful Minds Meet

All thanks to JC for introducing this fabulous forum to me! Uber-informative and extremely gossipy! Spiced up my sedated life greatly! I swear all ladies should register as a Cotter and gathered any information required, from Spas and Massages, to Hobbies, to Travels, to Families etc! I like that the categories are properly categorised, making it very easy to access.

Well, i am extremely tuned to the Travel thread whether or not I have an impending trip. In fact, all my travels are never package tours and i solely DIY. and my whole kampong also asked how on earth do i manage to suss out local places to visit... Tadah!!! All thanks to CozyCot lah! The Cotters are a fabulous lot, eager and generous to share their good buys and good finds and other information with the rest. In fact, i totally avoid all places/merchants etc that were "frowned" upon by them... hehehe

And, i totally LOVE the Family thread! Especially this period. From Confinement Do's and Don'ts, to Pregnancy's Taboos and whatever Medical information, I am in awe! I am expanding my knowledge daily, brushing up my skills to be a better mother than I should have been, and keeping in tune with whatever new updates of fella Cotters, of their TTC (Tring to Conceive) status...Muahahaha, such a kpo i am!

Well, I have attached a badge here, so that the interested folks can have an easy access to the webby. Actually the badge's purpose to for those who own a blogshop to introduce more registered members to the community, and the blogshop owners will earn points. And of cos, the higher the points they accumulate, they will get their blogshop featured in the website. since I dun own any blogshop, but still would like to share with u pple this wonderful webby, i have henceforth attached the badge lah! (Hope its not considered wrongful abuse of the icon, hehe)

Well, time to go visit the forum again, and search for my next inspiration for my next entry... Stay tuned!!

Thanks to All of You

2008-09-15T13:14:00.002+08:00

whooohooooo!!! News certainly travel fast... just like usrain bolt, the lightning man! kekeke....

within hours of posting the blog and pics in facebook, i've been swarmed by so many well wishes from my temps, to my ex-polymates and ex-colleagues!!! The feeling is incredible. Almost undescribable. Its always good to feel loved!

Facebook
After posting 5 pics, with only 2 showing my tummy (same pics as the previous entry), i've got many comments congratulating me! Hb was laughing at me, saying I really have no patience to wait till later stage before i do my "grand announcement". Wah, already say i am the impatient type liao lor.. keke... to keep mum for the 3 months has been the toughest job since i-dunno-when! Was especially happy that Juzzy and Allyfui finally knew abt the news... Felt bad not to inform them 1st hand lor.... paiseh, gals!

Email
When i accessed my hotmail a while ago, and i saw Alice's headlines "Heartiest Congratulations to 2nd Time Mum", i let go a "yelp", and hb turned sharply to "beo" me to see if I've stepped on some dungs...

JJ: Wa Lau Eh!!! Now the LTA gang knws abt it!!!! (Beaming BIG TIME)
HB: Whats new? Must be from ur blog or facebook lah.. what else? (unfazed and totally un-participative)
JJ: oh, i love these guys!! Wait, let me scroll down.. WAH!!! inbox flooded by their replies (mumbling to myself)

Yes, the whole ching-chong gang just couldnt wait to spam each other's mailbox lor. The 1st post was sent out by HongKin, as she saw the "radiant" pics in my facebook. And the rest followed in their emails. from Michelle, to Idiot Chu (Adrian, yes, talking abt U!), to Alice and Lena and of cos, Mentos Choo (Aflred lah, our biggest Mentos Supplier!) Idiot Chu just culdnt wait to "dig" me lor.. admist the congratulations, he went "Just one qn: Are u sure baby's Koh's?" See, i din accuse him of being an idiot right? Still, am so used to his ways since a decade ago...

Airwave Club
Initially, only Iggy and Mavloo knew abt the news. And on Sat, before the rest set out to Acheh Kelong, i was chatting with Wave111 online, and after his persistence in gettin us to go to the kelong, i told him the news, that i m pregnant and hence unable to go with them. well, on Monday when we had lunch with the group of them, some acted blur and some laughed.

Vlad: Wa lau, good news why keep? Share mah...
JJ: (showed a blur face), Huh??
Vlad: Already knw u pregnant liao lah!!
JJ: (laughing) wah, who tell u my secret?
Vlad: Wa lau, u tell Wave111 ur secret, is as good as telling the world ur secret!!
Wave111: si mi!! good news must share right?
JJ: (say nothing but laugh lor)

I suspected the guys must be laughing during that kelong trip lor...

Anyhow, i promised Rachel that i will be updating frequently lah.. i should anyway, since i din keep any journal of any sorts during Daryl's time... Figure that factory will be closed after this... better keep tis virtual journal lah...

Progressive Changes

2008-09-09T21:48:00.004+08:00

Finally!! Have endured the 12 weeks of secrecy, and almost time to let the "cat" out of the bag. Actually, nt such a secret afterall lah. As per the previous one, my closest gangs are the same ones who knew almost instantly... hiak hiak..

to the rest if i havent "announced" to, pls accept my deepest apology, for its a taboo to announce before the 3months mark. Hence, yes, am at my 12th weeks of pregnancy now.

Ok, full story goes:

2nd August
Did home test, realised positive. Got to check and double check cos i was so blardy used to seeing ONE line. This time, when saw TWO lines, i was kinda dazed. Then got hb to reaffirm that i aint having vision problem. Since was at mum's place, naturally means whole family knew abt the joy. Went for Charity Carwash, feeling secretly happy. :)

4th August
Went to TMC to visit my gynae. Yup, the same one who delivered my rascal darling. She did the tummy scan, and said, bb too small to be seen. I was like," oh no, not again!". It happened during Daryl's time, that i almost needed to "abort" him cos gynae suspected there was no heartbeat. That period was bad. But lucky we decided to wait then, to assess the development. Thanks God, that the perserverence paid off, and my daryl darling came to earth. Anyway, gynae suggested a vagina scan to be more thorough. And, we saw it!!!! small little dot, but heartbeat is healthy. Can you understand the relief? Although i din tell hb abt my fear, but he understood. Gynae said the kiddo is 6wks old, still very early! In fact, Iggy was the 1st to knw abt it (besides close fren lah), cos he so smart!! Put bits and pieces of my blog entry and guessed abt the pregnancy!! lol

1st September
Went for the 2nd check up. This time, we ensured Daryl was wide awake (he slept during 1st chk up, and missed saying "HI" to the new sibling). When gynae did the scan, it was again kinda small. Hence did V-scan again. Daryl was fascinated by the monitor! That fella actually can decipher which are the limbs and head!! I asked him if he were going to say hello, and he gave a chirpy "Hello" to the monitor! Wahaha, what a laugh!! Baby was super active, waving and all, in the tummy. And Gynae exclaimed that it is one active kid!! heheh. That 2nd scan, gynae said EDD will be "postponed" to 01 April 2009, instead of original 29 March 2009. Wah, we were laughing lor, cos #1, it may be an April's Fool Baby, and #2, how issit possible that it will be delayed? Whichever it is, she advised me to go for c-sect, since Daryl was a breech case and c-sect baby too. There's a 1% risk that my old wound will burst, if go by natural. Hb said to go for c-sect cos he dun wanna risk me going to headlines abt a bursting wound. lol.. and as usual, i blogged abt tis chk up, describing abt my Active Swimmer.

Well, my tummy's ballooning everyday, and I dun wanna repeat the same mistake of not hvg enough pics of my pregnancy. So, today, "forced" hb and son to take my pic of my tummy... Guess there will be more to come!.. Anyhows, here;s the pics!!

The Active Swimmer

2008-09-01T21:02:00.002+08:00

Its Monday again!! slept in late since Daryl was with his grandparents in the office. Fantastic to be lazing on my huge King sized bed, all wrapped up like a dumpling in my comforter, till almost .... 9am... wahahaha, thats call lazing??? thats the same time i get up daily!!! kekeke

put on my best dress today, becos we are gonna meet someone important!!!! The appointment was at 3.45pm, and the whole day, i was simply restless and jittery. Being in office, checking cheap hotel rates for our HKG trip was soothing, at least for my restless soul.

By 3pm, our family of 3, headed for Thomson, and thks to Nik n Sze, for offering free parking space! Sweet of them!! No more valet parking or expensive carparkin charges.... It shall only be at their love nest!!! Was still joking with Sze, that maybe i shld smile to the guard so often, that he will be "sotted"by me, and will open the barricades for me each time i arrive. Wahahaha

At 3.30pm, we found ourselves seated so comfortably, waiting to meet the special someone. After a round of routines, we headed for the room. Daryl, by then, was in anxiety!!! In less than 5 minutes, we met our active swimmer! Swimming contentedly in the mini swimming pool, with powerful kicks! While practising the laps, seemed to have seen us, and was waving to us! We were overjoyed! Daryl, gave a chirpy "Hello!" and got all of us breaking into laughters.

The "Coach" gave her assessment, and said that the swimmer will make the mark in 1 April 09. But given the in-borned capabilities and the parents good genes, could be earlier!! We should be expecting an Olympics Swimmer soon!!! We left the place, with a priceless photograph in hand, smiling so ever sweetly!

I guess I shld be able to post the pic soon... provided all's Ok, and of cos when the Swimmer allows us to do so. In the mean time, i will be updating again soon...

Hugs and Loves!!!

Fireworks Display

2008-08-27T17:47:00.004+08:00

Last Saturday, we went with Nigel and Serene and Adrian's family to watch the Fireworks at Marina. However, we encountered a long life rain! Sigh... the rain started since morning and by the time we were seated comfortably (not quite actually), the drizzle was still on and off.

Well, I've uploaded the video we took, for your viewing pleasure. Just a word of caution, you will hear some parts of our conversation, but, no vulgarities thou.. wahahaha.... enjoy!

Cammed by Dopod 810

Birthing Issues?

2008-08-20T23:53:00.005+08:00

Yes, its another birthing issue, right after 2008's National Day Rally. The topic became widely discussed, in office, at coffee shops, on buses and trains and within families. It seems that the Government is doing all it can, in hopeful bids to bring up the birth statistics.

So, how helpful are the newly devised measures? Will birth rates shoot up with the introduction of these schemes (supposedly termed as "Aids")? What are the concerns Singaporeans face, that hinder the enlargement of a nucleus family?

Sometimes, we keep hearing newly-weds say the same old things for instance," we want to have 2 yrs of honey moon or 2-persons world, before we settle down with a kid". I suppose most newly weds will have the tendency to think this way, unless we are talking about those of a certain age or those who have been dating for like decades. I remember i used to be very kaypoh, telling friends to try for babies when they are mentally ready, and not when they are done with their 2yrs plans. Reasons being that I have seen many couples trying hard for their own kids for "god-knows-how-many-years", only to be disappointed months after months. Things dun necessary fall into places, as what you would wish for.

I do appreciate the fact that government is doing all it can, to help families to cope with whatever mental and financial burdens that may come along the way with each pregancy. However, I do have my fair shares of reservations, as to whether these seemingly "too-good-to-be-true" perks will ultimately hit its objectives. Note: the below are just my own wondering opinions, and do not represent any person, organisation etc.

The Government introduced some (will not list all) of the below perks like:

1) 4 Months Maternity Leave
This has to be one of the most widely discussed perks since 2 years back. It was such a debate-able topic then, when the original 1 month Maternity Leave was increased to 3 months. Then, it would mean a new mother would enjoy working for only 3/4 year. How great is that? Now, in a bid to "help" new mothers bond even further with their new family member, and to get used to the "Motherly" role, they now (wef 17 August) will get a 4 months maternity leave. That is like . . . working only 2/3 year??!!

Honestly speaking, when we first heard the news, and that was before the full detailed plans were announced, we were shocked! It could be because we are seeing from a company owners' point of views, that it meant extra overheads if we were required to pay an employee for 12 months whilst she effectively works only 8 months. That will also result in getting a temporary staff to tide over her work, or to overload other colleagues by delegating her jobs to others.

But, all is well, when we heard that the Government will share in the 2 months leave while the company gives its rightful 2 months to the pregnant employee. Still, i do wonder eventually with such perks, will it backfire, such that there will be discrimination against the female workforce eventually? Or will it become a skewed working ratio to see companies employing women employees after 40 yrs of age?

2) Baby Cash Bonus
To ensure lesser financial burden for new families with new kids, cash bonus are being introduced in 2004. Also, with every $1 saved for the kid, the Government tops another $1, capped to $6000 ceiling. This year, for every 1st or 2nd baby of the family, a cash bonus of $4000 will be given to the family, though not immediate after birth. I am not sure, but it should be within the 18 months of birth. Of cos, 3rd or 4th kid gets higher incentives.

Frankly, i thought such cash incentives are better than the 4 months of Maternity Leave. At least, it seems more practical than the leave part. You see, after assuming your leave, you come back to your workplace, with tenterhooks on how your superiors and colleagues see you. Then you start worrying about your appraisals. And possibly due to 4 months being with your bab, you'll start missing your kid like hell when away from home. Hahaha, thats quite a lot of worrying after a 4 months holiday, right? The cash incentive part, on the other hand, is such a practical move. Afterall, it doesnt take only the new parents to know the expensive-ness of formula milk, disposable diapers, regular visits to gynaes and GPs. Even the young adults today, know the high expenses involved, and that is probably the No. 1 resistance against having their own offsprings.

Well, I genuinely salute those couples in having more than 3 kids. I am sure their households are filled with sincere laughters more often than offensive squabblings. However, i shudder when i think about the huge expenses incurred in the family. The image of "S-eleven ($)" balloons in the back of my mind. Having one child at home, to me, is already a huge finanicial expense, with frequent visits to doctors, attending pre-schools and whatever extra supplementary classes. Comparing Daryl to other kids in his school, he seemed to be badly compromised, with too little enrichment classes. But then again, I am not sure if I will want him to have a lifeless yet stressful childhood, or will I start to regret if he cant keep up with his peers. Dear Sel always chides me, for overly thinking. and that she believes Daryl is one streetwise kid and I should not be giving everyone a stressful life worrying about his development.

I am hoping to see the below measures that will hopefully be adopted by the Government:

1) Higher Subsidies for Educational Development
I am sure one of the reasons deterring parents from having more than a kid is the high educational cost in Singapore. Yes, I am not aware of the exact cost, and neither am i very sure if others will be slamming me, telling me that it is very often, much higher cost to study in other countries. But, I do know for sure, that the new breed of parents are all educated, and they do know very well, that education in Singapore is such a high expense, that starts from when the kid reaches his/her 4 yrs old, when they attend pre-schools. That aside, I am not even talking about the "elitists" who start enrolling their infants into "branded" infant cares!!

At current moment, yes, the Government has been subsidising the educational aspect, but perhaps more can be done? Enrichment classes can be subsidised, for example? Besides the normal pre-schools, main schools that are subsidised, the pre-schooling programs could be further subsidised too? Cos we all know that young kids absorb the most in their early years, and that would possibly be an area the government can assist the parents to breed "quality" kids? It scares me when i hear people sending their toddlers to pre-schools that cost as much as $1200 per term!!! Good for them that they can afford. But that doesnt mean kids who attend the PCF (known affectionately as the PAP) are any lousier. Most of us in the 70s and 80s "graduated" from there too, dun we? And we arent any less capable than our other peers. Still, with more grants from the Government, it can only mean a wider choice for parents to decide which schools are more appropriate to them and their lifestyle.

2) 5 Working Days Week / More Off Days?
You know, instead of having a one shot 4 months Maternity Leave, wouldn't it be great if all new parents or rather, all Singaporeans work on a 5-day week? It doesnt necessary need to be a Monday to Friday thingy actually. But the fact that having 2 days in a week to bond with the family and kids is seemingly more effective than a 4 months togetherness and then "separation" due to work, isn't it? The fact that Singaporeans work very hard, is an understatement. But it is also this understatement that results in people having lesser kinship bonding within the family. And that usually also means lesser time to make babies.

Having been in the events industry for years, i know that i miss my family life a lot. And it is those off days, that i treasure the most, to be able to spend time with my family, whether immediate or extended. To be able to bring my Daryl Darling out for ice cream treats, or shopping trips or for a swim, is just pure luxury. My weekends are usually burnt and every Monday is a precious day for me. No amount of money can make up for this quality Monday. Besides that, to be able to go for family holidays (when family means everyone including my parents, bro and own family - in short, called a Kampong), is such a "to-do-thing" in my yearly calendar task list. It doesnt have to be a 15 days Australia trip, or a 22 days Europe trip, to make me feel blissfully in love with the entire Kampong. A short 5D4N is more than enough, if everyone enjoys themselves thoroughly, with beautiful pictures taken to walk me down memory lane. And all these are made possible, by having more off days!! And of cos, vitamin M becomes the main energy-booster.

Well, the above are, and i reiterate, my own thinkings, and while i dwell myself in my own imaginary air bubbles, i do hope the suggestions will be adopted somehow. Hopefully we will see more people benefit from the above. And perhaps, the birth rates will somewhat rise soon??

Living on Less

2008-08-12T17:38:00.002+08:00

After reading this article on Asiaone, i thought it would be good to discuss about what other good savings measures that can possibly be done/adopted during this "critical period".

Fare hikes, petrol/oil increase, global raw materials cost going up and many other unmentionable inflations are causing a certain distress in most Singaporeans and i dare say, other parts of the world too. Inevitably, complaints and grouses are also increasingly heard aloud, midst coffee shop talks, day-to-day conversations and naturally, public forums.

While the Government subsidises certain cost, or that some big organisations absorbed prevailing Government Taxes, many of us still feel the pinch when we hear almost 3-4 times a month about whatever costs that may/will be up. I guess its a natural reaction becos most of us will always say our pet phrase, "everything goes up, but not our salaries".

As you are reading, you may be thinking,"Hey JJ, seems like u not affected hor? Talk as if you are so indifferent to all these incremental damages!!". Nope, you are wrong. I am also affected. If you are, I too am, and will be affected too. Lets see why:

At Work
Everyday our suppliers keep telling us," Boh pian leh! Raw material costs going up leh, everyone affected, so we also must "upped" our prices lor!" But as a service oriented company, we cant possibly be telling our esteemed clients that. If a company were to change their price tags every now and then, without warning, accrediting to the global cost increase, would you ever dare or want to collaborate with this company again? hence, so long as Leadz is able to maintain a certain profit level, we do not mind earning lesser due to increase in cost.

