Of all the creative invention, why haven anyone invented a Menses Vacumm Cleaner? I mean, what is the actual purpose of releasing those unfertilised eggs every mth and letting it drip naturally for days? Although in the point of business views, yes, menses are business opportunity. It is a need to the female consumers. But is it worthy to waste time and money on menses?
Imagine one day, if you are having heavy flows, you have to change your pad regularly each 3 or 4 hours. Those who are not using tampons, will have to risk the fact of having stains on your panty, pants or skirts. Your body develop cramps, mood swings, and other PMS symptoms becos of menses. You have it every month, you have to count and keep track of the next menses so that you could take precaution of it by bringing out pads in case of sudden arrival of the BIG Auntie.
Incompatible pads irritates your skin, and while you are running late for work or appointments, you still have to stick that piece of pad correctly on your panty! Then you cant join water sports during major events organised by the company and when others ask why, you have to embarassingly announce, "not convenient".
Menses has caused so much inconvenient and until now, besides medication like contraceptive pills, there seems nothing much you could do.
Of all the great inventors and inventions in the world, why no one thought of inventing a Menses Vacumn Cleaner? Yes, the Big auntie can come when she wants to, but we could do something to shorten her stay isnt it?
I was imagine having this invention, that could suck out all the tissues in just one min when the egg has been released. Upon her arrival, you just need to shove the vacumn cleaner hose into (you know where) and on the switch and let the machine goes to work. You can chose to have two different speeds "Clean" or "Super Clean". Clean means you can still allow the natural flow in small quantity in the next 3 days if you do not really want to stop nature from happening, "Super clean" means you could end your period in just that min. In addition, you could also have a camera installed that goes right in and you can view from outside like a uterus scan, where you can monitor what you are sucking out and not sucking the wrong thing out!
Voila! Imagine now this invention could thrills the girls out there and the business man? And yes, the laurier, whisper, kotex can close shop but perhaps they can venture into baby and adult diapers? Adapt to changes!
Why should we waste so many pads (kill so many trees), risk the cleaners of seeing red and make them "shuay" (bad luck), risk having stains on our LB jeans or white prata skirts? Risk the fact that wrong wearing of the pad may cause it to drop out anytime we walk in the busy street?
Why eggs are release in form of blood tissues and not like eggs like those you see in the markets?! WHY?!~
Monday, June 29, 2009
It is a good day today
It is a good day today. Last friday, I received a call from the Head's secretary, asking if I will be free on monday (today) for a meeting with her boss together with 4 other colleagues. I was surprised and asked what is the meeting about and she said she is unsure but dropped hint that it may have got to do with our recent appraisal, maybe some moderations to be done or what, maybe should spend lesser this july she said. I was confused and thought over and over again what she said. My other close colleagues who received the call and email have the same reaction as I do.
So last friday was quite a gloomy day among the three of us (colleagues and I). I mean, why should I be MODERATED because the overall performance of the whole was not any where near? Suddenly, I could feel how a PSLE student would have felt. Its felt like I have got an A for my efforts but was given a B instead because others did not put in enough effort. Why should I be "punished" because of others? It was fuming to think that all efforts done could just be washed away simply because of others. I was upset, feeling unfair, feeling unjust.
While I thought I would spend my weekends pondering over this, I was thankful that my absent-mindedness actually made me spent my weekends happily.
This afternoon, while I was walking with my colleague, we discussed about the possibilities again of the agenda of the meeting. Then again, I forgot about it while enjoying my lunch until the minute hand approached closer and closer and strike at 12. It was 3pm.
Together with 4 other colleagues, and two dept assoc deans and the dean himself, we sat comfortably in the meeting room starting off by saying Singapore is now listed as an infected country by WHO.
Then we moved into the real agenda of the meeting with the dean congratulating us on this happy occassion that the department has identified the 5 of us among the rest to be titled as "senior X X" base on our past appraisal and performance. At that instant, all the rest of the conversation said were like music to my ears because I could finally let down my guards for the next one hour. Although this does not mean a promotion, but I am glad the meeting was nothing worst than downgrading or overlook my performance done for the past one year.
We went back to our desk and work as usual. And days go by like that everyday........
So last friday was quite a gloomy day among the three of us (colleagues and I). I mean, why should I be MODERATED because the overall performance of the whole was not any where near? Suddenly, I could feel how a PSLE student would have felt. Its felt like I have got an A for my efforts but was given a B instead because others did not put in enough effort. Why should I be "punished" because of others? It was fuming to think that all efforts done could just be washed away simply because of others. I was upset, feeling unfair, feeling unjust.
While I thought I would spend my weekends pondering over this, I was thankful that my absent-mindedness actually made me spent my weekends happily.
This afternoon, while I was walking with my colleague, we discussed about the possibilities again of the agenda of the meeting. Then again, I forgot about it while enjoying my lunch until the minute hand approached closer and closer and strike at 12. It was 3pm.
Together with 4 other colleagues, and two dept assoc deans and the dean himself, we sat comfortably in the meeting room starting off by saying Singapore is now listed as an infected country by WHO.
Then we moved into the real agenda of the meeting with the dean congratulating us on this happy occassion that the department has identified the 5 of us among the rest to be titled as "senior X X" base on our past appraisal and performance. At that instant, all the rest of the conversation said were like music to my ears because I could finally let down my guards for the next one hour. Although this does not mean a promotion, but I am glad the meeting was nothing worst than downgrading or overlook my performance done for the past one year.
We went back to our desk and work as usual. And days go by like that everyday........
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Day 6
Day 6. Today is your 1st day starting your work. The weather must have been killing. My body is aching like mad. My back is feeling feverish though. But no fever so no worries. Probably the lungs are infected but no worries. LOL!
Anyway, I have a good day today, packing up my room again and created a corner to store all my big paint boards.
Sis came back today and brought us lunch. There was a homemade duck soup too! The rest of the afternoon was spent surfing the net and talking to sis and watching tv.
Evening, my friend came to my block by surprise and passed me two packets of herbal tea sachets, saying that they are good for my cough. We chatted for a short while and I came back home to continue watching my tv programmes. My dinner was a bowl of noodles, duck soup, bird nest, herbal tea and a mac spicy burger.
So you dun have to worry about me. I sure know how to enjoy my life and spend my time well while you concentrate on your work there. As days go by, you and I will just be nearby.......nearer and nearer. Ta! Ta!
Anyway, I have a good day today, packing up my room again and created a corner to store all my big paint boards.
Sis came back today and brought us lunch. There was a homemade duck soup too! The rest of the afternoon was spent surfing the net and talking to sis and watching tv.
Evening, my friend came to my block by surprise and passed me two packets of herbal tea sachets, saying that they are good for my cough. We chatted for a short while and I came back home to continue watching my tv programmes. My dinner was a bowl of noodles, duck soup, bird nest, herbal tea and a mac spicy burger.
So you dun have to worry about me. I sure know how to enjoy my life and spend my time well while you concentrate on your work there. As days go by, you and I will just be nearby.......nearer and nearer. Ta! Ta!
Social Responsibilty
The H1N1 Influenza A has been the hottest topic since the day it was identified. Although I was mentally prepared that it will sooner or later hit Singapore however, it came to me by surprise of the rapid increase of affected cases.
Would identifying ppl with fever do much help to control this Influenza, since there were reports saying that affected ppl may not necessary develop symptoms like high fever. Why would the increase of affected cases rise so fast in just a few days?
Although H1N1 is not that deadly as SARS, the spread of this virus seems easy and fast. Quoted from the Ministry of Health (sg) website: "On 27 June, Singapore has confirmed 89 new cases (366th to 454th cases) of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) today, bringing the total tally to 454 confirmed cases. In addition to these 89 new cases, 53 other cases were pending investigation yesterday. Of these 142 cases, 65 have been investigated. They comprise 34 local cases, and 31 imported cases. The remaining 77 cases are still being investigated. "
Looking at the statistics reported, it seems that almost half of the 65 cases investigated, half belongs to import cases and the other half are local cases, meaning to say, this virus is currently spreading in Singapore within our social community. Then it brings down to why our neighbour has a report of less than a 100 cases? Was it better control? or Unreport? Or it simply means, lesser travellers from affected countries are traveling to that country?
