Life - A Never ending story

Updates

2012-01-30T20:52:00.002+08:00

Woah! It had been almost a year that I have not log into my own blog and update this space.
There were a lot of happenings in the past year.
Ups and downs during those days.
A fren resigned and I almost lost contact but juz a couple of sms and msg on fb. I felt a change in him but he tend to decline that.
During May, went to India for a short getaway. I went to Bangalore with one of the colleague. That was his hometown and we spent about 4 days there.
When back to Pune, procced to another trip with a couple other colleagues to GOA.
It was a beach resort and everyday we were out to the beaches, the hot sun and food.
That refreshment trip made me distress for a while as I was under pressure at work.
Thanks to those who travelled together made me younger and happier.

The months of July through Oct were tough for Yuva as she studies hard for the 'O' levels in Nov. Results were released early Jan and she is eligible for both JC and Polytechnics.
She had filed her options for both and finally got into Jurong JC.

December was a wonderful month for 3 of us. We booked a trip to Europe for 14 days covering Italy, Switzerland, Paris and London. First time travelling to the Eastern part of the globe was an eye-opener. We realsied the different in cultures and backgrounds and got to learn and respect theirs. The weather was cold but enjoyed a lot with the group of 22 and a young tour leader.
Time flies... When we were back from the trip, Christmas was juz a week ago. Then followed by the new year of 2012. Never in the least we found that CNY was merely weeks away from the fresh year. Everyday was a busy day running ard to get things done. Now it had been a week into the Dragon year.
I had also catch up with a few long lost-contact frens.
So glad to meet up and had a wonderful time with them although over a simple meal and cup of coffee. These are the frens I treasure and will contine to keep in touch with them.
Had also made a lot of new frens online or other means. Although most of them we have not met, but can feel the acquaintance close through the fb comments or msgs. A bunch of wonderful ppl ard.
This is the latest. Nowadays most of us are using fb as our communication tool to the outside world. But at times, our blogs can be our own platform juz to release some personal moments of happiness and sadness. Maybe a place you can tell your secrets if dat is not to be meant for the BIG group but you ownself only.
I will like to share something but juz do not know how to start with it. Maybe the next time when u look into this page, you might discover the great secret...

Why do u want to go?

2011-03-25T22:20:00.006+08:00

20th March 2011 - midnite
I got a call from my best fren telling me he decided to quit the job.
That was the most horrible to receive during the middle of the night which is worse than a nightmare.
At that moment I am juz at a loss of words. I juz cant control my tears.
Till now I still do not know what is the actual reason for you to leave.
Kyun? Kyun? Kyun?
But doubt u are going to tell me. Each time the tot of you leavin juz pain me.

Our partnership at work had been doing well. We do not have disputes and disagreements at all times. All problems and issues were able to resolve with peace.

You had been a good fren on business or personal. Each time I have any problems, u will be there to help. Even not able to resolve, your moral support is still there. We have gone through a lot of stress and pressure on work. Actually I felt yours is greater than mine.

We speak alot outside work too. Your family, hobbies, interests etc... At times when u started something u love, you will juz carry on and on. Though there are certain things I may not understand, but I will just listen cos we can learn a lot of things through your experience.

But now, u will be leaving the job soon. I tried to stop you from resigning but suppose not hopeful and not able to supersede yr family's decision. I m juz going to lose a good fren and listener to my problems. I have no one else to turn to anymore. Not sure I able to work with the new manager.

In barely a few days to come, I am not able to talk to you in office, on i-connect.
My dear fren, your team is going to lose a good team manager, a good boss.
I m going to lose a good partner, a good soulmate, close-heart fren.
Although modern technology is so advance and we can still 'meet' on facebook, but the feeling is still not the same as much as a phone contact. Well, probably that is the best choice available.

May I be able to see u again? Pray hard I do.
Really hope you will keep your promise to come Singapore at the end of the year. Then we should be able to catch up and fill up the missing part after yr departure.

Mera dost, from now till then, apna khayaal rakhiye.
Aap mujhe pasand ho. Mujhe tumse pyar hai.
Dil kee gaharaeon see.
Mujhe tum bahut yaad aate ho.
Fir miltne hain.

Rabbit year

2011-02-18T05:01:00.003+08:00

CNY had come to an end today-17 Feb 2011.
Ms rabbit will still stay around for the next 11½ months.
This lunar new year had not been a fantastic one though we have more days to spend with and I had actually extend 2 more days.
But the mood is not there. I simply cant raise it to enjoy the entire off that I have.
What is bothering me? Only me and myself is fully aware.
Why is it so bad? Only me and myself will fully understand.
How is it going to be resolved? Only me and myself can fully know is quite difficult.
Too much things that I had never faced it before.
Too much stress that I had never expect it before.
Too much problems that I had never know how to solve it.
Too much trouble that I had never ever how to pull through.
I really wanna run away - from home, from city, from stress, from trouble, from problems.
I really wanna someone to be with - comfort me, console me, accompany me, protect me.
Will there be such a place to go?
Will there be such a person to stay?
So my NY and CNY resolution - try to find a nice place to let me enjoy the peacefulness and also get a good travel companion to walk the journey.
Hey let my dream and wish come true!!!

Trouble trouble trouble

2011-01-17T01:31:00.002+08:00

Since the beginning of 2011 it had not been a good start.

All the things are not in the right position.

Problems, trouble, issues just come one after another.

I am very lost, very confused, very stressed, very pressured.

Family had been noticing the change in me lately, the quietness, the loneliness, the staying away and be alone.

I juz do not know how to tell, how to explain, how to express.
Everything is in a real mess....

I am very negative towards life, simply not able to say why.
Even the postings on FB are so sad, so negative, so disappointing.

Not sure what is going wrong with me but just feel that I am not able to hold on too long.

After watching the movie 'Into the wild', I really feel that I can be like the actor in the movie.
Burn the money, give up all the materialistic stuff and get to somewhere nobody know you, and u know none too. Is this running away from responsibilities? Is this not a way to solve our problems? Is this a terrible action? But who can tell me what should I do? How should I do then?

2010 to 2011

2010-12-25T10:48:00.002+08:00

2010 is coming to an end.

Is time to wrap up the happenings for the year.

First 3 months were sailing fine.
Due to deployment 3 of our team members left among which 2 managed to get another role in the bank.

April was a nightmare to me. Father got hospitalised for 1 whole month at TTSH.
I travelled everyday without fail to the hospital to see him and only absent on Mother's day.
He then moved in to stay with us since discharged.
I never knew to look after an elderly can be so... tough that I even screamed at him a couple of times. That hurt me badly cos I raised my voice at him for the first time.

During his stay in hospital, they found stones in the gall bladder which need to remove.
Some of them were already 'floating' outside had been removed during his stay.
He needed to have another op to get rid of the rest which are still not out.
But it will be better to kick them off before it cause pain.
That was scheduled in June 2010.

But because of my job depolyment, I need to take another trip to Pune and guide another vendor team. They had send a team during late May to Spore for training about a month.
My missison there is to guide the team further.
I supposed to leave in July and so father's op need to be postphoned till I am back to Spore.

So I left on July 18 for the oseas task and back on 7 Aug 10.
The trip went on fine. I met another younger and bigger team this year.
They were nice people - willing to learn and very positive about the new job.
Though now already back to Spore, I am still regularly in contact with the big family.
We have built up good friendship. Some of them are even my facebook friends which we styaed communicated outside the office hours.

During these few months, management had given me a good platform to perform.
The overseas trip was a good opportunity to display my leadership skills, my knowledge sharing with the team and many other aspects.

They had put on a very fantastic report for me and recommend me for a promotion to AVP.
Final results were out on 13 Dec 10 which I received a call from Christophe toghether with Dushyant when he was in town to break the good news that I had managed.
The official list was out on 15 Dec 10. Once that was released, well wishes came from my young team at Pune. That was a best moment in life.

2 days ago, I got the official letter in regards to my promotion. Hereby I confirmed that my status had now be Asst. Vice President.
My definition to the title actually = more work, more responsibilities, more stress.
But this is a performance paid off. So I will harder not to let the mgt down.

The last 2 months of 2010 were the down swing. I recently suffering from chest pains and is coming more regulary than before.
Not sure it is due to work stress or my health is getting worse.
I had a hunch that it may not be a good sign.

Dec 17 marks the end of brokerage team in Spore. Our last staff on the team had left.
Though now with Expense Mgt since last year, my soft spot is still with previous team which we share alot of stuff together. Being so alone is also one of the reasons for my down swing mood.

Thanks to a friend that I knew for half a year that been there always.
The comfort that was given to me, the consolations provided, the care and everything just boost my spirit each day goes by.
Although miles apart, we keep frequent contacts sharing our happiness and the unhappiness moments.

Thanks a lot my dear friend, you will be always on my mind.
Hope this friendship can be maintained and carry on just like yr friendship with yr close fren which was there for 22 years and still get going.
You will be my lifetime fren.
Really hope you can come to Spore soon we can share the good moments together.

Just barely a week to go before 2011. Hopefully my mood will be heighten when get into the new year. And everything got onto the right track.

Let's throw 2010 behind have a wonderful and good 2011 ahead.

Update

2010-12-05T19:57:00.002+08:00

2 months had gone by since my last update. Any other reasons - too busy.

Actually since back from Pune, time had always not enough.
After the last payables had gone off, I am almost on my own.

Anytime anything that needs urgent attention, naturally it will come to me.
Life was back to before except that I no longer have helping hands.

Any prioties - Jenny pls
When issues not resolved - Jenny pls
Things not right - Jenny pls

OMG it just went on and on and on.

Apart from that, had been troubled recently.
I just not able to get into sleep early.
The earliest probably after 3am and even as 'early' as 5am.
Lots of things weighing on mind and cant put it to rest.
No friends to speak to, nobody to turn to, no shoulder to lean on, no hand to hold on.
I am basically on my own.
Even there is someone that I can, I not able to.

Well, will just keep it deeply buried into the bottom and hope one day this will go off.

Sad thing...

Black Monday

2010-10-05T11:38:00.002+08:00

Last week was a terrible week.

Sad # 1
Due to restructuring, some of our colleagues were affected.
Theyn were told to go in a month or two months' time.

One out of each team was asked to leave and we were puzzled how they were chosen.
All these staff are good staff. But sad....

I personally felt one of the guys got the worst hit.
He was away on vacation back to his hometown for 2 weeks.
Monday was his first day back to work and yet got the news.
Worst he need to leave immediately without serving notice.

Sad #2
Then Tues one of my colleague from previous company tender her resignation.
She just joined our bank for less than a month and now she left immediately.
I remembered the day when I see her.
After back from Pune and a little break during National Day, I get back to office.
When she waved to me, I returned a courtesy smile.
Not only minutes later, I realised that she was my former colleague.
Catching up with her for a while after days later.
When I have not really sit down for a longer conversation, she now is longer a colleague of us.
She claimed that the job does not suit her and not to waste the time on other staff having to guide her longer peruiod, she choose to leave immediately.

Sad #3
As the job function was deployed to India last August, some of the staff was kept and retained during the tranisition period. The rest was gradually lay off or managed to get transferred to another department.

At the end of March, the team was left with myself and another colleague staying back to clear the backlog. I was actually reporting to another department but job nature somehow does not change much. Mainly I am still supporting the India deployed team.

Then after the function remained in India but transferred to another vendor team.
Our colleague was still retained to help out.
But finally at the end of Sep she needs to go off.
So last Thurs was her last day.
She had been a good fren and colleague.
We helped each other during work.
Outside work, she is a good listener to my personal problems.
Now I am a lonely soul with my committee getting smaller & smaller...
I am so alone with a reporting manager only.

Well this is life and we still need to move on.

Pune again

2010-07-20T01:43:00.002+08:00

Last August, I was at Pune to train the team for our job deployment.
Never cross my mind that I am back again for another mission - to train another team.
Touched down at Mumbai around 10.15am and reached Marriott Courtyard hotel 3 hours later.
The hotel's cafe was packed with customers mostly families.
Cant even get a seat and got a table at the waiting area.
Found a few familiar faces and they were glad to see me. So am I as their services were good.

Today I travelled back to the Wipro office. See the same old friends that I were here before. They were so happy and glad to see me. But knowing for a fact that my mission was now different to previous. I had mixed feelings.
1) I am really happy to meet them again.
2) I am sad that they need to go probably after another month.