Also, unless the company is really not doing well or have cash flow problems, otherwise, payout to employees should never be delayed. I am proud to say that sicne the operations of Leadz, we have never delay our workers' pay. Its our little way of "thanking" the employees for their monthly hardwork. But, of cos, to ease the cashflow problem, we do delay salary payout, but only for ourselves, the employers.

So, how do Leadz practise cost savings measures? When we do order materials, we make sure we order extras, to practise economy of scales. When we have quantity, the discount levels are usually higher, hence savings. Also, if no major disruption to operations, we will rather self-collect and save on the delivery cost which is usually tagged to "increased petrol costs". Air condition is always kept at 24-25degrees cos the office is not that huge and as the experts say, 24-25degrees is the most cost efficient temperature. Above are just some ways we cut cost, without compromising too much on employees benefits.

At Home
Now, back to personal. I love cooking and even more adore the art of marketing. I have always felt that grocery shopping is even more therapeutic than materals shopping. But, due to busy work schedule, cooking is out of the question. I tend to overbuy just to cook for that one day, and would usually end up wasting the food, or that my one cooking session may jolly well cost me up to $30, which do not make economic sense. Hence, eating out is the best choice (not the healthiest thou). At the moment, food cost have not increased exorbitantly yet. So, it is still very easy to find less than $3 meal. Plus, coffee shops and food centres are so easily accessible. Of cos, outings to restaurants are reduced significantly unless its for some special occasions. But i do like to reward myself with some good food after certain hard work.

I am glad that my family is not overly pampered. I mean i have seen/heard some families who cannot live without air-con, even on rainy days. We do not on the air-con on a daily basis. I do leave one dim light, the radio and a fan on in my bedroom thru-out the night, for little daryl's benefits. I am trying to start turning off the lights once Daryl is sound asleep. If we do need to have the air-con, it will always be on a maximum of 3 hours timer, and at 24-25 degrees.

As for TV, i am ashamed to say, it will always be on, from 8.30pm to 1am, nightly. I guess its time to reduce the nos. of hours spent in front of the TV. That way, the whole family can also turn in earlier, hence healthier and also cutting more cost cos all lightings will be off then.

My grocery is done on a monthly basis, and now, we try very much to use house-brands cos it usually means an average of 5% off the item. Isnt that great savings? While certain things like milk powder are the cost killer, my family tries to reduce the frequency to buy, but not compromising on Daryl's growth developments. We used to let him have a mix of his formula milk and milo powder. Healthy with choco flavour!! We arent really brand loyal, so whatever shampoo/baths on discounts, we will buy them and during mega sales, we do buy more to stock up.

I guess, our highest expenses are mainly our transport cost. Petrol cost is forever tentative. Its "forever" rising and even if it reduces, its usually a 1% reduction of what 100% increase. I rem years ago, one full tank for a 1.5litres was only less than $50, and now, its never below $70. Hence, if I needed to be out with hb, and while waiting for him to finish his errands, i would wind down all 4 windows, and stopped the car totally. But i needed my music! So how? hehehe, i listen to FM on my mobile phone. Guess, all these little ways will help to save cost as well as be more environmentally friendly.

End of the day, prices will still be on the rise, but whatever little ways we can save, we will save. But then again, I am also not encouraging everyone to turn into misers or scrooges. Its all about sensible savings.

Lets start practising to be frugal from today onwards! :)

Fabulous Wkend

2008-08-12T13:07:00.003+08:00

what a fabulous weekend! and i am so ashamed to say that i have thoroughly enjoyed the wkend, resulting in lazyness to update the blog. But, i had one of the best weekend ever... let me tell u why:

We finally met the GES gang after so much months!! Actually, i was exaggerating, cos we met them for dinner just few weeks ago. But it wasnt the usual dinner cos we had to rush for work. I missed the past so terribly!! Where we used to bum ard during the wkends, doing nothing, but lazing in each other's homes, watching dvds, playing with the kids etc. And yes!!! finally we did that last Sat. In fact, we even caught up our fav game (MJ) for a gd 2 hrs, before we adjourned to nik's place.

At nik's place, it was just croweded. Our group had grown from the initial 9 adults 1 toddler (Daryl) to 9 adults 4 kids (Daryl, Hsuen, Shu Rei and Shu Zhen) and very soon, we will be seeing 9 adults and 5 (FIVE) kids!!! whoohooooooo!!! we are one big family! When i stepped into the hse, i rushed straight to carry my jewel, Hsuen!! Its been such a long time, and the last time i saw her, she was still needing an assuring hand to guide her walking. But now, she's up and walking on her own, and doing pretty commando stunts like climbing "out" of her playpen and onto the coffee table!!! hehehe!!

And Shu Rei!! she's changed from pretty to prettier!! The huge marble-like eyeballs are so alluring!!! The long curly eyelashes!!!! She's gonna grown to be a huge beauty!! I like kids who asked for food and specially asked for veggies!! and she's one such kid!! nice!! kekeke. comparing to hsuen, shu rei's more ladylike!!! kekekee... but both are darlings to me!

After durian party (courtest from Fatboy), the big boys went off to get food while we women folks and kids stayed home to watch dvds... i was hungry like a pig! Damn!! perpetually being hungry is no good!!! Dinner was good, with variety as usual!! Yep, the boys tend to overdo it repeatedly with too many varieties and in huge quantity too! And by the time all were petting their satisfied tummies, we dropped the bombshell!! Hehehe.... guess tis came as a nice surprise to all! After all, its been a long long time!!! kekeke....

Left nik's place at almost 11pm, cos i was freaking tired out already! Smiled myself to sleep that perfect idyllic Saturday....

Loss of Descriptions

2008-08-05T17:58:00.004+08:00

After so many years, the all too familiar routine is back. Cant forget last sat's suspicious yet elated screaming for hb, and also wun forget how i grabbed Close Fren's arms so ever tightly telling him my secret. Besides hb, he is as usual, the first. kekeke ... Probably can imagine my own mischievious twinkle in my eyes, shinning so brilliantly the whole of Sunday.

Monday's visit was a jittery affair, and when all suspicions were confirmed, burden sets in, together with lovely smiles. Looking at the little screen, i wondered why did i not even shed a tear. Immune already? Or do i need to talk more about it before I can feel the urge to tear a little?

Cant wait to see the GES gang once again.... Missed the folks and their darling princesses soooooooo much!!! I know we've neglected them for many many months already, and when i shouted across the phone while hb n bert were on the line, i meant every single word when i said ," We missed you guys!!!!" herherher. . . in reciprocation, he told hb to assure me that they missed us too!! Cheeky fella!!

At this point of time, i also am shouting inaudibly for my Close Fren once again.... Pal!!! I so badly need to talk to you!!!! My thoughts... my fears...my excitement...and my secrets.... Dammit! i must have owed u something in my past life...waHahahaa... I will be sure to drag u out one of these days.

MINDS Charity Carwash 2008

2008-08-04T00:07:00.005+08:00

A day to remember. . . thank you! (pls dun mind my mindless ramblings. Will blog abt this another day)... :)

Anyway, we went for the 3rd MINDS Charity Carwash on Saturday. As usual, I am glad we did not miss this meaningful event. Out of the 20 odd cars who attended the event plus some folks who were unable to attend yet contributed to the donation drive, we had in total raise $1025 for MINDS (Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore).

Extracted from the url:

MINDS is one of the oldest and largest non-governmental organisations catering to the needs of the Intellectually Disabled in Singapore since 1962. It runs schools, training and employment development centres as well as hostels and homes to cater to the educational, vocational, social and welfare needs of the intellectually disabled.

Most AWs were gathered at West Coast carpark before breaking into different convoy groups to proceed to SPC Telok Blangah, where the MINDS folks were there, getting ready to give our darling rides a good rub. At SPC, we have some folks who were there, ready to get into actions. Delvin and Alssionx were the washers and sprayers as per past years. The only difference is the Alssionx besides washing our rides, got to wash his ex-ride the final time, cos he had sold of his ride to a new member. Aint that nice? to be selfless to attend the event, and even took on the hard job to wash, despite not owning an AW anymore. Thats why we call, a true blue Airwaver!!

Anyway, after all the washing, we went to Gilman Camp to gather for phototaking as well as to conduct our lucky draws. Hehehehe, as usual, me's lucky, and won a pedal accessory.... but was aiming so hard at the 3rd prize which is a pair of component speakers, cos our one-sided spoilt again..

Well, left the gang to head for our rdshow location by 5pm.... Still feelin happy.... very elated in fact...

In Celebration of A Decade Old Friendship

2008-07-30T22:27:00.005+08:00

A supposedly long entry, that was eventually "erased" due to sensitivity. I guess i finally understand what does "less is more" mean. :) Anyhow,

Happy 10th Years Friendship, Pal!

http://maheks.punt.nl/upload/friendship_is_light.jpg

TGI Monday Again!

2008-07-28T22:38:00.002+08:00

Whoohoooo, I have been a good gal today. Nope, to be precise, I was a good housewife, good mum, good wife, good daughter and good sister, all on this beautiful Monday! Lets see what I have done:

Good Housewife (?)

Ok, I sprang out of bead at 9am sharp today, feeling so energetic. Had a beautiful dream of me playing with a sweet looking baby. Oppss... is that an omen or what? First thing i did, was to pick out my 10yr old CD "Best 80s Retro". Hohohoh, dun laugh at me. I just needed some loud music on this lovely fair weathered Monday morning. With "Square Rooms" and the likes of other retro numbers, I started my housework. Ok, I oughta be so ashamed for labelling myself the "Good Housewife", because I cant remember when was the last I picked up the vaccum cleaner to clean the house. It must have been at least 1 month ago!!! *Double Gasps*. Started with having new bedsheets for both my KingSize beddie and Daryl's Single Beddie. Loved Daryl's new bedsheet, cos its his favourite cartoon hero character - Ben 10. After 30mins, it was thorough vaccuming with Rainbow! Rainbow is the vaccum cleaner brand, a $3k darn dirt sucking machine... How our hearts bled when we first purchase!!! After mopping, we got ready to pick son from school.

Good Wife

After we "chucked" son in the office, its dating time for hb and me. Last Monday was family day with Daryl, and today's reserved for dating. We had wanted to catch "The Dark Knight" at Suntec, but not sure why, when we walked past Kbox to EW cinema, the urge to watch the show vanished without a trace. Hb asked if I felt like watching and since I had been longing to go singing, i confessed honestly that i dun think I would enjoy the show. And soon, we found ourselves in the little aircon room singing our hearts out. Hb doesnt enjoy singing one bit at all, but i know he wanted me to go sing, to get rid of the longingness to have my solo concerts. "Love u, hb, for pampering me". Soon, we were singing lotsa old songs. Listening to hb sing is enjoyable for me. He cant sing well, but i just am always mesmerised when i see him trying earnestly to make out the chinese texts. In the capacity of a good wife, i entertained him with lotsa 70s songs!!! wahahaha...And of cos, acted as his KJ, sussing out songs for him. It was a good date.

Good Daughter

Mum wasnt feeling well and we wanted to pick son after our date, so that she can rest well. But she suggested to hit AMK for Fish-Head Steamboat. So we went pick them up for dinner. It was a good meal since all of us were chatting and eating merrily. Seeing mum feeling so proud of her new LV wallet (a gift from dad, bro n me), we felt good too!

Good Sister

More like a kpo sister to be exact. Was asking bro and gf when they may want to hold their wedding next year. Then suggested to him to consider 28 Dec, cos my anniversary falls on 29 Dec and my parents, on 30 Dec. If he weds on 28 Dec, that will be a 3 consecutive wedding anniversaries years later. Wahahaha, wun that be nice and romantic???

Good Mum

Yup, good mum, cos I sewed one button for Daryl, onto his uniform. WaHahaha, like dat also considered good mum? Its more like the bonding we had in the car, while on the way home after dinner. I love the chatting session with my little fella. We talked about his school, and he would tell me about his classmates and what he did in school. He told me that his little classmate copied his spelling last week... It was pretty funny the way he described. But naturally, jokes aside, I still must instilled the right values in my little boy, i.e. to be upright, no copying, lying etc.

Thanks God this has been a Beautiful Monday!!! More to come!!

2008-07-25T13:41:00.002+08:00

Its all about expectations and management. I am talking about some articles in Asiaone that i read today. Somehow, the urge to pen in the blog arises, all too quick! Perhaps that is yet another association with me again... hahaha, as a past student and a present mother.

The first being that students are stressed over the mountains of schoolworks presented to them, on top of whatever extra-curriculum they may have. And the effects? Students felt the stress level ever-increasing and their supposedly "good for them" quality sleep, reducing to an unhealthy 6.5hrs only. Yes, i used the term "unhealthy" because werent we informed that all young children should have quality sleep of at least 8-10 hours? Whatever happened to the "sleep early, wake up early" motto that was fondly past down since many decades ago, from our parents' era?

I recall with a smile, that when i was young, my mum would made us (bro and me) laughing stocks amongst our classmates, for being the only students to sleep at 8pm sharp. How we hated that. How embarrassed we were, for not being able to participate in whatever entertainment gossips discussed in our little circle. How our "then-perceived-freedom" was restricted. But, beneath all these grumblings, we thanked her from the bottom of our hearts when we aced our classes every year. And yes, we were always refreshingly awake in class, all thanks to the quality 10 hrs sleep the night before.

However, I must agree that times are different, 20years ago compared to now. Back then, school work was hectic, but students faced lesser distractions from TV programmes, technology advancements (internets, gamings, fashion trends etc). Without such enticements, students have more time to study, complete their schoolworks/projects, attend their ECAs and of cos, play (hey, games played last time was helluva big difference from now - hopscotch, five stones, zero-points, ball games etc). Students now, are usually given more freedom, and of cos, exposed to more addictive activities, that directly prolong their play time, hence leaving lesser time for their studies. While expectations of these kids (by their parents, peers, schools, society) are raised, management (of their time) becomes a huge question.

Looking back at my son gingerly treading onto the educational path, I can't help but shudder. I am guilty of wanting my son to fare well in school. In fact, this year, his K1 started him on the first ever "Spelling Test". The entire household was jittery. For the longest time ever, we forced ourselves to sit down with him, to go through the 5 spelling words (a, an, am, are, and). Yes, he got them all right and since then, all his spelling tests were perfect, scoring 100%. I asked myself once, what if he came back with a 3/5 or a 4/5? What would be my reaction? Would it be encouraging or would I feel a certain dismay? Either way, both dun seem correct to me.

Looking at his assignments from school, one would say "Hey, so chicken feet!! As easy as ABC". But think back to the times when you were a young toddler. Did you ever once confused between when to use "a" and when to use "an"? Do you already know how to spell "Could" when you were 5years old? I wonder how heavy the school assignments would be when he gets into Primary school. But i know that it is inevitable for school-loads to get heavier since everyone is advancing and progressing.

The second article was one that a parent wrote in to ask for the school or MOE to "address her grievance". And what was her grievance? That the school that has successfully accepted their child's Primary One enrolment, has informed all parents that they will be changing from a single session to a partial single session (in this case, P1 - P2 will be in noon and P3-P6 in morning classes).

Personally, I had gone through both Am and PM classes and I tend to think that to have the lower primary students to be in the noon classes, are anything but "adding stress to the children". Of cos, it would be wonderful to have the children to have AM classes so that when they come home, they have sufficient time to rest, recharge, do their homeworks and slight playtime. But isn't this all about learning to manage? Naturally, to be in the PM classes, usually meant "shorter" hours, considering that by the time they return from school for dinner and all, it would be a good 7-8pm, which is nearing to bedtime, hence leaving lesser time for revision and all. But if the child does not learn to manage, then how do they cope with their work in future? We all know that timelines and deadlines once set, are hardly negotiable. And even if the superiors allow an extension, how would it reflect on the employee's capabilities?

Given a choice, i would certainly hope for my son to be enrolled in AM classes since the positivities outweigh the cons. But I guess I won't be too hard on MOE. Afterall, at the end of the day, its all about learning to manage the expectations - both parents and child.

Well, is this a controversy, I do not know, because there were some forumers "slamming" the writer as her letter seems to cause a little storm. Probably when reading, we all sensed the writer's unhappiness and it kind of rub off some bad effects when we read. Hope the writer will chill down soon, and move on.

Bosses

2008-07-23T21:45:00.004+08:00

Lets talk about bosses today. I always thought having a good family upbringing is so important, especially in the growing years. But having gone under the management of several superiors aka Bosses, i can attest this is another batch of people who mould the future u. Lets give some credit to my past bosses:

1997-1998

Did my 6mths internship at sunny island, Sentosa, in the events department. It was a fantastic learning curve for me. A rewarding one too, for my interest in managing events grew from there, and . . . . and . . . i found my life partner there too! kekeke.... too much info liao! My then superiors were nice. My direct mentor, Chris, was a sweet temper man, and good looking too! Thru him, i learnt to be meticulous in my work, learning to meet corporate clients etc. Chris' direct boss, V was like my boss too! I dare say, amongst the 7 interns there, he gave me the most chances to learn and do what i am interested in. The interns were supposed to switch departments after 3mths, but i requested to V, that i would like to remain in the dept for the entire 6mths. Well, 3 mths seemed too short to learn the essence of good events management. He believed in my theory and gave me the confidence to take on high budgeted events. Thru V, i learnt how to speak up to ask for essential budgets, resources etc. . .

1998 - 1999

My first job after graduation, was at LTA. That was the place, where i had many beautiful memories and where i met the most incredible group of people. My big boss, LCK, was . . . (delete many words). My superior, Sally is probably one of my most respected Superior ever. A gungho woman, whom excelled at her work, yet can ha-la with us anytime. Can u every understand how ur boss is able to "conspired" with you to make fun of your colleagues? I thot i did blog abt some stupid things we did in our heydays! Yes, she was great becos she was unselfish in imparting her knowledge to us. Before u start thinkin she must be some old aunty, no, she is not. Back then, she was in her early thirties then. She was the one who inspired me to get out of the civil servant job to go seek a greener pasture since i was only 21. Thanks Sally!