What could be done to keep the spreading under control? It all boils down to social responsibility in each and everyone of us.
Travellers who have been to affected countries should self quarantine themselves at home regardless if they develop any symptoms before or after returning. And Ministry should allow these ppl to go on "home quarantine medical leave", an additional medical leaves entitlement given to those who are returning from affected countries, as well as those who has contact with those confirmed cases. Taking our own annual leaves to self quarantine ourselves at home will only discourage ppl from reporting their traveling history or disclose their contacts with infected cases. As such, they wil continue to roam around the community and carry on with their daily activities, and rising the opportunity for the virus to spread through the community especially in Singapore where it is a small city, the spread could happen more rapidly than other countries.
If you have read the statistics report in WOH, you will realise that the no. of cases seem to have relation to the size of the country (smaller the country, huge population) and also countries that are of hot tourist or business spots. Besides that, medical treatments and technologies, social responsibilities also plays an important part why this virus could spread so widely, globally.
Airport is the first transistion point for virus to tour and travel globally. Each traveller is a potential virus carrier. Therefore, controls and checks were done at the airports but I personally feel it could be done better. I am not saying that all airports should shut down but to enforce travellers to practise better hygiene awareness or compulsory self quarantine (or home quarantine orders) for 7 days for those who returns from affected countries before they are allow to be embarking on social activities, again it also depends on each and every one of us, if we practice social responsibilties.
I have heard cases of ppl (and seen a case) who went to affected countries but came back to work (within my working environment) as usual. "It wont be me" - this is what ppl always think. And with such "optimist" or should I say, social irresponsible beings running around us, how could we better control the spread?
Althought the H1N1 Infleunza is not as deadly as SARs, it does not mean its "oke", "it's fine" to get it. The more affected cases there will be, the lesser no. of ppl coming into singapore, the more ppl will have to be self quarantined, the more events may have to be canceled, thus how could economy ever recover fast?
Be a social responsible person today, it helps the ppl around, it helps the economy, and in turn, it helps yourself.
Would identifying ppl with fever do much help to control this Influenza, since there were reports saying that affected ppl may not necessary develop symptoms like high fever. Why would the increase of affected cases rise so fast in just a few days?
Although H1N1 is not that deadly as SARS, the spread of this virus seems easy and fast. Quoted from the Ministry of Health (sg) website: "On 27 June, Singapore has confirmed 89 new cases (366th to 454th cases) of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) today, bringing the total tally to 454 confirmed cases. In addition to these 89 new cases, 53 other cases were pending investigation yesterday. Of these 142 cases, 65 have been investigated. They comprise 34 local cases, and 31 imported cases. The remaining 77 cases are still being investigated. "
Looking at the statistics reported, it seems that almost half of the 65 cases investigated, half belongs to import cases and the other half are local cases, meaning to say, this virus is currently spreading in Singapore within our social community. Then it brings down to why our neighbour has a report of less than a 100 cases? Was it better control? or Unreport? Or it simply means, lesser travellers from affected countries are traveling to that country?
What could be done to keep the spreading under control? It all boils down to social responsibility in each and everyone of us.
Travellers who have been to affected countries should self quarantine themselves at home regardless if they develop any symptoms before or after returning. And Ministry should allow these ppl to go on "home quarantine medical leave", an additional medical leaves entitlement given to those who are returning from affected countries, as well as those who has contact with those confirmed cases. Taking our own annual leaves to self quarantine ourselves at home will only discourage ppl from reporting their traveling history or disclose their contacts with infected cases. As such, they wil continue to roam around the community and carry on with their daily activities, and rising the opportunity for the virus to spread through the community especially in Singapore where it is a small city, the spread could happen more rapidly than other countries.
If you have read the statistics report in WOH, you will realise that the no. of cases seem to have relation to the size of the country (smaller the country, huge population) and also countries that are of hot tourist or business spots. Besides that, medical treatments and technologies, social responsibilities also plays an important part why this virus could spread so widely, globally.
Airport is the first transistion point for virus to tour and travel globally. Each traveller is a potential virus carrier. Therefore, controls and checks were done at the airports but I personally feel it could be done better. I am not saying that all airports should shut down but to enforce travellers to practise better hygiene awareness or compulsory self quarantine (or home quarantine orders) for 7 days for those who returns from affected countries before they are allow to be embarking on social activities, again it also depends on each and every one of us, if we practice social responsibilties.
I have heard cases of ppl (and seen a case) who went to affected countries but came back to work (within my working environment) as usual. "It wont be me" - this is what ppl always think. And with such "optimist" or should I say, social irresponsible beings running around us, how could we better control the spread?
Althought the H1N1 Infleunza is not as deadly as SARs, it does not mean its "oke", "it's fine" to get it. The more affected cases there will be, the lesser no. of ppl coming into singapore, the more ppl will have to be self quarantined, the more events may have to be canceled, thus how could economy ever recover fast?
Be a social responsible person today, it helps the ppl around, it helps the economy, and in turn, it helps yourself.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Day 4
For the lst time in my life, I played badminton in NTU today. I have been working previously in NTU for almost five years and the only time I been to the sports hall was during the student's examination where I have to bring down the exam scripts for the Chief Invigilators.
Today, for the 1st time, I went there not for work, but for leisure. I met Alex and his two friends in NTU for a good game. We played from 7 to 9pm. Then had a drink in our of the canteen. the time we split, it was already 10pm. Together with Alex, we walked out from NTU with the street lamps suddenly gone off. This was also my 1st time walking out from NTU although it has always been almost my second home.
Thankfully I was in time to be online. Thanks to the advancement in technology that we could still communicate and see each other. The weather here in singapore is fine and I have been doing the usual stuff while you are away. Hopefully you can start work the soonest over there and finish the project on time so that you can be back soon to have your birthday celebrate here!
Meanwhile, I will pack my room, read my books, do my tptp, spend time with spidy and complete that lotus flower painting...
Till we meet again...
Today, for the 1st time, I went there not for work, but for leisure. I met Alex and his two friends in NTU for a good game. We played from 7 to 9pm. Then had a drink in our of the canteen. the time we split, it was already 10pm. Together with Alex, we walked out from NTU with the street lamps suddenly gone off. This was also my 1st time walking out from NTU although it has always been almost my second home.
Thankfully I was in time to be online. Thanks to the advancement in technology that we could still communicate and see each other. The weather here in singapore is fine and I have been doing the usual stuff while you are away. Hopefully you can start work the soonest over there and finish the project on time so that you can be back soon to have your birthday celebrate here!
Meanwhile, I will pack my room, read my books, do my tptp, spend time with spidy and complete that lotus flower painting...
Till we meet again...
Thursday, June 25, 2009
You are not my target group
As some of you are aware, am starting to do an online accessories business with spidy. Actually I dont really like to term it as "business" because what we are doing, are mainly for leisure and at the same time, generating some some extra earnings to keep us happy.
When we started out, the idea came when we were wasting too much time meeting up for gossips and foods. We both thought it will be a good idea to do something useful during our meet ups.
We first started by window shopping through far east plaza and bought some lowly priced accessories which we thought of repackaging them and resell at a reasonable (to me, it’s reasonable to mark up at least 6 times the cost price) price.
Spidy thought it would be ridiculous to sell 4 dollar earrings at the price of 24 bucks. But to me, a 1 dollar earring could be selling at 6 dollars, ppl will still buy. We could just do a whole markup for all items and do re-adjustments to those we feel, have been obviously overpriced. After a few rounds of arguments and discussions and debates. I finally relented and we did a very minor markup of 70% of the cost price.
Of cos I am unhappy with that, because after adding in all the other costs we spend on packaging, electricity spent on the late nights and lap tops, our returns were just like a tiny little grain of rice. But thanks to her, we got our first two batches of orders (and a third one coming).