First time getting aquaintance with the new team of colleagues. Not much of contacts but this team will be as friendly as the other and hope all things will be going fine.

Well, this is just the beginning of the trip. There will be another 17 days to go.
Wish me good luck!

Job deployment

2010-03-13T12:04:00.003+08:00

Since last year, our job function had been deployed to Pune, India.

But the team is having a tough time taking on the job, so our 'small team' in Singapore is still helping out to clear some stuff.

I am currently on a SME (subject matter expert) role to support the Pune team together with a reporting boss in Spore.

When I was asked to take on the role, I was hestitated. Though the position is not so much hands on but more of a support role, I still find it still in relate to my past job. I may be out to learn more about management skills and reporting, but the scope of work is still within what I have been doing the last 6 years.

2 weeks I understand from my superior that there is a need to go Pune again for about a week. The trip is to visit our new VP on board over there and also to cover up some training gaps that were claimed not complete. Another sad story....

As days goes by, I have a stronger intention to move out of this function role. I wanted to learn other job scopes of Investment Banking. Therefore I have applied for some other jobs internally in the bank but still waiting for the outcome.

I have expressed such intention to my supervisor but seems that I can only be released probably at least 6 months later.Sigh....

Recently there had been a lot of resignations in the bank including 2 from our team. Seeing them going off is a really sad thing but life needs to go on when it is deemed good for them.

My wishes to all who left the bank recently. Make sure no regrets making such a decision. If not it will affect you the rest of the life. Good luck to all my ex colleagues whether I do know you or not.

Blog update

2010-03-13T11:48:00.002+08:00

It had been half a year that this blog was left untouched. Now the 'in' thing is facebook. You basically can do anything on that platform - chatting, updating, play various games; a one for all system.

As for me, when I logged in to facebook account, most of the time playing they called the lame game - bejeweled blitz.

I had been addicted to the game since last year. My hands cant get off the screen when hooked on. Each time seeing my frens beating my score, the longer I stayed on to beat them.

But each time I reached quite a high unbeatable score, it got swiped off the board cos it was renewed each week. So at times a sad thing to see it going off the board the following week.

The advantage I found on facebook is really a good platform to look for friends. I managed to get quite a few through this site.

During our last meeting with some old NIC classmates, we wanted to plan a 30th year gathering with the class. Our mission is to locate those not found via facebook within the next 2 years. Well we understand that it will be a tough task as our age group is a different era from the younger generation. Not all of our classmates are active on the modern techno. However we really hope this mission impossible will turn out fruitful.

Alright I shall continue to keep this blog alive. Will add more blog updates after today.

Birthday at Pune

2009-09-01T00:42:00.010+08:00

31st Aug 09 - My first birthday at overseas.

When I last know that I will be at Pune on my birthday, I have mixed feelings. Away from my family on this day was a bit upset. But on the other hand, got to celebrate with my supervisor whose birthday is the same as me.

Our initial plan was to travel to Agra and look at Taj Mahal the weekend before. But it was called off due to the long journey. So on last Sat, we went to one of the fort and roam the city. Our dinner was settled at one of the Japanese restaurant in O Hotel.

Monday morning, everything was per normal. Start off with a simple breakfast at the hotel we leave for work. The colleagues came around us and give us their wishes. During the day, there were a chain of sms from frens and relatives. Yuva called and send her vocal wishes too.

In the evening close to 6 pm, we were given a surprise. The Pune colleagues prepared 2 cakes for each of us. We cut the cake and share with the office staff.

Back to hotel, we sat for a normal dinner. About 9pm we retired to our own room which another surprise for us. There was a huge birthday card on the office desk with the hotel's staff signing their wishes. That was very sweet and touching.

A last surprise was a friend added me on facebook unexpectedly on this day.

This had been a memorable birthday.

Pune training trip - 4th day

2009-08-27T01:34:00.002+08:00

We had been in Pune for 4 days. During these few days, we found that the hotel service is very good especially at Momo cafe where we settle our meals excluding lunch.

The staff are very friendly and helpful. We can request for special food from the kitchen if they are not on the buffet choice.

Almost one of the staff is attached to our table to provide service. Each of them put on a nice smile and greet us 'Good morning madam' - a whole hearted greeting.

They rendered very flexible services. Should you find the food not good or not to your satisfaction, they will void the item on your bill.

If Singapore can provide such good service, we will have a wonderful city.

Each morning, we will take the free taxi service to the work place - Vipro II. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to office.

Over there, we will spend our 9 hours working there including lunch. Lunch is served at the cataferia located within the compound.

The food is real cheap. On the first day at work, I bought a set meal - curry chicken with rice, some vegetables with chappti. Guess how much does that costs? Only Rs40 just barely a little after S$1.00.

Today is just the third day and I am getting a bit sick of the food. Oh... how to survive for another 23 days.

Pune training trip - day 1

2009-08-27T01:05:00.009+08:00

Departing on an early flight on sunday morning, we reached Mumbai airport about 10 am India time which is 2.5 hours behind Spore.

Then we transfer to road transport from airport to Pune. Along the way we see mountains, waterfalls, nice landscape. The drive took 3 hours when we finally reached our hotel - Marriott Courtyard.

Upon completion of the check in, we took our first meal at the hotel. On Sundays they provide brunch at the cost of RS399 equivalent to S$13+.

We had a good meal and back to room to have a wash up. Around 4 we took the taxi from the hotel and went into city to take a look.

Our first stop is Central Mall where we spent about an hour plus but only completed 2 levels of the mall.

Then we went to MG Road but just a few shops as most of them are closed.

Our last spot was SGS Mall along the way. I got a vcd - Fast & Furious 4 for Ajit and a magazine named Yuva obviously for the girl.

Back to hotel almost 9 pm, we decide to order food from room service and have an early night.

That was how we spend our first day at Pune before starting work on the following day.

Volunteer work - 25 Jul 09

2009-07-27T12:30:00.009+08:00

About a few weeks ago, I received an email requesting for volunteers to join an event to clean up shoes for the needy.

The job need us to sort, clean, pack and label for about 4,000 shoes collected during June 09.

I have not able to join in their voluntary jobs due to date crashes. Finally a chance to render my service. I ask the kids if they would like to go along. Both agreed.

So on sat morning, we left about 8.30 so to be on time t0 meet at 9.45 at expo mrt station. There will be shuttle to pick us up. After a wait until 10.15 we set off to the Crocs warehouse at Changi districtpark.

On arrival, we saw cartons of old shoes and crocs donated by the public. Then we started to sort, check if vivable for wearing, then pairing up.

Then an station starts the washing and scrubbing. Boxes of the good ones took the queue to be looked new again. 3 of us took the sorting. It was not a simple job. As all sizes, colours of them were all over. Not easy to pair them up.

After about 3 hours of work, we stop for lunch around 1.30pm. We each have a burger and get the drinks from the vendor machine.

Near to an hour of rest, we took over the scrubbing from other volunteers. We were worried if we can finish all the jobs ending 4 pm as mentioned. Many hands help the work and we managed to finish on time.

After a good clean up, task completed, we took a group photo before leaving. It had been tiring. So when the shuttle took us back to Expo mrt, we decide to take a ride to Changi Airport and treat ourselves to Popeyes' chicken.

Though no pay off for the job, but it always good to do something meaningful to help the society and needy.

Hope we can be more involved with such voluntarily jobs in the future.

Geraldine's new born twins

2009-07-11T05:54:00.002+08:00

This afternoon received an email from our supervisor that Geraldine, our colleague, had gave birth to a pair of twin boys. The boys had excitedly see the world a day ahead.

Initially, she had arranged to undergo Caserian operation on Sat 11 Jul 09. But maybe the pair prefer 10 Jul and they came earlier.

Months back, when we heard she is carrying twins, we feel very happy for her. This is an addition to the elder handsome boy, Gabriel aged 5.

In her inital stage, her tummy was not obviously. But then her twins grew well in her belly and we can feel her discomfort when moving around.

Now the mummy will be at home with the babies till Nov. Hope she enjoyed her motherhood as it is no joke looking after 2 at one go.

Next on line is our supervisor who will be due on late Oct. This is her 4th one and form a perfect family with 2 girls and soon 2 boys.

Keep it up to the mummies!!!

Job deployment

2009-07-11T05:38:00.004+08:00

About few months back, boss together with HR, told us that our job is going to deployed to India.

Well, this is n0t something new as other banks had already been doing so.
Why? Simple - cost savings.

When we heard the news, the 10-person team of us, started to worry.

I can't deny that I may be the one most worried as losing the job is a nightmare to me.

My financial status had not be steady. The fixed expenses are high and not able to bring down to lower level. Generally they are all daily basic expenses - from the kids pocket money, household expenses, market costs etc... as the list goes on.

As days goes by, our mood at work was demoralised. About a month back, boss told me that I need to be in India for 4 weeks to train the staff there as they are taking over our job.

OMG 4 weeks - what will be the kids' reaction when they hear this. Well, they still need to be informed but probably when the date gets nearer.

At the same time, there is an open and confirmed role when our job is migrated.

That is to be a SME (subject matter expert) attached to one of the department overseeing the job. Initially I rejected it but boss felt that I should take on the role.

Reason being I can be of help to the team due to my experience and exposure to the work that I had been doing for the last 5 years.

After giving a thought, I decided to give a try on a very simple basic ground - a permanent job which means my ricebowl is 'protected'.

Now the whole team is busy clearing our work as it will be migrated to India towards end of the year.

Currently, a team of 4 from India had been with us learning the job for the third week. After which in about 4 weeks later, our team from Singapore will be flying there to train more staff at Pune.

Last weekend, after the voluntarily work, we went to Changi airport for tea break cum dinner. Over the meal, I finally told them about my trip to India. Surprisingly, they told the news coolly though they did told me not to go. But there is not much choice left.

Last night I went on facebook. A colleague, currently over there, posted some pictures she took. Noticed that the place is quite underdeveloped including the Mumbai airport.

Well, let's see how things go by and hope I can perform in my future role.

Wish me good luck!

Seven pounds

2009-05-18T04:13:00.003+08:00

Earlier almost midnight I watch an English movie "Seven Pounds" by Will Smith.

Basically the movie is about a guy who wants to atone for his mistakes in the past. He then set out to make amends by helping seven strangers.

The movie starts off showing he called for ambulance for his suicide from the motel he stayed.

This guy - Ben Thomas was an IRS agent who went around to collect tax. He will only help those who are truthful and sincere. There was this lady who has heart condition and having problems paying the tax. This guy falls in love with her and tries to help her.

The movie went on with him meeting up some old friends and how the lady also has this liking in him.

In between there were some patients that had he had helped.

Only after Ben committed suicide the whole picture surfaced. His brother got a kidney transplant from him and another lady from the Family service dept had his other kidney.

He also donated his bone marrow to a little boy, gave his beach house away to a lady who was ill-treat by her boyfriend.

Back at the motel he stayed, he kill himself by getting the poisonous jellyfish to bite him. After his death, he donated his heart to the woman that he loved deeply and his pair of eyes to a blind pianist.

This 2-hour movie is very touching. He almost give up his body to the needy.

Well in real life, how many people is able to do such a good deed. If the society is so wonderful there will great then.

One job done

2009-05-18T04:04:00.003+08:00

Yesterday we went out for a swim at CCK swimming complex. Then we went to the Yew Tee point nearby for dinner.

Since it was still not too late, we took MRT from Yew Tee to Bt. Batok station. Then a quick run at the Popular bookshop we bought some stationery.

After which we proceed to Harvey Norman to get the fan for our hall and a router for our lap top.

Upon reaching home, we fixed the fan first as that was an easy task. Finally we need not suffer the heat when watching tv in the hall.

Next the tough job was to set up the router to connect the laptop and pc for internet surfing.

I am a pc nerd. Ajit was helping but we just cant get it done.

Today as we do not have plan to go out, I intend to tidy up the pc corner as it was very messy.

Discard the unnecessary stuff, I tried to get the connection.
Guess what, I managed to get both the laptop and desktop connected to internet.

Wow! That is a job complete. Now the corner looked neat and tidy.

Well, a satisfactory job done on a beautiful sunday!

Mother's day

2009-05-11T02:12:00.004+08:00

Today is mother's day. A week ago, Yuva bought me a rose. They kids actually wanted to bring me out for a meal. I prefer to be at home.