1999-2001

I left "Iron RiceBowl" to try out at a SME. That was a true training ground. That was the place where I had a taste of my first "efforts paid off by commissions", my first taste of office politics and of cos, my own staff. I started out as sales, but hahaha, was always given extra tasks to "develop" the company... kekeke... maybe becos i was too "participative" and always give my "2cents worth" to my bosses. Its so funny, everywhere i go, i seemed to have 2 bosses. My direct boss, Joe, was another looker. Wahaha, i quite "fortunate" hor? Joe gave me absolute freedom to develop my own set of accounts and he gave me the confidence that i needed. YT was another boss too. I am also very grateful for all the confidence he had in me. It was certainly very motivating to have the bosses asking for opinions and trusting me enough to set up a media department, considering that i was only 21 then. Looking back, i guess YT was one of the role model i aspired to be, cos of his ambitions and his "never say no" attitude. Many would have said he was a tryant or a manipulator, or that he was borned with silver spoon thus not knowing the hardships. But, i guess all these misperceptions vanished the moment he made it and achieved his dreams. Good for him to eventually achieved his dreams. Btw, both bosses are just 5 years my senior!!! The young achievers, huh? keke

2001-2001

Yup, its not a typo error. I was "headhunted" to go interview with MCR. During my interview, i managed to impress 2 different unit heads and when i reported for work, i was told by my superior that i was supposed to go to the other unit that manages "difficult-to-crack" accounts, but my superior insisted i must go over to his team that serves the Top Spending accounts. My superior, was a "Yes-man". Everything was "Ok, of cos, no prob!!" and most of the time, we had to "manage" him and his intended expectations. It was also becos of the attitude, that we got red-eyes from many other teams. Basically, i was there for only 6mths and decided that such a "big" environment (60 sales!!) was not suitable for me. Too many "internal issues" to manage.

2002 - present

Well, my next boss is ME! Kekeke, we founded Leadz in mid 2002 and havent looked back since. Being my own boss, meant learning to behave like a superior. Its like an Angel and Devil scenario. When i want to throw my own temper or skive for the day, my "Superior" character comes stepping in, to control my lax moments.

I remembered for the initial 2 years, i din not draw any pay and life was hard. But we gritted on becos its our own business. We as in hb and me. So you can imagine how terrible it was, to have both hb and wife not drawing pay and still having to manage family expenses. Doesnt help that Daryl came as a surprise gift from God. Recalling those moments, i cant help by to think that we have gone a long way back.

Many would have thought that we are rich or else how to start the business, but no, its a total different story. How issit possible that having only worked for 4 yrs allowed me to have a substantial sum of savings? We started the business with whatever amount we had, and to think the amount we put in, was cheated by a despicable businessman. Nvm about the details. We've been through the "dig hands into pocket, to find whatever shillings we had to buy food", not enough money to pay for our house, and for a decent few years, i was unable to be a filial daughter, giving my parents pocket money. That thought made me sad. On several occasions, i even went on a job-hunting spree, attending as many as 3 interviews in a week. Some offered, and some rejected. But after consideration, I still did not made the move on. It must be fated, i guess. But at times, i like to imagine what would our live be like now, had i went out to work.

I guess having gone through several rounds of employment, made me a better person, and i hope, a better superior. Now that i am "boss" to many temps, it only felt right to treat these people as my "permanent staff", rather than freelancer. Afterall, the above bosses kinda imparted people management skills to me and it effectively moulds me to be a better boss, who is willing to listen, has a keen eye to notice and has a good heart to feel. Eventually, i like to believe that employees are the greatest assets for a growing company.

Irresponsible Parents?

2008-07-22T21:50:00.005+08:00

After reading this article in Asiaone, it sparked off the urge to air my views. Maybe its pretty much in relation to me, as a mum?

The article talks about some parents whom despite the fact that their children might or already have HFMD, are still bringing their kids to school, thereby causing a rise in this scary disease. It states in the article that "However, there is an appalling lack of social responsibility and civic-mindedness on the parents' part." This statement is pretty interesting to debate on...

When i was first introduced to this abbreviation, little did I know that it would be one of the most talked about, read about and discussed about term. Pictures of the infection scare me and got me a little paranoid, especially since the HFMD is pretty and commonly widespread.

Sending Daryl to school means having a round of checks on his tongues and limbs and of cos, the temperature. I do think such measures are good, because they not only allows the school and parents to have their peace of mind, knowing that their kids are safe from the germs, they also create slight "tension" amongst the kids, creating the need for the kids to learn about having good hygience habits.

I always practised having son going on MCs when he has the following symptons:

1) Sore Eyes (aka Red Eyes)

2) Cough (over 3 days)

3) Rashes (just becos we cant determine if its normal rash or HFMD)

4) Asthmatic attacks

I am simply just worried that it may cause son lotsa discomforts when he goes school with such symptoms. Worst still, what if his classmates catch the germs too? The parents would probably be coming after me (or us?) with . . . ?? But of cos, I am also guilty of thinkin that he should be in school to catch up his schoolwork, rather than to be at home nursing his illness.

Well, the debate-able issue here is that are parents who send their kids to school even though knowing that their kids might have contracted the HFMD lacking social responsibilities and not being civic-minded enough? Note that I italicised (is there such a word?) the word "might". Naturally, those who are aware that their kids have confirmed contracted the diease and still send their kids to school, are well, quite darn huh? But that's that not aiming at parents who are unaware of the kids with the germs.

Sometimes, i doubt these parents are not exactly without civic minds, but perhaps its a case of kiasu-ism at work. Afterall, when we talk about isolation, we are not talking about a 24hours "Away from human" kinda isolation. Its a minimum of 3days isolation. That means not having education for the 3 days. Just think about the losses? Being unable to catch up with the rest of the classmates is a major concern for the Kiasu parents.

Its a coin with 2 sides. Either way, its for the good of the children. Its only how we see it. Hopefully parents are able to assess the seriousness of having HFMD kids in schools or public places. Once the schools are bacteria-free, it makes learning a happy process for the kids, right?

Foodie Indulgence!

2008-07-21T23:38:00.006+08:00

WAIT!! first, let me do a "throw head back and laugh" at myself first! wahahahaha. . . i so badly want to blog but have no interest in blogging my Mundane Monday Off Day details. So. . . i decided to blog about My Favourite Food! I say i am being very bo liao!!! kakaka

Well, listed below are some dishes that i find myself so drawn to, in no chronological order. In the first place, no need to list what's top favourite, what's 2nd best etc. Delicious? Just whack!! kekeke

Crabs!!

Ya, u name them, i eat them. Be it the different cooking styles or whether Mud Crabs or Fower Crabs or . . . . or. . . . Snow Crabs, from savoury chilli crabs, to spicy black pepper crabs and lately discovered (actually few years back) creamy butter crabs. Oh ya, not forgetting a whole bowl of unbelievably thick and richly flavoured Crab Bee Hoon soup. Darn, the thot of these are making me drool!

i love the challenge of "cleaning" the crabs meatless! Hey, its a skill to be able to get all those fresh meat out from the "skinny legs"!! If its a plate of savoury chilli crabs, i'll dive for the fried Mantou and dipped generously into the gravy. For creamy butter crabs, the shiokest part is to marry the slightly fried crabs with the oh-so-rich cream. Oh, flower crabs!! i love to cook this with lotsa big green onions. This is the easiest type of crabs to cook, as Mud Crabs take a slightly longer time to cook, and requires more efforts to make it less stinky and for the taste to seep into the meat. For Flower Crabs, it is naturally sweet, whether u steam them, or just a simple stir fry with chilli or eggs or onions.

I remember i would always reward myself for any hardwork, by treating myself to a Crabby Session. Yeap, quite crappy u may say. But yes, if its family dinner for any celebrations, we cant miss out a crab dish. And, i am known by hb to be "crazy" to run down to buy just ONE crab, in order to satisfy my cravings. :P

Laksa

Another favourite food! I was trained by dad when young (like 5yo) to start appreciating spicy stuff. What better way to train my taste bud to accept the spicy taste? Laksa of cos! Having tasted diff Laksas, i swear by the Jlan Besar's "spoon only" laksa! The fact that it is pretty watery without too much lemak. I just like my laksa to be not too thick with lemak. Health conscious? wahaha, i dunno leh, just subconsciously dun like lah. Oh, the Bendemeer market's Ming Kee used to sell pretty superb laksa too, but too bad, the old couple sold it off to someone and eversince then, i stop patronising. I rememberly fondly that when i was pregnant with Daryl, i used to eat Ming Kee's laksa twice EVERY week. Now u know where do i get my extra pounds?? *wink*.

My favourite way of eating laksa? It must only be thin beehoon-mee. But lately, i seem to enjoy thick beehoon too!! hahaha. And, if I am having laksa for breakfast and if MacDonald's is anyway near, u'll be sure to see me buy a hashbrown to accompany the dish. I would immerse the hashbrown into the soup and when its all soggy, i'll scoop up the soup with lots of small bits hashbrown. Oh, it is SEDAP! "i no bluff you wan! Must remember to try hor?" :)

Steamboat aka Hot Pot

Technically, i dun consider SteamBoat to be a dish, but it is a combination of many nice food to become a dish. For me, hot pot whether eaten by a group of people or just 2, is equally NICE! For group hotpot session, i appreaciate the atmosphere set, when everyone automatically joke, laugh and eat. And better still if its a buffet session!!! I like to have hotpot with hb alone too. Cos during the meal, i would always be in high spirits and talk and eat non stop. Hb's sometimes like the "worm" in my body. He just know when i need to have my hotpot fix!

On days that i would like to splurge on a good steamboat, its usually a choice of either Coca or Chongqing Magic HotPot, heavily dependent on where is my current location. But not cheap lor! Per pax usually ranges from $35 to $40! Steep ya? But who says cheap steamboats are not nice? Since school days, i would frequent Parkway Parade's steamboat stall at the B1 foodcourt. Well, i "witnessed" it expanded from a small stall to a stall with designated seating arrangements, stating "No Outside Food Allowed".... I love its half-half pot. We will certainly have a mix of tom yam and chicken soup. One typical meal btw 2 diners would range abt $30? Only con is that it is ala-carte and not buffet. But, still good lor!!!! Sluuuuuurrrrrp!

Chwee Kueh

Lest u think i always aim for expensive food, let me tell u this, that i adore chwee kueh!!! Rice flour mixed with oily+salty choy por (preserved radish) is TWO thumbs up! And served piping hot with good chilli, this simple dish will never fail to brighten my day! Tiong Bahru's Jain Bo serves the BEST chwee kueh!!!!!

On side notes, i always feel that choy por is fantastic! With fried eggs, chwee kueh or to stir fry with long beans, the taste is beyond description!! its plain good!

Well, almost there, mind's not thinking anymore abt my food indulgence, cos i am sleepy!!!! Guess i will be seeing lots of crabs in my dreams! hehehe

Punctured!

2008-07-19T23:32:00.006+08:00

It was an early morning surprise, to see the back wheel punctured. What was lucky for us, was that there were no car parked next to our ride, hence making it easy to spot the deflated wheel. Cant imagine if hb din spot the punctured wheel. Our plan to go pick my parents to collect the new lorry was aborted and had to get my bro to send them to collect instead.

Hb wasted no time to start operating on the wheel. When he removed the spare tyre from our boot, we were like "WTH!". The spare tyre probably is a 13"... hahaha. Wow, my man is GOOD!! kekeke, seeing him remove the wheels just made me go "waaahhhhh, so coooool!!!!" hehehe. All in all, it took him abt less than 10 mins to settle the changing. By then, he was sweating profusely, and fingers were all blackish. We examined the wheel and saw 3 nails, almost like a straight line, poked into the tyre. Dammnit!!!!

Decided to drive to Yang's place to change the tyre. When we sat in the car, hb noticed a piece of paper on the windscreen. It was a piece of used coupon, with the reverse written to get us to look out for the punctured wheel. I love tis neighbourhood!!!! Thanks to whoever you are, neighbour!!

At Yang's place, we waited for a while and in no time, all was settled. We had our 15" back!!! And the mechanic showed us the 4 nails on the tyre. Yea!! Its FOUR and not THREE!!! How on earth did we get soooo lucky?? Proceeded back to office to pack up for noon's roadshow, and of cos to say "hi" to our new lorry!!

Healing Touch

2008-07-15T22:15:00.003+08:00

Left office abt 2plus, to client's office to deliver invoice. Settle my banking stuff and was walking aimlessly. Contemplated so hard if i should go for my long-awaited massage. Doesnt help that hb encouraged me, while on the phone, that yes, why dun i go for my massage, since i've been grumbling so long abt not visiting any massage joints. So, i sashayed from Centrepoint to Rendevous Hotel (yup, in my 2.5" heels), thinking about where will be good. Too bad, Rustic Nirvana's Cuppage outlet was closed for renovations.

Called up Citispa Beach Rd and was informed that it would be $78 for trial massage - 45mins. When boarded the cab, i somehow just mouthed "Uncle, River Valley, Tank Rd", instead of Beach Rd. Hahaha, guess at the back of my mind, i was comparing btw spending almost same amt for either a 45mins session or a 1hr session. Din take long for a genius like me to figure where i wanna go....

Wanted to walk into Peace of Mind (i always frequent there), but somehow, decided to check out Healing Touch, which is just next to POM. Looking pretty quiet as i dun see any customers around. The difference btw POM and HT is that the former's therapists are mainly Thai Chinese, hence they like to infuse a mix of Balinese + Thai. For HT, the therapist are mainly Chinese-Chinese, and they adopt the traditional Tui Na with a hint of Relaxing Massage. And, i was asked if i wanted to do a 45mins, 1hr, 1.5hr or 2hrs session. Being in the mood to pamper myself, i took up the 1.5hr slot, and at $65!!!!!! Cheap leh!!! Opted for Relaxing Oil instead of the Warm Oil bcos i dun want to walk out smelling like Lemon Grass! kekeke

My therapist was nice, asked if i felt cold. She then brought in as many as 3 towels just to wrap me up!!! kakaka... She started with my neck and shoulder (forever a huge problem for me) and started rubbing me in all the RIGHT ways! Amazing cos i felt my knotty issues seemed to vanish slowly. I must have fell asleep while she was doing the shoulders becos i felt myself awakened when she asked if i felt any pain as she massaged my back. I seemed to lost my memory for that spilt second! Couldnt recall if she did did my shoulders. ha ha ha...Asked again if i felt cold and i said i was. She disappeared to get me another towel! By then, i had almost 4 huge towels covering my back, and i was giggling to myself cos damn! i felt the weight of the towels!!

I was done by 6pm and walked out, damm refreshed, but slight greasy hair!! Ah, the cons of doing massage! Chanced upon Sel, who was waiting for her bus. She gave such a tight bear hug that i was laughing all the way!! Couldnt hang out long cos she rushin for her event. Me, did another round of walkin, to Clarke Quay to board NEL train, to meet my 2 Darlings. Thats quite a lot of walking today!!!

Now that i am lazing comfortably, blogging away, i am thinkin that i should be researching for my holidays soon...hahaha, SHAME on me!!! its enjoyment after enjoyment!!! But, like BenQ's tagline says "Enjoyment Matters"!!!! :)

TGI Monday!

2008-07-15T00:55:00.004+08:00

Yes!!! Its lovely Monday yet again! Weekend was busy as usual, but i guess hb n me have learnt to relax. So when one's all relaxed, and not tensed, one becomes instantly happier and full of craps in this instant. Oh well, someone conferred a new "title" for me, on Sunday. We were on the topic of whether a woman's value will depreciate as she becomes older or married, and i insisted mine appreciated, and guess what? I was told it doesnt really matter for me, as i am considerered "Scrapped Metal". *GASPS*!!!!

Today, we sent son to the office and dwelled there for sometime, before leaving for our date. Yup! Alternative Mondays for for dating and family life. Tis wk, its 2 person's world, and we went to Suntec to catch "Red Cliff". Its a show i would not watch, if not for hb's interest. Ask me abt the 3 Kingdoms, and be prepared to see my blank face. Ok, my limited knowledge of the 3 Kingdoms was based on what i watched on SCV Ch 55, and heresays from hb. Other than dat, its "Huh????"

Well, i thot the Red Cliff was a little draggy, especially the war part. But i am also amazed at the huge numbers of part-time actors recruited to act as commoners. I was whispering to Hb that its so amazing that most chinese shows like to "use" so many "care-le-feis" and he whispered back "how you know they dun re-use the same pple for different scenes? just a change of clothings and scenes nia mah" . . . i was like "gua gua gua....."

Well, i thot Tony Leung was indeed so suited for the Zhou Yu's character! Or, maybe its just me? Tony Leung's never fail in whatever roles he got anyway. He's just DAMN GOOD! Ok ok, i m obsessed with him. I especially love seeing him use his expressive eyes to act. I mean, not everyone can bring out a "sly" or "twinkle in the eyes" kinda scenes lor! i just cant seem to associate any actors who can pull off this Zhou Yu's character. Oh!! and Takeshi Kaneshiro, is another surprise!!! Again, i am smitten by the eyes too!! Gosh! i should just start walking on the road, blind-folded, lest some guys come walking my way with the same equally captivating eye expressions!!! hahahaha... Back to Takeshi, i thot having him in the show was more like a "stunt" to bring up the box office, considering he's an "international" star. But, then again, who else is good to be Zhu Ge Liang leh? hehehe . . .

Well, after the show, we went Kuishinbo for dinner. Was supposed to meet family at 7.30pm then head into the restaurant, but the waitress encouraged us to go sit first cos she aint sure by 7.30pm we would hv seats. Hence, by 6pm, we were seated so comfortably, while waiting for family to arrive. And during the course of waiting, we devoured so many Snow Crabs and Chilled Prawns, that we doubt we would be able to join the rest for more food. But boy! we were so wrong! When all's arrived, we had our second round! It was more snow crabs and prawns and of cos, the tempuras too!! This is the first time my 2 old folks had japanese food, and i was laughing that its a training, so that we may next plan a possible Japan trip!! Kekeke, lame right?

It felt good, to be seeing Daryl Darling enjoyed his snow crabs, as much as his gluttony mummy was! And, he was just too enticed by the spread of delicacies on the dessert island. It was chocolate donuts, chocolate fondue with marshmallows, ice cream etc etc....

My bro n Leah, was equally enjoying themselves while hb n me were damn laid back, nursing bloated tummies. Left at abot 9.30pm... with a hole in the pocket $269+++.... Still, money well spent, considering that it was quality dinner. Guess, have to do this more often too!! :)

New Blogskin!!

2008-07-11T01:44:00.005+08:00

As promised, you are now reading my blog, with its new appearance!!! This time, its a typical black setting, "flooded" with so many pics that you probably will spend more time examining each picture, than to read the entries. Wahahaha!!