I have seen her talking to the wholesaler from overseas. Many times we communicated only through msn or via emails. Many times she gave up because of her limited vocab and patience with him, so I stood in and we resolved. Now that we have agreed to up the markup even more so as to be fair to ourselves and er....not so fair to the buyers but thats what business is all abut right? Anyway, the mark up is justifiable with extra touch of service we provide (going the extra mile to repair damaged accessories), good communication with our buyers, provide benefits to those who intro their friends to our site, providing exclusive packaging for each items they purchased, etc. And many more other stuff we will want to provide to our customers (oh yes, the right term to use should be customers).
We learnt quite a lot along the way and have also our disagreements and arguments that nearly snap our friendship but many times, we reminded each other when we gets heated up in the middle of the argument, that the online accessories that we are doing will never surpass our friendship. And I am glad we trusted and have faith in each other on this. And along the way, we have also identified that she is more “human touch and better with financial control” while I am more “IT and design Savvy”.
We are still working on many ways to improve and get more deals and broadcast our site to reach out to the many ladies out there. I am still pondering on how to identify our USP while getting things on going. There are positive and negative feedbacks along the way. Negative feedback do not get me feel edgy at all although I take them objectively but many times, I ignore.
Recently, there are ppl who dropped comments in our tptp site, stating that it’s too pricey. Spidy highlighted that to me which, I have already read them but chose to overlook. Then she suggested we should re-adjust our pricing strategy again. I refused.
If we change every time one or two negative comments arise, it will mean our pricing are easily manipulated! Most importantly is to understand why prices were set at that level in the first place and we will not get too affected with ppl who complains about expensive.
So here’s my notes to those who feel my accessories are expensive:
1) That means you can’t afford (thus not my target group)
2) You are not willing to spend on accessories (thus not my target group)
3) You are not looking for authentic and quality products (thus not my target group)
When we started out, the idea came when we were wasting too much time meeting up for gossips and foods. We both thought it will be a good idea to do something useful during our meet ups.
We first started by window shopping through far east plaza and bought some lowly priced accessories which we thought of repackaging them and resell at a reasonable (to me, it’s reasonable to mark up at least 6 times the cost price) price.
Spidy thought it would be ridiculous to sell 4 dollar earrings at the price of 24 bucks. But to me, a 1 dollar earring could be selling at 6 dollars, ppl will still buy. We could just do a whole markup for all items and do re-adjustments to those we feel, have been obviously overpriced. After a few rounds of arguments and discussions and debates. I finally relented and we did a very minor markup of 70% of the cost price.
Of cos I am unhappy with that, because after adding in all the other costs we spend on packaging, electricity spent on the late nights and lap tops, our returns were just like a tiny little grain of rice. But thanks to her, we got our first two batches of orders (and a third one coming).
I have seen her talking to the wholesaler from overseas. Many times we communicated only through msn or via emails. Many times she gave up because of her limited vocab and patience with him, so I stood in and we resolved. Now that we have agreed to up the markup even more so as to be fair to ourselves and er....not so fair to the buyers but thats what business is all abut right? Anyway, the mark up is justifiable with extra touch of service we provide (going the extra mile to repair damaged accessories), good communication with our buyers, provide benefits to those who intro their friends to our site, providing exclusive packaging for each items they purchased, etc. And many more other stuff we will want to provide to our customers (oh yes, the right term to use should be customers).
We learnt quite a lot along the way and have also our disagreements and arguments that nearly snap our friendship but many times, we reminded each other when we gets heated up in the middle of the argument, that the online accessories that we are doing will never surpass our friendship. And I am glad we trusted and have faith in each other on this. And along the way, we have also identified that she is more “human touch and better with financial control” while I am more “IT and design Savvy”.
We are still working on many ways to improve and get more deals and broadcast our site to reach out to the many ladies out there. I am still pondering on how to identify our USP while getting things on going. There are positive and negative feedbacks along the way. Negative feedback do not get me feel edgy at all although I take them objectively but many times, I ignore.
Recently, there are ppl who dropped comments in our tptp site, stating that it’s too pricey. Spidy highlighted that to me which, I have already read them but chose to overlook. Then she suggested we should re-adjust our pricing strategy again. I refused.
If we change every time one or two negative comments arise, it will mean our pricing are easily manipulated! Most importantly is to understand why prices were set at that level in the first place and we will not get too affected with ppl who complains about expensive.
So here’s my notes to those who feel my accessories are expensive:
1) That means you can’t afford (thus not my target group)
2) You are not willing to spend on accessories (thus not my target group)
3) You are not looking for authentic and quality products (thus not my target group)
Food!
I need to talk about food because I am waiting for my nice colleague to buy back for me (Mac Spciy burger again!). See how a gesture of offering a chocolate could do to improve relations between co colleagues? :)
Anyway, I want to talk about my morning breakfast (again). Few days ago, mum cooked mee suah for us to eat. I always need at least a bowl or plate of noodles, a warm (not hot cos I am always in a rush to leave home) coffee or milk tea and read through some news articles, it doesnt matter if I will be late. This has been a routine lifestyle for me I can't kick the habit.
Today, is just two half boiled eggs, which does not make me feel that I have eaten my breakfast. Having a heavy breakfast before the day starts is heaven for me, especially if my morning is served with western fish fillet or mee goreng, prawn mee, mee suah, hor fun, etc. Only home cooked food could rake up my appetite. I love my mummy!!!!!!!!!
(My fav home made mee suah!!!!)
Mum don't cook breakfast that often anymore, thus makes me appreciates my heavy breakfast even more. On certain days when she dont have breakfast for me, I will have to go to work on empty stomach, drown with cups of coffee, or munch on lemon biscuits or chocolates before the clock strikes 12. Recently, one of my assoc deans came back from his tour and got this chocolate for us to share:
And I need to say, this chocolate is superbly nice! Although its a little more sweet (becos of the sweet chocolate and red dates), but the combination of having a mouthful of a red date, chocolate and a roasted almond in my mouth, is again heaven!!
So needless to say, I have been to heaven a couple of times because of food............food...I do love you.........
Anyway, I want to talk about my morning breakfast (again). Few days ago, mum cooked mee suah for us to eat. I always need at least a bowl or plate of noodles, a warm (not hot cos I am always in a rush to leave home) coffee or milk tea and read through some news articles, it doesnt matter if I will be late. This has been a routine lifestyle for me I can't kick the habit.
Today, is just two half boiled eggs, which does not make me feel that I have eaten my breakfast. Having a heavy breakfast before the day starts is heaven for me, especially if my morning is served with western fish fillet or mee goreng, prawn mee, mee suah, hor fun, etc. Only home cooked food could rake up my appetite. I love my mummy!!!!!!!!!
(My fav home made mee suah!!!!)
Mum don't cook breakfast that often anymore, thus makes me appreciates my heavy breakfast even more. On certain days when she dont have breakfast for me, I will have to go to work on empty stomach, drown with cups of coffee, or munch on lemon biscuits or chocolates before the clock strikes 12. Recently, one of my assoc deans came back from his tour and got this chocolate for us to share:
And I need to say, this chocolate is superbly nice! Although its a little more sweet (becos of the sweet chocolate and red dates), but the combination of having a mouthful of a red date, chocolate and a roasted almond in my mouth, is again heaven!!
So needless to say, I have been to heaven a couple of times because of food............food...I do love you.........
Day 2...
It rained here in singapore. It was cool the whole day today. As usual, it was work and home and busy with tptp and arguing with spidy.
We discussed abt copy rights issues which she know nuts abt. We talked abt if she falls into the water, which kind friend will come to her rescue. We talked abt warning her not to bully me while you are away else you will do something to her when you returns.
I was too engross with all the pasting and editing of the catelogue that I forgot to bath. I heard and saw an accident at NTU but am glad no one is hurt. Thats what I did today..
