The New Year

Time flies. It is the last day of 2009 and tomorrow, a fresh new year. a fresh new start.
2009 has been good/kind to me ...as in everything has been 'smooth' ...
I dun plan to list out all my New Year 2010 resolutions but I sure hope that things will continue to be 'smooth sailing' - in chinese, 'shun shun li li' ...
For 2010, besides the wishes for my family - I hope that I can be in a better/toned phsyique, more confident of my work/presentation, more chiselled in looks, remain charming and healthy. I hope to see some bright lights at the end of the tunnel as I continue to persevere.
Happy New Year 2010 to all my readers!

Sun

Today, we had an 'interesting' staff bonding session at East Coast Park - building sandcastles.
While it is the usual cliche of teamwork etc.... what i like most is that i got a bit darker under the cloudy sun ....being shy, only my face, neck and hands were sunned ...but my legs are still not so dark ..hard to get that dark lah ...else, I will be appear 'chao-ta' ... and that is not a nice colour - a bit dirty looking...haha

On Leave but Working

I guess ...I shouldn't be 'complaining' too much. I guess this is a common phenomenom for people who have worked ages in an organisation - too many chalked up leave and cannot clear or clear leave but still go back and work.
Next year, I don't know how I am gonna clear my 28 days of accumulated leave.
My wife said, if only it can be transferred to her ...haha
Was on leave these 3 days but working....hmmm....

Merry Xmas

Merry Xmas to all my readers.
Time flies ...it is almost 1.5 years since I left my old job for this current job.
Another 0.5 year to go...
I am sure 2010 will be a better year for me!
[Where there is dream, there is hope.]

Condo

It has always been one of my dream to stay in a condo... stay doesn't mean own. Anyway, I wasn't able to afford one cos I dun have much cash savings to pay the 10% instalment in the past. Now, probably I can empty my kitty to pay for the first instalment but I am not sure if I have enough of 'work life' span to work for it. I have already been 'psychoed' that we should strive to be debt-free and not be financially burdened when we are at 50s.
Hence, the morale/theory is ... we should start young and have the guts to do what we want ...sometimes, it is also fate...what is meant to be will be. Some people have the foresight (risky taking) to dabble in property investments and earn bucks while others were smart to buy property for stay and in the process, made a profit from it. I can only let the dream be a dream unless a miracle can happen.

A mother said ...

I was on a bus today when I heard an (educated) mother told her young boy that there is 'nothing she can do' as the boy pointed out to the rain outside, probably indicating that he will get wet (as they do not have raincoat or umbrella). She said that maybe, the rain will stop when they alight. Since there is nothing she can do about the rain, she told the child that they may as well 'enjoy the rainy scene'.
Somehow, what she shared (aka 'wise' words) striked a cord in me...sometimes, we tend to think or worry too much about what may probably happen etc...and end up moody or worrisome. Perhaps, we should be wiser to take heart and smile 'at the world' ...that way, we can lead and live our lives more happily.

40!

Faintz...I received a notification from CPF re my coverage under ElderShield. I can't imagine that I am now being 'associated' with elder/senior etc.... as I am already 40 years old and 1 month. Well, I hope 40 will mean new challenges ahead ...and life begins at 40!
+++
I try to keep fit through regular/weekly jog ...I know swimming is a better exercise for 'elderly' but I aint that good with that. Though I am no longer need to take IPPT, I am proud that I can still do 'pull-ups' at my age ... Next, I hope I can maintain my 'flat' tummy ...washboard (aka 6 pecs) is unachievable for me but that doesn't matter cos comparatively with my peers/30+s...I think I am still in a toned form.

Chat with Frens

Sometimes, I realise that I don't really have anyone whom I can talk to or share some thoughts with. Hmm....maybe, as I age, I realise the need to be mindful and careful in what I do, say or write. OR, my time after work/weekends are given to my family. During other free time, I will be on the net - to relax ...

Leave Forfeited!

Had been working for the past 1 week - 5days ....next week, will be my turn to take leave but I will still have to go back to do some 'admin' stuff...sigh.....can't really be 'off the job' during annual leave...sigh!
Infact, my first time in my life, i am forfeiting 1 day of my leave from the previous year cos I cannot finish clearing it ...and thatz only 20 days carried over ....GOSH!
How am I gonna clear my 28 days of leave next year? sigh...... I am quite determined to take leave during term time liao ...dun care ...else, sure lugi. Anyway, maybe, if lady luck is with me, I can even 'cruise the world' if I get my hands on 'something I fancy'!

Feel

Tomorrow, I will be having my half-yearly 'get together lunch' with my ex-colleagues, the 2nd one this year. Time flies and it is more than 1.5 years since I left. Meeting again seemed a bit 'hard to express ...hmmm feeling' and we all know that many people are still 'friends but not colleagues' but I tot the feeling is a bit interesting ....anyway, maybe, that is just me, being me feeling so.

Nasty Parents I

I tot I had better pen down the types of nasty parents encountered in my course of work so that in time to come, I can look and think back of how 'far' I have come ...haha
a) Parents who insist that we pay for the torn t-shirt of the child who sat on the floor while waiting, and leaned against the wall, and brush against a hook.
b) Parents who insist that the coach apologised to the child as he claimed that the coach 'threw' the racket and hurt his thumb.
c) Parents who threaten to complain to higher authorities cos we didn't reply his email
d) Parents who demand to see another child who has 'unintendedly' hurt his child (cos, children do chase and fall are inevitable)
e) Parents who demand to see the other child's parents cos the child hurt his child
f) Parents who complain that the child was 'delayed' and thus have shorter reccesses.
and many more ....

$120

Is this the market rate for wedding dinners at a 5-star hotel?
Ooops, I just realised that I may have given too little ...

Wedding & Marriage

Attended a wedding last nite. As the parents (whom I acquainted with in the course of current work) were well-off, the son, I gathered from the video montage and the sharings, speeches at the wedding dinner, that he has had a good life that not many of us get. It was said that he learnt flying, he goes for watches that costs more than $20K etc.....wow, but he displayed his quite cheeky/playful side of him during the wedding dinner. He is 29. He and the wife presented the mothers with bouquets of flowers and the fathers with gifts to show their appreciation. Quite touchy.
Marriage is certainly a journey. Infact, I have finished watching the 20 episodes Taiwan Drama which I started last week - it is about couplehood, marriage, etc....somehow, it tugs my hearts which our mediacorp dramas fail to. My wife commented that the acting was no big deal (when she caught me glued to the laptop for many late nights) but the plot and acting just 'touched' me that I 'chased and chased'. The title is "I Do."
http://sugoideas.com/drama-2008/i-do/
I don't deny that I sort of favour the male lead - Blue Lan Zheng Long. Somehow, he just have the charisma to act in such romantic yet touchy dramas - a more recent production that he was in is "Easy Fortune, Happy Life".
http://sugoideas.com/drama-2009/easy-fortune-happy-life/
What tugs me is the way the actors acted and the manner they 'delivered the script'. It is just so natural, so 'real' and so so moving. But in true reality, marriage life aint that perfect but this drama certainly reminds us to cherish our marriage. Again, messaging is subtle yet powerful.

Run & Watch

Most people take up 'running or jogging' to keep fit and stay in shape.
Some do so to spend time with their family ... as well.
For me, I usually 'run or jog' alone cos I want to take the time to think ... or sort out some matters.