Few days back, the kids + our niece Thulasi shared to buy us a cake. They even went to one of shopping mall to get the mothers a gift each.

Last night, just to add fun to it, I was asked to play a simple word game so to lead me where the present was kept. It was found in the kitchen.

The present was a flexi massager together with a hand-made card.
Though a simple gift, it was always the thought that counts.

Remember years back when Yuva was in lower primary, I remembered scolded her for borrowing money from her classmate.
After knowing the reason that she just wanted to get a flower, I was so touched.

Today we have a feast at home. We order KFC for lunch.

During the afternoon tea time, we have pizza plus some pastries and forgetting the cake the children buy for us.

My sister, Jane with her husband came over around 6 to fix our laptop.
Then after 8.30, we decide and go out for dinner.

Unable to decide where to go, we finally settle down at one of the steamboat restaurant along Novena road.

We sat and have a good time till after 11. Ajit, as usual, wanted to go West Coast Park. But got rejected again and feel frustrated. So we were home around midnight.

I have a good talk to Yuva and end up with an agrument over some matters.

Ghosh, that is how well it started and how bad it ended.

Time to go to bed. Shall stop here.

Ajit Kumar

2009-05-06T02:04:00.003+08:00

About a month ago, the Tamil teacher at school called me and need to meet up with me.

The teacher had commented that Ajit was not able to perform well in Tamil.
So she intends to get him stay back everyday in school and coached him.

The boy's results were not good since Pri 5 onwards. And Tamil is the killing subject of all.
He does not take a interest in the subject. I have always get feedback that he does not do his homework or did not hand in his work.

About a month ago, we engaged a Tamil tutor for him as suggested by the teacher in school.
After 2 weeks of tuition, this boy managed to score not only passed but did well in his composition writing.

Last week, I meet up with tutor for the first time.
He promised that he is able to guide him to the level of passing but may not score high.
That is already a comfort to me.

Today, I got a call from the teacher again. She says the boy was not listening to her instructions and came home after school instead of staying back.
But Ajit has a different set of words when confronted.
He was even told by the teacher to give up his CCA without me knowing.

I feel very upset over the whole issue. I am not sure whether the teacher is twisting her words or the boy is lying.

As such, to solve the problem, I wrote to the teacher and get her to stop the extra lessons except for the compulsory day.

The email was written in quite a harsh manner but I felt that my kid need to be look after. He always feel that the teacher and me does not trust him. So I decided to take this step.
Also, he is comfortable with the tutor's coaching. I believe he probably can do better under his guidance.

Well, a lot of pressure and stress recently that I basically can't cope with it.

Writing the blog had been a release of this stress off my mind for a while.

Hope tomorrow is a better day.

Busy life

2009-05-06T01:52:00.002+08:00

It had been one and a half months since I update my blog.
A lot of things had been happening lately.

I took the exam in Mar. Guess what I flunked again marginally.
Still thinking whether should I resit for the exam or give up totally.

Of course there is a cost involved.
If resit - pay $250+ for the paper ( I have to 2 papers to take)
If give up - pay $3K+
OMG it is hard to decide.

At work, it had been non stop.
Tonnes of paper piling up and does not seemed to go down.
I am almost buried among the sheets.

At home, we just bought a new laptop.
It is suppose for more Yuva's usage so that they can both a pc each to work on.
But the boy as usual happily use it for his games. Sigh.....

Each day after work, I will leave office around 2 am.
Back home, no time to rest cos' need to clear the recordings of the TV dramas being HongKong or local. So I will at least spend 2 hours watching them and only get into bed almost 4 or 5 am.
Thank God, after last week, I am left with 1 serial to follow only.

Not only that, I am almost crazy over the bejeweled game on facebook.
Hours were spent playing the game and trying to be the top each week.

Phwee... as you can see 24 hours each day do not seemed to be sufficient.
Guess need a proper timetable to schedule the tasks and jobs.

Yuva's first term results

2009-03-25T13:08:00.003+08:00

Before 2009 comes by, Yuva had set her new year resolution in regards to her school work.

She wanted to get all As to the subjects. Very determined, she had been working very hard.

After the common test, papers were returned back to the class. Though she did not do quite well in a couple of subjects, but it had been very satisfactory.

Yesterday she got back her overall progress report. She scored A for 5 subjects and B for 4 others.
And her position in class had moved up tremendously good - from around 19 to number 6.
But the girl is not happy as she did not able to socre A for all.

Well Yuva, a piece of word for you - This is not the last term of the year. Instead just the beginning. So long you work hard, you will get to see good results.

Keep up with your good attitude and you will score well in the upcoming terms.

Jia you!

What is life??

2009-03-25T12:34:00.003+08:00

About 2 weeks ago, I watch an hour programme hosted by ex dj Billy Wang who is a cancer patient titled "Live well, leave well".

In the show, he went around asking some questions which might be sensitive to others about death. Some like are u fearful of death, have u drawn up a will etc...

Quite a number of the interviewees seemed to be prepared but there are also some not ready.

Billy also visited some cancer patients. One lady passed away few days after she was visited.

This is life! This momeent she is happily on tv. Next moment she is gone.

During the show, a nurse was interviewed about her looking after cancer patients. One of her lines was meaningful:

If you cant add days to her life, then let's add life to her days.

No one will know when our day is due. So before it is done why not add colours to it.
It might not be luxurious nor expensive. But just a fulfill of our dream or simple wish.

To all my frens and beloved ones out there - let's enjoy life to our fullest.

New Year 2009

2009-01-01T11:59:00.003+08:00

Wow it had so long that i did not update the blog.

The last was Nov before we went to Gold Coast. Now we are already back for more than a month and 2009 had arrived.

We always like to rewind the calender and see what are the happenings during the year. Today being the 1st day of a fresh new year, let's do likewise.

2008 had not been a good year especially from the 2nd half of the year. The world wide economy was badly hit by the crisis. The bankruptcy of banks, the depreciation of currencies, the drastic drop in share and stock prices.

Then the retrenchment exercises of all the few banks which strongly affecting those in the financial sector. Everyone is worrying if they will be the next one including me.

Close to end of the year there was the terrorists bomb in Mumbai causing a Singapore lady lawyer being sacrificed.

Some political news are the new Thailand new leader caused strikes, scandal news about Taiwan's ex-president and his family involved in money laundering.

Entertainment world had a mixture of good and bad. The sudden departure of MC King in early Jan 08, the happy apple Lydia Sum's death and a few others. The latest will be the Japanese AV star's suicide. Of course there are good news with a few celebrities being the proud parents of their children. Some babies are on the way.

After a rough overview of the big world. Now is my personal one.

Our family went to Bangkok in May and Gold Coast in Nov this year. Me additionally went to celebrate 972's birthday at Vietnam during Sep. They were enjoyable trips.

Financially, quite stable but still need time to recover. Hope can get over the crisis earlier.

Alright, that's all for 2008. There are a few goals need to complete for 2009. Most important to study and pass my SOTC exam. Do a better job at work and hope we able to hop onto a tour.

May everyone have a fruitful 2009. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Countdown to Gold Coast

2008-11-20T10:53:00.005+08:00

Yea. Just another day we are leaving for Gold Coast - Australia.

With Jane and Raymond joined us this time, it will be our 2nd trip of the year after Bangkok that 6 of us travelled together.

We are flying off on 21st Nov at 9.10 pm by SIA and back to Singapore on 27th Nov.
The kids are very happy able to fly on the Singapore airline again.

These few days, we had been busy packing the needs for the 7-days trip. Everyone is excited on the trip when we started the count down about 15 days ago.

Looking forward to go the Dream world and Movie world for the exciting rides. The Tangalooma resort to feed the dolphins. The catch-a-crab cruise sounds fun too. We also have plans for the free day too.

As it is close year end, the weather at Brisbane is going hotter. But from internet findings, there had been heavy rainstorms and showers. Also the temperature went almost low of the month for the highest or lowest.

Well, let's hope it does not rain when we are there. Neither it going to be hot too. Prob a cool weather best suit us.

That's all for now. Shall update more when we are back!

Halloween

2008-11-20T10:29:00.005+08:00

Usually on some common festive seasons, our bank will organise competitions to decorate the office e.g. Chinese New Year, National Day etc...

This year there is one for Halloween too.

The individual department will form their own team and submit for the contest.

The team next to us put on a fantastic decoration. It was like a house with the spider webs and a big spider right in the centre of the ceiling. Their phones were dressed like witches.

More impressing that they even have created a door with the signs to be aware of the spiders. Little pumpkins lit up the Halloween spirit and mood. The decoration fulfilled the theme well.

I really like the idea and the team work put up. Eventually they are the winner for this season. The team also won the National day deco too.

Christmas bells are on the way. Believe there will be another contest for the best dressed Christmas dept.

Our team is going for a brainstorm meeting today for this occassion. We shall put in our best for the decoration.

Even there is no mention of the contest yet, we hope through this to show our team efforts and to add some energy welcoming the last holiday of the year.

Raymond's birthday celebration

2008-11-03T12:08:00.008+08:00

Yesterday, the usual 6 of us had a little birthday celebration for Raymond.

The plan was to have an afternoon movie then follow up a ride at Spore flyers and of course not missing a dinner.
But did not turn out well.
Failure # 1
In the afternoon, we watched the Thai movie - 'The Coffin'. Having high expectations, the movie turned up sucks. No meaning, boring, no storyline ... I actually fallen asleep during the show.

Failure #2
After the movie, we realised that it was raining. So our plan to go onto the Flyers was not able to materalise cos we wanted to watched the sunset. But the moody weather spoiled the plan. Everyone was upset especially Ajit who had waited for months just for this day to go onto the flyer.

Though there were upsets, the rest of the day was a smooth one.
Happy #1
We decide to have an early dinner. Suggested by Raymond, we have dinner at Kuishin Bo at Suntec City. The popularity was proven by the beeline queue before it opened at 5.30pm.

We took our seats around 5.35, then start attacking the food. There was a full spread of Japanese stuff from the raw sushi to the cooked teppanyaki chicken. The snow crab was very sweet and juicy.

We had a very satisfactory dinner and left around 9pm. Wow a long dinner about 3.5 hours.

Happy #2
Then the last event of the day - we decide to go the newly open spot - Marina Barrage. It was just opened on 31st oct 08. After a little search, we finally reached the place.

A very spacious open air area, our first spot was the beautiful and colourful water fountains. Lots of pictures were taken. Even those taken on Yuva's mobile turned out better than my digital camera.

Afterwhich, we took a walk on the spiral walkway. We had a view of the Spore flyer at the distant. The cool and breezy wind gave us a light-litted heart.

Back to the ground level, the boy starts playing with the water sprays that shoot out different colours at different time. The girl busy taking pictures of the surrounding. Joey, as usual, looking for nice spots to capture her beautiful face together with Jane.

With fun for about nearly 2 hours, we left for home after 11pm.

Though we do not have a good start, but the rest of the day was happily ended though no cake for the birthday boy!

Share with me the trip to Vietnam

2008-10-22T12:34:00.000+08:00

Open Tip bus

2008-10-21T12:49:00.012+08:00

Recently the radio station 97.2 had organised 3 of open tip buses trips around Singapore. The 1st was on 14 Sep 08 which conincides with the moon cake festival.

On board was Mediacorp celebrity 715 - Qi Yu Wu. We were the lucky batch with him on the road with us.

The trip covered the Northern part of the island basically Toa Payoh, Bishan, Ang Mo Kio, Yishun and ended at Woodlands. There were 2 groups of passengers. First group set off from Mediacorp and stopped at AMK. Then the second group will hop on and head Yishun and Woodlands.

On the way, mooncake, some snacks and drinks were served. There were games and quiz during the journey.

We had an enjoyabe time.

The 2nd trip took off on 5th Oct 08.

This time is the East of Spore. Generally were Marine Parade, Bedok, Simei and Tampines.

The last one was just couple days ago, on the 19th Oct 08.

It was initially planned to move around the city - Orchard and then to head Clementi as the end point.
But too bad, a last minute change of route.

So the route this time was West area covering Holland, Clementi, Jurong.

It was pouring during the afternoon even when we set off. So during the early part of the journey, we can only take the seats on the lower part of the bus. But when the rain stops, the group went above the open top.