We discussed abt copy rights issues which she know nuts abt. We talked abt if she falls into the water, which kind friend will come to her rescue. We talked abt warning her not to bully me while you are away else you will do something to her when you returns.
I was too engross with all the pasting and editing of the catelogue that I forgot to bath. I heard and saw an accident at NTU but am glad no one is hurt. Thats what I did today..
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Do a good deed today, people!!
Today, I got a token of appreciation from a graduate who have been giving me problems again and again from the start of his examination till the end of his conferment, either to rush and push for early oral examination date, or to rush out his conferment letter, or to check if he is confirm in the convocation list etc.
I sympathized with his situation as his conferment letter and transcript directly affects his renewal contract with his current company.
As much as I could, not to extend my helping hand to go the extra mile to rush out his document first because he has always been giving me problems, but in the end, I did what I could to help.
I mean, put myself in his shoe, I will be worry to death if I loss my job just becos of not being able to show my HR two documents when I have deem completed my programme and passed.
I am thankful that my little gesture to help could save him from losing his job (moreover he is a foreigner)
And here's free chocolates to share with my fellow colleagues! :) Remember, doing someone good makes you feel good! But don't expect return every time you helped someone, that will only make your gestures an insincere one.
One day, someone will tell you that he/she appreciates what you have done. You never know when and how you could change someone's life. :)
Help someone today because you just wanted to, not because of expecting a return!
I sympathized with his situation as his conferment letter and transcript directly affects his renewal contract with his current company.
As much as I could, not to extend my helping hand to go the extra mile to rush out his document first because he has always been giving me problems, but in the end, I did what I could to help.
I mean, put myself in his shoe, I will be worry to death if I loss my job just becos of not being able to show my HR two documents when I have deem completed my programme and passed.
I am thankful that my little gesture to help could save him from losing his job (moreover he is a foreigner)
And here's free chocolates to share with my fellow colleagues! :) Remember, doing someone good makes you feel good! But don't expect return every time you helped someone, that will only make your gestures an insincere one.
One day, someone will tell you that he/she appreciates what you have done. You never know when and how you could change someone's life. :)
Help someone today because you just wanted to, not because of expecting a return!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Finally I started work on the commissioned painting that I was suppose to do. My Dean has special feelings for lotus I think. He told me about the reason why he wanted me to paint him a lotus painting but I sort of forgot what the reason was.
It wasnt something that I will like to paint, because lotus, it makes me feel like associating it to every 1st and 15th of the month at Temple street. But after some time resourcing and glancing through countless pictures online on lotus flowers, they are afterall very beautiful flowers. Big and sturdy, strong and steady. Peaceful and each has it's own beauty in the still pond with large round leaves. Now I understand why my Dean likes lotus flower. Looking at them, give you a sense of peaceful and calm.
I finally have an idea how to paint it, a painting of lotus flower in the still water at night.
Here's the incomplete work:
It wasnt something that I will like to paint, because lotus, it makes me feel like associating it to every 1st and 15th of the month at Temple street. But after some time resourcing and glancing through countless pictures online on lotus flowers, they are afterall very beautiful flowers. Big and sturdy, strong and steady. Peaceful and each has it's own beauty in the still pond with large round leaves. Now I understand why my Dean likes lotus flower. Looking at them, give you a sense of peaceful and calm.
I finally have an idea how to paint it, a painting of lotus flower in the still water at night.
Here's the incomplete work:
Sophia...
I NEED to intro all of you to this CD "Lush Tiga" which had been out for quite some time already but I just bought it only recently. I lst heard of the advertisment on TV some time ago with this short play of a line from the song "Sophia" and I knew I NEED to get this CD.
Here's a video clip of the song sophia. The one in Lush Tiga is more solo, with just singer voice and piano. This video clip is more "rock".
Lyrics:
5 o' clock and a fire escape symphony,
Spilling out across the road and the square,
And the sky's the same as you're alone, do you think of me?
Do the parks, and trees, and the leaves, reach you, there?
After the rain, in the lonely hour as he haunts me, calling out, again and again.
Sophia, Sophia, I'm burning, I'm burning.
It's a fire, it's a fire, I cannot put out,
Sophia, Sophia, I'm learning that some things,
I can't go without and one of them is him.
And now I walk these streets like a stranger in my home town,
Learn the language, form the words when I speak,
But he changed me, I'm his ghost since he came around,
And now I count the hours and the days in the weeks.
Passion and silence,
Every word, every line, a measure,
It's the science of the soul,
And his books, they breathe a reason and now I wanna know...
Sophia, Sophia, I'm burning, I'm burning,
It's a fire, it's a fire, I cannot put out,
Sophia, Sophia, I'm learning that some things,
I can't go without and one of those is him.
You, with your new born eyes,
Have you ever loved a man like I love him?
Do you hurt but still feel alive, like never before? Oh, Sophia, Sophia...
Sophia, Sophia, I'm burning, I'm burning,
It's a fire, it's a fire, I cannot put out,
Sophia, Sophia, I'm learning that some things,
I can't go without
I can't go without him
Here's a video clip of the song sophia. The one in Lush Tiga is more solo, with just singer voice and piano. This video clip is more "rock".
Lyrics:
5 o' clock and a fire escape symphony,
Spilling out across the road and the square,
And the sky's the same as you're alone, do you think of me?
Do the parks, and trees, and the leaves, reach you, there?
After the rain, in the lonely hour as he haunts me, calling out, again and again.
Sophia, Sophia, I'm burning, I'm burning.
It's a fire, it's a fire, I cannot put out,
Sophia, Sophia, I'm learning that some things,
I can't go without and one of them is him.
And now I walk these streets like a stranger in my home town,
Learn the language, form the words when I speak,
But he changed me, I'm his ghost since he came around,
And now I count the hours and the days in the weeks.
Passion and silence,
Every word, every line, a measure,
It's the science of the soul,
And his books, they breathe a reason and now I wanna know...
Sophia, Sophia, I'm burning, I'm burning,
It's a fire, it's a fire, I cannot put out,
Sophia, Sophia, I'm learning that some things,
I can't go without and one of those is him.
You, with your new born eyes,
Have you ever loved a man like I love him?
Do you hurt but still feel alive, like never before? Oh, Sophia, Sophia...
Sophia, Sophia, I'm burning, I'm burning,
It's a fire, it's a fire, I cannot put out,
Sophia, Sophia, I'm learning that some things,
I can't go without
I can't go without him
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
“Impression-nist” or “Real-list”?
Many times, I come across this common trial in the gentlemen who sort of tries very hard to express their “best” and glorious part or achievements in order to leave deep impressions and perhaps, also acceptance from the ladies.
This common trial, or should I say, does not only apply to the gentleman but to the ladies as well. So, to be fair, lets just put it as, people in general.
I, myself has came across a few people whom I happen to know are full of such trials. Some would try to create an impression that they own a few cars, but in reality, only after a few more in-depth conversations, would they reveal that, either the loans are under their names but car is driven by their siblings or family members who also plays a part in paying the loan and their name are just documented in the loan form that’s all, or what they mean is, they USED TO have carS, but now no longer, or, actually the rightful owners are their siblings or parents. So why so create an impression and brag to say they are owners of a few cars?
I have also come cross people whom insist they are of very high positions, but in layman terms, are just insurance/policy agents or investments “sellers” whom hard sells every time they spots a potential target from the banking system. Either they say they are doing their own business, or they term themselves as bankers. But just not the occupational title written on their employment letters. So why create an impression of a high flyer?
I have also come across people whom wears singlet and gear up with gadgets and all, running like sissy in the street, running faster when they see which strangers on the road they see and wants to impress, and when the stranger they want to impress, could no longer be in sight, they slowed down then huff and puff with difficulty. So why create an impression of being a regular athletic runner?
I have also come across people whom uses BIG bombastic words in their mails or emails but only after you start to talk to them in person, you will realize that or doubt, that whatever written work are either done by another person, or choose from the list of synonyms. So why create an impression of being an intellectual and in-depth person?