While searching for pictures to plonk into the blog, i chanced upon so many old pictures, and hb was deeply disturbed by my frequent "exclamations" that sounded almost like I had discovered some hidden "diamonds". It was pretty sensational, especially when i saw pictures of Daryl Darling's baby pics. How time flies, now that he is 5yo. How I aged, now that there's obvious comparisons between the pics now and then. Hb said indeed i have "aged gracefully"....hahahaha, i thot so too leh!

Its 2am now, and i am blogging away. Somewhere in Yishun, my endearing pistachio, Jnr Mel, is blogging away too! hahaha, he said he's gonna put up an entry of his JB trip this noon. And i am once again reminded of my impending holiday. Only problem now is "WHERE and WHEN"?? But i guess, my impending trip's gonna be pushed back to CNY (ok ok, i know its a freaking long time!!" ) Becos thats when i can officially declare the company's close for festive seasons.

Now that one project (change of blogskin) is down, the next i guess, will be to start planning for the CNY trip. Hmmm, maybe, i can "insert" one more project in since its still a long way to CNY. I can probably take out ALL my old photos, and scan them one by one to "keep".

Alright, that will be it!! Hopefully i can suss out more goody old pics, and upload here for all to see!! Time to hit the bed!!!!!! Looking forward to a possible singing session tmr... :P

Time for a Change?

2008-07-10T10:59:00.002+08:00

Hmmmm, i am thinking, probably time to change my appearance. What should i do? Black or White? Size? Looks? I am talking about my blogskin. Ok, this will be my next project during my next possible "ME" time.

Any reference??????

In Reciprocation of My Young Frens

2008-07-08T00:58:00.004+08:00

In reciprocation of an entry made in honour of "Cat" i.,e. yours truly, I have promised to do a super long entry abt my "temps-turned-frens". But, i am gonna cheat a little, i.e. to blog not about just one person, but a few of these interesting little young adults, to make it into the "supposedly long entry"! Here goes:

Redemption Gals

I love to affectionately call them my "Redemption Gals", not because i am allowing anyone of them to be redeemed "away" from me. (cold jokes as usual). They are Rachel, Mich n Iris.

Well, in terms of seniority, Rachel has "followed" me since 2007, when we did my 1st "printer event". In fact, yup, i did blog abt it in my previous entry. Since then, she's always been my designated Redemption Officer. Young but steady, with occasional reassurance needed, she's always been my prized helper. Alongside with her, she intro-ed Michelle and Iris, both her besties, into the job. Yup, that makes it a total of 3 young adults...

Mich has assisted for several shows and has been excelling each time. Someone with a "quick temper" but mellows fast too, based on my observation. She's got ideals and has objectives in her life, but needs lots of encouragements. Bring on your confidence and march towards ur goals. Well, way to go, gal!

Iris, to me, is very alike to Mich. Both are pple with straight characters. Like means like, dun like means dun like. But they reminded me of myself when young. hahaha. And i thot thats very fine, cos when out in the working society, all these true characters will somehow be masked. At least, once in a lifetime, they get to be their own true selves.

SIM aka DREAM TEAM

Well, this team is not called Dream Team for nothing. Although the physical working durations are shorter than the Redemptiopn Gals, but the number of events we did were more than the above gals. Imagine working weekly with this team, my age "younger-ed" by 5 yrs!! Now this team has done me proud and full of pride i have for them!

Lynn, was my main contact for this group of pple. It was during Sel Dearest's event that I got to know Lynn. She was my "cue-girl" literally. Well, during that event, when the speakers went beyond stipulated timing, my pretty Cue Girl would raise her cue board to "attract" the speakers' attention. When i first set my eyes on her, i was like "What a Pretty CHICK"!! She has tis really sweet smile and the eye lashes flutters when she blinks! And when i clinched my RS deals, i got her to ask ard if there would be any interested frens willing to work and guess what? She got me the Dream Team! hahahah

During the 1st 3 months of my weekly RSs (pardon me, but i aint revealing client's name here), I had a total of 5 temps, Lynn, Mel, Angie, Eve and Suhaimi. We went thru product trainings and worked with positivity and hunour during each and every RS. I would usually pick them (except Suhaimi cos he rides) at a designated train station and would start our journey to our event site, where we would work for a straight 5 hrs into the night, then drive them bk to nearest train station.

During the initial stage, I would always confuse betwen Angie and Eve. WaHahaha, and i gotta confess here, that i din get to clear my doubts till the 3rd or 4th RS. hahaha, thats lousy, but so typical of an "aunty" with bad memory. Both gals are spunky lasses! It is amazing to me how fast and how good they are at their product knowledge. Both are the types who would throw their heads back and laugh heartily, but yet feminie enough too. Also, i always feel that they are positive go-getters, and willing to try new things.

Then i also have Suhaimi, whom is not from SIM, but is a fren of Lynn. A quiet man but with humour and opens up gradually with he reached a certain degree of familiarity with his team mates. I always thot he "looks" like my hb, with thick black hair, bespectacled, dark complexion and "skinny"....kekeke ;P

At this moment, i know someone is almost "screwing" his face, asking how come i am not talking abt him yet. wahahaha, Ok, besides the above 4, there's another one, who has been irritating me during all the RSs. Well, lucky for him and me, that # 1, he's "cute" and "attractive" (he said he is, not me), and # 2, i am a nice person who dun get angry easily. This person is non other than Junior Mel. He's our "pistachios", in chinese, we call it "Kai Xin Guo". RSs were made more interesting becos of his endless jokes, and chatterings. He is also my ready source that i will turn to, when i need extra temp staff, for he would help me to broadcast my requirements. This little "Torres" (he is a soccer-siao) sees soccer as his life. He is also my"caffeine" who keeps me awake every night, whenever i am online, for he will surely greet me with his 1st sentence ," Yo! Aunty Cat!!"... wahaha.. followed by a string of "suan-ings" and of cos the occasional sensible conversations, like "soccer", "school" or "daily reporting". kekeke

The above 5 has endured my endless "naggings" and "preachings" whether when there are window periods during RSs, or in the cars, when i sent them home after events... hahaha, come to think of it, i am really very lor soh lor... but its affectionate when i rewind and think abt the "past". The topics would always revolve ard their studies, their future etc... no wonder they call me "Aunty Cat"....hahahaha

Then, I have the 2 Js. Jay and Jinzhi, whom was introduced by Pistachio Mel, i tink, for one of my printer fair early this year. Naturally, the one who shares the same name with a popular, talented Taiwanese singer, who tops charts each time he releases his album, will never hesitate to liken himself to this singer. :P When i first met the 2 Js, both were tall and "manly"...hahaha, and heck, both bespectacled too... Doesnt help that both names start with "J"... and when i got confused, the brilliant but thick skinned Jay reminded me to "associate" him with "Jay Chou"!!! Can u beat that? I found someone who is more thick skin than me!! hoohoohooo!!

Jinzhi, on the other hand, is always the target of endless jokes by the above few... but just like me, very good naturedly went along with their teases. He is the eldest among the few, and hence, i felt, one of the more mature ones. But when the need arises, he can be pretty mischievous..hiak hiak hiak... I like his "oh, unsure, but lets just do it" kinda attitude. I also like his readily sincere smile! Basically, anyone who smiles, are nice pple, JUST LIKE ME!!!! wahahaha, Pistachio Mel, are u flipping yet???

Both Js did me VERY PROUD when they did their 1st IT show with me, by becoming my TOP SALES! Their "debut performance" were stunning! I felt that my initial insistence to use them for the fair has proven my foresight, once again. And becos of their wide network, they never fail to help me find enough manpower when i need help.

These group of young adults, made up my SIM aka Dream Team. Am proud when my clients at times said that "oh, i heard abt Cat's Dream Team"... wahahahaa.....

Promoters

Worked with so many promoters before, and all these kids have different characters. But there was one who left me with a very deep impression.... Ben. He is really mature for a man of his age, and mind u, i am talking abt a young age!!! But then again, basically anyone younger than me, IS young! I really appreciate the time when he kept me company while online, when i was tabulation sales report during my 1st IT show. I can rem, i was basically up from morning till next moring 5-6am almost every day, with a less than 3hrs sleep. And this young man, basically kept me company online too! And no, it was not the incessantly yakking non-stop type. . unlike the other temps, he is like a wisely old man, trapped in a young body...hahahaa.... sometimes, he even will remind me not to be so exploited by clients! wahahaha. . . . and when i said something that he felt was good advice, he would request for me to repeat again while he copied down! hahahaha, thats lotsa ego-boosting for me!

Well, hb always teases me, that suddenly within a year, i seemed to have "mothered" many kids! Well, i do enjoy the company of these young adults, becos it is also thru them, that I widen my understanding of the likes/dislikes, living patterns etc of this generation. Wah, shld strike off this sentence cos makes me older than i am lor... haha. I believe in treating pple right. End of the day, why stinge when I can share my life experiences? Sometimes hb chides me, for being kpo, especially when i tell him that i "counselled" so and so, or nagged at this or that person. He said pple may not like the interference. Up to now, i am trying to learn to be detached, but hmmm... its gonna take a long time for me to learn to be "cold"...

Hmmm.. .. .. entry long enough? wahahahaha

2008-06-19T18:14:00.002+08:00

Did a quiz on Facebook about What Kind of Heart Do You Have and ta-da .the results ......:

Happy heart.
Your always happy,not matter what happens.You will always turn that frown upside down,even it upsets you.You want to bring out the best in people.And thats what people expect you to do when they come to you for advice and problems.

So, who else has a Happy Heart so that I can go to you for advice?

A Mother's Feeling

2008-06-13T00:13:00.002+08:00

Due to work, i have not been able to see my Daryl Darling for close to 3 days, and this annoyed me much. I dunno what the hell i m doing. I am beginning to doubt if i am a good mum. HB lately asked me, why are we suddenly working so hard for, and he commented that he would rather earn lesser and be like the past, where we had quality wkends with our friends and son, than now.

but work shall still continue, only that i shall be selective abt accepting jobs from now on. Problem is: can i do that?

Seeing Daryl Darling growing up so fast, makes me wonder out of his 5yrs in this world, how much quality time have we given him? Its only a few days that i havent taken a proper look at my handsome chap, but when i set my eyes on him today, i realised he has grown quite a fair bit lately. Taller by a few cms, face rounder by a little and character moulded by a fair bit. hahaha, what a change and what an irony, to start seeing the changes only cos of the lack of time spent with him.

You know, sometimes its tough to be a mother, a dutiful one, that is. But all will be worthwhile if Daryl understands why we are working hard. And yes, while i still have some energy left, i guess i better learn to balance btw family and work. And when reality sets in, i will hv to make a choice btw them. Bear with me, son.

2008-06-06T00:23:00.003+08:00

This is a lousy period becos i lost some things:

1) Quality Family Time
2) Valuable Personal Space
3) Respect
4) Confidante
5) Guts

There are many things i wanna scream out but i lost my guts to shout about it, especially thru online. I dream of those carefree days, when i can talk or write about anything i want to, anywhere or to anyone.

It seems to me that the little obstinacy i have, to remain as myself as possible, has vanished too. Now, i feel as if i am under the scrutiny of many pairs of eyes. And under such circumstances, "overly-sensitive" me cant help but to tread carefully, every time i try to "lift" my legs. Any carelessness, will result in unimaginable consequences. Actually, it probably aint that serious as i made out to be, perhaps.

I like those times, when i can talk or write without thinking. Ok, i mean not literally, but more like to be free spirited, not like now, to think about this and that before penning. Which is also the reason why i have been inactive in blogging lately.

Oh, i believe if cheeseboy is reading this, he will probably be laughing at me big time, saying that being melancholy is exclusive to him only. But then again, i am incline to think Cheeseboy is busy flirting away now!! wahaha, Eric, SHOW US your new date!!!!!

Juzzy said i should have a private blog so that i can realli share my happiness or whatever, with myslf alone. Ya, i am also thinking, why do i want to burden others, just to learn my musings? Everyone has better things to doo. kakaka

I have been stuck for a gd 15 mins, dun now how to "carry"on, expressing myself. Will probably have to find an outlet soon.

As abrupt as u can imagine, will pen off here.

Welcome Back, Charlie's Angels!

2008-04-29T23:07:00.003+08:00

Yeap!!!! Made it back to Sin in ONE piece! Actually almost ONE piece.. Read on and you will know why.

Day 1
The Charlie's Angels met at Budget Terminal at abt 3plus. Oh, its so hard to be separated from hb n son, even thou its a mere 5 days! we havent been apart for even 1 day, i mean hb n me... and though he din say anything, i can feel he was kinda uptight... kekeke... that felt gd.

Boarded Tiger at 6pm. My 1st time on Tiger. Hmmm, felt that the uni was kinda too casual even thou was suppose to be "Budget Airline". Flight experience was pleasant thou (as compared to return flight on AirAsia).

Reached hotel abt almost 9pm, and got a pleasant surprise! Room was huge and nice! After 2 queen sized beds, the whole place was still roomy!! Sel's fren, Aaron, came by to meet us for dinner. Aaron brought us to Chinatown for seafood dinner. No, nt the posh restaraunt, but the roadside stall, which is even better for us! Oh, the huge prawns were grilled to a perfect red! Pretty fresh indeed! And for the lazy, the chilli crab was done such that the meat was coated with nice savoury eggy gravy! After dinner, we popped to the opposite for birds nest! Lovely!

After dinner, we went to Saphan Put Night Market. The night market was not exactly that spectacular, but i did find cheap berms for my dad!! So happy! Decided that we were almost done, we took a cab bk to a coffee place near our hotel, for some hot drinks... Sat and talked till almost 3plus, and our hero, Aaron, stood in the rain to hitch the cab for us.. nice man!

Din exactly dived into the bed cos we took turns to wash up...Ended up, we had our gals' talk till almost 5am!! Thks darlings, for hearing my problem, and for waking me to my senses.... Its all over now, and I'm all fine! Right as rain!

Day 2
Sel warned us, that it will be a whole day shopping. Left the hotel and headed to "Once upon a Time" for lunch. That was a nice kampong-y cottage restaurant. We were the only diners. Had simple lunch, with coconut chicken soup, fried rice and salad, Headed to Pratunam Platinum Mall for our shopping spree. Its amazing, that we survived almost 5 hrs in one building alone! JC bought lotsa items, mostly picked up by Sel. Me? Left the mall with 4 pairs of shoes, and other clothings for the kids.

When we finally left, we headed to Central World. Shopped ard a little, had our dessert at Kuppa. Fabulous cake!!! it was sheer bliss!! And i got stuck with Lychee Mint, a nice refreshing drink! Shall try to do that at home! Then, we hung ard more at Boots (voted my fav store). Been to BKK donkey times, but nvr notice that before. Its a chain store, somewhat like a pharmacy, selling lots of beauty products! We then dined at Fuji, a Jap restaurant. Everyone was visibly tired out. Headed bk to hotel and i declared state of emergency i.e. to recharge myself... needed my sleep..

Contd tmr... need sleep nw too!!

Eve of GRT'08

2008-04-23T22:14:00.002+08:00

Hooray!!! Finally, we are leaving for BKK tmr evening. Yes, I promise you people that i will surely enjoy myself to the fullest. HB has been nagging at me the entire day today, telling to go enjoy myself, and stop thinking about work or to worry abt buying things for anyone. He so damn knws me well!!

This time round, both JC n me are too tied up with work, and the entire itin is planned by Sel Dearest! 5 pages long!!! Comes attached with maps, directions & recommendations...wahahaha. She said she's damm excited, maciam 1st day to school! Ya, indeed, cos after being frens for donkey years, this is our 1st trip out!! Can u believe?? I cant.. but its true.

Was rushing everywhere today, to get my work done, do last min shopping for premiums for work, and to pass invoices to clients. Met bestie for a quick drink too. Cleared up the bad feelings we had over the past few days... Aiya, as usual, he sure will say"What bad feelings? Where got? u over sensitive lah"... hahaha, silly fella, i can read u like a book hor? Great that its been cleared. Thanks for the lucky charm!

Think i will miss my darlings badly while away leh... Was wondering last night, if hb will be able to sleep well for the next few nights, on an empty bed... then was thinking if son will call me nightly, as demanded?? Actually, i am full of faith, that hb will be able to handle my rascal well.. afterall, he's been handling him all this while... making the milk, bringing son to sch etc... i aint lousy mum lah, but i got doting hb... Love ya, babies!

Am telling myself to leave work aside till my return. Afterall, i really deserve my break. The road is long, and tough ahead. Also, i hope this trip will do me good, i.e. to straighten my thinking. The brain cells are all jumbled up. Its either i come back with bravery to confess or to come home, leaving the truth in bkk... wa!!!! I can go become a script writer liao!! kakakaka

Ya, since i love writing so much, maybe i should start on short essays... when i come back lah... Ok, shall go bkk to gather my writing materials. Stay tune.

YES, will be back safely!

Let it Go. . .

2008-04-21T23:36:00.002+08:00

From now on, I shall practise what I am been taught, i.e. See No Evil. Hear No Evil. Do No Evil.
Maybe he's right, "Just dun take it personally, Relax." Afterall, why so "see no open"? Everywhere also got loop holes mah.

End of the Day, you are just YOU. And there's just one YOU. You are a nice Fairy, but you aint a SuperWoman. You hate injustice but you cant prevent it. You scorn at system loopholes, but you cant put a stop. So, why make yourself so miserable? Just Let it Go! No one's gonna say,"What a saint!". If things backfire, people will say "What a faint!"... so, just blardy learn to "LET IT GO!"

Sometime, being laidback or to occasionally close 2 eyes at the right moment helps. Afterall, saying the infamous 3 words is not too difficult. Put on a sweet smile, take a deep breathe, and say," I dun no".

What can be as important as bread n butter? Dignity is just cheap talk. Damage's done. No "manning" (yes, mending should be the correct word") back. Maybe, must learn to be a bit more scheming, with a lot more covering (the conscience lah), and totally no care for other people's feelings... hahaha, so hateful. But like dat, sure succeed lor.

LET IT GO

Misunderstanding

2008-04-21T00:53:00.002+08:00

I was typing 2 paras and decided to delete them off... decided that it might do me more harm than good if i were to spell out my unhappiness.

Its proven already, that as much as many pple adore me (hahaha, dun say i buay paiseh), there will bound to be pple who cannot appreciate me for who i am... be it whether my presence is actually helping them to relieve their work load or enabling them more chances and spare time to do more events to gather more sales. And what would these type of pple do to openly show their dislikes? Find all sorts of troubles for me to do lor.