I am glued to another Taiwan Idol Drama ...again. In fact, I have not been watching MediaCorp drama for a while liao. Somehow, I find the storyline/plot stale and bored. The anticipated anniversary blockbuster 'TOGETHER" will be shown next Mon. Will watch to see if it is worth following. The Taiwan drama that I am watching has a simple story ...like most of their dramas ...but somehow, the acting is just cool... or am I attracted to lead actor/actress? haha

Song 18 [English] : You Raise Me Up

I heard this beautiful song at a wedding function this evening.
It was played to showcase a montage of photos put together by the couple.
Pardon my ignorance ... I really din know that there is such a nice yet inspirational song besides 'wind beneath my wings', 'go the distance', 'because i love you'.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

The song was first sung by Josh Groban. I sort of like the version by Westlife.
Here's the link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9Emy90auW0

Back Home

I am home ...on Sun, 15 Nov after spending 5 days at Brunei ...and was shocked to receive my M1 phone bill today ....for Day 1, I have already incurred $10 for phone bills for calls made totalling less than 3 mins! What a joke.... I should have purchased phone cards ...sob.
That aside, I will not be posting pics of my trip cos I din take much cos we have an avid photographer-teacher in the midst and we have a website to showcase the trip... do check it out (it is in Malay thou cos it is meant to be a cultural trip for Malay pupils).
http://www.wgpsbrunei.blogspot.com/

I shall summarise my trip below
Day 1 - Upon arrival, we visited Royal Regalia which is a must see for all visitors, and to the Mosque built by His Majesty the 29th Sultan.
Day 2 - We visited the Ambulong Factory to see how sago is extracted from the palm tree and tasted 'grupes' (see for yourself in the weblink below). Afternoon was spent in a school.
Day 3 - We set sail to the "Venice of the East" - Water Village - cool yet scary ...walking around planks in the middle of the sea ...come to think of it, what if accidentally fall into the sea? hmmm....Afternoon was spent at the (Old) Technology Centre.
Day 4 - Spent the morning in the school..which ended with a celebration of sort, followed by a tour of the Arts and Handicraft Centre in the afternoon.
Day 5 - Visited the Museum and shopping in the afternoon at Gadong before heading home.

This is my FIRST (working) trip in my 15+ years of working life. OK lah, but taking care of the kids is no joke cos the responsibility is there. Dun think I will want to go back again. The travel agent was quite nice to upgrade me to a single room as I am supposed to be sharing with another male teacher. Single room would mean more freedom lar ...can throw my clothes all over, bathe in my leisure pace, ... I am not afraid of being alone or the dark and I know some people is afraid of being alone in a room in an overseas land ...

Well, I am home ...and immediately started work on Mon, thou I am feeling tired and was nursing a sore throat ...

Jetting Off

Had been very busy since my last post....am still busy cos tomorrow gotta an impt event.
Thenafter, I will be away in Brunei from 11-15 Nov, and celebrating my b/day there (just imagine!)
Not for holiday ...but to be 'custodian' of over 20 children.
Hmm....I have a strange feeling that I will be stuck ...stuck here for another year.

Too clever

Since young, I have never liked clever people. esp clever/intelligent girls ...maybe, I am afraid of 'losing out and not able to catch up'.
I have met someone in my current job. Hmmm....while she certainly has the cut for bigger jobs, but she has a lot to learn in EQ...cos, her aggressiveness can upset people, many people. If that is so, she may not garner the support of her staff, in future ...and then, no matter how good she is, she will be all a-lone to fight the battle...how to win?

Official Openings

Envy the rich and famous who are invited to official openings of shops...
Recently, there are known celebrities - local and overseas who are in town for official openings of known fashion shops in ION Orchard - D&G, AX, CK, Valentino, Cortina Watches,
"Nobody" invited me ...haha.....wish there was. I know I can be childish at times but attending such functions seem honourable thou I know I am not the sociable type who goes around faking a smile to say HI HI ...

Relief

Yes, it is certainly a relief for me (or rather my wife) that the kids' SA2 exams are over today.
Most of the times, the pressure and tension is on the parents ...worrying and supervising their children....infact, most children are quite 'cool' about exams ...maybe, they are still young to understand the 'tension' of it all.....I heard this joke about a parent saying
"I am now ready for PSLE. But I am not sure about my child."
That's life....recalled the good old days, were my parents so worried for me then?

The year is coming to a close soon...I had to expedite my search too...

FLAT stomach

I am sure many of my readers will be interested in this.
I should be able to achieve this soon ....even at my age of FF.
http://video.msn.com/video.aspx?mkt=en-sg&vid=b2d1c4c3-74db-40f1-8465-148acc780a22
Once I achieve, maybe I can show off and be a model ....*dreamz*

His Life

Another tragic story told. Again, life is unpredictable. Stop and take time to smell the flowers, spend more time with your loved ones ....and do something that you enjoy in life and at work.
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1013828/1/.html
I paused and wondered: "Have I been living the life I have always wanted?"

Materialism

I read this and tot i should share.
http://sg.news.yahoo.com/cna/20091024/tap-537-supercar-rentals-singapore-231650b.html
When I was young, i set some goals for myself.
When I get older, i learned that success is not measured by having many gold (or for the matter platinum) cards nor big cars.
I know many young people still crave for such material needs...eg big and fast cars, branded clothes and shoes ...and most of the time, they spend beyond their means. This can be detrimental.
It is not easy to change the values nor mindset of the young if they feel that way - that success is measured by stature, and material possessions.
I paused and wondered : "Can I make a difference to them if I stay on in my job?"

Dance

haha....somebody sent me this link...are they just 'models' or 'real working crowd'...I had think it is the former. Where got pple so brave to dance so openly...maybe there are lah...but not me ...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgzUgvw7dDU&feature=related
they called this mob dance? next time, nobody goes disco liao ...haha
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgzUgvw7dDU&feature=related
I paused and wondered : "I can't be an actor or model, cos I dun have the courage to do what they do. I am not that thick-skinned ...haha"

My World. Their World.

This afternooon, as part of the Ministry's activity, I signed up for a visit to MediaCorp. This has always been a 'dreamland' for me, as in I am always v fascinated the media/prominence/ glamour of celebrities and the media giant. I recalled in my younger days, I applied for jobs in MediaCorp and I didn't get shortlisted. There were several occasions where I was there - invited guests for some shows, post-production, auditions (younger days) etc...
We had a discussion session with the management staff. Interesting. But after it all, I realised that I don't belong to their world. I got to meet the renowned BaguaTV blog owner, Paul Chan. Seems a nice guy. Others once told me that people in that line and for the matter, PR/advertising/creative tend to be 'wild and bitchy'. Certainly not for 'angels' like me...haha. I paused and wondered : "Can their world accomodate a person like me?"

Two Men Talking

I was on my way home.
I passed by a multi-storey carpark washbay.
Two young men were sitting, and one of them was smoking.
Their washed motorcycles were behind them.
These two men were chatting. They were engaged in their conversations.
I looked at them. I paused and wondered
"Do I have a friend whom I can talk to?"

Being Realistic

Shall I be who I am or what I want to be?
I need to be realistic.
If it aint to be, it shan't be.

Cast Me?

Envy ... this well-known singer can express her thoughts of wanting to act ... and probably along the way, some directors or producers may pick it up and cast her.
http://sg.news.yahoo.com/xin/20091008/ten-000-joi-chua-says-shes-addicted-acti-3c1b9bc.html
If only I can do likewise too ...but I know... hmmm... anyone wants me to act or model for free? haha

Invitation

Scary ...I used to and yearn to be invited for some 'celebrities gathering/parties' ...it sounded so cool to be able to be invited and be there. I used to be able to rub shoulders with celebrities some years back...now, I don't... I am still yearning.
However, after I watched this movie ....I am thinking twice....scary scary (not for the weak hearts)...infact, it is gross - very indeed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5glU4upOpM

M

M-Motivate
M-Motivated
M-Me
Can someone provide a tip or two for me to stay motivated in my work, and to motivate my boy who said that he doesn't like to go to school?

Sport Me?

I admit to the power of YOUTUBE....a medium where one can get loads of videos, music etc...
Many of you may not know that besides TV, I am also a fan of sports in particular, Badminton, Table Tennis, and Diving. Un(fortunately), I am not a sportsman thou I have a build of it (ahem...haha).

Lin Dan and Boonsak Ponsana are two of my favourite badminton players - the former for being the bad boy type with lotsa perserverance and determination to win and the latter for being so gentle, soft-spoken yet lethal/sharp in his skills. I wish I had their attributes which will serve me well in my work-life.

Here's clips of a recent match between my 2 favourites where I chanced upon today as I was surfing the net to 'de-stress' after some blue moments in school ...and the terrorising P6 Math Exam questions that I garnered from KiaSuParents...I begin to feel worried ...