The cooling wind after the rain was great. I was 'slapped' by the leaves a few times while standing on board.

When the bus passed by some places which I travelled almost everyday. Each other day, I did not stopped to look at them. This day I managed to get a better glimpse of the surrounding.

Does this mean we are too busy to notice or just cant be bothered?

After about over an hour of journey, the bus stopped at Jurong East MRT.
We took a group photo onboard the open tip for remembrance.

It had been a fantastic and wonderful trip.

Trip to Gold Coast

2008-10-10T00:37:00.002+08:00

Finally we are planning to go Gold Coast, Brisbane this year.

I have planned to go during 2001. During Aug 01, I booked a 7-day trip during NATAS fair then to travel during Nov. A deposit of $2,000 was placed.

But the 9-11 disaster happened. So, our head of the family felt that it was not safe to travel at that point of time. I called to cancel and need to pay for the admin charges of $600. So I am left with $1,400 travel vouchers.

Never did I realised that the voucher was only valid till Oct 02. The kids were not able to go for holiday during the school term. Thanks to my sister's Hongkong fren who got married during that time. The voucher was then used for her air tickets and accomodation when they attend the wedding there.

This year, when Jane wanted to go with her husband. Our family have the same intention. So Jane booked the trip for October when we have yet confirmed the date yet.

Unfortunately, due to low season, their trip was not materialised. Then we decide to go together in Nov. But checking out some dates and ideal travel schedules, we eventually settled to travel on 21st Nov to 27th Nov 08.

The deposit had been placed. Pray hard nothing is going and should not happen, we are now counting down the days to the trip.

Happil to say GoldCoast here we come!

Vietnam trip 18 -21 Sep (Part 2)

2008-10-06T00:32:00.018+08:00

Day 3 - 20 Sep 08

On the previous night, our tour leader and tour guide told us that the trip to Hanoi Bay needs 3 hours. So we had a earlier morning call at 6, then set off at 7.30 am.

The day's line up is to have a seafood lunch on the boat ride along Hanoi bay.
Followed a walk through the cave with beautiful rock formations.
Then check n a hotel for rest.
The night is the 972 birthday celebration at a hotel's ballroom.

There was stop-over for restroom and to get some local goodies. The agency also arrange deejays to come onboard the coaches and meet us for a short while.

After more than 3 hours on the road, we finally reached the jetty. There were full of boats lining up. We went on board and start off the boat ride. On the cool and quiet riverbay , there were nice and beautiful scenaries. The cameras were busy taking the best shots around - water, rocks and even the skies.

Then stopped by some fishermans' hut. You may buy the fresh seafood from them and cooked on the spot for our lunch. But we were advised by our local tour leader not to do so.

Back onto and settled in tbe ferry, lunch was served shortly. It was just some simple dishes of vegetables and about 2 seafood items.

Understand from Nicole, my new fren on this trip, she says that the 2 pieces of rock formation, is an icon of Hanoi Bay. Basically they shaped like 2 chicken facing each other. When we are near the rocks, the tour guide pre-advised us. We stopped our chopsticks and out the camera again to snap it.

After a good ride and nice lunch, reached the jetty where the cave is. The cave was being discovered in 1993 by a fisherman and thereafter the government took over and developed further and today it had became a tourist spot. Generally inside the cave there are many beautiful rock formations. The lights were to enhance the beauty.

Again as told by Nicole, one of the rock looks like a nipple. From far, it does looks so. It took us more than an hour to complete the exploration of the cave. Both os us stopped by to buy some soveniors and end up the last 2 to go onboard the ferry. The tour guide was worried that we might went up to another cave which we are not aware there is one.

Now is time to ferry us to the hotel and get prepare for the night - 972 birthday party.

We were checked-in Dream Hotel. A better one to the previous La Thanh Guest House. As I took a single room, my room was a few levels above our other group members. Managed to get a bit of the sea view from the hotel room.

As we have about 2 hours to spare, we went out of the hotel to have a look. Opposite the hotel, there was a shopping area - similiar to that of our pasar malam. That was a stretch of stalls selling some small items - handbags, soverniors, handicraft stuff etc... I managed to get some fridge magnets and a handbag. Thanks to super barginner Nicole, the handbag is a good buy which costs S$4 from the origin of S$10. That is a 60% discount.

Around 6 pm, we went back to the hotel and washed up. By 6.50 we are to meet at the lobby and take the coach to another hotel. As there were be 15 buses heading the same place, the tour guide briefed us the whats to do, whats not to. So that everything will run smooth and not to cause any unpleasant situations.

And u know what - my nightmare started. The batteries for the camera went flat. I did not bring the charger. Neither dat I can get any nearby at all. My initial plan to snap a lot of pictures on the show performed by the 972 djs, but now sigh...

Though Nicole and Sandy told me to use their cameras. But I just feel not too good and keep disturbing them.

The hotel was just a short ride from our Dream hotel. Upon reaching, we see the crowds from other buses. An estimate is about 400+.

The event kicked off around 8 pm. The dj crew started their performance and so is the food. With the weak batteries, I managed to get some shots.

Towards the end of the show, there was a cake on stage for the radio station.

Then gradually, the guests started to leave by group. We were among one of them who leave later. Thanks to dat, we managed to go on stage and get more shots with the deejays. Also not forgetting Elsie our tour leader, she took a lot of shots for me using her camera. Of course to mention Sandy too for being my camera lady for the night.

We were back to the hotel around 10.30pm. Some of our members are still not too tired. So we brought them to the same marketing place in the afternoon. With the professional bargaining power, Nicole helps some of the group to get cheap stuff and a handbag for herself. Everyone was happy and we left around an hour after.

We had an morning flight at 10.30am next day and Hanoi Bay is further from airport, we need to leave very early.

Day 4 - 21 Sep 08

A morning call at 4.15, breakfast at 5am and to set off 5.30.

We took the coach and reached the airport around 8.40 after a 3 hours ride. The check in took quite a while but we still have a little time to shop around at the duty free shops. Finally is time to board the plane. As a few groups of us flying back to Singapore, Elise arranged the seats by group though our boarding passes indicated otherwise. This is just for us to enjoy the companionship on the last few hours.

There were some annoying noises on the plane as I believed the leaders of the other groups were not briefed before going on board.

Reaching Singapore about 3 pm in the afternoon, we collect our luggage and leave for home.

It had been a wonderful trip. Though travelling alone, I have met nice frens Nicole, Sandy, Su Ling and her boyfren which eventually I am not alone at all.

Not forgetting our good tour guide - ah Du and also motherly tour leader Elsie.

If given opportunities, I will like to travel with them again.

Vietnam trip 18 - 21 Sep (Part 1)

2008-09-30T10:48:00.019+08:00

23 Sep 08 - Love 972 14th birthday.

As part of the celebration, 972 with the travel agency, planned a 4D 3N to Hanoi, Vietnam.

I took part in the trip too.

Day 1 - 18th Sep 08

Departing in the afternoon, an air journey of 3 hours, finally I reached Hanoi around quarter past 6 in the evening. After check out the customs, the tour leader brought us to our first dinner in Hanoi. Along the way, we saw the great number of motorcycles on the road.

After dinner, we check in the hotel. First time staying alone on a trip, the room was great. A king size bed + another single bed, a comfortable relax corner. Too bad the reception on tv not too good so not able to watch their programmes.

Since the night still young, I went out with 4 new frens on the group. We went to a small coffee shop near the hotel to try how nice Vietnamese coffee is. Having a nice cup of coffe, the night sleep was nice too.

Day 2 - 19th Sep 08

After breakfaast, we set off and start the day. First stop is the People's Heroes memorial and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Then followed by the residence of Ho Chi Minh.

Afterwhich, we had buffet lunch which served typical Vietnamese style food.

Following after lunch, we proceed to a tricyle ride round the 36 ancient streets. Sitting on the tricyle is really a thrill like taking a adventure ride. These triycle drivers are really good going through the streets.

After a heart-throbbing journery, we went for the unique Vietnamese cultural performance - Vietnamese Water puppets. The hour show basically showing the history of Vietnam through the puppets.

We went back to the same restaurant previous night for dinner. As the following day will be a tough one, we head straight back to hotel for an early rest.

But actually the night was still young, the tour guide together with her girlfriend, brought us to Hoan Kiem Lake. We ordered some finger food and beer. Seat by near the lake, we enjoyed the night breeze, try to understand more of the Vietnamese society, drinking away.

After spending about 2 hours at the lakeside, the tour guide needs to return to the hotel for a meeting. Therefore, we left the lake.

Pressure / frustration

2008-08-13T11:42:00.003+08:00

12th Aug 08 - a day just things not in the right place.

I am suppose to learn from another colleague who is leaving the bank soon. But the start is already a nightmare.
An email from our London office checking on an outstanding issue. It was put that I am the one delaying.

Then another email came in regarding another issue. Indirectly I was being blamed again. So I had to delay my learning to the evening after dinner.

But as the chinese saying, it comes once, twice and the third wil be there. It just being proven after dinner. A third email questioning over some actions taken a month ago. After some explanations, the issue rolled into a snowball. Worst off, a phone call from London office. I am faced with a few peers over the other line 'attacking' me.

That's it. I doubt can take it further. Thanks to my seat right at the end of the row, I broke down with not much notice from the colleagues.

Thanks to my team manager trying to help me in resolving the issue. But it had not ended yet. Today need to go to office early and get the info for London.

Hope today will be a better day. Actually if my mum is still alive, today will be her 69th birthday. So I believed she will bless me.

Love u mum!

Money not enough

2008-08-04T11:48:00.003+08:00

Ater the NATAS fair, we head to Vivo City to watch the movie 'Money Not Enugh 2'.

All the showtimes are full and the next available is 9.40 pm. It was too late for us as the children has classes next day. So we left there hastily and go to the nearest GV theatre nearby - Great World. We managed to get the 6.20 showitme tickets.

Ae there is still almost an hour to the movie, we then have a quick bite the the food court.

Money not enough 1 was screened 10 years old and went on screen again about months back. Way back, the movie portrayed how 3 frens went through hard times when money is always not enough.

Before watching this movie, we heard the storyline focus on the ERPs that is killing people. The begin of the movie did show how the government 'eat' our money in setting so many additional ERP on the roads.

But when we watched about half of the movie, it seemed to be diverted to more of filal piety.

It focus on the 3 sons and their families treating their old mother. Some of the scenes reminded us of my father.

Although the movie was side tracked from the orignal theme, but believed it brought out a better message to all of us especially to thouse who had old parents.

It is a nice movie. Spend some time and watched it with your loved ones.

NATAS travel fair 2008

2008-08-04T11:28:00.003+08:00

Last morning went to the NATAS after breakfast at the kids' all time favourite - MacDonalds.

We reached Singapore Expo around 11 am. After paying an entrance fee of $3.00 , we swarmed around the 2 halls full of different travel agents booths.

Our main purpose of this trip is to plan our holiday to Gold Coast during the year end. So all enquires basically concentate on that.

Most of the agencies are offering similiar itinenaries. So it depends on which one suits our family best. Jane and Raymond had chosen a 6-day Gold Coast Popular. Generally it covers a day to Tangalooma and the 2 major worlds - Movie world and Dream world. They will be travelling during Oct 08.

As for us, a member of our family not with us. So we are not able to decide on which itinerary. Also the date had yet been confirmed. Therfore, we got to give up some good discounts that only offered to those who booked during these 3-days fair. Hope we able to go onto this trip during end Nov or early Dec.

Then we proceed to the smaller scale Food fair which is 2 halls away. At there we settle our lunch with some simple food. Finally we leave the crowdy Expo around a quarter after 3.

Come and go

2008-08-01T11:16:00.003+08:00

2 weeks ago, we have a simple farewell party for a couple of interns. These 2 undergrads were attached to our department for 10 weeks.

During the internship, they had help out the team alot. I can see the inspiriational soul in them to get the work done.

I volunteer to plan for the simple party. We order pizzas, sushi, fried chicken, pies and tarts. Our team head add sturdels to the list too. Thanks to our boss who chipped in the biggest share of the cost.

Then the 2 students, went around to distribute each of us a small can of cookies with a little card.

Though not much involving in the guide during this period, I am very touched on the words written on the card.

Now they are back to their uni days. Hope they carry on well with their studies and maybe 2 years they might become one of us working together again.

Keep it up JL and SC.