Since Jan till now, the hostility btw the 2 women seemed to intensify as more shows were put up. One hated the other for stealing away a lucrative part of her business. The other feels upset cos she's being misunderstood. One keeps finding faults and the other keeps trying to shield the many daggers flying her way. One chut-s different "patterns" during every show and the other always racks her brains to counter her patterns. One will never fail to scheme to cheat and the other would always need to be on her toes and hv eyes wide open to catch the "thieving" moments.

Close Fren chided me before that I am overly sensitive, but heck, thats becos i have never told him the whole story. Anyway, what can he do? Nothing. Every week, i would be using lots of impolite description to narrate whatever irritating stuff the other would do. Even hb, the nice man, got pissed off many many times.

All i wanna announced here is that i dun easily succumb to defeats and not especially when the other party is clearly the main culprit causing drifts betw me n my clients-turned-frens. But, just stop saying i m sensitive. Its either u believe me or not. Why do we let some silly outsider affect our decade long frenship? And dun tell me,"there u see, why u overly sensitive?" Its simple. I dun complain becos I knw it wuld be difficult for u as u will be in between us. But really, just dun say i think too much. Kena too many sabos liao. We have learnt to be smart.

Think i must seriously review,,,,

Fantastic Friday

2008-04-19T08:02:00.002+08:00

It was not as fanastic as I made out to be, during the day time. Damm! I was so bogged by work and I was literally lifeless. I guess I prob had some virus in my body, slowing down my "processor" - my brains. Lots of admin + ops work were done and the entire company is also in a tension stage, coming to Red Alert soon. Wahaha, ya, all were working hard, from admin to designer to production and of cos us too.

Morning was still fine, cos we went to Hougang Pt at abt 9am for breakfast and to site recce for a client's signage. So so so hope to clinch the deal!! Its many signs that we are talking abt!! Bless me, whoever!! Was talking to SC on the phone and haha, dun really have the appetite to finish my breakfast cos his conversation was far more interesting than my "bleh-looking" soggy mee! Just as well, to help me go on diet.

Was supposed to head down to SC's office to collect from lappies but was informed that they would be ready later. Hence popped to M. Sq with hb to chk on another signage and decided to hv our late lunch at 3.40pm. Went to Fin by Blue Lobster for their Fish n Chips. By then, I was quite restless, only wishing to stone away while waitin for SC's call. Had our fish and I ordered a beer, since it was happy hrs then. Hey $5 beer to relax away, really did a lot to soothe my "already saturated mind". That 30mins stoning was fabulous. The store was empty wiht no customers except the 2 of us. And when hb left to "treat" his tummy in the loo, the precious 10mins was an absolute "Me time"! Felt much better when we left for SC's office.

Oughta keep a chk on myself, cos I realise i havent been treating myself well lately. 1st thg when i wake up daily, was not to chk on son (damm! i m seriously ashamed of myself as a mum), but to recap on what I should be doing for work for the day. And last thg i do before i sleep, i would usually still be thinking abt work, abt possible ways to ease the admin n ops processes. And in my sleep, my brain dun rest cos it would be working still. Dunno how to explain, but i always liken my sleep as "energy-saving/on sleep mode", meaning though i could be physically sleeping, but my brains would still be ticking away. Damm! Its scary, really.

Left office at 8pm, for Kallang. When we reached, the boys seemed to be aware that I wasnt my usual self. Cos I dun go fluttering and openly "flirt" with them with my usual cheery "Hello!!!!!". Darn Mart said I looked tired. Mav said how come i look so "shagged" and laughed if hb n me have been "working" too hard... so crappy!! kakaka... Love these pple cos they nvr fail to make me laugh. I'm like a jewel to them..wahahaha

We headed for our bowling (yes, again!!) at Leisure Dome. It was sooooooo fun! Becos i decided that i should not show them my tired self cos its not fair to them... and when i decided to perk myself up, i did it well!! Within seconds, I was cracking jokes with almost everyone else. Hb was great!!! Started off with a "Strike" to "scare" them off...keke...Had a total of 3 games, and i think generally, all did well.. much much better than the past 2 sessions. At least, I was happy that I was back to my old standards.

When anyone striked or spared, we usually would "hi-5". But Delvin was protesting that i should nt "Hi-5" to hb, but shld kiss him instead... wahahaha, what can be so difficult? Just a kiss only mah, and for my man leh! Who cared abt Public Display of Affection? Not me! The boys always laugh at me for being so "direct" and "unbashful". Ended up, there were happy hugs and "pretentious kiss" to "perform" for the others. Lest u guys think I m so loony, it wasnt those wet slurpy kisses hor... those are reserved for special moments. More like excitement combined with happiness and admiration for my man, all conserved in the big kiss on the cheek... Ok, spare u the details lah.

Gosh, reached hm at close to 2am and instantly knocked out. But as usual, din sleep well, and was up since 7am, facebooking and blogging. Hmmm, shallow me want to find out who are my 2 "wishers" leh! I got 2 person wishing to "buy" me at "Friends for Sale". So motivating and such ego-booster...

Ok, my precious baby is stretching his arms and rubbing his eyes now, signs of awaking. Gotta prepare him for his Zoophonics class later. Promised to bring him for an ice cream (actually more like to satisfy my cravings) and to let him wander into an arcade.. I m lousy mum! Other mums are pressing their kids to study well, and I m the complete opposite! Too slack in my "mgt" of the kid... *Whipped myself*... Ok, ta!

Looking forward to GRT;08.

2008-04-17T22:40:00.011+08:00

Feeling a little lazy now, although i got piles of work sitting in front of me now. This noon, Bestie said I should go get myself some sleep. Maybe he's hinting at my blackish eyebags...hahaha

I like this moment. I mean right now. Blogging away, not caring about the work in front of me, listening to nice light jazzy tunes and most importantly, breathing nice green tea aroma. I am a huge sucker for nice smells. I have 4 burners at home, and close to 20 bottles of aromas. Love the feeling of nice smelling air around me, especially on a tired day. Its strange, but i always feel spirited when nice smell surrounds me.

My All Time Favourites

Back to propaganda, if i have more than 24 hrs, what would i do? Perhaps devote 10 hrs to work, 10 hrs to sleep, 12 hours to hb n son, and maybe 5 hrs of "Me Time". Am i too greedy? Did i miss out anything? kakaka...

Was with Bestie this noon, and i told him that i've made up my mind to continue with my BKK trip. Dear Sel, if you are reading this, dun be alarmed. I din tell u abt my yo-yo decision if i wanted to continue becos i had some serious naggy feelings abt my trip this time round. Plus as mentioned, that there are actually many shows that will go on on the same wkend that we are away. Nonethless, yes, decided liao, still going and will make sure that we all enjoy our precious GRT! Hb, din tell you about it too, becos i dun wanna u to worry. Promise i will come back with loads of pics.

We were joking in bestie's car, while on the way to meet someone, that if i am still apprehensive, either i dun go, or quickly go set up a will. And i was cheekily asking if cyberwill is considered valid? kakaka... Anyway, got insurance lah. The silly man says i blardy negative. Hey, thot everyone always say i damm positive leh. dunno who is right or wrong? Maybe he's always been my next venting outlet, other than my darling hb..keke

See the hotels that we will be hopping to... and later when i upload my own pics, we will compare if it is really the same!

Hotel 1 - Citichic Hotel (name is so "literal")

Hotel 2 - Baan Saladaeng

Good Weekend

2008-04-14T00:04:00.006+08:00

It was a good weekend, starting from Friday till now! Just wishing for all future weekends to be as happy as this week's.

Friday - 11 Apr 08

Following last Friday's bowling activity, Nigel booked OCC for a 2 lane bowling with our fella regular airwavers. At Kallang Leisure carpark G, many AWs were spotted, becos many turned up to see some of the nominated AWs and the photoshoot that was arranged for them. I was really happy to see so many old and new AWavers. Flambuoyant me was back to the past, fluttering everywhere to say "Hi-s" to everyone. We left the place at abt 9.30pm, with 7 AWs in convoy, to OCC.

We had fun at OCC, and this time, it was even more fun that last week. Everyone was in their most relaxed mood. Me, oughta be so ashamed of myself. So badly performed.... and to think i was a good bowler when in my younger days. But anyway, i think i enjoy bowling for the fun and not for competition anymore. Old already, must learn to relax. Cannot everything also want to win, want to be good in. kekeke...

Saturday - 12 Apr 08

Went to Mike's place to celebrate Shu Rei's (yes, Mike reminded me that its Shu and not Soo! ;P) 1st birthday. The few of us pooled money and i went to get Robinsons Vouchers. I really love giving vouchers, because vouchers are such practical gifts! As much as i love buying pressies and wrapping them up for that surprise elements, i also know that pressies may not be suitable, and Vouchers are the BEST! Can get anything and at anytime. Reached at 3.15pm, only to find cheeseboy "glaring" at me, questioning on the elasticity of my time. keke... actually not that late lah, cos both Fong n Tan Family were even later.

As usual, after the cake cutting ceremony, the ladies played MJ and the boys, set up their tables outside along the breezy corridor. Hahaha, from inside the house, i could hear the boys laughing and cheering each other. And the funniest part was the boys came in one by one, saying "Cat! Your Hb is Ok, dun worry..hahaha". Kekeke, those kinda assurances were meant to be funny..cos they know Hb cant drink fot nuts, and each time, i would go all "heart ache" to see hb high.. As predicted, when i stepped out to chk on him, he was lobster-red! Almost unconscious too..wahahaha. The boys welcomed me to join them and when i sat down, hey, hb's cards instantly became better! No, no cash involved, but penalty was to drink and apparently, both CheeseBoy n Hb's the victims lor Left Mike's place alomst 9plus.

inside and outside the house, they slept.

Video of "Screaming Duet"

Am smiling even as i blogged, and i am sure when i hit the bed later on, i will be smiling myself to sleep...

Untitled Entry - Cos Dunno how to title it

2008-04-10T09:36:00.004+08:00

I like to believe i am free spirited, but things are always too controlled in my mundane life. Simple things like having a title to this entry, also seems a little too difficult, and hence, i rather termed it as "Untitled Entry".

Last weekend, it was happy Saturday and unbearable Sunday for me. Happy Saturday becos we celebrated Debra's bday and i was totally in bliss, watching our 2 baby gals, Soo Rei n Hsuen, crawling around, screaming and playing. Couldnt take my hands and eyes off the gals, and of cos, Darling Daryl too. We also watched Vantage Point, which in the 1st half of the show, was totally incomprehensible.

Actually, i have been doing a lot of serious thinking, whether or not to renew contract. To risk company reputation, having mental stress, and losing a friendship vs to have the business? Which is which?

The company was pain-stakingly built up with our own hands, so no way would i allow anyone to destroy our baby. Too much obstacles we over came and we certainly wouldnt like our efforts to go down the drains.

Friendship? Perhaps we are reaching the end of the friendship? We knew each other since 1998, but in 2008, things took a nose dive. I knw what this fren will say," aiya, why you always over-sensitive?" but perhaps this is for the better lah. walk down the road and see what will happen lor.

Yesterday was the happiest cos i met sel for singing yet again. I tink marina sq's kbox has the best sound system amongst its other outlets. Perhaps the bad mood from last sunday has affected me. My songs selected were very extreme. Most were "motivational/inspiring". Damm! felt so good when belting out the rock numbers... We started singing from 6pm to 11pm, and ha! damm shiok!

We shared a cab home and when we sat in, the new Citycab was unbelievably funny. New car, interior was roomy and clean, and the cabbie was airing those techno songs in a real loud manner. Gosh, felt as if we were in some clubs. Must comment that the ICE was really good. And best thing, cabbie drove at 100km/h on small roads. Wa, really headache lor. I thot i felt like puking! Seeing the cabbie swerved here and there, made me feel like telling him to read my previous blog. keke. Best part, after sel alighted, the cabbie continued his music and devilous driving, and when he came to a traffic halt, he activated his wiper. I cant help but feel damm amused, becos i thot the wiping actions looked so much like a musical fountain, with the water splashing on the windscreen and the wiper swaying in uniformity. I was chuckling under my breathe. That one way cab ride home, seemed to have taken away my unhappiness.

Thanks, Mr Cabbie!

Visiting My Ancestors

2008-04-01T00:11:00.010+08:00

Its the time of the year where we pay our ancestors a visit in the west. Its Qing Ming this month, and as per every year, we all "assembled" at Bt Panjang, at Cousin Calvin's hse. Yup, this is our yearly routine, where my parents and my cousins and auntie would meet and we will drive to Lim Chu Kang in our lime green Leadz Lorry..kekeke.

Upon reaching Lim Chu Kang, we faced traffic congestion and Cousin Fred said that we might even encounter "road blocks", all thanks to the "Horse" who escaped from Whitley Detention Centre... We were even laughing, saying that this is the best period and place to hide a "Horse" cos there will be supply supply of food and fruits...hahaha

We visited many tombs. We went to say "HI" to our late grandparents, my Mother in Law, and my great grandmother... Total tombs visited was 6 nos., and we also said "HI" to our ancestors' neighbours. It was really "hell lot of money" we burnt for our ancestors, in the bid to respect and hoped the Ancestors will reciprocate the same. keke... Hubby even bought a "LV" bag for MIL... haha..

After our 4 hrs suntanning, we finaly left the plavce at 12.30pm, and headed to the nearest place to eat. I like the feel of the big external family, sitting down together to eat. This time, we had a spread of curry fish head, indian rojak, chicken wings alongside our own main dish.. There will be talks from the recent current affairs, to holidays, to whose kids got their new hse or who will be getting married soon etc... So boring topics yet so interesting gathering...

When we got separated, hb n me sped home to wash up before departing to Little India for StarHub's event. And we headed to TPY to pick son for a quick dinner at Toa Payoh's Fork n Spoon. Just love to see Daryl talking abt his one night stay at nanny's hse... And he then followed us to Little India to work... Hey, that boy'got spunk! Dun even sense any resistance in him, when almost surrounded by many Indians.Bangladesh workers... So proud of him..kekeke

Actually i wanna pen more abt the show, but hving just came bk after a night out with Sel, i am just so tired. will blog more later lah...

My condolences to Bong Family

2008-03-29T14:28:00.002+08:00

I have been trying very hard not to follow the news of the Muar Crash days back. When i initially heard over the radio abt the crash, it came across as "Not Again?!"... and I was not too affected becos somehow and somewhat, the NSHW is notoriously known as "Dangerous" and "Scary".

I can remember vividly when we, the Airwavers drove up North for our Malacca Trip last yr, i felt kinda funny too, when hb drove up, even thou it was bright daylight. As i drove back after our trip, weather was unkind, gloomy, heavy rain and at the speed of 140km/h (1st time in my life, and I WILL NOT DO THAT AGAIN), the NSHW just seemed too threatening for me.

But as the days passed, when the Muar Crash made headlines daily across all papers, and radio reporting it at every possibl interval, it became hard for me to be unaffected. Still, i dun allow myself to read the papers... Being busy lately helps, to reduce the chances of flipping the papers. But while we were having brekkie today, while waitin for Daryl to finish his ZooPhonics class, i casually flipped the papers, and damm, i can feel my tears welling up, esp. when reading abt Little Justin, the 2yo deceased.

The news reported that Little Justin was found "hanging from his seatbelt, out of the car, and had to have several stitches (read: more than 10) on his little face". The news further reported that the deceased' immediate family all broke down when they saw his frail little body in the mortuary. Tell me whats your immediate reactions after reading my above sentences? My descriptions above are far from vivid and juicy, compared to the media. The sadness simply overwhelms me, even till now, when i'm blogging away. Even HB, admitted that after reading the Straits Times (he cant read Chinese for nuts), the already "tamed" article made him sad and feel like tearing.

Yes, the impact is great to me, and reading the news in the capacity of a mummy, just seemed more hurting. It must have been painful for all, the dead, th injured and the only survivor, Baby Jolene. It must be even more painful for the immediate families, to be seeing the battered bodies, lying cold, frail and motionless, with cuts, and blood. I know i sounded gross or maybe the descriptions made you feel uncomfortable. But, isnt it during such times, that we all learn something or some lessons from other people's tragedies? These beautiful pple dun perish for no reasons. They were angels, sent to show us the beauty of life.

I dunno if i will still wanna read the news abt this unfateful accident, but I know for sure, that I am gonna treasure myself, my families and my passengers, when I take the wheels. For those speeding monsters, do take a moment to try and drive as normally as possible. You will find that you will probably reach your destination probably 5 mins later, but definitely safer. And to those impatient fools, who honk like nobody's business, hey, you can honk for all you like, but if you caused any accidents, you will also be haunted by your own conscience.

Folks, lets just be nice on the road, and take a breather when we drive. Singapore is small, and it only takes you a max of 1 hr or less, to travel from the East to the West, while travelling at 80km/h. Please treasure yourself.

Dilemma

2008-03-27T01:03:00.003+08:00

Havent been having sleepless nights for a long time, probably bcos I have been working hard and by nightfall, i find myself drained of whatever energy left. Each night, we leave the office ard 7+, and sometimes find ourselves back home, as late as 10pm, after our dinner. NOw, i find myself laying on my bed, with the mind ticking furiously, as if i am a Strategist in a war.

My daily routine, to bathe son (not always lah, sometimes hb does the favour), switch on laptop, start whatever remaining work left over from day time. Of cos, cant miss my dramas on Ch55 too. I miss my "ME time". Esp of late, hb n me, have been lamenting the fact that thgs have been different. We are losing a lot of our own quality time, among us and with our son.

I've been thinking lately, if its time to slow down our pace? I find myself not adhering to the regulations set by hb n myself, i.e. no work on weekends. In fact, we work every weekend now. I dun quite like it, becos i know that I m seriously losing out quality time with Daryl.

Well, I suppose if the weekend work provides satisfaction and monetary rewards, then its still fine, since hb works with me every wkend, for our RSs. In a way, my marriage, is bonded stronger, becos we both go thru the same shit each wk. Haha... Thats call "share the happiness, share the woes". But, when i say "shit", it literally is "shitty". Human's minds are really narrow, and is esp. hard to work with certain pple, who tend to be overly suspicious. Maybe, money is the root to all evils. Esp when pple feel threatened over a potential loss of monetary values.