2009 China Masters - MS Finals - Lin Dan vs Boonsak Ponsana
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldmsDOmT1Po&feature=related

Bonding

I am grateful and thankful for the 2 recent opportunities where I get to bond / play with my son...1) during his school's lower primary sports day where I 'managed' to attend... they had a last segment where the parent/child need to move from one point to another point with one leg-tied to each other. 2) i brought him to his classmate's b/day party today while my wife is at home with the girl having tuition.
Sometimes, this may seem trivial to others, but to me, these are beautiful moments that I cherish. He can be quite mischievous at times and worse, he actually failed his CL CA2 test, I almost fainted 'expectedly'...anyway, hope he will wise up when he grows up...cos he has been uttering that he wish he can be in K2 forever and he hates school.... Thus, teachers play an important role in motivating young children, and we parents have to do our bit.
On hindsight, it is easier to be parents than having to face parents (in my job)... I am actually tired of it and hope that I can move out (soon).

Fantasy

Last week, I attended a wedding where the groom, in his thank you speech, shared that the bride's dream is to be a princess....and he surprised her with an item - he prepared a stereofoamed castle with a royal chair and decorated the stage. It certainly touched the bride who teared.
I didn't do all these when I got married 10 years ago. I shared this with my wife subsequently and her reaction was shocking - the bride is too childish ... cos, she doesn't believe in fantasy and dream. who can be a princess in this world...haha.....thatz my wife - v practical, down-to-earth, realistic, real....what matters most is ...
Anyway, I do have my fantasies which some of you may know. I know it is unlikely to occur as I age ...I will be turning 40 very soon ...and sad to say, my voice can no longer sing the way I wanted, i don't seem able to act - pretend anymore, i feel the lethargy ...
I very much wanted to keep my dreams alive ...but .....

Song 17 [Chinese] : 幸福的時光

This is one new Taiwan Idol Drama 那一年的幸福時光片 that I am watching 'weekly' as it is screened in Taiwan...I watched it thru 'streaming' ...I love this song very much - 片尾曲-幸福的時光 by 潘裕文 & 徐宛鈴 it is a simple yet loving song (the harmonica portion) - makes life seems so loving and beautiful...

每次出發最喜歡坐靠窗
想著未來看著遠方
現實和想像多麼不一樣
好奇真相要有膽量
安靜的眼淚滴在樓頂的地上
加蓋的夢能蓋在哪
黑暗瞑落雨聲
鳥仔天光猶原會唱歌

想回到那年幸福的時光
口袋里是滿滿的希望
再難也敢去闖 只因有你在身旁
風中才不像流浪
攜帶著那段幸福的時光
平靜每個失眠的晚上
緊握一種信仰 不要翅膀要堅強
雪花融在眼里看見火花

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wM8L3pvjIEk&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEVstv3U8D0&NR=1

Glued

Have not been posting for almost 2 weeks cos, I was glued ...glued to a new set of tv idol drama... http://sugoideas.com/easy-fortune-happy-life-episode-01/
'Sadly', this has been my way of destressing myself after work ...or rather, i try not to bring work home thou i know i do have a lot of work that i can do. i am not feeling that motivated these days. Maybe, it is the haze that is making us lethagic. I am getting a litlle restless too...so, have been asking here and there to see if there are possible opportunities that i can explore.
The dry and humid weather is killing...i shouldn't be complaining since my office is airconditioned ... but i can't be hiding in it day in/out given my nature of work ...haha.
I am having some virus in me...hope it can be rid off soon...I wanna be healthy! Likewise, my girl is also having asthamtic cough ....could be the horrible weather.
While taking things in stride, I know I need to find the path that I wanna thread. I have 20 more working years to go.
I will off to Brunei in mid Nov for 'work' reasons.

Songs 15 & 16 [Chinese] : ..的情书

Not really a fan of Chen Wei Lian 陈伟联but his new song《分手的情书》certainly caught my attention. I somehow like the music and the lyrics and the way it is sung.
眼前无路心中有数 何必继续漫步
你该拥有更轻易的幸福 谈恋爱不是追逐难度
爱如苗圃命如蜡烛 沿路烧到光秃
是我自私放不下同甘共苦 也念不出分手的情书
Check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvk7EZdpHJM

However, I still like this song by Jiang Mei Qi 江美琪 - 那年的情書
手上青春还剩多少 思念还有多少煎熬
无意重读那年的情书 时光悠悠青春渐老
回不去的那段相知相许美好 都在发黄的信纸上闪耀
那时青春失去记号 莫怪读了心还会跳
你是否也还记得那一段美好 也许写给你的信早扔掉
这样才好曾少你的 你已在别处都得到
Sometimes, in life, not everyone has the luck to 'make it big' but perseverence may pay off someday. This is definitely one of my most loved songs ...Check it out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0c-VYMFhnY&feature=related

M

M-Merits
M-Mean
M-Man
I feel that I have been laxed in pursuing what I really/truly desire. This is no good.
Again, is it destiny or I have gave up pursuing cos I cannot afford the time/effort as age is catching up?
Allow me to reflect what my FS Master wrote in her blog -
"Who we are are what our bazi says about us.... and unless we have merits accumulated then we will change and our luck can become better .... destiny can be changed but is not easy."
Maybe, I have not been a saint and being mean, I can only be an ordinary man.

D

D - Destined (to be in a job?)
D - Dressed (for Success) ...one of my favourite song by Roxette
D - Derailed
I know in life, our fate is somewhat destined. However, we can 'enhance' but not 'change' it totally. As such, some of my dreams are unlikely to come true. One day, I hope to be able to dress for success in what I do ...and not be derailed. I need a calm mind to think through.

I can sing?

I know I can't really sing well, or rather nobody actually praised me for my singing before thou I was once a champion in an organisation karaoke competition when I did a duet with a lady (not my wife ...ooops...haha).
Anyway, my mum attributed my inclination to singing cos when she was expecting me, she watched GETAI!! haha.....Infact, I recalled being fascinated by the singers at the GETAI performance when I was a young boy. Just yesterday, I was lured to watch a small-scale GETAI near my house (imagine they allow it IN a housing estate!)....for about 10 mins ...and memories came back.
If my mum had perused my interest when I was young ...probably, my life would not have been what I am today ...haha...doing desk-bound jobs.

I know I am not destined to be in the entertainment line, this life but somehow, there is still a little desire in me to want to fulfill some small dreams of mine ....

Must WATCH

Those who are glued to the Taiwan Idol Drama like me, MUST WATCH this "Black & White", starring Vic Zhou.
http://sugoideas.com/black-white-episode-01/
I believe there was much fanfare about this drama but I didn't bother cos I am not really a fan of Vic but the night before, after I recovered from my bout of flu...I 'tuned' to Episode 1 and glued to it .... I only realised in Episode 4 that most of the lead/supporting actors/actresses, aside from Vic and Kingone were 'shortlisted and handpicked' from a 'star search' equivalent contest...they are really talented if these are their first attempts (now, I really admit that I have no X factor...sigh)
Now, I know why our local dramas have a long way to catch up ....

Hit

Yes, finally, my turn to be hit by the virus bug. Recently, there was a diarrhea bug going around...and it hit me yesterday. So bad was it that I turned into 'jelly' after some rounds in the toilet (morning), stomach pain/cramp at work (cos there was an important exercise in school), and being 'merlion' (when i reached home in the afternoon). Almost dehydrated. I am still weak and could hardly stand for long today ...must sit or lie down. Hope the virus ends with me.

B

B-Bitter
B-Believe
B-Best

Sometimes, I do feel bitter about things ... why do some lucky others always get the tastier fruits. Did they work harder or smarter than us? or just that they are luckier or born with silver spoons. I was told that it has to be fate. Not all of us believe in it...or rather ... we should believe in ourselves that one day, we could probably be able to make it - best in our own league.

Emo & Senti

Heard this song on the radio last night ...felt emo after that ...surfed the net and realised that this singer, Van has quite a fair bit of nice sentimental songs ...sometimes, we are so caught up in the 'hip and favourite and trendy' ...and forget the others who may not seem as dazzling ... thatz why one needs to make oneself more visible and 'be seen'...I was advised to do so at work. Things done but unheard may be as good as not done...that's the reality of life. We can't be forever nightgales...