I have also come across a few people whom insist that they are single, but actually, they are on separation mode with their spouse, thus they deduced that they are single. But shouldn’t they explain further of their marital status since there is one even though it’s a separation? So why create an impression of being single and available?
I have also come across very pretty girls and their boyfriends whom happily hold their arms around their gf’s waists, showing them off like an exhibit. But only upon closer look would you realize how they girls look like after shedding off the tons of makeup beneath that naked skin and removal of the false lashes and eye liner? So why create an impression of being another Kate Moss?
I have also commonly seen people with monograms totes and purses in different sizes and all, walking in the busy streets of orchard road with their sunglasses and heads held up higher than their nose tips, but only upon close look, you will scream “Ek! Fake one!” Either the nose is fake, or the “ornaments” (their “branded bags”) are fake. So why create an impression of rich tai tai?
Was it our ego and pride that plays in the major part or was it the acceptance from the society that made some of us an “Impression-nist” than to being a down to earth “Real-list”?
We just cant accept the way we are, or the society won't accept us as what we are?
Actually people like that don't impress me for I am an "Ideal-list". Once you give me the idea of trying to impress me, the more motionless I become.
This common trial, or should I say, does not only apply to the gentleman but to the ladies as well. So, to be fair, lets just put it as, people in general.
I, myself has came across a few people whom I happen to know are full of such trials. Some would try to create an impression that they own a few cars, but in reality, only after a few more in-depth conversations, would they reveal that, either the loans are under their names but car is driven by their siblings or family members who also plays a part in paying the loan and their name are just documented in the loan form that’s all, or what they mean is, they USED TO have carS, but now no longer, or, actually the rightful owners are their siblings or parents. So why so create an impression and brag to say they are owners of a few cars?
I have also come cross people whom insist they are of very high positions, but in layman terms, are just insurance/policy agents or investments “sellers” whom hard sells every time they spots a potential target from the banking system. Either they say they are doing their own business, or they term themselves as bankers. But just not the occupational title written on their employment letters. So why create an impression of a high flyer?
I have also come across people whom wears singlet and gear up with gadgets and all, running like sissy in the street, running faster when they see which strangers on the road they see and wants to impress, and when the stranger they want to impress, could no longer be in sight, they slowed down then huff and puff with difficulty. So why create an impression of being a regular athletic runner?
I have also come across people whom uses BIG bombastic words in their mails or emails but only after you start to talk to them in person, you will realize that or doubt, that whatever written work are either done by another person, or choose from the list of synonyms. So why create an impression of being an intellectual and in-depth person?
I have also come across a few people whom insist that they are single, but actually, they are on separation mode with their spouse, thus they deduced that they are single. But shouldn’t they explain further of their marital status since there is one even though it’s a separation? So why create an impression of being single and available?
I have also come across very pretty girls and their boyfriends whom happily hold their arms around their gf’s waists, showing them off like an exhibit. But only upon closer look would you realize how they girls look like after shedding off the tons of makeup beneath that naked skin and removal of the false lashes and eye liner? So why create an impression of being another Kate Moss?
I have also commonly seen people with monograms totes and purses in different sizes and all, walking in the busy streets of orchard road with their sunglasses and heads held up higher than their nose tips, but only upon close look, you will scream “Ek! Fake one!” Either the nose is fake, or the “ornaments” (their “branded bags”) are fake. So why create an impression of rich tai tai?
Was it our ego and pride that plays in the major part or was it the acceptance from the society that made some of us an “Impression-nist” than to being a down to earth “Real-list”?
We just cant accept the way we are, or the society won't accept us as what we are?
Actually people like that don't impress me for I am an "Ideal-list". Once you give me the idea of trying to impress me, the more motionless I become.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Hand made card - Football
I never really wanted to start doing cards again but since catherine is spidy's galfriend, of cos all could be done!
This is a recent custom-made one after I stopped making cards for sooooooooooooooooooooo long:
A one in a milion stranger
I should have blogged about this quite some time ago but guess it’s not too late though. About a month’s back. I was having my lunch alone at macdonald when a young lady in her early thirties was looking for a seat. She turned and saw me from afar and I looked away. She walked towards me and asked if I mind sharing my table with her. I politely invited her to share my table (not food) and she was glad.
Seconds later, we started a conversation together, with her telling me that she is a Malaysian, working as a freelance accountant in sg and complained that she has been eating macdonald for weeks just to get the whole series of the coke cola glasses. I shared with her that I am there for the same reason but not for myself but to collect one for my sister. Then I boldly asked her if she has the glass in pink and she said she has only one but her friend might have extra. So we exchanged handphone numbers and chatted while having our lunch. She shared with me about her lifestyle and offer to bring me around Malaysia if I am interested to visit her country one day.
Then we talked about Kota Kinnabalu, etc till she invited me to her party with friends (all females only), some sort of rented apartment units near CK Tangs. One of her friends happen to be a staff of that estate/building and has special staff rates when renting the apartment. And what they do there is to hold some facial treatment sessions there, some light refreshments, and allow the ladies to use the condo’s facilities. The facial treatment they offer is only a flat rate of SGD15 bucks and they also have a skin analysis informal consultation. She extended her invitation to me and my friend. I replied that if I could make it on that day, I will come with my gal friend. Then we shook hands and I left. It was really a nice feeling to start a conversation with stranger, and to have hopefully start a new friendship from there.
Recently, just a few days ago she called, telling that there are still vacancies to their party if I am still interested. I told her I would reply her again through sms in the evening but I overlooked.
Today, I smsed her to inform that I couldn’t make it as it’s a father’s day weekend. But I asked if I could have the pink glass which I could offer a sum of $ as a token. She replied she has extra and could give it to me. We are still fixing a day to meet and this time, I would go with a little gift if she don’t accept my money. :)
There are good ppl around, and people like An Qi made me believe in that. Thank you….
Seconds later, we started a conversation together, with her telling me that she is a Malaysian, working as a freelance accountant in sg and complained that she has been eating macdonald for weeks just to get the whole series of the coke cola glasses. I shared with her that I am there for the same reason but not for myself but to collect one for my sister. Then I boldly asked her if she has the glass in pink and she said she has only one but her friend might have extra. So we exchanged handphone numbers and chatted while having our lunch. She shared with me about her lifestyle and offer to bring me around Malaysia if I am interested to visit her country one day.
Then we talked about Kota Kinnabalu, etc till she invited me to her party with friends (all females only), some sort of rented apartment units near CK Tangs. One of her friends happen to be a staff of that estate/building and has special staff rates when renting the apartment. And what they do there is to hold some facial treatment sessions there, some light refreshments, and allow the ladies to use the condo’s facilities. The facial treatment they offer is only a flat rate of SGD15 bucks and they also have a skin analysis informal consultation. She extended her invitation to me and my friend. I replied that if I could make it on that day, I will come with my gal friend. Then we shook hands and I left. It was really a nice feeling to start a conversation with stranger, and to have hopefully start a new friendship from there.
Recently, just a few days ago she called, telling that there are still vacancies to their party if I am still interested. I told her I would reply her again through sms in the evening but I overlooked.
Today, I smsed her to inform that I couldn’t make it as it’s a father’s day weekend. But I asked if I could have the pink glass which I could offer a sum of $ as a token. She replied she has extra and could give it to me. We are still fixing a day to meet and this time, I would go with a little gift if she don’t accept my money. :)
There are good ppl around, and people like An Qi made me believe in that. Thank you….
Is it a need or an ornament?
I have been pondering sometimes over this question. Is it a necessary to have a relationship? My colleagues are surprise I am still unattached and when I told them sometimes I have bad dreams in the night or probably I am still not used to sleeping alone in a room (I used to share room with my sister), her advice is “go get married”.
Although her advice is not something sensible or workable. With all those talks, she does make me wonder sometimes, if I really don’t need a relationship at all. Many times, I realize, actually I have been an independent person and also in terms of emotionally independent. Maybe meeting too many weird or bad guys out there made me come to this conclusion that there is no other guys out there that you can trust or depend on! You know who you are (s).