It just is getting harder and I feel more resistant towards the wkend job. Of cos, minus the shittiness, i love my temps, who brave thru all boredom, busi-ness and bad weather. I love HB even more, for being my pillar of support, and sometimes being my "frustration-bin". I love my parents, for their willingness to take care of Daryl Darling when we are at our events. But, beyond these loves, i love myself too, for being blardy obstinate abt accepting the job. I love myself for the ability to tolerate the shit "poured" onto me, by unprofessional pple. I love my self-control, as compared to my younger days. Cant forget how i would stand up to unfairness, and gettin myself into shittier situations. As i grow older, my temper mellowed down. But I too, also start to find myself in a "cowardy" situation, i.e. to be nice, and refusing to get into further squabbles, no matter how frustrated or unfair treatment showered.

Indeed, if that someone is observant enough, my lack of sincere laughter, is a dead giveaway. For once, Catherine is incapable of snubbing, rebuking and digging at him, and has lost her wits. Professionalism has become a new word for me. I find myself listening and participating apprehensively abt potential new projects.

Where's impartial Catherine? What has happened to Ms Nice? Why is "Lady Boss" behaving so "unconvincingly confident"? So many questions i am slapping myself with, after we ended our discussion. Wanted so much to tell Bestie that i want the old Catherine to be back to her life. Wanted to say i m incapable of handling complicated human relationships. Catherine's world should be as simple as possible, something that i have resolved to attain. And becos of the "cowardice", i find myself getting deeper into confusion, over accepting the new challenges. The Angel and Devil appear the same time in my mind, each saying "should or should not" accept the challenge.

HB says i tink too much. Sel n JC always say i tink too far. Bestie never fail to comment that I am overly sensitive. Isnt characteristics inborned? I m nice by nature (who isnt?). So when i m nice, and i accept the job, knowing the path ahead is gonna be damm rocky, i should be applauded? or labelled as "Dumb" for bringing mess to my life? And if i reject the job, would frens/family pat my shoulder to say they will respect my decision? or will they say" hey! thats thinking too much and you'r not being professional?"... which is which?

Mavloo recently said he's sensed that i seemed to change. Am not like the past, that cheerful. Every evening if we do msn, he will always hear me say i'm working. He also reminded me that the old JJ seems to have disappear, Her msn sentences always seems to be poorly constructed and full of typos. Its sad, but i knw its the truth. Mavloo dun sugar-coat his conversation with me. In fact, besides bestie, think he's the next one, who dares to be harsh with me. What has happened?

Maybe its time to recharge? Some encouragements would be good, i presume.

Pre and Post IT Show 08

2008-03-15T00:57:00.015+08:00

i m finally settling down to paint my whatever leftover memories of the recent IT Show 08. It is probably one of the most tedious show i've ever did so far. But this is also the show that made me experience and learn much from.

Pre-Show

As early as last Dec, we were already talking about this show, and I was given an opportunity to include manpower management as part of my service to client. Now, as much as I am not very willing to, I was "cajoled" into accepting the new task. Hence, recruitment was done as early as late Jan, even thou the show was to be held 1st wk of Mar. In the past, recruitment was done for temp staff, but this time, besides temps, I needed to search for promoters. Thank you guys, for having the confidence in me. My Popular Bkfest guys, without hesitance, agreed to the show. Jaron, Wagon and others, also agreed, and even helped to recruit more promoters. Of cos, it was really tough, since I have never handle that many staff for an IT show. Haha, my StarHub temps also worked for this IT Show too!!

Nearer to date, training was conducted for all the promoters, new and old. And only then, I realised the art of scheduling. Gosh! Scheduling for both training and work was TEDIOUS! Need to accomodate everyone's timing etc.. haha, a miracle that eventually the training went on as planned.

My deal to client, was that I charged client a manpower management fee, and the hourly rate given by client, was the same rate that i gave my temps and promoters. As i mentioned to some of the staff, i would rather charge a fee to the client, than to take a cut off their rightful salary and commissions. Hey, I was young and worked before, you know? Wahaha

Event (6th - 9th Mar)

This IT show, besides events management for my client, Leadz did a booth building for another client, and we were pretty happy with our works. It was another new penetration into the IT sector!! wahaha

Back to the events management part, well, many things could have been better. As the entire marketing team is new, hence i was requested to render as much assistance as possible. But as all events, all talks, plans and strategies are nothing when it comes to on site management. Everything discussed in previous Ops Mtg, were not done. It was a little disheartening, seeing that while some tried their utmost to "escape" responsibilities, some acted like "Alec" i.e. Smart Alex lor... Its tough cleaning people's ass, and its tiring too.

As i had feedbacked to the upper mgt, that i would prefer to pay my temps/promoters asap, plans were made to submit my invoices asap after the event. I din want the kids to wait too long too. But by agreeing to early submission, means i gotta do tabulations of their work hours and comms. Gosh, i did a calculation, and realised that within 3 days, I had a total of less than 9 hours sleep. Each night, i reached hm at 11 plus, and sat down all the way till 5.30am, just for tabulation. And i wuld sleep 3 hrs and woke to rush to Suntec. it was then, I realised that indeed, i had aged!! Cant take late nights like the past.

My redemption gals were nice! Sympathetic.. keke... and its very me, to "sai nai" to the right pple..haha... just wanna be "sayang-ed" lah.. And on site, thou tiring, it was good to go round on site, to give my promoters the support and confidence they needed. Half of these batch, are new, and i was initially worried about their performance. But, they all proved me wrong! All were so good, and many of them, were almost top sales promoters! Damm proud of them. I always feel that when working with these young frens, it would be funny to assert authorities. Well, friendship is the way, but of cos, clear lines must be drawn when dishing out regulations

Many other moments that got me stifled up... but am glad that its all over. Muts thank many pple for their self-less aids... Thanks to my 3 redemption gals... for keeping their cool even when serving nasty/unreasonable customers. Am fighting very hard for a bigger space for you gals for June's show. Thanks to Jaron, for helpin me to find responsible temps and promoters, completing one of my tedious job. And also, thanks to Wagon, for keeping me company online from 12.20am to 6am, keepin me awake while i tabulated their wages.

Post Event

while i was working hard, my mind was away with Daryl. Felt so bad on Sunday as I was unable to accompany him for a function, where his classmates and him had a stage performance. I really felt quite lousy abt it. As promised, HB and me took leave on Thursday, to keep son company. Had wanted to bring him to sentosa, but due to obstinate long life rain, we gave up. In the end, we went to Suntec (yes! again!!). Son was pestering abt getting Transformer and after much searching, we finally gave in to his request and got him a set of Optimus Prime at $59.90. Dammit! Dun understand why must be so ex! keke

We nested at Toy R Us for almost 1.5hrs... and took many pics... quite siao lor...hahaha...

Get a Life, People!

2008-02-29T09:32:00.003+08:00

ya lah, i know i very slow to blog abt the recent tabloids, but good mah, i dun like to jump to conclusion immediately, and being one of the last one to talk abt it, allows me ample time to present my neutral point of views... Ok, lets see:

Edison's Been There, Done That's Saga

Has the entire episode been blown out of proportion? I quite like to think so leh. Perhaps, if we remove the thinking that the leading actor and actresses of this ridiculous movie were only your typical "no-names" commoners, the headline splashed would probably last 1-2 days? Fortunately or unfortunately, this "movie"' starred big names that we know, and added punch to our boring coffeeshop talks.

I wonder from which angles are the "critics" making noise from? Are they making a huge hoo-ha because of:

A) Moral? (unacceptable to "kinky" or "exhibitional" sex??)
2) Jealousy? (applies to both sexes, hating the leading characters land themselves with cute-looking stars??)
3) Envy? (perhaps many wished they have the guts to "self-filmed" or wished their own photography skills are on par?)
4) Current Affairs? (must be up to date right? else sure kena laughed at for being a mountain tortoise)
5) Angry? (because audiences feel cheated by virginal behaviour by certain stars, with hopes dashed with the splash of "acrobatic positions"?)

End of the day, if we put aside all prejudice and biaseness, its just abt hot-blooded young man with raging hormones having intimate moments with the then-girlfriends/partners. In conservative Asia, perhaps one may deem it as promiscuous for one to have so many partners, but I do believe that to be able to be intimate with someone, a "like/love" factor is likely involved. Ok, i may be wrong because some may protest that its just a measure for some, to prove how "popular" or "wanted" he/she is. Still, all these pictures and sexual acts were done before closed doors, and hence, what crime was committed?? Not as if these pple are openly exhibiting their kamasutras right?

Time for this news to die off lah.... pple must learn to take such news with a pinch of salt. I am not encouraging any immorality or casual sexual behaviours, but I do feel that one must learn to be responsible of their own actions, whether in the bedroom, on the street, at work or in class... applies to all aspects.

GoodBye Lydia Sum

Here's bidding goodbye to a big commedian. While i was feeling a certain sadness when our local commedian, MC King left so suddenly, the departure of Lydia Sum, though expected, was equally if not more, upsetting. I mean, i really loved the 80s chinese movies, especially those with Lydia Sum starring in it. She made me laugh, with her formidable performance... esp loved her sharp retorting in the shows. And she spoke beautiful english too!

I do think it is good that she left, cos I'm sure she's in heaven, as a happy, big angel with huge sense of humor! I dun think there will be any other commedians who can go par with her achievements. Goodbye Lydia, and time for me to actively search for those 80s movies...

Fabulous Queen - Zoe

Back to local scene, we have a spate of heated arguments over our Caldecott Queen and her latest cover shoots in - Bikinis. Singaporeans, PLS GET a LFE!!!! The arguments are trivial, if u asked me... Fancy boring Singaporeans arguing abt:

1) Mother of 2 over-exposing.
2) Zoe's digitally enhanced.

Come on lah, so u mean to say a mother CANNOT expose herself to the mass in her bikinis?? And i am not even talking abt doing the full monty!! Its just BIKINIS!!! So, to these people, pls do not get yourselves air tickets to australia and even if u need to, pls avoid going to Bondi Beach, Manly Beach etc... Dun go embarrassing yourself. Me worry abt you pple, treading on the soft sand, with ur hands covering ur eyes, only to find urself falling into sand holes.

Tell me, why issit that pple are tolerant to the westernised behaviour of skimpy swim suits, having calendars with cover girls literally "uncovered" and yet blasting our local actress for being "indecent"? As what other forumers say, if Philip Chioh (Zoe's hb) dun mind, why are u minding for??

And stop saying that she did her boobies... whether she did or not, issnt any of your business? Medically speaking, yes, having a baby really does bring up the cup size.. and especially since she is still feeding the kid.

As for digitally enhanced, my avatar pics get slammed ALL the time by my frens cos they suspected i PS (photoshopped) them... sometimes, its all abt the photography angles. I must openly admit that I am not a beauty and my skin is lousy like hell!! but surprisingly, my avatar pics do turn out delightfully well, becos:

1) when pics are small, its nt easy to find flaws
2) there is a thing call "effects", and to minimise "defects", i mostly use the black and white, or sephia modes
3) camera flirting IS important, u must learn to communicate with the lens

Hahaha, i do sound like a professional hor? BUT, i am not a model neither do i knw hell a lot abt photography. What i am trying to illustrate is that when pple look good, pls give them the benefit of doubts. What business is it of yours anyway?

Everyone loves to criticise but do not enjoy being criticised. Please put yourself in others' shoes before u start to slam? Just like the "I Swallow" advertisement... hell!!! Unless u are telling me that Zoe was the one who came up with the tagline... else? If anyone was to blame, I probably think the one who came up with this tagline shld take the blame. Not the one endorsing.

Well, so much so for being neutral... tink those reading this entry may feel that i'm getting defensive.. hahaha, end of day, just relax lah..

updates

2008-02-25T09:53:00.007+08:00

I know I've gone MIA again and this time, for a good 2 weeks. Probably one of the longest period that I've not blogged. One term sums it all - BUSY.

Every little bit of time i have available after each working day, I just want to snuggle in my cosy couch, login my facebook and msn, watched TV, read my unread emails and then go to bed at 2am. No time for blogging activity.. sigh.. until yesterday, after a "friendly bickering match" with bestie, he "reminded" me to go write my blog and dun disturb him cos he's freaking tired after running ard chking RS sites. So here i am, blogging again!

Its been a busy 2 weeks after CNY. Comparing to previous years, where we rested for a longer duration for CNY, this year we bounced back to work right after the weekend, on a working Monday. Anyway, i doubt it would be peaceful resting at home knowing that my phones and email inbox will be flooded.

Just as well, back to work means back to seeing/talking and dealing with pple i like and dun, and this greatly tested my self-control. CNY mah, cannot anyhow rant and scold pple right? So, its back to my "almost weekly event", where my temps worked hard together with me for these dorms RS (roadshows). This bunch of pple, hahaha, are really interesting. The 5 temps are jolly and brave!

Eversince i clinched the Dorm RSs deal, it had been an emotional roller-coaster ride for me. Its been great becos i finally penetrated to this company and there has been many great opportunities doing more events. In fact, besides this Dorm RS, i did another opening ceremony event, by word of mouth referral. On the other hand, I find it ridiculously funny, dealing with all sorts of pple. Something that made me realised I did the right things ages ago when I decided to set up my own company. Also, the innermost feeling proves to be too trying for me to sustain and its always a tough fight removing all funny thinkings in my bird brains.

Anyway, its been 5 RSs that we did since the start and in march, we have another 6 more to go. Jia You to me! and Jia You to all my temp staff. These bunch are pretty interesting. All marketing students from SIM, and are matured in their thinkings too. Great that their initiative levels are very high too. Haha, and 2 of them will be following me in the coming IT shows too! What a relief!

Well, besides the Dorm RSs, I did an opening ceremony in T3 last week and it turned out to be a good event, so i hope. Was covered in the Business Times with a huge pic and simple write ups. Thanks to Iggy, for taking one day leave to help in the photography. Yes, to the other boys-turned-photography-fanatics, Iggy was paid for his service and I promise to engage u guys if there are other events to cover. Dun start a drift saying i prefer Iggy to you all lah. End of the day, its all abt work. Promise there will be other chances.

And now, I am back to planning for the NATAS 08 and IT Show 08. This time, its different from the past, whereby the promoters now came under me fully. Call me biased or call me kind, but i think sooner or later, i will be "called into the room" by client, asking why I'm lenient... Hope the day doesnt come. Everyone has their job to do and everyone wants to do it well, dun they? Same for the temps, cos i knw they will do their best.

Its strange, cos I have been having recurring dreams lately... hahaha, pretty pleasant, i must say. But i gotta agree, when pple say "Its all in the mind"...kekeke, i think i probably have been thinking too much and hence, the dreams.. but still, nice when i knw reality will be diff.... haahaaaaaa, MORE dreams pls? keke

Happy Rat Year!

2008-02-09T01:16:00.000+08:00

Lamenting big time just before CNY, becos the mood and ambience and atmosphere's all WRONG!! No one seems to enjoy CNY anymore.. why is that so? Everyone is just going thru the motions, me included. I recalled CNY when i was a child. 1 month before CNY, my parents would be so anxious buying all sorts of CNY goodies and tidying up the house. Dad would always hang the red and gold ornaments around various parts of the house. How i fondly recall those moments. I must be getting old, or else, I must be going thru some "trying" period. keke

Now, its just weird, seeing my hb repeating the same routine as my dad did when i was a child. Half of my heart finds it endearing yet the other part feels weird. It becomes weirder still, when i feel myself looking forward to the noise and crowd and visiting. People do change, and i suppose thats very true then.

We closed shop for CNY on Monday at 1pm. But a client's event at Rasa Sentosa ended at 6pm, so effectively, i worked full day instead of the half day. My family had dinner at Gilman Village's Grand Phoenoix Court. It was like a "close shop" CNY dinner for us, directors and shareholders.

Tuesday was good, cos when son's at school, Nunu our part time maid came over to clean the hse, and before her arrival, hb and me did our last minute marketing. I really love marketing. Its so therapeutic, comparing to work. I m beginning to tink of myself as a common commoner... Go marketing, say "hi-s" to the stall holders etc... but wait a minute! I AM a commoner!! In the evening, we bought son to Marina Sq for shopping. It was an indescribible outing.

Wednesday, CNY eve!! Got up early and immersed myself in the kitchen the whole morning. Did up father and son's favourite fish porridge, and did an extra dish of stir-fried toufu for my FIL, who's bedriddened at Ju Eng Hospital, a nursing home at Jalan Kayu. I can see that my FIL is very happy although he's not been able to talk for the longest time. Seeing him on wheel-chair, passing his time daily, was sad. I wish we can do more, but . .
After departing from Ju Eng, we headed to my mum's plc for our reunion dinner. Steamboating - our favourite activity! And i busied myself in the kitchen for another few hours.

We had such fun feasting and teasing. Daryl was good and everyone ate alot. But sadly, this reunion doesnt feel like a reunion, probably bcos i see my parents almost everyday and we dined together at least 3-4 times a week... hahaha

Thursday, CNY 1st Day! Went visiting at Jurong and Bedok and reached home by 2pm. Another round of preparation works in the kitchen. This time, its for the GES gang. They will come every year on the 1st day... and its been our practise to hv dinner in my house. The past few years, i will stay up after reunion dinner till almost 2-3am, to prepare the food for the guys, but tis year, i decided on a simpler fare. Steamboating IS the deal! ahaha... Bert n Debb came over earlier for a round of MJ and by 6plus, most arrived and we had our 2-2.5hrs dinner.kekeke

Friday, CNY 2nd Day!! Woke up late (9am) and did fried rice for the 2 men in the house. Then went for visiting, to my my SIL's house. Adjourned to Telok Blangah for more visting before we picked Gilbie up to mike's plc. At mike's plc, the ladies had MJ while the men? Card games+drinkings! We left abt 10plus (earliest in the recent years).

Back at home, i was busy with my fb when bestie msn-ed me. we talked rot for a while (actually abt 1.5hrs) and he created my next blogging topic... Ok, its now 2am, and i'm feelin sleepy, while sitting down on a reclining armchair, with sentimental music in the backgrounds and cool breeze sweeping my face. Its quality "ME" time... Think i shall just go hit the sack before i blog abt the next topic...

final musing

2008-02-04T23:46:00.000+08:00

for once, i am very apprehensive in penning my entry today. its back again. The whole lot of problem that i thot had vanished in thin air, years ago, came back to me again. I rem just almost 2 yrs back, Sel had "slapped" me to my senses when i was pouring my heart out while seated in my car. It was almost 1am after our late night karaoke session, and i parked my car along the roadside, and telling her the problem that bothered me so much.