范逸臣-你爱我吗
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFjW83m92Iw&feature=related

范逸臣-除此之外
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxFOWf8ifp0&feature=related

R&P

There is a saying ...the rich get richer ...and the poor gets poorer. I guess that's life.
This celebrity is certainly rich to afford the luxury items ...sometimes, I wonder how he build up his empire of wealth ...*faintz with envy*
http://blog.omy.sg/davidgan
As for the poor, I am sure we have all seen them...some can't bring food to the table for themselves and their kids...and they are struggling to make ends meet ...
We know "one earn more, one spend more" ..."one earn less, one spend less (live within means)"
Some of us are destined to get rich someday but not all....and that's the poverty trap.
As the song goes ...I wanna be free...I wanna be RICH...haha

Hooked on Idol Drama ....again

This TV worm is hooked again...chanced upon this new TV Idol drama on youtube.
and I am hooked....so far, it has aired 3 episodes in Taiwan ....nice nice.
"The Happy Times of that Year"...somehow, Taiwan and Hong Kong are simply brillian in churning out captive dramas.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhmg2OAPoXM&feature=related

No TV for TV Worm

Interesting, this TV worm (i.e. me didn't switch on the TV in my room for the last 5 days)...amazed...that means I have not been switching on and watching TV ....i can't believe myself too..... firstly, cos the kids are having their CA2 ...so, was revising with them, where possible. secondly, don't have the mood to watch ...and thirdly, busy preparing for the party .... if i can, will upload some nice photos that we took re "back to school"...suddenly, i was swarmed with requests for photos ...i felt like a celebrity ...maybe, thatz why my dreams, had in a way came true ...haha.....

Cap

Bringing a cap is certainly useful...to me. It helps to shield me from the hot sun, the cold aircon (in a bus, and people I know (but don't feel like meeting that day)...haha
Recently, I bought a red adidas cap and grey/green Nike cap ...for my children use and for myself too...haha...and for a party/dinner I am attending tomorrow nite .... we are going 'back to school'.

Place

Suddenly, I fell in love with this song by Kit Chan ....I guess I heard it at a conference when the school uses this song as the background music to a videoo clip. The power vocals of hers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-YyLWq6GxY

There's no place I rather be ...than HOME ...for sure. Work wise, I am still searching and who knows, my current work-home may still be the best place for me.

Elder-ly

I received a letter from MOH and AVIVA ... to inform me regarding ELDERshield...and ask if I wanna opt out.
I let out a BIIIIIGGGGGGG scream....elder -> just becoz I am turning 40....oh no.
That means, there is a possibility that as I age, I may collapse one day or lose the 3 functional abilities some day.
I guess time is running out for me...I must hurry to do what I always wanted to do!

THICK-skinned

I am not THICK-skinned, no wonder I can't fulfill my dreams of being a c......
Anyway, that's life. I have learned to deal with it liao.

Glass is...

...half empty or half full?
Most of us will have read/hear about the above.
It is about how we see things which reflect our mindset.
If it is half empty - that means we may be more pessi ...or we know we can do something to top up the glass.
If it is half full - that means we are more optim...at least we have something to drink...haha
To me, regardless empty or full....more importantly, is to seize the day, capture opportunities and optimise the situation.
It is a beautiful day today...I look forward to beautiful encounters and luck... I will be going out soon.

Relieved.

Happy. Another project over. Relieved. I wonder if this is how I wanna spend the rest of my working life. I paused. The answer is clear thou some said that I presented well. I am not sure cos I dun think I did that well thou...but for sure, I needed a rest, and I am tired. very.

Further

Just a quick post to let all of you know that I am still a-live...haha
Had been a hectic week for me, thou only 4 days of school...haha
After Tue, 18 Aug, life should be less hectic, I hope.
While I am settling in fine, I am also keeping my options open...
I just found out that pple I know, are progressing in their career/work.
As for me, every work experience for me is a 'gain' and I am sure I will emerge better and stronger.
I believe I can see further - my dreams, my goals ....this is in response to the ND Song this year - What do you see?

A step forward

Yes, it is the country's 44th birthday ...and today, I did 2 brave things
1) I did something to my hair ....for the first time ...bravo.
2) I went to watch a play...for the first time ...bravo.
I feel happy cos I am taking steps to do what I have always wanted to do...
and to me, that is taking risks ...

A Morbid post

Contents may be offensive to some.... my apologies for this morbid post

Today, 8 Aug morning - My parents and I went to CCK cemetry to make our 'final' prayers to my paternal grandparents who passed away more 30 years ago...yes, one in 1973 and the other in 1977. I may not come across as a filian son or grandson at times....but when it comes to the Qing Ming Festival every year, I will drive my parents and my aunt (in recent years) there to pray to the deceased. I have been the one doing so in the past few years. Infact, it has been a routine that the family since we are young to go and 'sao mu' ...but with time, the no. dwindles ..from over 15 to less than 10 to 8, 7, 6, 5 and now only 4. Today, only 3 of us went.
There was only twice or thrice if I do not recall wrongly that I did not go ...once was when I was doing a temp job and working that Sat/Sun, and another was my wife was carrying our first child ..and perhaps once during my army days?
Well, my grandmother's site is slated for exhumation under Phase 3 which commenced in Oct. My parents and aunties went to choose a nice new house for them at Mandai Columbarium yest....both grandparents will soon be housed together at E3-12-0140 and come next Qing Ming, we will not need to brave the dusty envt and the long queues to go to CCK cemetry.
While we were there today (for the last time), there was hardly others ....and I sighted an exhumation being carried out near my grandmother's grave and my parents were like shouting - don't see don't see....cos, to the chinese, such things can be quite 'negative and sha-qi' if one is not supposed to see....maybe, I am beyond that liao .... what is fated is fated lor....anyway, there was also 2 exhumed coffins covered with blue canvas...I guess they are waiting for the 'right time' to open up and extract the bones of that deceased.
Hopefully, with the new home for my deceased grandparents, more family members will go and visit them ....else, in time to come, nobody will remembers...
That's life -- we are born to this world, we live our life, we depart for the nether world.
As such to me, I really hope to live a meaningful life and live a legacy after I leave. I may not be able to be a superstar or celebrity (which I am still harbouring the dreams) ...I hope that pple will remain my good and not so much of my bad. I really hope that I can do all I want to do and not be in regrets in my dying years....
I am slowly taking steps towards my dreams ...and I sure hope that I can achieve it someday.somehow.

Finding Happiness

I am learning from the wise lady. You may wish to pick a tip or two too.
http://lynnyap8888.blogspot.com/

M

M-mad
M-money
M-moment
It has been a mad mad week for me, rushing reports for high abs in classes etc....sometimes, i wonder why i land myself in such stuff ....hahaha....i try to laugh it off so as to feel better.
I am glad that i manage to recover my 'paper loss' in one particular stock that i bought. i sold it this week and got back my capital of $8K. i could have been more patient to make a profit but i didn't cos i am glad to get back my money ....it was so scary when it dipped to only $4K value at its low 2-3 months back.
Yes, I am still waiting patiently for the right moment to come ...

T

T-Trend
T-Thin
T-Tired

I was not really surprised with the report thou I know the trend these days, are skinny jeans worn by the young boys. But if 173cm, 60kg is considered slim ...and probably under-nutritious, then what about me? 165cm weighing about 55-56kg? hmmm......
I am getting a bit worried for myself (thou I admit that I dun have much craving for meat these days). Also, I feel more tired these days...a sign of ageing?

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/lifestylenews/view/444240/1/.html

F

F-Flu
F-Fight
F-Free
When will the fight be over - and where everyone is free from flu.
This time round, the flu virus is stronger and spreads (like wild fire)... taking a longer time to heal...sometimes, i wonder if it is 'self-inflicted'?
Lastly, yes, I must fight for my own freedom and happiness!

Finally ...

yes, i am down with flu ...should be a common flu....and was given 2 days of MC to rest at home.
even, doc is saying that flu can also be the H1N1 type ...
sometimes, i wonder - did i bring this upon myself? ...i guess for me, it is probably a lack of sleep and possibly 'work tension'.