Lost and found

2008-08-01T11:02:00.002+08:00

On Wed, I went onboard bus 174 to leave for office.

Took on a seat on the upper deck of the bus. Usually I choose the seats behind but just for that day I choose the front seats instead.

Then on the seat there was this mobile phone. Oh! someone left if behind.

The phone is locked but just not able to unlock it cos not familiar with the Samsung phone.
So I just brought it back to office.

Busy throughout the whole day, and I totally forgot the phone.

Next morning I heard some unfamiliar sounds in the room when I am still asleep.
Only then I realise is coming from the phone. So I tried to unlock it again and I managed.
I quickly search through the contact list and found the owner's mother contact.
As it is still early, I send a msg to her that I am holding on to the mobile.

Within a minute, I received a call from the owner who is just a secondary school boy.
After verifying the details of the phone does belong to him, I spoke to his mother to make arrangements to return the phone.

Same afternoon, I meet up with his mom at Bt Batok MRT. A middle aged Chinese lady, she is so greatful that the phone was found. She then pushed me 2 packets of snacks and biscuits as a simple token of appreciation.

Well, felt very good after returning the phone to the owner. Can imagine it was me who lost the mobile when lots of particulars and info in it.

To all my frens, take good care of your belongings. Once lost, sometimes may not be able to retrieve.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-07-22T12:59:00.001+08:00

A long break

2008-07-21T01:30:00.003+08:00

It had been a long break since my last post in April. 3 busy months... sigh

We went for a short trip during May. The kids spent about 3 days and I was there for a week.
Then as usual non stop office work which just went on. The 1 month old school holiday merely some outings, swimming, a couple of movies...

Now after 3 weeks in July, I am still working non-top. Attended a medittion course in ealy July. Have not got the time to put it in practise. Finally today I completed my photo book and submit for printing.
Next task, to carry on with my reading which I have not been able to concenrate lately.

My weekends are full till end of the month. Also I have booked a 4-day trip to Vietnam during Sep this year.
Hope Aug won't be as busy.

Till then...

New maid

2008-04-24T10:30:00.002+08:00

Last Friday, went to pick up the new maid at the agency. She looks more pleasant than in the photo.

After settle the necessary, I brought her home by bus. On the way, tried to find out more about her. She spoke simple English but managed to understand everything. So far she is the one whom make me comfortable speaking to.

4 years of experience in Singapore before, it was quite easy for her to pick up things around.

After we reached home, the children are back from school. Just a brief introuction to them, I showed her around our 5-room flat.

She began working by organising the kitchen cabinets. The previous one did not do a good job and some of the stuff are in a mess. As I want her to understand better in her native language, she was brought to my sis-in-law's house floors above.

Over there, she was guided what the do's and don'ts and everything. She was given simple dinner guessing that I did not prepare any Indian food for her.

Afterwhich, she continues to clean up the house. At about 10 in the night, she went to bed cos she had a long day.

Sat morning, taught her how to use the washing machine and some of the utensils at home. She started cooking for the first meal with whatever is available at home. That was a good start and the kids like her cooking. Then on the next morning, she was officially introduced to the market. From the way she going around, believe that is not a problem at all.

So it had been almost a week with our family, her performance is good. Hope that is not the usual saying 'new brooms sweep clean'.

Hopefully we got a good helper in our house with good and nice home-cooked food.

Bless me!

Never ending problems

2008-04-17T12:19:00.002+08:00

Before this maid problem not settled, another problem surfaced.

My father, who had went through 2 cataract operations on his eyes, feel discomfort recently.

His appointment with TTS eye clinic is fixed on mid May. When I called up to change the appt time, the staff told me all the appts in Apr are full and they do not entertain walk in patients unless urgent.

With no choice I phone SGH eye centre and to my surprise. The appts for diabetic patients are full till June and the non-diabetics till July. Goodness there are so many ppl with eye problems.

So we intend to bring him as walk-in patient though they did tell me not to do so.

Another time bomb to me when Mon Jane told me her course will be postpone. Oh no! our Bangkok plan nearly perished. Well we could take a short break but just additional costs kicked in as no sponsors from her employer.

Well let's settle a problem at each time - maid followed by father's eye appt and then our Thailand trip.

Never ending problems....

:(

Busy again

2008-04-17T12:00:00.003+08:00

For those who read my blog previously will know I am always busy. I believe not the only one who is catching up with time.

The old maid's contract expried 10 Apr and I was somehow 'promised' by the new one that she is able to come on the same day or 11 Apr.

But oh my god! The earliest ticket she can get is 18th Apr due to the India new year. We extended the old one for a couple of days and on 15th morning she left us happily. Can understand her feelings as she had been away for 4 years.

Before that, discussions were going on how to handle my mother-in-law whom is full time bed-ridden. Then we planned to send her to my sis-in-law's place at Bedok as there is a maid there who is familiar with her condition and able to help us out.

Then at our own home, I am the part time maid. Washing, cleaning, cooking etc... I took full day leave on Mon and the next few days half a day each.

The morning started by getting the kids ready for school. Then catch up a little sleep first my work schedule began. About 10.00 in the morning, do the washing of the clothings and the clean up.

As the kids only back home after 1 pm, I only started my cooking ard noon. Glad the children do like my cooking. When one of them is back from school, I will leave for work and back home ard 9 pm. These was repeated for 2 days.

Today is Thurs. As the kids will be back late. I intend to stop cooking for a day and packed food for them instead. As for dinner, order in most likely.

Well, the maid will be arriving tom morning. Pray hard no screw ups. Will be picking her up from the agency after the medical check up. More things need to be done - teach her, train her as no one is here to hand over the teaching.

Bless me!

Bangkok

2008-03-13T12:45:00.003+08:00

Jane will be going for course at Bangkok during end of May alone.

Since my last trip to Bangkok was 1989, I thought of taking a few days off and keep her accompany.

Actually wanted to get the kids along but they do not seemed to be interested.

So the trio, Jane, Joey and Jenny, is out for the 2nd trip (Tawain is the 1st).

Discussions are still going on. Time period, tickets, accomodation etc...
Oh got to start saving money again.

Ok. Will keep this posted.

:)

Very upset and disappointing

2008-03-06T16:44:00.005+08:00

Last night, Ajit sms me to sign his test papers. When I got home to see the papers, it was a shock to me.

He failed all 3 papers - English, Tamil and Maths. He got the least for Tamil which is 29.5 over 100.

Never will I expect to see such marks. He used to pass his papers in the last 4 years. Although not very outstanding results, but he still managed to get around the range of 70.

What hurt me is that during the day when he got home from school, he did not get me to sign them. Knowing that I will give him a GOOD scolding, he just kept shut. He still joyfully talking about the camp he will be going in 2 weeks time.

No worries, no regrets, no hard feelings for the bad results. That upset me further. I cried for the whole night and only managed to sleep close to 5 am.

I refused to face him today as I believed he will not be spared from the rod. Therefore I choose to leave early for work.

Will be meeting the teachers tomorrow. Shall talk to them first then I will treat him nicely with the 'kway teow' that had been lazed off for years.

Afterwhich, he will be banned from the psp, the counter strike and also the outings. Till his results improve, shall then consider it. Also intend to get his cousins who are teachers to speak to him.

I GAVE UP.

Singapore Airshow 2008

2008-02-25T12:03:00.008+08:00

Last Sat went to the Spore Airshow 2008. Vow never expect to be so crowded.

Make arrangement with our cousin to meet at Paisr Ris Interchange 10 am. When we were there we saw a long queue waiting for the shuttle bus to bring us there.

While waiting for Joey, we decide to queue first. Never did we know that the queue was super longgggg...... It went round the station and White Sands. We queue for nearly 45 mins before we went onboard the bus around 11.45. Then we took another 45 mins to the show place due to the jam when we get near.

We missed part of the showtime when it started at 12.15. So we then stay outside the entrance to watch the show till it ended at 1.45pm. Then the nightmare began. Those were outside now pushed their way to the show. Those inside the show area wanted to get their way out after watching the show.

It was so chaotic when we finally made our way into the exhibition hall which supposed to be after 2pm. Taking a short walk, hunger beat us. Only a couple of makan places - one restaurant which nearly killed us instantly when the soft drink cost $6.00. We decide to go for the megabites but a long queue again. Left with not much choice we took the beeline and bought some simple food - curry puffs, pies and 3 cans of drinks which already $15.00

After the quick bite, we carry on with the journey. We went outdoors and see the airbus A380, US air force fighters. Joey and Ajit went on one of the fighters to see the internals while Yuva and me stay on ground to see the rest. We also took a picture with 2 pilots (we suppose).

Then we went back to the hall to continue the tour. There were different models of planes, helicopters, rockets etc... At the outdoor show area there are tankers, cannons too. Quite a eye-opening experience.

Around 5.30 when the show ends, we took the same way out, queue for the shuttle bus back to Pasir Ris. The taxi queue was super long although the starting meter fare was already $8.00.

As the shuttle buses came non-stop, we were able to catch the bus within a short time. Back to Pasir Ris we went to treat our tummies at Sakae Sushi. So concidentally bumped into an ex-colleague, Paul Wong, just seated next to our table with his family.

After a good dinner, we have a little walk at the shopping mall. About 8.30 took the mrt to Kallang station and hop onto 985 while Joey carried on the journey to her home at CCK.

It had been a long and tiring day especially the waiting, pushing, squeezing. After a good and nice bath, I went to bed before 12 midnight.

Post CNY - Part 3

2008-02-16T18:09:00.003+08:00

Sunday - 4th day of the lunar new year which was another busy day and things seemed got in the wrong way.

Around 12.30 noon we left home to Toa Payoh for a one-month old baby celebration. Missed the first bus and waited for nearly 15 minutes for the next bus service of 157. Near to MacRitchie Reservoir, the bus broke down. We then need to wait for another one to come by. Then I missed the bus stop we supposed to alight but realised the next bus stop was closer to Su Mei's home.

We were there almost 2 pm and our buffet lunch there. After spending about over an hour, we then took our leave for our next destination - Bukit Purmei. There is another round of visit cum birthday gathering with the die-hard 972 radio fans.

Took a 10 minutes walk to Bradell mrt station, we took the train to Somerset station and transfer to bus service 123. Finally shortly after 4 pm we were at their house. Surprise to see Violet there with her husband and little Pacific Seah.

Then started another round of sumptuous food - steamboat. Follow up then the cake cutting session. We bought the birthday uncle 2 bottles of red wine as present.

About 7.30 we left for home together with Ivy. 123 brought us to Tiong Bahru station and then transfer to Commonwealth station. We waited for 970 that will bring back home direct. On the way, I was busy talking to Yuva then nightmare happen. When the bus tooked a left turn to head River Valley, it was then I realised we took the opposite way. That bus will be heading Shenton Way - my working place. We quickly alight and went to the opposite road to wait for the bus again.

Sigh... a short trip home made the way longer. Finally about 8.45 we are back home. Then received Jane's sms that she is picking me up at 9.00. Managed to bargain for another 15 mins. I quickly took a shower and pack the necessary cos I am putting a night at her place.

Around 9.20 I am inside Raymond's car and head for AMK. That night we had 'dry swim' again and finish off into the early hours again.

Catching up with some sleep in the morning, we had the game again while waiting for the KFC ordered by Ray. Heated argument spiked off like fire during the game. But managed to break the ice during our food break.

Game ended at 7 and Ray suggested we go for marathon movies - CJ7 and Kung Fu Dunk.
We took an immediate dash to the nearest theatre - Jubilee as the movie showing at 7.40 and the next at 9.15.

Second movie ended around 11 and Ray then send both myself and Joey home.

This had been a longest break for CNY and Tues report to work at usual with a tired body and empty pocket cos I lose $50 + in the majong games.

Post CNY - Part 2

2008-02-16T17:23:00.005+08:00

3rd day into the rat year. As mentioned in the previous post we went to the market to buy food ingredients for the dinner in the nite.

Finished the marketing around 10.30. Then went for a short nap and woke up about 1pm cos my cousin Vincent and his family came over to visit us.

He will visit us each year when he visits his in-laws here in Spore. The family then left hastily after half an hour for another family visit.

After they left, we start our 'four walls war'. This time round, Raymond, Sebestian and his wife, Christina plus myself start building the walls while Jane had a headstart for the preparation of the dinner. She started off with making the shark fin soup.