Years later, problem resurfaced, and escalated to a bigger scale. Its sheer madness, i thought to myself. F0r once, i cant even tell bestie. hahaha... i always wonder if i will die one day, carrying the root of the problem to my graveyard? Choi choi choi!!!! CNY's ard the corner. Shldnt be saying such inauspicious thg. Anyway, not
gonna talk abt it anymore.

What an irony! Just last night, cheeseboy and me were laughing at last Friday's club-out with the gals, and he said i'm "Ms Sensitive". He said i was too naggy, kept worrying if everyone's hvg fun or anyone felt left out. Just when i felt all smug abt the "Ms Sensitive" title, i did something this noon, beyond my own comprehension. For once, I thot i lost it. Lost my cool, lost my attitude, lost my positivity, and most importantly, lost my directions. Got angry with a fren for no reason. Bleh! Thats bad indeed, considering that I have nvr gotten angry with my frens. And this is a friend i've know for years! What a shitass i am!

Things are fine cos we arent some kiddos who turned against one another after some silly incidents. We are right as rain now. But guess some damage's done, and cant be undone. But things arent as easy as they seem. Well, moving on is good, at least for me.

Anyway, i must be contented with hb n son by my side. troubles seem to stay away, as i am always busy humouring both father and son. No time to further dwell. Maybe things shld stay tis way? Like what bestie said to me during msn tonight, "women are all mad"... hahaha, bestie is ALWAYS right.

CJ7 Afterthoughts

2008-02-04T11:10:00.000+08:00

Thanks to bestie for his free CJ7 Gala Premiere Tickets. To him, movie watching is a waste of time. To me, i perceive as a luxury way of spending my time. To each his own, i should think. New fren Sean gave me another pair of tix too, and hence i hv 2 pairs of tix - 1 pair for Coco-Cola Hall (Hall 9) and Panasonic Hall (Hall 8). Basically, their company was one of the sponsors for Stephen Chow's CJ7.

We picked Gilbie (my fav term for bert n debb) from their hse and headed to Valley Point for Jap Dinner before hitting to Cineleisure Orchard. While we drove past Cineleisure, we culd see many fans and media snapping pics and seemed like there was also a lion dance performance too. We decided that there's no way for us to squeeze thru and hence went into the building using the side door.

We went into the 2 separate halls and said that we will contact again after the show. In my theatre, it was barely half-filled. Not surprising, cos from my understanding, up to 3 halls were used for this gala premiere. What was supposedly a comedy directed by long time commedian, turned out otherwise. Many walked out of the theatre saying that Stephen Chow's productions were no longer as good as before. However, i thot otherwise. To me, i think i like his recent few movies way much better than those he screened in 10 yrs ago.

His recent years' productions, seemed to be a hit with me..kekeke. Somehow, many emotions were always stirred and aroused and i walked out feeling enlightened. I know many would say" there she goes again... drama-mama", but really, i just love shows that are thoughts provoking.

Am gonna highlight some scenes that got me all teary, amidst the other audiences' laughters:

1) XiaoDi got whacked by Father in public toystore, for refusing to put down the electronic toy dog. It is terribly heartbreaking to hear the Dad said " daddy dun hv money today. we will buy when i get my pay." Tears welled up immediately. I'm hopeless!

2) XiaoDi got badly discriminated by the teacher, so being poor and dirty and unhygienic. He picked up the teacher's pen from the ground, and got badly scolded and verbal abused by the teacher to leave the pen on the floor, following which the teacher used his hankie to pickup the pen, openly indicating that XiaoDi's dirty and shld nt dirty his belongings.

3) Father and son were eating (plain rice and rotten apples, and boneful fried fish w/o meat), and when a cockroach crawled on the same wall where they were eating dinner, son smacked the roach, and continued eating. Father scolded him and said he shld finish his food before smacking the roach, and before we knw., the screen showed the wall with many other roaches.

It was terrifying for me, nt becos i saw the roaches, but becos my heart sunk big time and while pple ard me were laughing damm hard, i was the complete opposite. I was tearing away. I am LOUSY! Somehow, i think i am in sync-ed with what message Stephen Chow was trying to bring out. I am not saying that those who laughed did not capture the main idea, but i guess i was very silent thru out the show, which is so unlike me.

I was quite affected by the show, and after we reconciled with Gilbie, we walked to collect our car. I was still pretty much silent, although i still engaged in small talks. The emotions inside were battling big time. Well, for those who have not watched the show yet, do go watch ang tell me what u guys think or feel?

Happy Birthday to ME!!! - Celebration No. 3 (Final)

2008-02-03T23:18:00.000+08:00

Hahahaha, Friday marked the final celebration burst. Ok lah, a bit exaggerating, i knw, but i did receive 2 treats on Friday, and i thought that pretty much wrapped up the birthday thingy. Just like when CK msn-ed to wish me a belated bday, i replied saying that he wasnt late cos i decided to pamper myself with a one week bday festival... kekeke.

Rem i said i was supposed to "claim" a cake from bestie on thurs? Well, becos i had to go for an impromptu mtg, our lunch was cancelled. And since I would be in town on Friday for a product training with my temps, bestie and i met for my long awaited cake.

That "ku-ku" was so funny! Told me to go select my own cake and dun bother him. haha, that's how good our friendship is - no awkwardness at all. Ordered a "Devil's Chocolate Cake" and it took the waitress a good 5-8mins to bring our cake over, and... ... ... cake arrived w/o candle. Bestie asked for a candle, saying "Its her bday", and the waitress brought the cake away, and return the same piece of cake, with a candle w/o flame. Hahaha, bestie was almost but not quite "dumbfounded". He tried signalling to the waitress for a lighter, but she simply was oblivious to his waves. As we were seated just outside their kitchen, another waiter looked on, and was motionless. Bestie asked for lighter to which the waiter simply shook his head to signify a "No". Bestie was a little pissed, i could see. Finally, the waiter passed a firestarter to him, and poor bestie, no matter how he try to trigger, it simply wun produce any fire. Finally, he passed the plate to the waiter and miraculously, the waiter lighted the poor candle. While passing it back to us, the candle was in such a slanted position and the flame threatened to go off. Frustrated bestie was like " Can you just blow off the candle NOWWWW???" hahaha....

That fella kept grumbling abt the poor service... and suddenly, he said," see lah, dun even have to sing u bday song liao.." Me, by that time, was laughing like mad lor. We talked a bit abt work and also abt the past. When i reminded him that this year we should be celebrating our 10 years of friendship, he was like complaining that he has "suffered" for these 10 yrs lor... asshole! After dat, he went bk to work, while i went for my product training.

After the training, i shopped a bit before meeting with JC. Cheeseboy was supposed to buy me a bday drink, and he suggested a Friday party. Hence, i got sel and JC to go along, thinking that Cheeseboy would probably bring along some frens. As it was still early, JC n me hopped over to sel's office to help her in her "packing". Poor lass n Pin, both looked so tired, after days of mailers packing. When we were done at abt 10-nish, we walked to Zouk. Cheeseboy was already inside velvet waiting for us.

The world is round, and I confirmed the fact that it is also small. When we (me, JC, Sel, Pin n Sean (Pin's partner) walked in, i saw cheeseboy standing there. Besides Sel (we went Karaoke together), no one has met cheeseboy before. And when I was trying to introduce them, Pin and Cheeseboy were already talking excitedly. Apparently, both knew each other when in the NUS years ago. Talk abt the world being small, right?

We drank and everyone got pretty familiar with each other as the minutes go by. Dunno if Cheeseboy was bored, and I hoped not. But i thot i saw a different Cheeseboy from the past. Maybe I should say when we are together in a gang with bert n rest, he's casual, boh chap, chin-chye type of man. When comes to partying, he's very interesting...klekeke... dunno how to describe lah. Many incidents got me laughing non-stop, like the lame jokes he told us, the man who tried to get him to dance etc etc. Then there was also a man who tried to pick JC up. I tink his pick up line was nt too bad. He asked if JC wuld mind to exchange her martini with his fresh champagne. But then hor, he din invite her to dance or even asked for her name.. So we ended up suspecting his motive, whether he was trying to pick her or was he aiming at our guys(Cheeseboy and Sean)..hahah.

He had to go at 1plus cos his other frens were at St James waiting for me. After he left, Pin and Sean also left shortly. So it was the 3 of us partying, just like usual. We went over to Zouk to "work out" till almost 2plus, before Alvin (JC's hb) came to pick us up.

This 3rd celebration marked the end of "Catherine's Bday Celebration Burst". Ok, from now on, I will be good. Thanks to all my dearest friends, for celebrating my 29+1 bday. Most of u guys, have been with me for more than 10yrs, and you guys are also the only ones who knw my darkest secrets. Each of you carries different secrets that i always disclose to you knw. Again, thks gals, for always bish-ing and bash-ing me when i talked abt the impossible one. Thks to bestie, for ur decade long of "suan-ing", but always firmly there for me when i need to cry out.

LOVE LOVE LOVE u guys

Happy Bday to Me Celebration No. 2

2008-01-30T09:17:00.000+08:00

Yesterday morning, hb and me went to Rasa Sentosa for a site recce with the RX guys, and at that instance, i felt so impulsive to stay on the sunny island (hey, this is the place whr i met hb!!) to R&R. But we cant, cos we have to rush back in time to pick Daryl from his school... oh well, i made a mental note to book a room at Rasa one of these days for our family of 3...

Received a sms from JC, asking if i have anything on in the night, else to accompany her for her essential retail therapy. I casually asked if she wants to celebrate my bday, and her reply was "aiyo, ur skin beri thick leh! no lah, i needed retail therapy, too "suffocated" by work, and need lots of love", and hence, we made a date to meet at orchard after her work.

I reached orchard abt 5plus, and started my own retail therapy. Felt so ashamed of myself cos i think i might have over-spent within these 2 weeks. I cant even recall how many dresses and tops i have gotten for myself!And the gals were teasing me big time with my wayward thinking of "having 15 sets of new clothings for CNY". Hahaha, ya, that is a target i am trying to hit, to wear new clothings everyday for the 15 days of CNY. Hb has long resigned to the fact that i am a little "koo-koo" up there.

JC reached abt 7, and we headed to Far East to shop. She casually informed me that Sel will be late, and i was like "Ok, we'll eat and shop together". They had long informed me that they will celebrate my bday this week, and we had tried to set this coming Friday as a celebration, together with Cheeseboy's celebration for me. When Sel reached, JC and me walked over to Wheelock and we decided to have Jap food. While on the waiting list, we talked abt our impending trip to BKK this April. Finally and hopefully we will manage to go. Too many "obstacles" when we tried to plan our trip late last year.

Dinner was as usual, fun and full of chatters. With Sel ard, there's never a quiet moment. We are always tickled by her animated gestures. The gals were so sweet! I casually mentioned that i felt like having an entree - scallop and no main dish, they said "just order lah! and pls get a main too" Hey, i still a bit "heartache" over the expensive entree leh. Just one scallop cut into slice and buried with savoury creamy sauce and topped with roe and spicy curry powder, cost a whooping $17 i think. Its actually much cheaper than any dresses i bought lately, but i still think its expensive lor. But, one scoop and one bite proved that there is obviously a reason why they have to price it that way. Because it was just "SO DAMM GOOD!!!"

We were talking abt our common friend and abt Sel's stuff, when we saw the waitress walking towards us. She dished out a pretty plate with 3 tart-like pastries with 3 lighted candles on individual tarts. I had thot it was for me, but the couple sitting behind our table, was singing the birthday song amongst themselve. Hence i thot it might not be for me afterall. Damm, the candles should have been the most obvious tell-tale signs and yet i was simply oblivious to the wavering flames.

Cheeky Sel still asked aloud, wondering who's celebrating the bday in the restaurant too. keke... When the waitress delivered the plate to our table, my 2 loved ones, smiled and gave me that "surprise-surprise!!" look. Love them to bits! Sel had just "chided" me for being "thick-skinned" (yes, both JC n Sel love my skin a lot lor) to demand for cake! The pretty pastries sat on the plate, looking for delicious and tempting, but just cant bear to gobble up. Pretty dainty stuff shld be treated with extra gentleness and lots of respects. And hence, we started to nibble at the 3 items: Tiramisu, Strawberry Tarts and Chocolate Glaze (my own name for it).

By the time we left the restaurant, it was closed to 11pm. JC took the NEL, and Sel and me trained back to Bishan. Along our journey, we talked abt Sel and her recent spate of unhappiness. So how, we dun seem to get tired discussing or hearing her woes. To her, she needed someone who is level-headed and can wake up her puzzled mind, and to me, while hearing, consoling, pointing her mistakes and airing my views, I get a chance to further understand and practised what i have been preaching to her.

We ended our intimate heartfelt conversation at close to 12.30am. I think she probably had a good night sleep cos i know she's been enlightened and that she will try to do what she thinks is right. Sel, if u r reading this, rem, things can only get better.

Thanks gals, for the celebration No. 2. See ya on Fri for celebration No. 3.

Happy Bday to Me!

2008-01-28T22:40:00.000+08:00

happy bday to me, happy bday to me, happy bday to meeeeeee, happy bday to me!!

I was singing to myself this morning when i was showering, and hey, i nvr know that it felt

so good to be singing to myself... u guys must try it next time!!!

Well, last night, the usual gang celebrated for me at nik's plc, and before the celebration started,

i was already smiling and laughing big time!! All thanks to my 2 darlings, SooRei mei-mei and

Baby Shyuen!!! They are the 2 princesses in our usual gang and all of us obviously adore the 2

sweeties like mad!!! Me especially, cos I have given up the idea of hving another junior and wuld

just want to devote my time to my darling daryl. And isnt that gd, that i have 2 instant princesses

to love and dote upon?

And after our dinner, the celebration started. As usual, it was a warm and touching "sing song, cut

cake and eat cake" ceremony... this has been going on since years ago. All of us will always come

together to celebrate everyone's bday, and it is always a monthly affair, cos almost every mth we

have someone with a bday! Kekeke... When the bday cake was dished out, it was a pretty pink lychee

martini cake!!!! Baked to perfection!! Soft inside, sweet outside and every bite tastes so martini! Thks

guys!!! Love u guys so much! Thks, Gilbie (Bert+ debbie), Nik+Sze, Mike+Debra, CheeseBoy n Hb+Son!

Cheeseboy, thanks for buying me drinks this coming friday!!! I wanna be the 1st to sit in ur MX5!!!

wahahaha...

More Pics attached!

This morning, i was still musing over "how come no one wished me happy bday??", and when i came down

from my room, i saw my 1st bday wish msg from Jessie... Actualli, London Babe, Justina had wished me well

a day ahead too! Bestie sms-ed me too!! Haha, gd that he has not forgotten its my impt day!! Am so happy for him that he's scoring well for his career. But that means he's gettin busier and cant hv tea that often with me anymore. keke.. And subsequently, both of my best pals, JC n Sel text-ed me and said they will celebrate for me later this week. And surprise surprise, Sean, my client-turned-friend, sent me an e-card!!! Airwave Nigel and wife Serene msn-ed and text-ed me separately too. and Mavloo finally called to wish me a gd day too!! Oh, and Idiot Chu (no lah, he's my favourite guy lor), also text-ed me from indonesia... for once, he's treating me with some decency!! kakaka... Allyfui too, sent her best wishes and i received many other well-wishes while online... The last to end my bday on a pleasant note, was from Cheeseboy!! Hahaha, i demanded for a bday wish AGAIN! Sweet dude! Promised that i will be the main lead on friday!! kekeke, guys, dun steal the limelight from me that day ok??

Dunno if its part of growing old or what, but I was working since 8.30am till 3.30pm... non-stop... maybe becos i wanna quickly settle my outstanding jobs before i leave the day with peace, for a celebration with hb. Hb bought me tea at JewelBox @ Mt Faber. IMHO, i think JewelBox is a little overrated, but must give credit to the staff and the view. Service was good indeed, but food was so-so and a tad expensive if u ask me. Heng the place was quiet and there was basically no one ard at the bistro. We seized the chance to try our photography skills, and it was pure joy. Culd see hb was totally relaxed, cos he was so talkative and so participative!! keke..

Left ard 6plus for dinner with my folks. After dinner, i was practically "sloshed"... sudden felt my energy draining. Oh well, looking forward to a new beginning from today onwards!

More Pics attached!

Happy 2nd Club Anniversary

2008-01-23T01:24:00.000+08:00

Gosh, am backdating my entries as usual. Have been real busy, and whatever spare time i have, i dun really wanna sit and start typing away on my lappy. And becos of this nua-ness, the entry was late.

We had our Airwave Club 2nd Anniversary Dinner on Saturday, 19th Jan. It was a chalet at BottleTree Park. I was the F&B O-I-C, and hence, had settled the bbq catering with an external caterer. We met some f&b volunteers at Amk hub at 12plus for a quick lunch and proceeded to NTUC to buy more items. Boss (denn) had allowed me to be in-charge of the "spending", and it felt good doing my fav activity-marketing, while not using my own money..keke

By 3pm, we checked into the small chalet. It was really small, without a kitchen. But love the external atmosphere... sky was clear and windy and it felt so kampong-like!! We wasted no time and got down to work. Vivian, Jac and me started to settle the food. Clever Mike bought a set of knives!!! I was cutting the chicken drumstick meat into cubes to marinate while jac n rest chopped the corns and wrapped the sweet potatoes. Man, it felt so relaxing, with us working with our hands, and talking with our mouths.. all in the open air.

At about 5.20pm, the caterer called to say they reached Yishun Sports Stadium and hb and mike drove out to collect the bbq food. By that time, some airwavers started to come in. Gosh, hb returned with so much food!! Everyone was busy doing things, whether committee members or not. Hb did what he does best - to start the fire. He aint a scout for nothing ok?

By 6plus, most of the folks came by and from food OIC, i became photographer of the day, as resident photograper, Iggy24 had a family function and culd only turn up late. Well, the past AW events, i was also one of the photographers, only that tis event, I can proudly show-off my new DSLR. Hehehe, not just me.... Mart and Delvin also showed off theirs! Photography has become our new interest!!

It's so nice to be prancing around, taking pics for everyone... all the worries and troubles from work, seemed to vanish when i'm with these incredible group of people!! Mod gave an opening speech and proceeded to announce the start of dinner. At the background, we had a talented duo, who brought along their gears and proceeded to entertain us with their live band and singing! They were GOOD!

At abt 7-nish, Balloonman came along, and he was the emcee-cum-gamemaster of the night. I really think the club is made up of many talent people lor... He entertained all with funny games, and got us all cracked-up. Our sponsor-cum-supplier, Yang, was sabo-ed to finish up a fillet burger w/o using his hands!