Meeting the wrong guys makes me loss hopes in relationship. Meeting good guys make me worry if good things last? With all these doubts, how could I ever be ready for one? So that’s why, if things are uncertain or has no definite answer, I rather skip the question because I know I will never be able to convince myself with an answer.
I met one whom I thought is the one but he eventually left me for another one. I met one who cares and sort of control too much till I freaked out, I met one who said I am a too nice girl for a player like him, I met another one who is always full of himself and wanted me to change for his sake, I met another one who said he likes me but not ready for relationship until unless all his buddies are attached blah blah blah, I met a few whom I have no real feelings for, I met one whom has too much excuses and lies and self defensive comments and complicated pasts which I foresee it will definitely not work out and it is not the kind of relationship I want.
And now this one, who is again like a light in a dark but too much disappointments and darkness that I had that I wonder if I should believe hope is knocking on my door again. It may be another false alarm. How much do you need me to go thru these similar scenarios again and again, mighty one?
All I need is a simple life. Simple and uncomplicated one. Is it too much to ask for? A good decent man is just right in front of me, but what is holding me back? The fear of disappoints. The better the person is for me, the greater the disappointment I fear. And while I am still pondering if a relationship to me is necessity or an ornament, I guess, I could only figure this out before I can decide on anything.
Meanwhile I know you will bear with me, wont you?
Although her advice is not something sensible or workable. With all those talks, she does make me wonder sometimes, if I really don’t need a relationship at all. Many times, I realize, actually I have been an independent person and also in terms of emotionally independent. Maybe meeting too many weird or bad guys out there made me come to this conclusion that there is no other guys out there that you can trust or depend on! You know who you are (s).
Meeting the wrong guys makes me loss hopes in relationship. Meeting good guys make me worry if good things last? With all these doubts, how could I ever be ready for one? So that’s why, if things are uncertain or has no definite answer, I rather skip the question because I know I will never be able to convince myself with an answer.
I met one whom I thought is the one but he eventually left me for another one. I met one who cares and sort of control too much till I freaked out, I met one who said I am a too nice girl for a player like him, I met another one who is always full of himself and wanted me to change for his sake, I met another one who said he likes me but not ready for relationship until unless all his buddies are attached blah blah blah, I met a few whom I have no real feelings for, I met one whom has too much excuses and lies and self defensive comments and complicated pasts which I foresee it will definitely not work out and it is not the kind of relationship I want.
And now this one, who is again like a light in a dark but too much disappointments and darkness that I had that I wonder if I should believe hope is knocking on my door again. It may be another false alarm. How much do you need me to go thru these similar scenarios again and again, mighty one?
All I need is a simple life. Simple and uncomplicated one. Is it too much to ask for? A good decent man is just right in front of me, but what is holding me back? The fear of disappoints. The better the person is for me, the greater the disappointment I fear. And while I am still pondering if a relationship to me is necessity or an ornament, I guess, I could only figure this out before I can decide on anything.
Meanwhile I know you will bear with me, wont you?
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Liu Lian! Liu Lian! Liu Lian!
Once upon a time, there were two rascals, who took turns to tell me they are eating DURIANS. Even my neighbours ate DURIANS. I cant eat durians then so I ate some substitute call mangoes.
That was yesterday.
So since yesterday, I have been nagging about it. So today, I nagged again and finally dad and mum and with me tagging along, we went to buy DURIANS.
Hrmph! And so now I can also join the club and say "I AM ALSO EATING DURIANS!"
榴莲，榴莲，榴莲！
榴莲，榴莲，榴莲！
榴莲在我窗前~
That was yesterday.
So since yesterday, I have been nagging about it. So today, I nagged again and finally dad and mum and with me tagging along, we went to buy DURIANS.
Hrmph! And so now I can also join the club and say "I AM ALSO EATING DURIANS!"
榴莲，榴莲，榴莲！
榴莲，榴莲，榴莲！
榴莲在我窗前~
So, I learnt!
Sometimes I wonder if I have been wearing too many hats than my head could hold. Come to think of it, I have done quite a bit of hand-ons and selling things either online or at the flea markets.
I still remember starting out as making handmade greeting cards. The idea came upon when I started making handmade greeting cards to my 1st ex boy friend. We don’t celebrate anniversaries (we don’t even remember when we started together), but I will make it a point to make him a greeting card almost on every special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
Every piece of the card was hand crafted, measured and fixed. The unique point about my cards is, none of the designs were repeated. So I started making cards and sell them online through blogs and in flea markets. I have customization orders from a few interested buyers. They would usually tell me what they hope to see on the card and I will try to deliver. Of course, responses were positive and many wonders how the hell I manage to craft those things out from a blank piece of paper. I don’t know how I managed to but I did. Each handmade card was made with efforts and careful measurements in order to minimize wastage of those fancy papers. Ppl who order from my site will pay me through online banking before I start working on the card. Of course, not everyone is honest. I ever encountered a buyer, who went “disappeared” when he is due to pay that pathetic 12 bucks when I have already delivered him the card out of goodwill before receiving my payment,. So I learnt.
Handmade cards are pretty easy for me to do. But the cutting and crafting part may kill me some times. Most of these papers are not the normal 80gsm, but thicker than cardboard. I stopped making handmade cards when I reached the point of getting pains in my elbows due to over straining. The efforts made compared to the earnings I got were a great difference. So eventually I stopped.
Then came the opportunity of flea markets. It was really fun selling and promoting items in your own stall. You would need to plan carefully and anticipate any last min changes e.g. the weather, the stall space, the shortage of equipments you need on the actual day.
My first flea was outside Cineleisure. Before the actual day arrived, I packed all my second hand/new clothing into luggage, carefully attached a price tag to all apparel and prepared enough paper bags for the shoppers. Apparels were hung neatly with hangers and onto the cloth racks. When the crowd swarmed in, there is no way you could keep the apparels neatly on the racks. It is suppose to be a flea market. So eventually for my subsequent flea markets, we just leave the luggage on the table with piles of apparels and selling them at flat rates. So I learnt.
Doing a flea market is never an easy task. We ever have to sell things directly under the scorching sun at Holland V, running for shelters when there are sudden downpours, negotiating with choosy buyers who pay peanuts but want chestnuts. But all the more it made the whole event fun especially when you do it with a couple of friends and family members.
Then I stopped doing flea markets because of the hassle to go down make rental fee, packing and carrying equipments down. The amount earned for the day was enough to cover for the rental but if I am to consider the efforts made from the no. of helpers I engaged, the meals and drinks we ate, the other stuff we bought from other sellers at the flea market, we made losses actually. But overall, it is for the fun and experiences. And so, I learnt.
Then I started selling paintings. From flea markets to online blogs, to ebay, to auction, to organizing an exhibition for it. The efforts made were so much greater than selling apparels in flea markets. Because an exhibition can never be compared to a flea market stall. You can’t just dump everything on the table for buyers to pick. I will have to carefully plan and make use of the space I rented, what I could do to display my paintings effectively, the lightings and effects, the counter, the easels, the introduction boards, the pamphlets, guestbook, how to communicate with my visitors and be readily prepared to explain every painting I displayed.
From planning to executing, to actual day, to packing up the stuff at the end of the two days event, I would not have been able to do it without help from my family and friends. It really drained all my energy, physically and mentally but the sense of accomplishment became greater.
Then, I started an online accessories dealing with my fellow gal friend, started out with blogspot and had processed two orders so far. We are still working on ways to promote and create awareness to our site and differentiating us from the vast online blogging business sprouting faster than a bean could grow into a bean sprout. From collating orders to remitting money to purchase the items from korea to communicating with the wholesaler, to delivering orders to our customers to dealing with complains and fixing up damages, to deciding mark up pricings, packaging and all. It was also never easy. There were hiccups along the way and so we learnt. But we have done and accomplished all that.