At the end of one round which ended about 7 plus, the kitchen gets busy. The stove got heated up and we start the food ready in order: fried prawn, fried sotong balls, the abalone and steam fish of course not missing the main item - sharks fin soup.

Around 9 pm, all dishes are ready and we sat down with a hungry stomach and whacked the food. An hour later, a clean up of the dishes. When Jane busy takes over the washing (our routine duty), we leave with Seb and Chris to their new home at Teban Gardens.

A simple layout but cosy environment. Sebastien introduced us to his WII which is a game station and have a little competition on bowling. Ajit won in the end with a score of 142 beating me and his sister.

A little later, Jane and Raymond arrived. We spent a short while watching 'Just follow law' on his MIO tv. Then we leave his home about 12.30 midnight.

Wow another tired day and I slept soundly after a good shower.

Post CNY - part 1

2008-02-12T12:49:00.009+08:00

Chinese New Year gone by more than a week. I had taken a long break off for CNY.

Had been off since 2 days before new year. Wed nite we had a good steamboat dinner with our family and spend a quiet eve at home.

1st day of new year, I went to my bro's place with the 2 kids together with Jane and Raymond.

We spent a short while there then proceed for dinner at one of the stalls along Upp Bukit Timah Road. We ate a usual shop 'Five Star'. They are famous with the chicken rice and some other side dishes. I like this stall because they are very efficient in their service. The food is served very fast and tasty.

Then after Ajit went to Jane's place instead to play games. Me and Yuva went home instead first and arrange to meet up later for midnight movie - Ah Long Pte Ltd.

The movie was a flop. The storyline is not good and basically not suitable for CNY as there were too much fighting scenes.

2nd day of CNY - there was a little birthday celebration for Thulasi, our little niece. We were at our sister in law's house whom just floors above us in the same block. But before, we had a simple 'lou hei'.

We were there around 3 pm. Together with the rest of our big family, we have simple veg food and of course not missing the main item - birthday cake. We had a good time together till about 8 before we leave for home to prepare our next round of activity.

Nearly 10 pm, Raymond came by to pick us up and brought us to his home at AMK. With a short break, we start off our activites. Ajit as usual with his play station, Yuva on the PC surfing the net. Then Raymond, Janem Sebestian (Ray's bro in law) and me on the square table for majong.

We went 2 big rounds and played till next morning 9 am. After that, Jane and me went to market to buy food as we need to prepare dinner for them.

Chinese New Year

2008-02-05T00:30:00.000+08:00

The footsteps of CNY is getting nearer. Basically just another 2 days ahead.

This year seemed a busy year. Till yesterday I have not bought much of the cookies and the new year stuff.

Today I worked the normal shift and leave early for Chinatown to catch up with the purchases. Together with me are Jane and her husband plus my 2 other cousins.

We started walking through the lanes. There are varities of stuff namely the deco, food stuff, clothings etc... Most of the stalls are selling food like melon seeds, peanuts, different new year cookies, taiwan muah chee, and a lot more.

The coming year is the year of Rat. So deco are rat related. Even the western character Mickey Mouse join in the fun too.

After about 3 hours of walking through the crowd, I have bought 5 cushion covers, 3 necklaces, a few bottles of cookies. Aching all over, finally reach home around midnight.

Well this is not all yet. Tomorrow need to buy food to preapre for the eve cos this year we will have reunion dinner ourselves instead with my brother.

The children wanted steamboat cum bbq. So have applied for half a day leave and get the stuff. Also need buy a piece of new dress for myself.

Ok getting tired. Need to go to bed now. Shall post more updates probably during the coming CNY.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

:)

Pen pals

2008-01-28T12:22:00.000+08:00

Following up the previous write up about pen pals.

Nowadays due to busy schedules, long working hours etc, nobody will like such tedious stuff.
With the modern technology eg email, msn, handphone sms and other means, who will actually have the time to sit down and write a letter.

Those days, my pen pals are all local. Few of them arrange to meet up after 1 letter or two. But like mentioned or my last posting, there were 3 that we maintianed our friendship through corresponding.

Back then, I enjoyed it a lot. If given a choice today, I still prefer writing. That definitely will strengthen our relationship. The written letter carried a lot of your feelings, thoughts that you like to share with your friend. Actually I also like to send out greeting cards for the important occasions like Chinese New Year. I feel great receiving such a card even with a few written words. The warmth is there, the closeness is there, the love or the care just made us feel good.

Well, though I am traditional, but modern world might not be able to accept the older stuff and thinkings.

So under not much of a choice, I learn to accept the current world. I will send the electronic birthday wishes, grettings via mobile, talk to the world using email, talking to a group by msn.

But to my close ones, I still believe a card with my own handwritten wishes will at all times bring the kinship, relationship or friendship closer. Don't you think so?

I really hope I can find my 2 pen pals that I acquainted during the period 1987 to 1989. Wish me good luck!

To my ex pen pal - Eric Yeo

2008-01-28T11:53:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was trying to clear up the cupboard cos it was too messy. Then there was one stack of old letters that were sent by my pen pals.

Back to those old days about 20 years back. There was a trend to keep pen pals. As the name implied, it means friends we make through writing.

Some of us will submit our photos to magazines with a brief introduction of ourselves. I did not submit my name but select a few and started writing to them.

A couple of them replied and we started corresponding. There were 3 of them we wrote to each other regularly among which 2 of them did not meet up at all except for Eric Yeo.

We wrote, we spoke on the phone but only met up after 3 years of our acquaintance. He is a nice person but had an inferior personality. He felt that he was not good looking so fearful that the friendship would be lost once we meet up.

But that thought was uncalled for. During that time, our intention was just to make more friends and nothing beyond that. After diminishing that thought, he felt relieved. We continue our friendship and we introduced to each other more friends.

We started our corresponding in 1987 and stopped writing about a few years later. That was due to our working hours were long and busy. Each time we, I and his friends, suggested to meet up, it would always those few words: No lah, very tired. I want to sleep.

So throughout our acquaintance for 11 years, our outings were limited. During 1998 Sep, I completely lost this friendship. He abandoned us and leave for another world. He passed away in his sleep at the age of barely 33. It was really a shock when my friend told me about it.

Well, it had been 10 years since he left us. Last night, when I was reading the letters, I am so upset.

Now, I intend to look for the othe 2 pen pals through Violet's radio programme. Not sure if these guys still remember me but I will try my best.

Secondary school life

2008-01-24T02:18:00.000+08:00

Since beginning of school, Yuva seems to be very busy. Almost each and everyday, she is staying back in school for activity.

When I leave for work, she is not back home.
When I am back from work, she is asleep.
Therefore, I can only talk to her during the 2 weekend days.

Yesterday, she called me and told me that she is one of the top student for Chinese. She had gotten 39 1/2 over 50 for her essay. Her Chinese teacher strongly encouraged her to take up Higher Chinese.

I do not want to add pressure to the girl so did not force her. Anyway, she prefers to stay as present. But on the whole I am very glad she had achieved such good results.

Back then when she was in lower primary, she doesn't like Chinese at all. That is because she felt it very tough to master the language. When I enrol her to the enrichment class from primary 5, she began to like the subject and put in a lot of effort.

She had achieved an A for her PSLE exam. That is very encouraging.

Hope she can continue with her hard work and upgrade it.

Good work and well done Yuva. Keep it up. Jia you!

Life...

2008-01-17T12:29:00.000+08:00

Since MC's sudden departure had been nearly 2 weeks. During these 2 weeks I read a lot of blog whether his close DJ colleagues or mediacorp artistes, most of them had written at least one posting on the loss.

Actually he had added me as a fren in facebook. He had even sent me greetings but me did not have the time to check it. Only when I realised it, the only thing I can send to him was just prayers.

Though not a very close fren of his, I am glad that I had been one. We went out a couple of times with a group of frens. He's so jovial, happy go lucky man. The last time I knew this group of frens went out with him for dinner then to Changi airport and spent the night there.

Sometimes I wonder what is life? A never ending story? Is full of happenings each day as it goes by. There are happy moments, sad ones, unlucky times. You will never know what is going to happen the next second or minute.

Just complete the Korea serial 'The Sad Love Story'. Really a sad story and I became so emotional during the last 20 minutes. Why can't just let life always be nice and good. But this is what life is like a lot of people will say.

I lost my mum overnight 11 years ago and a pen-pal 10 years ago. They left me without leaving any words behind. What was left was heart aches and pain. There are things I wanted to do during those days but not done.

Mum wanted to go China for a trip but I did not take the time. I wanted to meet up with this close fren but he is always lazy and tired. I do not want to regret for what had not been done as I will be carrying them all the time. I believe they will understand me.

Ok enough for today. To all my frens and family, you are all dear to me and I treasure this friendship, kinship or any relationship.

:)

Plan ahead

2008-01-11T11:04:00.000+08:00

Tune in to Wendy's prog this morning. Her simple English segment talks about plan ahead and vice versa.

Both have pros and cons.

Is always good to plan ahead so that things will run smooth.
On the other hand, when things does not turn out or not ever be done, the frustrration at times may go beyond our imignation.

Guess after MC's incident, a lot of us actually take a step behind and think about it.
If you have frens to meet up, do not give too much excuses or reasons for not turning up. Treausre the friendship if these they are important to you.

If you have any plans or goals, within your ability, fulfil it.
As for me, I have many things need to be done but just lazing off each day.

I had long wanted a portable dvd player cum TV tuner and finally fulfil it and get one from ebay.
Now I am able to watch vcd during my dinner break in office.

The incomplete jigsaw puzzle, get my Taiwan and Japan photos arranged and organised into photo ablums, prepare a present for Ajit, to organise my 972 scrap book etc... Oh! Such a long list.

Well it's time to have proper planning and get each job done.

Tomorrow I am meeting up my old NIC classmates. Though some of them thought that it will be a family day as all of us are married. But I would feel that try not to miss the chance as we had managed to get in touch a year old when we lost each other for 20 years.

So to all my frens, I tresure my friendship with u all. I love u all.

:o)

MC King

2008-01-07T23:58:00.000+08:00

MC King, on his last blog posting, says that he is not popular.

That is not true. His news is everywhere these few days.
Chinese papers, English papers and even on many other blogs.

At his wake, I saw many mediacorp artistes - some current ones and some other ex-s.
All came to see our old friend for the last time.

This morning when I came to the wake, there was a band playing some of MC's favourite songs. Tears just automatically started falling.

A lot of the neighbourhood friends and residents were crowding round the wake tent. After some riutals, the cortege set off at 12 noon. Then a beeline followed the van for a short distance before we board the bus to Mandai.

Hall 4, the si-fu perform last prayers and was sent for cremation. The viewing room was fully packed and we see him off with a loud and proud clap.

Now Jimmy is gone, but he left behind a lot of memories to his fellow colleagues, his friends and of course his family.

We will always keep his smiling face, his jovious laughter and all his filial character in our hearts.

MC may you RIP.

A sad day

2008-01-05T02:28:00.000+08:00

Today need to attend Yuva's school meet the parents' session cum campfire. So I applied one day's leave.

In the afternoon while tuning to my favourite station I heard a shocking news. MC King - one of our local comedian had passed away.

For the moment, I cannot take it for the news came too sudden. Always think that he is healthy person. But wat happen?

The initial news heard was he had breathing problems in the afternoon but unable to revive when sent to hospital.

So from 3 to nearly 8 pm, the DJs - Violet and Ian were only taking incoming calls and played songs. The whole atmosphere was just sad.

MC had a close relationship with 972 cos he had co-host with Renee before in the 10.00 am-2.00 pm slot. The combination was perfect and that segment had brought in a lot of audience. Just before the end of 2007 he had went on air for the last time with Renee in the evening. Guess Renee will be the saddest person, besides his next of kin, to hear such shocking news today.

I have know MC since the old days when he was at Radio heart 100.3 when he co-host with Desmond Lim. The duo had been a perfect combintion back then.

MC, original name being Jimmy Nah, was always a very happy go lucky person. His laughter is deep from his heart. No hidden feelings. He would always speak off his mind whether happy or angry. That is why I like him.

Well 4 Jan 08 is going to be a memorable day. Will be attending his wake tomorrow and send him off on sun. Hope he rest in peace and his family be brave to take this hardship.

2007 to 2008

2007-12-31T19:18:00.000+08:00

2007 is history. And now we are into 2008.

