Utterly Indiscreet

Facebook Addict

2007-11-05T19:46:00.001+08:00

It is addictive. All of my friends are on it every day. Now I am too. My sister introduced me to it.
But it can be kind of silly like throwing pints of blood or poking each other. I ignore those things. However, I like the photo album feature. I can store all of my photos from various events or trips there.

I also like the Good Reads feature. I can find out what my friends are reading. However, I suspect that one of them is not really reading all of the books that she posts there. I dont think she is reading that much. Maybe she is just using it as a way to keep a list of books she has read in the past and is reading now. She must be reading like 12 hours a day if she is reading 3 or 4 books a week!

Also, I like that I can put music and music videos on my Facebook too.

My blog is slowly dying

2007-10-21T18:05:00.000+08:00

I am losing interest in maintaining this blog. I am now addicted to facebook instead. But I will try to come back to my blog every few weeks. I will try to keep it going a little bit longer until I make up my mind to stop or write sporadically.

Forgivemess

2007-09-15T15:56:00.000+08:00

Isn't it hard to forgive yourself? I find that sometimes when I am impulsive, I say or do things without thinking about the possible consequences. Then I feel guilty. It's easier to say sorry than it is to forgive myself.

Morbid Curiousity ie. Bus Accident

2007-06-16T22:43:00.000+08:00

I was walking home and I heard a huge crash. Then I turned around and saw a bus on fire on Upper Bukit Timah. I think a white car had crashed the barrier and hit another car and the bus which had just pulled out of the bus shelter. Not sure of the bus number. I can't help wondering if it was the bus that I had just gotten off of.

I called the police, but they already knew. People were already getting out of the bus. Anyways, of course everyone slowed down to watch. Neighbours were standing on the pavement looking at the smoke and fire.

I even saw some drivers get out of their cars and record the scene on their cameras. Made me think how sick some people are. Someone could have been killed and they are recording the accident. Morbid curiousity, I guess.

This also led me to think about the news. Isn't this what they do all of the time? Record accidents and other disasters?

I am sure that the whole event will be on youtube in an hour. Or even posted on Channel News Asia site which has a special page for civilians to post any news they spot.

The weather and ramblings on marriage

2007-06-09T23:35:00.000+08:00

It's been very hot. Think I am melting. I don't really want to go outside and leave the comfort of home (air con and cold drinks) to do anything. It hasn't rained in a while too.

Is June the hottest month in Singapore? Don't know, but it sure feels like it.

Met up with a friend that I haven't seen in a year and a half. Time flies, I guess. He got married just over a year ago. Found out through the grapevine. It was kind of weird. It's almost like he just ran away overseas and got married without tellng anyone. Brought her back here. No big wedding celebration or anything.

He doesn't seem any different. He says it's not really different except he has to "take her into consideration" when he makes decisions like if he is going to do a project overseas or spend a ton of money on something. He says he even forgets he is married until someone asks about his wife. Is this a husband thing? How easily do they forget!

Monkeys Everywhere

2007-06-02T22:14:00.002+08:00

Went to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. There are now signs that tell people to be quiet and enjoy the sounds of nature. Still lots of noisy people. Also, they litter. Why don't they take their garbage back down with them?

It's terrible. There wasn't tons of garbage, but still there was some.

There were lots of monkeys everywhere too! Attaching their photos. They were climbing all over the place.

Here is also a shot of some people walking up too.

Nothing Much

2007-05-27T16:13:00.000+08:00

Didn't do anything this weekend. Just stayed home and did chores. Nothing new. Think it was so hot that I didn't really want to leave my place except to go to church this morning and to buy food.

Need new DVDs!

Golf Clinic

2007-05-20T15:22:00.000+08:00

Took a intro golf clinic last week. Wanted to see why so many of my colleagues are so into it. Actually, it's just the men. Don't really know any female golfers. Learned the three strokes: putting, chipping, and driving.

Putting is when you are really close to the hole and you want to get the ball in. Chipping is when you are stuck like in a sandtrap or something and you want to get your ball to lift up out of whatever you are stuck in.

Driving is when you want distance. I practiced this on the driving range. Basically, you have to swing your club really high and then finish with your club really high too. A lot of rotation of the arms and shoulders. Good way to let out your frustration. Just swing and try to hit as hard as you can. Actually, it doesn't really matter about your strength. It's all in the technique.