And now, I will like to do handmade cards again, sell off my loads of second hand apparels again, preparing for my second exhibition, promoting aggressively for my online accessories and also performing well at work since there are opportunities for leadership. I just hope I could grow more heads for these hats. Forgot to mention, I hope to incorporate my photography pictures into the next exhibition as well (if I can!)
I still remember starting out as making handmade greeting cards. The idea came upon when I started making handmade greeting cards to my 1st ex boy friend. We don’t celebrate anniversaries (we don’t even remember when we started together), but I will make it a point to make him a greeting card almost on every special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
Every piece of the card was hand crafted, measured and fixed. The unique point about my cards is, none of the designs were repeated. So I started making cards and sell them online through blogs and in flea markets. I have customization orders from a few interested buyers. They would usually tell me what they hope to see on the card and I will try to deliver. Of course, responses were positive and many wonders how the hell I manage to craft those things out from a blank piece of paper. I don’t know how I managed to but I did. Each handmade card was made with efforts and careful measurements in order to minimize wastage of those fancy papers. Ppl who order from my site will pay me through online banking before I start working on the card. Of course, not everyone is honest. I ever encountered a buyer, who went “disappeared” when he is due to pay that pathetic 12 bucks when I have already delivered him the card out of goodwill before receiving my payment,. So I learnt.
Handmade cards are pretty easy for me to do. But the cutting and crafting part may kill me some times. Most of these papers are not the normal 80gsm, but thicker than cardboard. I stopped making handmade cards when I reached the point of getting pains in my elbows due to over straining. The efforts made compared to the earnings I got were a great difference. So eventually I stopped.
Then came the opportunity of flea markets. It was really fun selling and promoting items in your own stall. You would need to plan carefully and anticipate any last min changes e.g. the weather, the stall space, the shortage of equipments you need on the actual day.
My first flea was outside Cineleisure. Before the actual day arrived, I packed all my second hand/new clothing into luggage, carefully attached a price tag to all apparel and prepared enough paper bags for the shoppers. Apparels were hung neatly with hangers and onto the cloth racks. When the crowd swarmed in, there is no way you could keep the apparels neatly on the racks. It is suppose to be a flea market. So eventually for my subsequent flea markets, we just leave the luggage on the table with piles of apparels and selling them at flat rates. So I learnt.
Doing a flea market is never an easy task. We ever have to sell things directly under the scorching sun at Holland V, running for shelters when there are sudden downpours, negotiating with choosy buyers who pay peanuts but want chestnuts. But all the more it made the whole event fun especially when you do it with a couple of friends and family members.
Then I stopped doing flea markets because of the hassle to go down make rental fee, packing and carrying equipments down. The amount earned for the day was enough to cover for the rental but if I am to consider the efforts made from the no. of helpers I engaged, the meals and drinks we ate, the other stuff we bought from other sellers at the flea market, we made losses actually. But overall, it is for the fun and experiences. And so, I learnt.
Then I started selling paintings. From flea markets to online blogs, to ebay, to auction, to organizing an exhibition for it. The efforts made were so much greater than selling apparels in flea markets. Because an exhibition can never be compared to a flea market stall. You can’t just dump everything on the table for buyers to pick. I will have to carefully plan and make use of the space I rented, what I could do to display my paintings effectively, the lightings and effects, the counter, the easels, the introduction boards, the pamphlets, guestbook, how to communicate with my visitors and be readily prepared to explain every painting I displayed.
From planning to executing, to actual day, to packing up the stuff at the end of the two days event, I would not have been able to do it without help from my family and friends. It really drained all my energy, physically and mentally but the sense of accomplishment became greater.
Then, I started an online accessories dealing with my fellow gal friend, started out with blogspot and had processed two orders so far. We are still working on ways to promote and create awareness to our site and differentiating us from the vast online blogging business sprouting faster than a bean could grow into a bean sprout. From collating orders to remitting money to purchase the items from korea to communicating with the wholesaler, to delivering orders to our customers to dealing with complains and fixing up damages, to deciding mark up pricings, packaging and all. It was also never easy. There were hiccups along the way and so we learnt. But we have done and accomplished all that.
And now, I will like to do handmade cards again, sell off my loads of second hand apparels again, preparing for my second exhibition, promoting aggressively for my online accessories and also performing well at work since there are opportunities for leadership. I just hope I could grow more heads for these hats. Forgot to mention, I hope to incorporate my photography pictures into the next exhibition as well (if I can!)
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
The cough is getting into me. And yes, finally I went to see the doc. Going to the listed of insured GP clinics, I am only liable to pay 5 bucks for the consultant and medication.
Monday morning arrived. I went out, at 10am with my parents, intending to finish visiting the doc by 11am so as to rush for my theory test. I reached that damn clinic at 10:ooam and waited. 30mins past. I am still not registered. Looking at the clock ticking away, the nurses busy with attending to those who have been registered, doing regular check ups for work permits, and accepting payments, I stared at the nurses with anger, while the patients next to me stared back at me, wondering why I am staring at the nurses. Suddenly, the whole world was my enemy. The "foreign talent" who sat next to me irkes me. His friend also another "foreign talent" also irkes me. The whole clinic irkes me!
11am. I stood up and walked to the nurse and asked, "How long will that take to register me? I have been here since 10am." The nurse and patients nearby dumbfounded and looked up. The nurse reply, you have got to wait, not your turn yet, I will register you soon. "And how long will that take? I have another appointment to rush to, if I am not seeing the doc in the next 10mins, which I think I most likely wont, then I will come back at 2pm AGAIN. " The nurse just reply "oh ya ya, okok, you come back later"
I took back my card from the basket and walked off coughing. Then went to have a quick brunch before rushing back to my dad's car, and have a last browsing thru that theory book which I have no concentration at.
Upon reaching BBDC, I was confused and really not in the mood to take any test. In fact, I was prepared to go and fail and re-schedule the date.
The room was quiet, until I started coughing nonstop. I was afraid the instructor would chase me out, thankfully, he did not. I answered the questions with some pause for thoughts and never relook the questions again to check.
Then came the final page, to generate my results or to go back? I fearfully click "results" knowing that I will definitely see a "failed".
Then the next min, I was out from BBDC, going back to the clinic and stood outside the door since 1:30pm to make sure I am the 1st one to register. However, there were also some patients who were not able to see the doc during the 1st half in the morning, and thus, I have to wait for them to finish their turns before it will be mine.
2pm.......3:30pm....I was the 5th patient. The doctor joked and acted friendly. He took almost 10mins to see each patient, I think 1min to write the diagnosis, 20 seconds to hear our breathing, 1min to take temperature and the rest of the time to chit chat with the patients. I walked in and told him what was wrong with me. "I have been coughing since last tues. The cough is getting bad to worst till I cannot catch my breath". I said. "Wow! thats been a week! You never been to see other doc?" He smiled. "NO. Busy." I replied. "Haha! ok ok, hmmmm..so got phelgm?" He asked. "Yes, green and then brown". "Haha! Green and brown? thats bad. Oke let me see your throat". Then he showed me my tempt. "36.9. No fever".
Every conversation, he tried to CHAT. I have tell him I cough till my muscles ache, then he will huh! oke.. hmm hmmm.... and asked if I am allergic to any medication? "Yes, paracetamol" HE LAUGHED AGAIN "WOW! THATS BAD ISNT IT?" I was dumbfounded.
By the time everything ended, it was 4 something by the time I reached home. It was as equal as working from morning to evening. So what the fuck a day mc is for? That mc is use to WAIT at clinic and not for resting at home. The only pleasing thing is the cough syrup he prescribed tasted like pomelo which I quite like it, and not the regular brown awful taste one. Anger got into me and I need to do something to smooth myself. So I ordered a mac spicy meal and had a hearty meal upon reaching home.
Again, the cough choked me in the night and early morning like an alarm to wake me up rudely. but all should be over soon, real soon.