During the past 365 days, a lot of things happened - good and bad.

The first few months just went by per normal.

Towards the end of May had been quite tough cos went through a minor surgery. I was admitted to hospital for about 5 days and medical leave for nearly 10 days in June.

Early Aug Yuva sat for her year end exams and PSLE papers in Oct.
The following week I took a 8-days trip to Taiwan and enjoyed very much.

Nov 21 - PSLE results released with her T-score of 207 and went to express stream of secondary education. We took a few days and finally decided her choices of secondary schools.

Dec 07 - a super busy month and expensive month. Yuva got posted to Hillgrove Seconday School. 2 important weddings + the kids need to buy uniform and books for 2008. We also had a family year end bbq on 30th Dec. My wallet is bleeding...

Well all these basically just recap. What need to be done or spent are already settled.
Let's us now look forward to a better 2008 and hope all will go on fine.

May Yuva had a good head start in her new seconday school in 2 days time.
May Ajit marched into a tough P5 year and forget about his pc game counter strike.

May all my family members, my friends, my beloved had a wonderful 2007 and a better 2008.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Report to Secondary School

2007-12-28T12:38:00.000+08:00

21 Dec 07 8.30 am - all P6 students report to their individual posted secondary schools.

That morning, we woke up around 7.30 and left home half an hour later.
Waited for the bus 985 about 10 mins, we took a 15 mins ride and after which 5 mins walk to reach the school.

The school looked new and definitely fresh to all the shcool kids. After a brief registeration, we proceed to the school hall. The children took the front in their respective class. Oh btw, she is in class 1E2. The parents took the seat behind in the hall.

The speech began around 9.00 by the discpline master. He gave an introduction to the school and also some guidelines to the new students. These kids will have a 3-day orientation ending with a campfire on fir, 4 Jan 2008.

Thereafter, we were dismissed and proceed to get the books and uniform.
Queue for the books was too llong, so we decide to buy the uniform first.
The kids, separated by gender, took their row for measurement so to get the correct size.
So we bought 2 sets each for the uniform and PE attire which already cost $72. Wow!

Then the school books. Before the briefing in the morning, we received a clear file including the book list. I got a shock. The textbooks alone cost nearly $200 and the compulsory stationery which is about $50.

As we have not enough money to buy the art materials and optional items, we spent $260 to buy the textbooks and stationery. Wow! Wow!

Actually prior to these, our neighbour told us that we need to prepare about $400 to $500. At first, I did not think so but now. Sigh....

Then what about those kids coming from low income families? How are they able to manage
such a high cost? It is going to be tougher when these teenagers get further to their education.

Well, life is real hard nowadays!
:(

Posting to Secondary school

2007-12-28T12:22:00.000+08:00

19 Dec 07 - an important day for all PSLE students because this is the day these kids will know which secondary school they get posted to.

Early that morning, we try to log into internet around 10.30 am. Yuva had wanted to be enrolled into Hillgrove Secondary since the day she picked her choice.

Before the girl decide her choices, her aunt had driven her to a few schools and recky the environment. She had a good impression of Hillgrove. Luckily her results is within the school's range.

Finally the time arrived. Around 11.05 we tried logging in but due to the heavy traffic, we failed. After various trials, we gained access. And there on the screen, the words appeared.
Just like what she hoped for, she managed to get into Hillgrove.

As her cousin was away for holiday, we had checked on her behalf. She went to St. Magarets.
So I sent her mum a short message.

OK the sleepless nights are over. Now wait for another 2 days and we shall report to school.

Working from home

2007-12-19T01:21:00.000+08:00

During October boss had permit me to work from home as that was the PSLE exam period. So tot that I can stay in guide the girl through.

But my boss did not help me apply the access until early Oct.
When the access is approved, it had way passed the exams.

During this week of Dec 17 - 21 Dec, I intend to work from home cos of my family and also spend more time with the kids.

Boss had given me a spare labtop which I brought back last Fri. But unfortunately it does not work. I call up IT on Mon and they told me that I need to configure the labtop using office network before it is able to work.

So I brought the machine back to office and do the necessary. I tested the applications before I leave for home.

God who knows I am not able to get connected. Called up IT again thinking that maybe the pin given to me is incorrect and I request to be reset. Sad to say it still doesn't work.
With no other choice, I came into office to work.

Well, I am still going to try it out again tonight and really hope that it can work out.
If not, all efforts going through the process are drained.

Alright, wish me good luck and also to Yuva who is going to know which school she will be posted tomorrow morning.

Why so busy...

2007-12-13T10:47:00.000+08:00

I always wonder why am I so busy? I am no celebrity, movie star nor businessperson. Everyday busy with 2 jobs, run errands, attending functions etc... just kept me fully occupied. All my weekends are nearly full.

Last Fri, I took a day off to buy X'mas exchange gift for office and our small group.
Saturday our family attended our niece's 21st birthday party.
Sunday a friend's birthday celebration dinner.

That is not all yet. More to come...
13 Dec - office colleague cum christmas celebration
14 Dec - relative wedding
19 Dec - Secondary school posting
21 Dec - report to Yuva's to be secondary school + another relative wedding
22 Dec - watching a stage drama + small group christmas gathering
30 Dec - family new year count down cum bbq party

Wow, so many programmes lining up. Maybe must take more essence of chicken for more energy.

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-12-10T11:35:00.001+08:00

PSLE results

2007-11-25T23:12:00.000+08:00

22nd Nov - an important day for all 2007 PSLE students as this is the day results are released to them. Our familly has 2 girls, Yuvarani and Ashvini.

That morning after the morning job, I rush to bring my father to Clementi Polyclinic. Yuva sns me and tell me she is leaving with her father to the school at 11.00 to collect the results. What a surprise!

As for me, still waiting for our turn to see the doctor. Finally at 11.40 our turn comes. Afte the review and collect medication for him, it had by pass noon time. I tried calling the girl but she did not pick up the phone. So I tried her daddy. He told me her results was 207 with 2 As and 2 Cs and elegible for express course.

Then received a sms from my sister in law telling her daughter's results were 198 with the same 2 As and 2 Cs.

Back home, we were called to start off our discussion what schools to choose for the girls. It kicked off at around 3.00 pm. As Ashvini is elegible for both Normal Academic and Express. The girls would like to be in the same school, that made our selection for the schools tougher.
After much discussions, we each has a list of 6 schools and brought us to 7.00 in the evening.

Next day, there were changes in the choices with the seeking from our secondary school teacher staying next door. Ah pa went through the list and produce a fresh list - some deleted and a couple additions.

Tanks god the submission grace period is 7 days. If it drags on, guess there be more changes.
Currently our stand is Bukit Batok Secondary school although her score has a wide spread from the cut off. Her second choice is Hillgrove which she wanted to get in.

So let's hope she able to enrol into one of her likes.

A frustrating day

2007-11-15T19:49:00.000+08:00

This morning brought father to Polyclinic to get his blood and urine tested.

Prior to the test, he needs to collect an overnight urine for 24 hours. Due to the 'new' doctor did not tell us previously about the collection, we need this extra trip today.

Things seemed to get screwed up and I started throwing my temper at the clinic.

After the tests, brought father to his usual hangout - Toa Payoh. He has a friend that owns a photo studio and he will leisurely spent his time there.

Sending him over there brings the time to 12.30. I then rushed home on the public bus. Concidently met Yuva on board the same bus when it arrived at her school.

Time seemed to be running short. Took a quick bath and lunch within the 30 minutes time. The girl comes to me saying run out of shampoo.
Once again the third time of the day, I blew my top. Why must they come to me when the stuff are run out. Do spare me some time to get these things as not everything are accesible within the compound and time.

Well, that is still not the end of today's story.
At the bus stop while waiting for bus, met my sister in law saying that the eldest sister-in-law is inviting us over to her place this sunday for a Deepavali meal.
I am not aware of it at all. Nobody is telling me about it.
Ghosh.... it upsets some of the plans that I have on that day.

Ai yo so many things at the same time on the same day!!!
The only solution - work and forget all these stuff.
Maybe shall finish off and go to bed early then.

Memories

2007-11-14T12:44:00.000+08:00

Since the last post about the Taiwan trip, I had been busy at work and no time to write any entry.

I have not complete the selection of photos taken at Taiwan and sent for developing.

3 of us actually took 1,000 plus pictures and it is so difficult to make a selection from the batch.

Currently, there are about 300 over photos which had been chosen but might need to go for further filtering.

The initial choice to make a photobook was dropped as it became costly for so many photos. Besides, as a habit, me and my sisiter always like to put in the air tickets, any information brochers, room keys etc... into the album in which the photobook will not be able to do so.

Memories emerge each time we flip through the album.

My cousin, on the other hand, thinks that by keeping the digital photos on cd or stored in pc will be sufficient. Anytime that you wish to see the photos, just turn on the pc.

Well, maybe that is the different thinking gap between the 2 generations of 20 years apart.

But we still have a good time during the 8 days stay together.

Taiwan trip 13/10 - 20/10

2007-10-25T10:47:00.000+08:00

Last month we are still counting down to our Taiwan trip. Now we are looking back to our memorable trip 0f 8 days. It had been a wonderful one since my last visit 20 years back.

Lots of things have changed. In fact, besides Joey and Jane, whom are their first vist to Taiwan, I felt the same too. Almost all the sightseeing spots are new to me like 101 shopping mall in Taipei, dream mall with the Hello Kitty ferris wheel at Kaoshiung, the cultural village with the adventurous rides etc...

Even to those refreshing spots still look new to me Tai Ru Ge national park is one of them. Nice falls, rivers, mountains. Too bad due to the tyohoon a week earlier, Yan-Zi gou had been restricted for entrance. The other 2 ladies felt very disappointed as it is a nice and beautiful place but they did not managed to get a glimpse the beauty.

On the whole trip, we main transport is the bus coach. Besides, we have a train trip to Hua Lien and bullet train to Tai Tung from Kao shiung. Our longest journey was 3 hours and the shortest being 30 minutes. How BIGGGGG.... Taiwan is.

Busy busy busy

2007-09-21T22:43:00.000+08:00

Wow, it had been a solid 3 weeks that I have not been able to post my blog.

Well, very busy lately just like anyone else especially this week.

Mon - went for my blood test.
Tues - attend a full day course.
Thurs - doctor's appt at hosp
Fri - half day course
Sat - going for AMK Hub opening ceremony
Sun - swimming

Oh god! Fully packed and no rest not to mention I need to catch up the viewing ER before the deadline which is end of the month.

We are counting down the days for our trip to Taiwan probably another 22 days.
And next week we need to make full payment for the tour. After which some shopping got to be done.

Well, hope can take a slower pace the next couple of weeks.

Good luck to me.

Birthday

2007-09-02T00:19:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, 31st August was my birthday. Besides this day was shared with Tzu Yin and her son Shaqil, Chen Hooang - a famous celebrity in Taiwan. It happened that me Chen were borned in the same year but me just elder to him by hours.

I took a day off from work cos Joey, Jane and Raymond is spending the evening with me.

Laze around during the afternoon, the children together with their aunties upstairs caught me by surprise. They bought me a simple mango cake. My present - a simple artpaper but with the wishes from the family members plus Mrs Tay and Owen.

After a short hour with them, the gathering disperse as Yuva needs to go for her tuition guided by my eldest sister in-law.

Around 6 in the evening, we leave and head for Chinatown. Hopped onto 174, the bus journey went smooth till it reached Tanglin. The traffice became heavy and took us nearly 20 minutes to get out of Orchard road.

Finally after an hour, we reach Chinatown. Not Sure where we suppose to meet, we hung around the area waiting for the phone call.

Eventually, we decided to have our dinner at one of the steamboat restaurant. At a buffet price of $15.80, 5 of us sat down in their private room to start filling our tummies while waiting for Joey.

The food is nice, but just too bad air con is not cold enough. After a satisfied asumptuous meal, we took a short walk to the KTV - 10 Dollars Family Club which is a few streets away.

We got a very small room occupying 6 of us. The drinks was 10++ free flow. Unexpectedly, we were served a bowl of shark fins too inclusively. That was cheap and no wonder it was already fully booked by Tuesday. Yuva sang a few songs and Ajit slept soundly in between.