Message to the Adults

Salutes! I don't think I can ever able to deliver such a superb address.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQmz6Rbpnu0

R

R-rush
R-race
R-run
In life, most of us tend to run, rush and race through our life.
I learn the need to slow down and appreciate the people, things and beauty around me.

A

A-Angel
A-Ace
A-Achiever
I am not an Angel (thou appear to be so) nor Ace Achiever (thou I wish I am).
I like pupils who behave like Angels but most are not. So How?

V

V -My job is adVertised in today's RECRUIT. Din know it sounded so senior ...what a tall order!
V - This is a wrong Venture at my end.
V - Victory doesn't seem near for me. I am straddling.

No wonder I am feeling 'stressed'. I dun like the responsibilities.

W

W-Women
W-Witch
W-Why?
Why are some women behaving like witches and bitches!

U

U for ugly
U for unreasonable
U for unlikeable
I met such parents today. What rotten luck!

Prioritise

Getting or rather chasing my kids to do their school(home)work have been difficult for me.
Maybe, they had rather that their mummy get them to do (think i am too impatient with them).
Sometimes, i wonder, why can't they 'prioritise' - do their homework before read books, or play...
Their mummy rebuked me : If you know how to prioritise, you wouldn't have so much backlog of office work...if a 40-year-old man dun know how to prioritise, how do you expect a 7-year child?
She is right. I certainly have 'failed' in work and in life.

Hectic Hectic

Yes, what a hectic week for me.
Waking at 5am to see that everything is OK...must I really do it? or need I?
Next week again.
Can we really detect and slow the spread of the influenza virus in the school environment?

Extricate

Sometimes, we do know what what we are in for, yet we place our foot in it.
Why?
Maybe, we want to give ourselves a chance to experience it.
Now that we have been through it, is it too late to extricate?
I hope not.

Late Nights

Have been sleeping late these few nights.
Need to go to bed early.
Cos, read an article in a magazine re LIVER being an important organ of our body, which is usually neglected. And the Liver heals in the wee hours.
Need to learn to relax and sleep early.

Sorry if I had 'offended' .....

Recently, had been 'down on luck' when it comes to friendships and relationships.
Have I unintendedly 'offended' someone, during conversations, emails, etc...?
I really hope not cos sometimes, it is my blindspot. Unintended, certainly.
Many years back, an ex-colleague fedback to me on the 'way' I work which caused some disturbances ...am I really like that? Was it intentional? ... I reflected. I told myself - probably he is sensitive. Since then, I try to be mindful.
I am really sorry, if I had 'offended' any of you/readers.

Watch my writings

I need to be more mindful with what I write ...cos, I got some feedback from a birdie that I 'exposed' myself too much liao lor ...so, must watch what i write liao!
I guess I will be getting busier in the next couple of days... and my 5-day leave is ending soon ...and I am going back for a meeting tomorrow (my leave day!).
what to do?
I also receive a 'bomb shell' today - looks like i can't run away if g.e. comes along ...sigh

100th Post

Yes, the counter revealed that this will be the 100th post.
Wow, I know that my post are largely words ...cos, it may not be convenient for me (at this point) to put up photos given the nature of my work....maybe, in time to come, i will put more pics and photos. Once again, thank you for reading and supporting ...keep posting.
I know some of my friends/readers have invited me on FaceBook but sadly, I forgot my earlier password...and thus, have created a new account - Ethan Teo. So, now can invite me if you are keen. Also, I am on twitter ... more to follow my FS Master ... haha....

[in case you guys wonder why Ethan ...cos, it contains my last name in it and i used to 'idolise' Ethan Hawke...those were the days i wish i can act and be a celebrity ...haha]

Fathers

It's Fathers' Day tomorrow.

Allow me to quote from what President Obama said "...what truly makes a man a father is the ability to raise the child and invest in that child."

A lesson for indeed. Certainly.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/afp_world/view/437246/1/.html

Lunch Today

Thanks to SK, I had lunch with her and my ex-colleagues - E, G, M, J, YS, AL. SY and hairy fairy also joined in. Sometimes, it is good to catch up and talk about things ...
Life has certainly has to go on, with or without me.
Oh, before I forget, need to congratulate AL who is expecting and delivering in 3 months' time, and YS who will be a new father in 5 months' time.

>> While walking around Orchard after the lunch gathering, found out that MANGO and MNG are having some sales ...ladies were grabbing items. So, ladies - check that out!

Song 14 [Chinese] : Moon is round again

Another inspirational song (to me) by a beautiful young lady singer.
Highly recommended : 郭采潔 - 又圓了的月亮

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXuWD2xCeC4&feature=related

16 June

I clocked in my first year of service in the school.
Another more year, or even earlier to go.
Things will be tough in the next few months cos of the virus.

Rise when fall

Would like to share this short clip ...some may have seen it before.
http://www.the-race-movie.com/

We can lose to others, but not to ourselves. Stay on track and not to quit.

Thick Thighs

My aspiration is to stay lean and trim (thou I do not have the height), which in a way I have, given my age ...haha.
I realised lately that my appearance or I may use, fashion sense, is getting obiang. Have not been buying new clothes, esp working lately...cos, I learnt the need to save up and not be spendthrift. I found out that plain t-shirt and jeans is 'evergreen' but the type of t-shirt and jeans do matter, and so do bermudas and even belts (the IN colour seem to be white!)
I know at my age, my focus should not be on dressing ...afterall, who will judge me and I am not a celebrity (thou I used to wish I was).
That day, out of curiousity and was feeling 'not so up', I stepped into a teen-man shop MAN-MASTER at CP, and decided to try out a 'quite trendy' bermuda (which is quite fitting type, not those baggy that can squeeze in chickens from below) ...when I looked at myself in the mirror, I let out a scream - my goodness, my thick thighs!!! I almost fainted.
I then concluded that for sure, I am beyond dressing young. I should know that age is catching up and I should wear my age ....ooops, ah pek!
Next question will be - why thick thighs? could it be cos, in the past 1 year, i made an effort to jog more frequently?

Mental Strength

It is one of those nights that I dun feel like sleeping early. Everyone is already asleep ...

I pondered earlier - If I don't do (work) what I am doing now, What can I do? There seems to be limited options for me. Maybe, I should change my attitude/mindset.

I can be quite a sports fan. One of my favourite is Thai - Boonsak Ponsana ... knew about him when he played and defeated against our player, Ronald back in 2004 during the Athens Olympics. Boonsak come across as a soft-spoken guy to me. Certainly, he, including many other sports champions, are of certain 'mental strength'. Today, he was playing against a higher seeded korean player in the semi-finals and that was telecast live on Channel 5. I taped it and watched earlier. I am amazed by his calm composure and strength to win the game and he will be in the Finals tomorrow. I am so happy for him. Again, I will be taping it cos will be taking the family out for a swim tomorrow.

Getting philosophical, I tot - in life, we need to endeavour with certain mental strength and not giving up so easily at the first/second/third failures. Also, for Boonsak, he has to succumb to the many pressures placed on him by himself, his coach, his supporters etc..., and he is being 'assessed'. We are being 'assessed' too...regardless of what we do in our job. Thus, it is important that we stand up to the challenge - Guess, there is no running away from it all.

At times, we may think we are not doing well, but others/bosses think we are. If so, does it then mean that we are doing OK? or we need to ask ourselves what is it we really want from life, from our work.

Solid Acting

Solid Acting - This certainly is what I called perfect script and acting. I can't recall any MCTV drama that has touched me as much as this drama finale.... Initially, I tot it has only 10 episodes ...and then I stopped watching for a while ...cos, it is taking too long/much of my time on You Tube downloading ...Then, I read in the papers that the show just ended in TW and it created a high record ...I 'continued' from Episode 19-21 ...brilliant acting and finale.

Check it out ->http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoaBiBq4Wcg&feature=related

Back to the 80s...