By the way, I actually passed my advanced theory in between my coughs. Now the next hurdle will be.......practical....I hope I wont be an official road hazard soon....... :(
Monday morning arrived. I went out, at 10am with my parents, intending to finish visiting the doc by 11am so as to rush for my theory test. I reached that damn clinic at 10:ooam and waited. 30mins past. I am still not registered. Looking at the clock ticking away, the nurses busy with attending to those who have been registered, doing regular check ups for work permits, and accepting payments, I stared at the nurses with anger, while the patients next to me stared back at me, wondering why I am staring at the nurses. Suddenly, the whole world was my enemy. The "foreign talent" who sat next to me irkes me. His friend also another "foreign talent" also irkes me. The whole clinic irkes me!
11am. I stood up and walked to the nurse and asked, "How long will that take to register me? I have been here since 10am." The nurse and patients nearby dumbfounded and looked up. The nurse reply, you have got to wait, not your turn yet, I will register you soon. "And how long will that take? I have another appointment to rush to, if I am not seeing the doc in the next 10mins, which I think I most likely wont, then I will come back at 2pm AGAIN. " The nurse just reply "oh ya ya, okok, you come back later"
I took back my card from the basket and walked off coughing. Then went to have a quick brunch before rushing back to my dad's car, and have a last browsing thru that theory book which I have no concentration at.
Upon reaching BBDC, I was confused and really not in the mood to take any test. In fact, I was prepared to go and fail and re-schedule the date.
The room was quiet, until I started coughing nonstop. I was afraid the instructor would chase me out, thankfully, he did not. I answered the questions with some pause for thoughts and never relook the questions again to check.
Then came the final page, to generate my results or to go back? I fearfully click "results" knowing that I will definitely see a "failed".
Then the next min, I was out from BBDC, going back to the clinic and stood outside the door since 1:30pm to make sure I am the 1st one to register. However, there were also some patients who were not able to see the doc during the 1st half in the morning, and thus, I have to wait for them to finish their turns before it will be mine.
2pm.......3:30pm....I was the 5th patient. The doctor joked and acted friendly. He took almost 10mins to see each patient, I think 1min to write the diagnosis, 20 seconds to hear our breathing, 1min to take temperature and the rest of the time to chit chat with the patients. I walked in and told him what was wrong with me. "I have been coughing since last tues. The cough is getting bad to worst till I cannot catch my breath". I said. "Wow! thats been a week! You never been to see other doc?" He smiled. "NO. Busy." I replied. "Haha! ok ok, hmmmm..so got phelgm?" He asked. "Yes, green and then brown". "Haha! Green and brown? thats bad. Oke let me see your throat". Then he showed me my tempt. "36.9. No fever".
Every conversation, he tried to CHAT. I have tell him I cough till my muscles ache, then he will huh! oke.. hmm hmmm.... and asked if I am allergic to any medication? "Yes, paracetamol" HE LAUGHED AGAIN "WOW! THATS BAD ISNT IT?" I was dumbfounded.
By the time everything ended, it was 4 something by the time I reached home. It was as equal as working from morning to evening. So what the fuck a day mc is for? That mc is use to WAIT at clinic and not for resting at home. The only pleasing thing is the cough syrup he prescribed tasted like pomelo which I quite like it, and not the regular brown awful taste one. Anger got into me and I need to do something to smooth myself. So I ordered a mac spicy meal and had a hearty meal upon reaching home.
Again, the cough choked me in the night and early morning like an alarm to wake me up rudely. but all should be over soon, real soon.
By the way, I actually passed my advanced theory in between my coughs. Now the next hurdle will be.......practical....I hope I wont be an official road hazard soon....... :(
Friday, June 05, 2009
Bad dreams
It was a bad dream. I couldnt sleep. I dreamt I was chased by that kitty whom appeared at my staircase some days back. I dreamt this time, it sprang and hop run through the long corridor, reaching me, ready to pounce on me. So it woke me up, then the sound of the blinds flapping against the window grills, an indication of strong wind. Then thunders were heard, loud and continously. I woke up to close the window, getting ready for the heavy down pour expected, that happened in the middle of the night while everyone was in their deep sleep, I stared at my four walls, and was unable to fall back to mine though.
Today, I dreamt again. This time, I was riding in the MRT train, or should I say, along with the train on a wooden plank. Close to my left was the door of the train, while on my right, was nothing. The wooden plank that I was sitted on, was attached to the train, traveling along the track above ground level. The train made a sharp left turn before reaching the platform. I held on tightly to the wooden plank, with cold sweat soaked through my singlet, I almost felt I was falling from the plank and onto the ground. I stood up slowly when the train reached the platform, and wobbly steps and by the time I slowly walked to my safety, I have also woken up, perspiring badly from the bad dream.
Today, I dreamt again. This time, I was riding in the MRT train, or should I say, along with the train on a wooden plank. Close to my left was the door of the train, while on my right, was nothing. The wooden plank that I was sitted on, was attached to the train, traveling along the track above ground level. The train made a sharp left turn before reaching the platform. I held on tightly to the wooden plank, with cold sweat soaked through my singlet, I almost felt I was falling from the plank and onto the ground. I stood up slowly when the train reached the platform, and wobbly steps and by the time I slowly walked to my safety, I have also woken up, perspiring badly from the bad dream.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Workaholic?! Nah!
Actually wanted to jog and run but I decide to listen to my body so I walked again for another 5.6k around my estate. It was quite an intense walk because the work was getting into me. I thought by sweating it out, I will feel better but I felt even worse today.
At work, when I am not busy, I am really pretty free. When the works come, they happen to come all together. Every time I hit my seat, it will be logging on the pc and start all the way till noon. I do not have the luxury to enjoy slowly my packet lunch on my table but to gobble them quickly while reading emails or articles. I was at one point, too fed up that I stopped immediately and stay away from my desk for almost half an hour, before returning back to continue why I stopped.
Today, I nearly wanted to have rest from work, then thinking about the early interview that would be held in our office, I decided to come back in case they need any materials, I could be there to provide. I thought I would tell myself to go and see the doctor after the interview was over. But min by min, hour by hour, by the time I realised, it's half a day gone. What keeps me going, surprisingly, was my work. Only by being able to be busy, thats what could keeps me going and life fulfilling.
Although it does make me frustrated at times, but when the job is done, that is the sense of accomplishment I want at the end of the day. So don't worry for me, I know when to stop when I want to, not I have to.
As long as there is no unbearable vomits, or pains, I can still move on and work. Only when I am commited to work, I can forget even my own gender. I guess that attitude does not apply only to my work, it applies to anything I am so so engross with too.
What I want to say is, I know I may make ppl worry at times but all these worries are redundant as I know when to push myself, I know when to take a break, I know how to manage.
As for rest days, leave it on the weekends which is just around the corner!
At work, when I am not busy, I am really pretty free. When the works come, they happen to come all together. Every time I hit my seat, it will be logging on the pc and start all the way till noon. I do not have the luxury to enjoy slowly my packet lunch on my table but to gobble them quickly while reading emails or articles. I was at one point, too fed up that I stopped immediately and stay away from my desk for almost half an hour, before returning back to continue why I stopped.
Today, I nearly wanted to have rest from work, then thinking about the early interview that would be held in our office, I decided to come back in case they need any materials, I could be there to provide. I thought I would tell myself to go and see the doctor after the interview was over. But min by min, hour by hour, by the time I realised, it's half a day gone. What keeps me going, surprisingly, was my work. Only by being able to be busy, thats what could keeps me going and life fulfilling.
Although it does make me frustrated at times, but when the job is done, that is the sense of accomplishment I want at the end of the day. So don't worry for me, I know when to stop when I want to, not I have to.
As long as there is no unbearable vomits, or pains, I can still move on and work. Only when I am commited to work, I can forget even my own gender. I guess that attitude does not apply only to my work, it applies to anything I am so so engross with too.
What I want to say is, I know I may make ppl worry at times but all these worries are redundant as I know when to push myself, I know when to take a break, I know how to manage.
As for rest days, leave it on the weekends which is just around the corner!
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