Oh drama started before the countdown to Teachers' day. They bought an ice-cream cake from Swensens. Guess what design they get for me? God! A chicken little cartoon for a 42 year-old lady.

Spelt out my 2 wshes for the birthday - to settle my debts earlier and be healthier, I kept the last in my heart. They play the birthday song, cut the cake, served the cake with Ray creating a good atmosphere.

The singing session ended shortly after 1 am. We then leave for home driven by Ray.
I have a wonderful birthday. Hope all my wishes do come true...

Taiwan Taiwan Taiwan...

2007-08-19T17:28:00.000+08:00

Remember the Taiwan trip I spoke about few days ago? We are going to realise it... :)

Out with the 2 travel partners at noon, we went to CTC travel fair when Jane had went to the other 2 - ASA and Dynasty much earlier to check out if there are any favourable packages for us.

Afterwhich we sat down for our lunch meal at Marina Square food court, going into details of our checkouts. From the various itineraries picked up, we tried to get the best among all.
Wow, so difficult to choose.

CTC offers an attractive deal for 8 days - $818, ASA had it @ $1048 and Dynasty does not have the date we need to set off.

After a hour's lunch, Mr Poh drove us out to Chan Brothers located at People's Park Centre so that we check out some other agencies so to get the best.

Chan has a package going for $968 by an unfriendly staff - Gina.
We then proceed to SA tours nearby building going for $1,068 entertained by a probably quiet and shy lady. She basically just quotes the prices and did not even proceed into details with us.

Then, we took a table at the nearest children favourite spot, McDonalds, to continue our discussion.

The initial plan was a 7-day packaged tour. But later we seemed to concentrate on the 8Days instead. Probably have a bit more breathing space in between.

Going through all the itineraries over and over, weighing the sightseeing spots (missed or not to), talk about the routes they taking, prices at any point an important one to be considered.

But thanks god, we have not much of disagreement during the whole discussion. So scared someone will flip the table (just joking). Somehow we came to an agreement to take the ASA 8day Best of Taiwan package. Basically it covers most of the spots that we wanted but just at a more expensive price - $1,148 flying SQ.

Then, we took a turn back to Suntec, where the fair is held. Though decided what we have wanted, the hesitate hung on the staff attending to us. Managed to get a $25 discount each after much persuasion, Jane finally signed for a deposit of $1,500.

Dinner was the break off for the day. We have it at Food Republic at Suntec City Convention Hall. We packed our tummies with different choices, watched a little of the fireworks, talking about the coming trip.... and left the place nearly 11 pm.

Well had been a long day walking, talking, brainstorming but glad we will have a good trip this Oct. On the other hand, time to constraint our pocket money. Ought to meet less, eat less, spend less and save more. Oh! My poor kids! But just once in every N years.

PSLE Oral

2007-08-17T19:33:00.000+08:00

Yesterday and today are the P6 pupils taking their PSLE oral for both languages.
Yuva is one of them.

She took English yesterday and Chinese this morning.

Last morning she made the examiner laughed alot and today the teacher was impressed by her speech.

Well hope she will get good results for it although it forms only a small portion of the main paper.

Nice try my dear girl.

Next week are her school prelim papers. The girl is busy now revising her work.
Not to pressure her, I shall leave it to her planning her own study schedule.

Yuva, may you work hard and try to achieve good results...

Model pupil

2007-08-16T18:54:00.000+08:00

Yesterday Ajit came home happily with a little card in hand.
He was selected the model pupil of the class.
Not sure why he was selected. The possible guess could be he likes to help his peers.

That brings me back to his younger days probably K2.
Once his teacher called up to check on certain things.
The teacher mentioned he is a very helpful boy in class.
One of the boys in his class had some walking difficulty and Ajit is always there to help him.

Glad he still maintains such good conduct when he goes to primary school.
Hope this kind soul stay with him.

Good work Ajit and keep it up.

Taiwan trip

2007-08-14T12:37:00.001+08:00

These few days we were busy discussing about our trip to Taiwan.

It had been 20 years since the last time I visited this Chinese-orientated country.

That was my first country that I travelled to since I started work. Remembered it was Aug 87 that me, a secondary classmate and her sister and took on a 12-day packaged tour to Hong Kong and Taiwan.

We have a wonderful trip and enjoyed it except for the long road journey in Taiwan. As we were round the island in 8 days, it became very exhaustic for the need to carry our luggage to transfer hotel every night. So during the 8 days, we put up in 7 hotels. Vow...

Now it's time to revisit the country and believe there are great changes after 2 decades. An old colleague from Man Taiwan, Jeda Weng, had been asking me to visit her since 2003. Finally this is going to realise soon. She is so excited when I told her so.

We have planned the trip in mid Oct where the 2 kids will be at home due to PSLE marking week. So bad to throw them at home and enjoy myself away. Well, at times need to give our ownself a break before we going bersek.

Tonight will be meeting Joey, our cousin and maybe Jane for further discussion. Jane had no intention to join us in the beginning but just so tempted when we both were talking about it when we meet.

Hope we can work out a good itinerary and proceed to make the necessary plans.

Oh no... already so anxious to go and no heart to concentrate on work.

Sunday...

2007-08-13T00:46:00.000+08:00

It is now into the morning of Monday and I am still in front of the pc posting my feelings onto the blog.

Guess lots of people share the same feeling as I do when Sunday comes to an end. It marks the beginning of the week and so is our work.

Probably going to drag our feet to work, hope that today is just Sat and we can enjoy 2 more days!

Wake up flying fish! Get into bed and prepare for another round of struggles in the coming week.
Though I am moving to another role soon but there is no sign of eagerness. Maybe the thought of still working with the same boss anchored my heart down.

Well, hope the switch possibly could be a better one. Just wait for the day to comeby next month or the after.

Short break at Kelong - Day 2

2007-08-12T03:30:00.000+08:00

Date: 11th Aug 07

Venue: Hotboys Kelong

Day 2

Woke up at 7.30 in the morning. Most of our members are already up. After a fresh up, the boys carry on with the fishing. Next came the bell for breakfast which is our second last at the kelong. Simple chicken congee for the start of the day. Those who dislike it like Joey can have another choice - buscuits.

After breakfast, with a cup of coffee, we hang around at the platform while Raymond and Ajit still trying on their last catch. Ajit had managed to get another 3 on his record.

Then it's time to do packing up while other some visit the toilets for bathing.

Lunch was served about 12 noon. This fifth meal was a good one. We have a big groupa cooked very saucy way, then sweet and sour fish, fried egg, vegetable, and never the missing item soup.

The boat that is picking us up back to the jetty arrived when we were halfyway our meal.

We hurriedly finished up our lunch and get onboard the boat. That was a bigger boat compared to the one that we arrived with. The boat left the kelong and we have our last glance and waved goodbye. Gradually it went out of our sight. In between, the engine was stopped and we were in the middle of the sea. But restarted after 5 to 10 mins. Next followed a heavy downpour. Around an hour later, we are back to Tanjung Lenman jetty.

The same coach - MAJ 2008 was there to pick us up. Just like the journey when we were heading, the returned trip was another napping one. Arrived at Malaysia customs around 4.00 pm, we pressed ourselves through the crowded queues and had a little hiccup at the Singapore Woodlands customs.

Finally we are on the way back to Hillside View, served with some drinks and titbits by Mr and Mrs Ang. Then we took a 10-mins ride back to our home sweet home driven by Raymond.

On the whole, we have a nice and enjoyable trip. Probably a break off from the heavy work load and stress for the work or school.

Hope we can plan for another different trip elsewhere in future.

Short break to Kelong - Day 1

2007-08-12T01:45:00.000+08:00

Date: 10th Aug 07

Time: 7 am

Venue: Hotboys kelong

DAY 1

A group of us, 8 adults with 2 children, set off to the Hotboys Kelong located after Kota Tinggi but before Mersing.

We set off about 7 am from the pick up point - Sebestian's house. Hopped onto a 12-seater coatch, we have no problems for the clearance at both checkpoints. From there, it was a 2 hour sleeping trip to Tanjung Lenman Jetty before the transfer to the boat with other groups heading same destination.

From the info on the website, it was a 25 minutes boat ride and the kelong is situated in the middle of Sibu Sea.

Though a bit rough on the journey, we have fun. The breeze is good, and the sun not too hot. Is just a endless horizon. And finally we reached the kelong around 11.25.

Expected no nice lobby nor nice rooms, we see groups of people whom are there the day before packing to leave.

Changed into causual t-shirts and shorts, we took an orientation round the kelong, the fishing platform just around the kelong, a Karaoke corner with very simple (a bit torn) sofa set and the computerised karaoke set.

Centre of the kelong is a tv for general viewing. There is also about a block of 20 lockers for safe-keeping our important items.

Double-deck bunk beds on 3 sides of the kelong. Sometimes wonder did they actually changed the bedsheets when the former guests leave their beds.

Next our very concern - the toilets. A row of about 7 rooms, each has a barrel for the bathing water, a squatting toilet bowl in th centre. From the hole, you can see fishes swmming underneath in the sea. Oh my god! How to do our business? Just imagine... Outisde all these rooms are barrels and barrels of bathing water which is free flow.

There is left one corner of the kelong for the kitchen where the food is being prepared and the enquires counter to register whatever you need on board.

Around noon time, the bell rings for lunch. We took a whole table as the group makes up the nice number for 1. Our first meal of the 5 that was provided, we have a fish cooked with sauce, steamed prawns, fried chicken and vegetable and a simple ABC soup. Though not as fresh we expected, the food tasted good.

After lunch, our Big Man - Raymond Poh, got into work and started plans for the day. He 'chopped' 2 majong sets and 2 karaoke hours for the night, get a locker for our stuff, get the fishing rods for the main activity.

With the rods, the men including my young boy Ajit, started fishing together with our tweety Joey. The bunch of beauties - me, Jane, Yuvarani, Chris took on a dreaming tour but got shaken up cause our loud speaker caught a big fish. Ajit, being his first time at fishing, caught 6 fishes. Well done boy!

In the initenary, we have an acitivity of island hopping. Tot we might be going for a few islands but actually just one. The boat left around 3 pm and we hopped onto the island about 10 mins later. We walked along a stretched of wooded planks hanging from the simple jetty to the beach.

At the beach, the children enjoyed the sand and water. Some of them were floating along with the waves, there are other groups playing beach volleyball our cousin, Joey, trying to catch flashes of her big face and beautiful sourroundings onto her newly bought camera.

Having spent about 1 and half hours at the beach, we walked back to the jetty and catch the 5 o'clock boat back to kelong and do some cleaning and wash ups.

6 pm Meal # 2 - Dinner

2 steamed fishes, tou-fu, vegetable, fried stongs and of course soup.

After a short rest, we start off our night activity. The kids played the majong their own style. The adults took on the singing corner and start to share our voices with the crowd cos' it an open area. The elderly couple (Raymond's parents) took the lead with their evergreen and favourite songs. I hopped in and out and co-sing a couple of my familiar songs. Back to my bunk corner, I just started my Suduko puzzles or join a short while at the tv viewing.

We have a group of people having BBQ outside the windy platform with the nice food under our nostrils. Another group is celebrating birhtday at another corner of the kelong.

The singing session was extended an extra hour to 11 pm. In between around 10.30 there comes our third meal - simple supper as mentioned. Fried mee and kuay teow with green bean soup feels the cooling night with warmth.

After supper and karaoke, the 1st majong session started with the make up of the elders, Chris, their daughter and our Ms Chan.

The children dispersed from the table and went to do their night catching hoping to se if any fishes hopped onto their fishing hooks.

We - Raymond and his wife Jane (my younger sis), myself and Chu Bee (Sebastian) took over the majong table and started to earn some pocket money.

After 2 rounds - East and South Winds, we put a stop to the game about 2.30 am as Ray is too tired. I am lucky to wrap up the night winning about RM 50.

Sweet dream Jenny...

Why blog?

2007-08-12T00:30:00.000+08:00

What is blog?

I only come across about a year or two ago.

Blog is a place you can post anything - your feelings being happy, sad, anger or sorrows.

It can be a place for communication too for your surrounding frens when we cannot meet up often.

I do log in to some blogs and read them eg the 972 DJs, some celebraties etc... I had wanted to start a blog way back but just do not have the time to maintain it. But now maybe I should just keep up the good habit. Probably is a good way to release your stress or pressure.

Ok from now on let's blog it!