It will take a lot more practice before I can even play a game. Actually, I wouldn't mind trying the driving range again. You just keep swinging and hitting until you feel tired.

Not signing up for lessons. Just wanted to get a taste of it to see what it's all about.

Guess that old saying is true: practice makes perfect.

Hiking and Camping

2007-05-11T21:57:00.000+08:00

I went hiking and camping in Australia a couple of weeks ago. It rained every day. I am not an outdoors person, but gave it a try. Was hoping to see some wild kangeroos, but the rain kept them away. Only camped for two nights in a wooden shelter. The others stayed in tents; some of them leaked a bit. It was kind of cold. Was inside one sleeping bag, but used another as a blanket. One good thing about the rain was that it kept the mosquitoes away. Would do it again, but in better weather. It was kind of nice to be away from civilization. No showers, proper toilets, electricity or anything. I suppose if I did it longer, I might go mad from boredom.

Back in Town

2007-04-12T16:29:00.000+08:00

Went to Hong Kong for a few days. Loved it. Very exciting place. Lots of things going on though I got bored of shopping. Didn't buy much. Not many good deals. I don't want to buy stuff just for the sake of buying. Only buy stuff if I really like it.

I mostly wanted to just get out of Singapore and a change of environment. Wasn't hot or humid there. Wore a light jacket most of the time. But there were a couple of really nice sunny days.

Everyone says it's polluted there, but I didn't notice it. My favorite food were the egg tarts. Yum! A little hard to find vegetarian food to eat. It was kind of disturbing walking through a street that had live chickens crammed into cages and slabs of meat hung on hooks. Really turned me off.

Service in shops was very good. They always says "Hello" and "Bye bye." But I don't like it when clerks follow me around the store. I feel like I can't shop if they are watching me too closely.

Will post pictures next time.

One Last Paper

2007-04-06T10:59:00.000+08:00

Hee Haw! On my last paper. Sick of writing. Getting wiped out by staying home on weekends writing and editing papers. Should be done with the paper today! Leaving town tomorrow.

Already did some packing. Always travel light. Just a carryon since I am only going away for 4 nights. Looking forward to getting off of this island. Think I will go nuts if I don't.

Next step.....look for a new job in another country. Time to leave. Signed on to finish one more year, then my contract is done. So have a whole year to find a new job I like. Actually, the job isn't as important as the country.

Has to be some place that I think is fun and exciting. I am kind of bored of this place. It's easy to live here, but it's also kind of dull after a while.

Random Photos

2007-03-24T21:40:00.000+08:00

Still writing papers for masters courses. So haven't been blogging. Copying Unreal's idea which is posting some interesting photos.

The dragon is a bit freaky. It was just leaning up against a truck when I was passing by. The others are just decorations during Chinese New Year.

Think there are still a million functions on my camera that I still haven't used yet.

Enjoy!

Writing Papers

2007-03-06T19:17:00.000+08:00

Got myself into a situation where I am writing one paper and doing research on another. I hate it when that happens. I like doing one thing from start to finish before moving onto another.

I read that means I am a doer/detail type person. That sounds like me. I do better if I focus on one thing at a time. I usually set aside time to make sure that something gets done. I don't like to waste time if I have a deadline to meet.

So I am going to be writing this paper as fast as I can. It's supposed to be 20,000 words. So then I can move onto taking notes and writing the next paper. Wish I can type as fast as I think. My typing is slowing me down.

Jobs I Would Like to Try

2007-02-17T19:29:00.000+08:00

Have you ever wondered what kind of jobs you would like to try if you could try anything just for a short time? Don't worry about money or timing. What would you like to be? These are my picks:

1. fashion designer
2. children's book writer
3. interior designer
4. baker
5. film producer

Hmmm....I think I see a pattern. They are all jobs that require creativity and some degree of independence.

Prison Break

2007-02-03T15:36:00.000+08:00

Okay....I am addicted to this show. Been watching the DVDs of Season One. Catching up on the ones I missed because I don't always have time to watch it on TV. Plus, hate all of the commercials.

Some Revelations from the DVDs:

The casting is excellent, especially the actor who plays Teabag.