The power of youtube...feeling a bit 'retro' tonite ...reminiscing the days when i sang these songs... if only there is talent search then, probably, i will be ....(dreamz)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcDnNIahbd4&feature=related

$40 for dinner

Every weekend, I will be spending approx this amount on dinner for my family of four.
A rational way of apportioning the spend will be $10 per head but in reality, it is not so.
Usually, my boy will consume pasta at pastamania + soup at swensen?
my girl and her 2 portion of kids meal at swensen.... and my wife will take the leftover.
and me, I will eat at a nearby foodcourt for $4 and then come back to join them...
or they will order 3 portions of kids meal at Fish and Co or 1 kid meal + 1 adult meal for the 3 of them...and me, the foodcourt. Isn't that interesting? The one who contributes most, eats the cheapest.

3+1 Tasks in 3 Hours

quite an achievement today since i took half-day leave (since my counterpart decide not to take...to fetch/wait for my kids for afternoon classes)...sad to say, i can only clear 5 days of 'last year' leave during this june holidays, and i have 10 more days to clear in Dec, else forfeit.

- water-wash my car in 45 mins (cos my wife cannot tahan the state ...cos, of the falling leaves and rain stain caused by the location i was given where i work)
- mop the floor of the house in 30 mins
- went for a jog for 30+- mins
- check my mails/surf net for 30 mins

sometimes, i wonder...can't i just take leave and laze at home .... i can't lor cos i feel that i would have 'wasted the time'

sin-ful day

what i ate this afternoon and night was quite sin-ful, come to think of it now.
I had
a) one vanilla cone from MCD in the afternoon (while waiting for my kids to finish classes)
b) one durian roll after dinner
c) one smoo ice cream
d) one slice of brownie (my wife bought this from a new shop at Sq 2 B1)
e) half-glass of chocolate milk

not sure why the urge/crave to eat ice cream today ...is it becoz of the hot weather?

Recommended Book : P and V

This is certainly a good book, not to be missed!
http://www.peaksandvalleysthebook.com/key-principles

enrich our brains

i learnt that it is important to enrich our brains.
have finised reading 'THE LAST LECTURE' some months back.
recently, i am reading 'PEAKS AND VALLEYS' - insightful ...lotsa lessons to learn.

Messed Up

I messed up my hair, and messed up my life.
Sometimes, we are too anxious for a change, and it backfires.
Lesson : Be patient.

Dreams to Pursue

A good ex-colleague of mine has been unwell lately.
I really wish that she will recover soon - and the goddess of mercy will protect/take good care of her. She is certainly a GOOD WOMAN, and she has dreams that she holds endearly.
Lesson : Cherish our living moments to pursue our dreams.

Lost Weight

Met some ex-colleagues on Thu (at a course at CSC) and they exclaimed that I have lost weight.
Yes, I did and I know ...cos, I am cutting down on intake of meat, and consuming more vege (and fish - esp lately cos of my fall and scarred face).... I am recovering.
I think I have lost more than 2-3 kg since last year... Not too good a sign thou for a 40-year man...haha

TW Idol Dramas

For the past few weeks, I was hooked to Taiwan Idol Dramas starring Ethan Ruan. He is really a good actor, I feel. First, I bought his record-breaking drama at $15 - Fated to Love you/You are my Destiny...very nice, and infact, I watched it over 6 nights and completed 24 episodes...and that probably made me tired in the day. Then, I realised that YouTube has the shows... wow, the power of YT, now, I am watching his latest drama - My Queen on YT. This show is also showing on Starhub 56. Very nice. I attach the link below ...Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aq8xz_5WMWA&feature=PlayList&p=721F6AD2E2C18292&index=0

Recovering

Yes, I am recovering, in case my friends are worried, after a day of rest at home today.
I am not sure if the wound will heal completely but for sure, I have learnt a lesson - the hard way.

There goes MY FACE!

Those who know me will know how much I spend to 'maintain' my face ... and I have been complimented by so many people for my youthful look and good complexion.
21 May 2009, 2pm - My life changed, and my face is ...sob sob.
Due to a moment of folly and god decides, I fell at the cement ground and suffered a bad scratch/bruise on my left side of my face. I didn't cry as I was shocked!
I shall not dwell much what led to it - I ran or rather sped, in my working attire, and somehow...I fell flat and suffered 'skin torn' on my palms, my knee caps (trousers torn a bit)... and my most precious face. and my spectacles fell a distance. Just imagine, I picked myself up, covered my face, ran to the toilet and exclaimed - my FACE. My colleagues quickly apply antiseptic and I dashed to the doctor to check that I am not scarred...He say dun worry - just superficial scratches, will heal with no scars....I don't think I will post the photo here, else, my readers will faint - this handsome uncle prince's face is 'disfigured'....
I hope it will heal ...and i know there will be marks on it ..... anyway, maybe cos I am nearing 40, I am learning to 'see beyond'... I am glad to be living, looks are exterior.

V

V can be for victory. If that is so, then probably, I will have to work harder to see victory.
V can be for virus. That is bad, cos it is affecting the health of many, it is sad to see them suffer.
V can be for venom. That is dangerous as such pple harms others...in a school environment, we dun see many thou.
V can be for vicious. That is a sad cycle, as the dis-intact will affect the young, and they will grow up being so, we can see that manifesting ....it is sad....sometimes, I wonder should resources be channeled to preventive work (to prevent it from happening) or remedial work (to save them or prevent worsening).... are we doing enough for this group and if we dun do so, will the repurcussions be even stronger as opposed to the still-intact break up? That is debate-able. My current job has allowed me to see the latter. It affects me.

SCreeaammm....stop asking me to scribe!!

Last straw...I am not sure why my P always ask me to scribe. I hate it cos I dun like to write.
Why should I be the one writing/scribing when I am supposedly in the middle/upper mgt in my job. Why me? Just because I write good notes (aftermath) or good minutes?
I left my earlier job cos I felt that my forte wasn't writing papers, speeches, proposals...and now, I am still writing and I have tolerated it for the past 10 months.
Maybe, I am paid 'that much' so, I have to learn to enjoy writing ...but again, why always me??!!
Felt very pissed off. If I love writing and reading, I would have stayed on ot moved on to do policy work liao lor...
**Fuming**

Song 13 [Chinese] : 夢醒了 Awakened

This is a nice song... and yes, i have awakened from my dreams and certainly, i am moving on.

我想起你描述夢想天堂的樣子
手指著遠方畫出一棟一棟房子
你傻笑的表情又那麼誠實
所有的信任是從那一刻開始

你給我一個到那片天空的地址
只因為太高摔得我血流不止
帶著傷口回到當初背叛的城市
唯一收容我的卻是自己的影子

想跟著你一輩子　至少這樣的世界沒有現實
想賴著你一輩子　做你感情裡最後一個天使
如果夢醒時還在一起　請容許我們相依為命　
絢爛也許一時　平淡走完一世　

是你選擇我這樣的男子　就怕夢醒時已分兩地
誰也挽不回這場分離　愛恨可以不分
責任可以不問　天亮了
你還是不是我的女人　

Fairyland and Castle

Many dramas and stories told and said about fairy tales. I dun think fairyland and castle exist cos, I know I have not found them as yet. Sometimes, I wish I can .... but I know I aint no Prince nor Knight. I live in a real world leading a simple life surrounded with varied story tales to be told. Sad to say, I feel too tired to hear or lend my helping hands. I think it is time to .....