Then, we had our lucky draw session. It was so funny, cos i was eyeing an auto start or the other prize-a bass (part of a sound system for the car), and i really kena that!!! How lucky is that? The folks were so funny... In our last event, my speakers were spolit and while i was hoping to get the speakers, i really got it!!!! and this time, by the 5th prize (steamboat set), the folks were already shouting me nick "Jazzjewel", hoping i will get it...kekeke... both the 3rd and 4th prizes were components, and the guys kept teasing and shouting my nick, cos they knew that i dun need the speakers anymore. So affectionate, when they keep shouting JJ, JJ etc.. I stood up and shouted back in hokkien,"Mai.. Mai.. (means dun want)... I am aiming for 1st prize which is auto-start!!" everyone had a good laugh!!! And when delvin announced the winner for the 2nd prize, dennis when opened the slip, had a roaring laugh!! And they proceeded to say i won the 2nd prize!!!!Whoohoooooo!!!Aint i lucky??

After the draw, Mod gave another speech, and introduced us - the committee members to all the other fella members. It was so nice to hear mod say," this is Jazzjewel......" he thanked me for helpin out int the F&B division as well as other misc stuff for the dinner, and also said that i am his PA(kekeke) and that i was the one who wrote the articles for our website. So paiseh, but so good!
h

Next, it was birthday celebration for me and Mel32. I will never forget how badly i was sabo-ed in 2007, with my face shoved into the cakes, and this year, i was really so skeptical! But heng heng, all's fine! Thanks peeps, i love u all!

I dun rem how many beers i had, but it was a lot! So many cans that i lost count, but still went on strong. The the OC Club (a term we gave to the wives of the male drivers) jio-ed me for a MJ session, and we started our tai-tai session. SHIOK! All these while, our live band never stop once... it was jamming all the way! BAGUS!

We finally packed the place by 1am and those who were still around, helped to pack and clear the mess. Once again, we displayed our unity! By the time i hit home, it was already 2plus... and after a quick wash-up, i hit the bed straightaway.

Pics for your viewing pleasure!!

Professionalism without Discrimination?

2008-01-18T10:42:00.000+08:00

Encountered a bad experience with a client and that got me hopping mad. I am so glad that I took the liberty to cool down over one night, and then relate the entire incident the next day, which is today. By doing this,I am making sure that I will relate the incident in the most neutral way as possible.

It started my designer emailed an artwork to a client for her approval. And being a young Msian (there's no discrimination here), she is used to sending emails with abbreviations (msn/sms terms) such as "c" to rep "see", and "soli" to rep "sorry". While I dun encourage such languages as it is certainly deemed as "improper" or "unprofessional", but it sparked off a "fire" from the client.

Designer was careless when sending an artwork with a typo-error, and upon reacting to the mistake, she sent another email to client. While this time, a proper artwork without typo was sent, client insisted that she checked her work before sending (see extract):

Check your piece of work before sending it out. The names are still wrong.
I seriously have no time to entertain to correct mistakes from your side such as this.
Get someone who knows English to look into this matter.

DISCRIMINATION!!!! Ok, the colours and bolding effect were added by me, to highlight what i meant by discrimination.

My designer was "traumatised" as this is the 1st time anyway had gave such a harsh comment. Ok, in this instance, it was realli no big deal even if we lost a client. But as a superior, if I do not get to the bottom of the entire incident, it would be deemed as a company without professionalism, as well as a superior who do not "defend" the staff.

Hence, a phonecall was made to the client, explaining all in good words that we have had checked all the works and really found no mistakes. She hissed in the phone saying that it is totally not professional that we wasted her time for sending something with error (even though it was a one-off incident), and proceeded to slam the designer by saying," Look, she cant even spell Sorry, and spelt as "Soli"). Her then-reply over the phone was that "if its too hassling, we call off the deal". Well, I got pissed too. And hence, an email was written to her, to confirm that the order has been cancelled based on her phonc instructions. I do not want to risk cancelling the project without covering my ass. What if she turns her back on us saying that we fail to produce the items in time?

My email to her was:

Hi Ms XXX

With reference to my conversation with you this afternoon, at 1pm, we would like
to confirm as per your instruction, the confirmation for the quotation (state quote no.)
will be void/called off.

We would like to reiterate that based on the above attachments, we found no typo
errors in our artwork. Please do a check on your end.

Based on our industry practices, all confirmation will be followed by artworks for clients'
vet-thru, and should there be any errors, clients will usually pin-point to us what are
the exact errors, so that the designer can react to the mistake.

However, based on your email below, there are no mentions about the mistakes made,
and the designer was simply told to "Check your piece of work before sending it out. The names are still wrong".

We found it hard to co-operate on a cordial basis especially when discrimination (i quote from
your email below: Get someone who knows English to look into this matter. ) is involved. While our
designer has no solid command of the English language, it is equally unfair to penalise her on
her language found in the email.

As such, we agree to your instructions above to call off the confirmation of this order.

Thank you for your attention.

The whole thing could have ended off with this email from us. I do hope that my email was written in the most neutral and professional way it should have been, but it seemed otherwise to my client. What i got back was this:

Hi,

This is the best resolution (shouldnt it be SOLUTION?) for me to the end the hassle that has been going on. Its up to your organization to allow someone to liaise with customers externally with that level of English where you justified that she is using ‘MSN English’ on emails.
That was not the only issue, in the initial stages she did not handle calls politely even (the phonecall was a blardy misunderstanding that i suspected had sparked off her prejudice against the designer), so are you going to justify that incident that she was using some other version of English that was out of this world?
If the rest of your clients are happy to be tagged with ‘Singlish’ and rude telephone etiquette, I have no comments on that but not in this incident. (whats wrong with SINGLISH anyway?)
You are simply hiding the fact that there was no mistakes, so how does the attachment here spell your justifications?

We pay for quality services, not wasting time like this to correct errors. (In my own terms, Got Money Big Deal?)

All the reasons just do not make any sense at all.

I am sorry that we cannot entertain this kind of arguments and I had to cancel your services immediately on your call.

There was no intention of penalizing her for the English, but you have to understand that this is SINGAPORE and this incident is wholly shocking as to how you could justify mistakes as such to be overlooked.
Instead she should be taking this whole incident to improve her mode of communication and not melt over it.
We are extremely disappointed that we were offered such a service locally when you are relating this to industry standards.

I have instructed the accounts to cancel all transaction to the earlier sent bank details as well and here I have wasted 15 mins talking to verify and get this email back to you.

Hence, I will be sending out a notice to the necessary teams to avoid using services rendered by Leadz. (Thats a favourite retort from all nasty clients, isnt it? keke)

Thanks.

My reply to email was:

Dear Ms XXXi

The attachment you have given here is the first artwork that Rain had produced, which indeed,
was the one with typo error. (she attached the very first artwork that indeed was wrong...
suay that the designer's typo error was for her name - what a bad boo-boo!)

However, if we are basing on the artwork that she emailed to you this afternoon, there was really
no typo errors. Based on my simple understanding of the whole matter, you had only mentioned
that there were errors in the artwork without pointing out the errors.

We certainly do not have any intentions to "hide" the fact that there was no mistakes. In fact, my
designer had apologised for the mistakes, and had produced new artworks for your further vet-thru.
We understand time is precious and hence allow our designer to communicate directly with our clients
as if she have to wait for our return from our appointments, the clients would have to wait for a longer
response time, just to confirm an artwork.

As a Company Director, I would also not condone bad service behaviours from my staff to our potential
clients, and that was precisely why I had made the phone call personally to your goodself to apologise
for a genuine misunderstanding (the "rude" telephone etiquette).

While we pity the loss of a potential client and the sales, we are happy that this instance has allowed
us a chance to train our staff into providing excellent service to our future clients.

We only hope that your colleagues will get a truthful understanding of the happenings without biase-ness,
after receiving notices to avoid using Leadz services. If the need arises, I would be glad to explain the
entire episode to your superiors/colleagues in the most truthful manner.

Well, she sent back an email this morning, saying that there is a great lack of luxurious time for her to continue this. I knw actually the whole thing was blown out of proportion, but if I had made the decision to retain this client and omit the hardworks of my staff, that would be wrong too. I also know that i could be 2-headed-snake, to pamper the client on one way, and to pacify the designer on the other end, I just am inflexible and refuse to do that. Thats succumbing to "money". Heck!

Anyway, i just want to reiterate that while we are not some big companies out there, we do know that value of having repeat clients and that customer service is truly important in the industry. But, are clients always right? Not so, in this aspect.

Why can't I club without hubby?

2008-01-15T22:30:00.000+08:00

Saw this article in Asiaone, and i was chucklin beneath.... kekeke

Why can't I club without hubby?

Well, seemed like the writer has just entered another phase of her life, as somebody's Mrs, and while in her case, marriage life hasnt affect her in any ways, her newly found status seemed debate-able, by many others...kekeke...

well, i'm totally standing on her side. Who says being somebody's Mrs means u gotta stop all your weekly activities with your closest gfs/frens??? But of cos, there still is a distinct difference, whether mentally, physically and/or financially. The difference is more distinct when a kiddo comes into the picture.

If you have read my previous entries, i guess you must be one of the same group of people, wondering the same question, i.e. "You are a mother! How come you dun need to take care of your son huh? How come you always go out with your gfs huh????"...... Hey, being a mother or someone elses' wife, does not mean you should confine yourself to your own world, forsaking your everything. Everything should be done in moderation, and this is something i always abide by.

Seriously, it is possible to club with hubbies, why not? In fact, i do get frens laughing at me years ago, when they saw me and hb alone in a pub, playing cards... yes, just the 2 of us.... why not? its incredibly sweet! kekeke. But then again, nothing beats the joy of drinking and making merry with my dearest gfs... you know, when gals get all high and cranky, thats a lot of fun! whaahahaha

In fact, i have this crazy thinking, to bring my son for my future clubbing!! wahaha, wun that be amazing? ho ho ho, gals, when will u guys accompany me for this weird club-out? hehehehe.....

What Kinda World Are We Living In?

2008-01-12T01:05:00.000+08:00

Yes, exactly what kinda world are we living in? Its such a dilemma.

These few days have been hectic for me, cos i am struggling with at least 4 projects on hand, and also trying to find time to meet up the potential business enquiries. Was still feeling very positive over the sudden influx of new works, and feeling happy abt a good start to 2008. But as i struggled on with work during the past few days, it somehow got depressing.

Depressing becos once again, i am feeling myself drained of energy. I realise manpower management is a skill, not a talent. Am i confusing you? You can be a talent in your industry but if you lack of the skill to manage human relationships, you are considered as a "half-bucket-water"... Sigh!!!

Have been making lots of phonecalls to find part-timers for my events in Mar, and of cos for my 15 sets of roadshows. And hell, its really not easy coordinating schedules...

well, today, i have a 456mb file to send across to a client who is based oveseas. Unable to email out, and hence gotta use my fav "yousendit.com" to complete my work. And.... for a 456mb file, it took a good 5hrs 23mins to upload completely. GOSH! Decided to leave the lappy running while we go for our kallang meet up.

By the time we left kallang for the office, the uploading was still in progress. Shit! had to wait another 20mins. By that time, it was already 11pm. Then hb n we went into deep musing:

HB: Sometimes i think Singaporeans are really one kind (pointing to my office neighbour)
JJ: Ya, i think i knw what u meant. Why on earth are we working so hard for??
HB: Ya man, look at the time now (looking at his D810), so late and still got pple working!!
JJ: Yes, in fact most of my office emails i received from clients are like btw 10pm to 2am kinda timing!!

The discussion ended with an agreement that Singaporeans worked too hard.... or perhaps are forsaking quality times just for work. I mean, work is downright important, cos no work, no money and then no honey.. but, i missed the good old days when i see my parents working hard, but resting enuf too. They were happy people, although not rich. They were contented people although they dun live in private housings. They were sensible people although they dine only in coffee shops.

It led me to some serious thinkings.... what kinda values should i instill into my son?

Value 1: Work Hard, Work Smart, But Dun Play Hard -
dilemmatic situation too! Working smart and working hard are the 2 impt pre-requisites for any working class. But as you work smart/hard, it does not equate to you playing hard. In fact, chances are that whatever extra time thats left over from your "working hard", are usually used to sleep, rest or catch up on whatever you need to. So, where do you place your friends, your innermost callings, your self-values and your family? Where's your "ME time?" Just imagine that you earn $80k pa, and your frens earn 35k pa, but your frens get to enjoy their weekends and after-office hours, and you are still stuck in the damm office, using the damm PC???

Value 2: Work Smart, Work Just 'Bout Enuf And Play Hard -
Or should i instill this Value No. 2 into my son's young brains, telling him that "its ok, so long you try your best", and assures him that he can slack/rest so long he tries. But wun that turn him into a person without aspiration? Wun that deter him from exploring and exploiting his best, and more? What if that Value eventually turns him into a good-for-nothing???

Tell me, what kinda world are we living in? anyway to strike a good balance btw the 2 abovementioned values?

I Got My DSLR!!!!

2008-01-06T23:15:00.000+08:00

After much decisions, I finally decided to get a DSLR - Digital Single Lens Reflective camera. This purchase was made possible from company's funds. Kekeke. Actually, I have loved photography since young, but have nover had the chance to fully explore the joys of photo-taking. Also, i love being the object of photo-taking and did not really think that i will need a "professional" camera.

In our Airwave Club, it is always Iggy24 and myself taking most of the pics, with him using his DSLR and me, using my digicam. Iggy's pics never fail to amaze me cos they are always brilliant and nice. But soon, the DSLR took over the club by storm... Jomartin, Mavloo, Delvin88 started to buy too.

I did not want to join the trend blindly and so, i got myself familiarise with the essence of photo-taking as well as got a feel of the actual cameras. Iggy was so nice, to invite me to his house to try out his 2 cameras, as well as give me an insight of what photography is all abt. Mavloo came along to Iggy's hse to loan me his Nikon D80. So i was presented with 2 options, Nikon D80 or Canon 400D.

In the end, i got the D80 last Saturday, with the help of Iggy. He went down to Sim Lim Square with me and I got it from Orient Photos. The total damage was abt $1.7k (heart ache!!!! but heng was sponsored by Leadz lah..)

HB has been supportive of my interests in photo-taking, but he laughed at me sayin that i can no longer self-take my pics..kekeke, says who? I still have my digicam and mobile phone for my "Kodak" moments mah! Kekeke....

Anyway, i hv been toying with my new toy these 2 days, and am loving my toy even more now. But as suggested by the guys, i need to do lots of reading up, to ensure that i am technically equipped with knowledge so that i can advance further.

Well, we went to Jalan Kayu today to do some marketing for CNY plants, and i used this perfect opportunity to hone my photography skills. Actually, its more like playing with the different functions, like testing the aperture, the ISO, the shutter speed etc...

One of my fav shots

After uploading onto Picasa, i did not even want to edit my pics (some are too dark, and most are too "un-focused"). These are my virgin shots and i want to remind myself not to repeat the same mistakes...

Anyway, i'm pleased to invite you guys to see my works at http://picasaweb.google.com/jazzjewel. I know that there are still room for improvements and i do hope that i will be showing you guys more decent shots soon.

Cheers to my Nikon D80!!!!

Happy 6th Anniversary!

2007-12-31T10:07:00.000+08:00

29 Dec marks my wedding anniversary with hb, and this year, we are celebrating our 6th years as Mr and Mrs Koh. We have conveniently "disposed" our darling Daryl to mum's place and we headed to Orchard Rd for some business meetings and decided to while our time there...

While at Far East, after our site measurement, we hung around and this time, hb got real impressed with this mall, as he finally can find cheap shirts and polo-tees at dam affordable prices and trendy and most importantly, fit his size well! Hooray for me too! Cos that means i dun need to keep going into topman to get the shirts for him cos the clothings are DOUBLE the price at Far East...

After shopping, we headed to 5th flr for the hainanese chicken rice and it was good! All these while, the mood set btw us was amazingly sweet.. must be becos son wasnt ard to "piss" us.. wahahaha

lately i had been "lemming" for a bag, and hence, we went on a scouting tour... We headed to DFS Galleria and "pretended" that we are some tourists touring the mall.. hahaha. . . but when we stepped into Gucci, and hear the SAs speaking to each other in hokkien, we were pretty "turned-off"..kekeke... We walked in and out of several boutiques, from LV, Coach, Burberry's, Marc Jacobs, Loewe etc.. and hey, shallow us felt very good! kekeke...

Stepping out of DFS, we walked to Ngee Ann City to check out Burberrys.... Din step into LV cos there was a long queue.. and i aint gonna waste my time hanging ard there... We then went into Burberrys and i was very taken by their new range.. Gosh, nice leh! Still, i was very disciplined.. and we walked further, into Dior.. and there, i was swept away by another new series... So glad that hb was there to remind me that i had ony wanted to get a small bag and that i wanna hv a bag that i can use daily.. hence, got to give the Dior bag a miss.

We then walked to Paragon, and saw that Gucci was hvg its SALE, and we popped in. And, i saw it!!!!!! That bag is beyond description! Its an old model but has a facelift!!! The fabric and colour looks damm chio! Its called Sandy Beige. Its more like champagne colour with gold speckles!! SWEE!! I was damm damm tempted but i still curbed my "lust" for it, and walke dout empty handed.

Nice hor?? Its old model but with new colour.. new facelift!!

By then, it was time to get our car n head to dempsey for dinner. We reached dempsey abt 7plus and it was still pretty empty. We were still full from noon's lunch and hence decided to walk around the place and chk out the other restaurants. And when we got tired, we sat at the bench meant for the valet parking guys and started snapping away..keke.

We headed to Quarubar for drinks and dinner. We had a supreme platter that consisted of japanese springrolls, gyozas, salmon cutlets, fries, salad etc... We sat by the window outside of the restaurants, giggling and snapping pics. We asked a waitress to take a pic for us and proudly said that it was our 6th anniversary, she was surprised! Hahaha.... When she returned to our table for the next drinks, she commented that she was looking at us from inside the restaurant and she dun feel that we are a married couple, more like a dating couple...wahahaha, so funny!

We left slightly after 10.30pm, but not before the jazz singer sang us a love song for our anniversary.. And guess what? the song that he sang (no, we din dictate what song we wanna hear) was exactly the same song i used as ringtone for hb's call... talk abt affinity! ;P

More pics here!