TV worm

My girl says that she is a book worm, and so is my wife.
My boy is a toy worm and certainly, I am a TV worm ...hahaha
Since young, I am a big fan of TV - local, TVB (cantonese). Japanese ... sad that I am not an actor ..haha
Recently, I am looked to Taiwanese Idol Drama - the ToGetHer which ended recently on Channel U was good....
Yest, I bought a top-viewed Drama starring Ethan Ruan...surprisingly, I have been watching it non-stop till now (past 1am liao.... at Episode 7 out of 24)
http://wiki.d-addicts.com/Fated_To_Love_You
Though it may be a bit 'drama-ma and hokkienish' but the messaging is very good ...about parenthood, marriage education and parenting ...I don't think it was intended so but somehow, through the first 7 episodes, I was captivated by the acting and the messages.
I think MCorp may not screen it as there is a fair bit of hokkien in the show which it would lose the favour if dubbed.
Certainly, THUMBS UP for the show ...i just realised that maybe, I have the flair to act in such shows too ...cos...haha

Bus Rides

Today, I stole time for myself ...to meet an 'old friend' for lunch at Hans near Raffles Place, visit the temple, go VIVO City to check out some FS products, go POPULAR at Toa Payoh and home by 7pm...
Instead of driving which can be stressful, I took public transport - mrt and bus. I have alwayed enjoyed bus rides ...cos, I can just plugged on my ear phones and watch the 'buildings go by, look at people, think through things ... indeed, there are so much changes to the CBD Raffles Place ...new shops, new buildings,...it has been more than 8 years since I worked there....at least in my last job, I am somewhat near town ...in this job, i am like relegated to the mountains ... so out of touch with CITY ...haha
I tot that I am a CITY guy ...I just realised that I am not ...I have lost touch with so many things and now, I think I am like a real UNCLE liao ...so obiang ...so lost.
I hope that one day, I can get back to the city soon, real soon.

1 Clap, 1 Clap, 2 Claps,

haha, the above is what we do to 'quieten' the kids ...
it works, depends on how you say it.
it doesn't really work when I say it.
that means...i shouldn't be doing what i do...haha

kids are active these days...
they just run and run and run ...such that one or two will fall and bleed.
why can't they be angels like me? so well-behaved....sigh.

Hijacked my Bed

Yes, my princess has hijacked my bed in the master bedroom for almost ...whoa ...3 years. That means, she has hijacked my sleeping companion for the past 1,000 days...I believe I am certainly a celibracy by now ...haha

Now, I am so used to sleeping alone, in a single bed, and no longer yearn for a sleeping companion.

Maybe, this same theory applies to jobs....we will get used to it someday, somehow. That's life.
At the end of the day, we may wanna ask ourselves - what is it that we want in life, go and pursue it.

Long Weekend

Most guys, especially army boys, look forward to looong weekend.
Most working adults, do too....to shop, to spend time with family etc...
For me ... this weekend is dread for me....reports, work calls, etc....
I am feeling tired and also sneezy.
Trying hard to bring a smile to my face.

Busy. Doing Work.

Yes, I am so busy ...doing work today, tomorrow, Sat and Sun.
I guess I need more time than others, cos, I am on a steeeep learning track.
Life shouldn't be just work and work ...I should know that better than anyone else, yet, I feel sort of saddled with work, infact, piles of work.
Sometimes, I wonder -
A wrong move?
Self-inflicting?

Does 24 x 7 really make us more balanced/harmonised?

生日都会拿假慰劳自己

Hmm....Last year, I was 'working during my birthday'. This year, I think the same is likely to happen too, unless Lady Job finds me a new job...haha....Likewise, this year, I couldn't take leave on my wife's birthday to spend the day with her, which I used to do so every year since 1998 when I first knew her.
Maybe, there isn't the best/ideal job in this world but the tot of having to spend the birthday working dreads. So how, do I have a choice?

Miso Soup

Yesterday, was at Ajisen with my family.
In a moment of excitement, 'someone in the family' spill the 'not so hot by then' Miso Soup on me - my bermudas - and my ....haha... lucky, my precious x was not hurt/scorched/burnt... can't imagine being treated in clinic/hospital for this...haha

Never too late to pursue our dreams

Like her, maybe, someday I may realise my dreams.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izucgB-lBaI

Alive

Yes, it has been almost 10 days since I last posted.
Yes, I am still alive ...and very busy preparing for a large scale exercise next week.
Amidst, there are other matters to attend to, some of which really tugged my heart.
In this operational job, I am really 'on the ground' to see the 'real'...sometimes, the planners plan from the ivory towers, and not knowing if the plans would really work ...
Came across 2 sad stories recently.
So sad that I wonder how lucky I am, and my children are.

A Good TVC

Must admit that this is a good effort by the authorities.
While we spend the monies to do so, do keep in mind the measurement of the effectiveness.
http://www.straitstimes.com/Video%2BNews/Singapore/STIVodcast_5046.html?playid=5046&type=Top

Dreams and Goals

Dreams. Stalled.
Goals. Unattained.
Friendship. Diminished.
Love. Dwindled.

Baked ...

under the hot sun ...
the children run and run...
when the referee start the gun...
Poor me was baked while they had fun.

The Game

It is again the time of the year when
a) the promotion list is out ...sometimes, some are due for it, while others are surprise winners. more importantly, the bosses must like you.
b) the star awards popularity list is revealed... some suprises, some sad and some rejoice. For this, the viewers must know who are you and recall you ... afterall, it can be screams of support but ultimately, whether an impression is left.
This is life ...and how the game is played.

Worth It?

http://www.xin.sg/article.php?article=29677
While I am happy that this TVC won the viewers' choice, I ponder. Is it for real that it really won the hearts of viewers or it was due to repeated votes cast by some? Do viewers know how much monies were put in to produce and air this? Some of us would probably know that somebody may be gleaming away ...to have initiated it but frankly so what? cos the cost was more than $ millions, and is it really justifiable - the effectiveness of such TVC ....does it then mean that families are more intact now becos of this TVC. Is the money really well spent? I asked. Could the money be better use to help many needy out there?

Feeling Blues

Usually, women feel blues
a) when their monthly 'sea of red' comes ...
b) when they dun feel good abt 'anything and everything'.
c) after child-birth, as they called it - post-natal etc
d) if their child do not do well for exams...
and for many other reasons, I suppose.
Today, I was on one-day leave, and yet I feel blue ... just a strange feeling.
Perhaps, I feel that I really need a good long rest/sleep.

Helping a child

A parent asked - my child's grade is dropping, I can't teach him cos I dun know how to. Can the school do something about it?
Another asked - I have to work, and only get home after 8pm everyday. There's no one who can coach my child. His school work is deteriorating. How can I help him?
Am I in that capacity to advise? I paused. I wondered.

Love the job you do or Do the job you love?

This is a question that some of us may ask ourselves... likewise, do we marry the person who love or love the person we marry? aka chicken-egg?
Sometimes, I dun know but I know that at this uncertain time, most of us need to stay put in the job we have ...we can afford to be picky or choosy.
But if one is feeling so miserable in the job, maybe, it is a signal that it is time to move on .....

Fourty

Yes, time flies ... a colleague asked why didn't I go and sign up be a cala-fe (temporary actor) since I am so gaga over dramas/celebrities... I tot - what role can I do - uncle at the coffee shops, passer-by, audience in a setting etc....is that what I wanted? haha
Nope. If I ever get a chance, it has to be something 'breakthrough' for me...cos it is probably be my one and only chance to make it ...hehe.
I am not sure if the day will ever come but I know I have to create the opportunity for myself...I don't think I will ever be 'headhunted' along the streets since I always walk with my face so solemn and heads down ....haha....and the dream lives on.
Sometimes, when I see other people whom I think the age should be younger than me yet appear so haggard, I feel so proud of myself cos I am still so fabulous at forty ... haha

Song 12 [Chinese] : 国王皇后

It has been a moody 2 months... a slow start in 2009...not so good things seem to be happening ...around me ...
Tot dancing tracks may perk us up (to some, it may be noise) ... infact, I am quite a 'dance song - retro' person - when I was young, I was thrilled by dance mixes and was wishing I can play my favourite dance tracks for people to dance on the dance floor...again, this is an unfulfilled dream. I did share some of my favourite songs during my 'stand up training' days when I conduct training/courses some 10 years back.
Haven't go to disco for ages liao...maybe, too old to shake my body ...but I still enjoy songs like "I heard a rumour", "Straight Up", "Letz go to Ibiza" etc....
Recently, I am hooked to the above song - 国王皇后. Check their MTV in the link below. Start Dancing and drive the blues away.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84v-q0k97QY

A picture to share

First Pic - Tot I should share a picture of me at an event held on Sat, 28 Feb. The others in the picture are my supervsiors, and colleagues. Din know that my coloured hair (to cover my increasing grey/white hairs) is so obvious under the sun ...haha

Lost Job

I guess I must be thankful that I have a job ...but still I thought it could have been better.
A close friend of mine, and a relative have 'lost their jobs' recently... thou I know they will be able to pull through (cos they would have ample savings to see them thru, cos they are the frugal type) as their spouse are still gainfully employed, the thought of being without a job seems frightening. Sometimes, I wonder if it is wrong/sinful (at such times) to be dreaming of looking for a greener pasture as opposed to being contented to love the job which I am doing. Sometimes, the more education we receive, the more far-fetched are our dreams/ideals...so much so that we ignore the practicality of it all. Again, since we are educated, why can't we pursue our dreams? or the timing is not right? The thought goes on .....
Being someone who believes in fate, I guess I will wait and see, while trying. If things work out, fine, else, I guess, it may be destined that I am here to stay ...for a long time.
FS has said that one (or one's heart) has to be happy, then, wealth/luck will come.

VDay

Valentine's Day is no longer celebrated, now that I am already married for more than 9 years (ROM Sep 1999-Feb 2009). While I know many married couples are still celebrating this ocassion, I am not ... or rather my wife is not that particular about it too....to her, a happy VDay will be one where I dun 'reprimand' her so much (I can be quite fierce at home, with her)...haha. Anyway, I bought her a piece/slice of Angie's chocolate lover cake on Fri nite - the same type that I bought when our boy was born in 2002....and the price has gone up by 30 cents...haha. She is happy with it, I think. As she prefers a cheese cake, I got her a Gelare' Oreo Cheese cake yesterday. And we spend the day, with my 2 kids at my niece's 2-year old mini-birthday celebration.
I am thankful that my wife didn't ask me for big diamonds, expensive purses/bags or glame shoes/clothes. And that's what a spouse is for - knowing the limits of the hubby and living within the means, being thru good and bad times. Likewise, I didn't receive anything from her either, and that has been so ...for years.

Ex-

Time flies, another week has passed...every day passes so soon and I can feel the work piling... wish I can be less interrupted so that I could be more focussed and get what I need to do out quickly...but sadly in a school environment, there are just so much unexpected surprises. I just realised that I am not a 'suprise' person nor a leader, I am but just a simple follower or a specialist...
Yest, I went back to my ex-workplace to visit my ex-colleagues after a meeting...the feeling is sort of different now...place have changed, people have changed, conversations are restricted...I guess everyone of us moves on in life ...

The time of the year

Long queues are forming at TOTO outlets ...cos the annual $10 Million Draw is coming - next Fri, 6 Feb, Usually for such BIG$ draws, more people will (pool) and buy bets with a hope to strike and be a millionaire. Thatz life, and this is especially so during such difficult times. WHO doesn't wish to strike the jackpot? So far, I have never won ...and I am sure some of you too... but we never give up as we still hold a chance, once we place a bet.
I am not sure if the day will come for me cos, if I really win it big, I will be able to roll out some of my big personal plans this year but I am prepared to be 'status quo' as afterall, how lucky can I get? haha

Miracles

We all know that when one, especially ladies, is not so happy, they tend to binge or spend lotsa $ on shopping. I wonder if guys behave likewise. Today, I started (kai gong da ji - cos I can't take leave anyway) work and I went to shop a bit at a nearby mall after work cos I dun feel too gooood. The 'feel good' state after spending some $ seems therapetic. Sometimes, I wonder if I should have saved the $ for rainy days.
Starting a new year - I hope that everything can be 'smooth smooth'... afterall, this is gonna be a tough year for everyone. I am also hoping for some miracles though I know deep inside me, that they ain't likely to happen thou.

Here comes the OX

Yes, the ox is here ... with showers of rain amidst sun/clouds to welcome it ... this sort of weather was not too ideal ... sneezed a bit ...
Was advised to wear brand new (not washed) red top/shirt today for good luck. I did, did you? If not, another important date is 4 Feb, as advised by the renowned FS master.
It seems that different FS master predict different things ... TV8 for Ushering Ox Year did not have much good things to say about rooster, ChU said something else, and so do ZBao... and likewise for the renowned FS master... so, who would be right? *confused*
To me, I believe the renowned FS master ... haha
Actually, saw clips of people rushing to be the first to place the joss sticks in temples - they trample, trip, fall, step etc....is it really worth it to do so cos it is believed that the first gets to enjoy good luck year-round? What if?
To me, LNY is a day of rest and meet my cousins, aunts and all... today has passed quickly and soon, it will be back to work again (can't take leave on Wed)... year come, year go ... more importantly, we need to grasp opportunities and lead a fulfilling life, and aim for good health. As for wealth, I am not hoping for too much, when it comes, I will be grateful.

Goodbye, Rat-tie and Welcome Ox-ie

Time flies...another year has passed by...being Chinese ... I tend to celebrate LNY more than the NY...anyway, here's wishing all my friends and readers out there ...

XIN NIAN KUAI LE, WAN SHI RU YI (sorry, no chinese software in this laptop)

I really look forward to a better and fulfilling year in 2009. It is gonna be a tough year for everyone ... so take heart, smile, and keep the faith. Stay Healthy too....for me, I need to climb up the stairs as a form of exercise...hehe

Not So Good

An ex-colleague asked me howz my job? I stumbled and replied ...not so good. Every job has its pluses and cons, while I count the little blessings of my job, I know it is 'not so right/good' for me now that I am in it, and had wanted badly to come into it six months back. Sometimes, we have to be 'in it' to know that it may not be what we desire ...for jobs, we can still switch but not for marriages, parenting etc.... thatz why the old saying - go in with your eyes open!
Well, life has to go on ...and till something comes along...I guess...
Have been sort of overwhelmed in the past few days... as my staff was on maternity leave. Suddenly, I feel that I am shouldering loads and loads which I wonder - is this what I am supposed to be doing ....or wanna spend the next 20 years of my working life in?
At the down moments of life, maybe, I should be grateful that I am still 'gainfully' employed. Looking back, I just clocked in 10 years of service (+NS) and I am getting 28 days of annual leave... but sadly, I know I will have difficulty to clear them in my current job (it aint as envious as it seems)....haha

So Busy

I am still alive and kicking ...just that I have been so swarmed with work since school reopened...so much so that I wished I hadn't made this move in the first place.... Somehow, I felt constrained too...and I missed the first days of my boy's orientation in school. Sad rite?
I hope that the days ahead will be smoother and everyone in the family will be healthier - my girl was not so well for a while liao...I think the virus is still in the air. My house was short-circuited on 1 Jan ...and my mobile modem was konked off. And thus, I now have to beg my wife to allow me to use her laptop to connect to a new mobile modem to surf the net. Pathetic rite? Also, I can only update my blog once a week liao lor.
Next year is going to be a tough year for all...as confirmed by most/one FS master. Everyone has to work hard and longer hours...afterall, it is the ox year. Again, to improve luck and enjoy good wealth, do wear red/pink top on 26 Jan (first day of CNY) and 4 Feb....for the latter, do remember to bank in some $$ or cheque to your bank account.
More importantly, everyone has to stay positive and watch the year 'go by'.

Have a Healthy and Fulfilling 2009!

2008 has passed and today is the 1st day of 2009 - How has the day been for you? A renowned FS master said that how the day been for one will somehow set the stage for the rest of the year. It was a peaceful day for me at home - doing some work, resting, jogging and spending time with my family before school starts tomorrow for us all. I would have very much like to take leave tomorrow and next Mon, to bring my boy (in P1) and my girl (in P2) to school. However, I won't be, given the situation I am in. I guess sometimes our hands are tied irregardless of what jobs who do. Some of us may think that the grass 'may be greener' on the other side of the pasture, but it is not always so. With age, I have somehow 'see open' (in chinese) liao - I guess I am too old to switch jobs. So, I will need to learn to 'love my job' and 'make do with what I can' since I really have 'no way out'. As what Rob Parsons wrote in his book - The Heart of Success, I will 'not settle for being money-rich-time poor' and strive to 'put my family before my career'; 'find my factor x' and 'keep the common touch'; 'believe my job can make a difference' and 'strive for significance'; and hold onto 'the power of dreams'.
Once again, I wish my family and all my friends good health in 2009! Thank you for reading my blog.