The show is shot at a real prison that closed down.

The Conspiracy theory is getting quite far fetched, but keeps my attention.

The lead actor Wentworth Miller (odd name) is a very good actor and not bad looking.

Staying friends with Ex-es

2007-01-27T00:53:00.000+08:00

Why do people bother to stay friends with ex-boyfriends? If they have moved on and you haven't, then it's like self-torture to be around someone who is now with someone else.

And forget about trying to stay friends if it was a messy break-up. Why does everyone say, "We can be friends"? It's ridiculous.

Why should women be friends with guys who didn't treat them well when they were dating? There shouldn't be any obligations. Both parties should just get over it and forget about it.

Get away from him. Ignore him. Move on. Delete his phone number. Be strong!

Meeting up with a ex-bf will only bring back past anger and hurt. So don't meet him or any of his friends. What's the point? You are only hurting yourself and making it harder for you to recover.

You had a life before him, and you still have one. Get out there and keep yourself busy and distracted with other things that you like.

Your life is your own. Enjoy it!

More Photos

2007-01-19T17:50:00.000+08:00

Here are some more cool photos from my trip. Also, my old apartment building. I lived on the tenth floor. Met some yakuza guys in the elevator once. Didn't talk to them, of course.

White Mazda from the car museum. Think it is from the 1960s? Very nice.

Photos from Japan

2007-01-14T18:17:00.000+08:00

Here are some odd or nice photos from my trip to Japan. The yellow car was in a classic car museum that I wandered into. It was inside a shopping mall!

There is the biggest takoyaki I have ever eaten. It was 200 yen.

There are manequins of children in winter clothes in front of a bakery.

Some tastefully done up Christmas lights on trees on the street.

The two cute dogs in cart were waiting for their owner outside a bookshop.

The huge brown spider sculpure thing looks like it is invading the earth! Scary!!

Why I like Japan

2007-01-01T15:47:00.000+08:00

Several reasons:

1. Good food. Even the convenience store sell fresh and homemade-made like dishes. Love the bento boxes. Japanese food is very healthy.

2. Talking bus stops posts. There are electronic posts at the bus stops and they talk. Tells you when the bus is one block away. Amazing.

3. Polite people. Service is excellent. Clerks always greet you though some of them follow me around too closely. I prefer to be able to take my own time to browse around and not have a clerk looking over my shoulder. However, they pay close attention and know instantly when I want something. They are also knowledgeable about everything they sell in the store unlike Singapore where most clerks can`t even answer basic questions like where something was made.

4. Trains and subways. Everything runs on time. There are electronic signs that tell you when the next train or subway is coming. Very exact. For example, 3:21 pm. Right down to the minute.

5. Fashionable and trendy. People aren`t afraid to take fashion risks. Latest trend are high boots; all kinds.....leather, suade etc. Some Japanese in their twenties and thirties have really funky hairdos and clothes though some of it is a bit weird. The women always wear make up and do their hair. The men are well groomed. Men wear suits and ties if they are working.

6. Hot baths. There are centos or public bath houses. My friend lives near a natural hotspring. We went a few nights ago. If you aren`t embarassed to sit in a super hot bath with a bunch of strangers, then it`s relaxing. Everyone showers before getting into the bath. Segregated baths for men and women of course. I would never go to a co-ed one.

7. Attention to detail. The Japanese really put effort into how things look. Flower arrangements in the lobby of my friend`s apartment building changes periodically. Taxi drivers wear suits and ties and white gloves. Restaurants give you proper cutlery etc. Great!

Goodbye 2006

2006-12-31T10:29:00.000+08:00

It is New Year`s eve. Another year has passed. There are so many things that I wanted to do, but didn`t have time. Maybe next year will be better. Only two more courses left in my Masters program. Then, freedom. Feel like shouting. FREEDOM!

Thinking about what new things I would like to try. Fun things. Different things. Things that I have been interested in but haven`t gotten around to doing them. Guess lots of people are like that....wish they did this or that.

Happy New Year Everyone!

Merry Christmas

2006-12-24T20:29:00.000+08:00

Many people buy presents and celebrate Christmas for the wrong reasons. Christmas is more than just exchanging gifts.

More Marriages

2006-12-16T20:58:00.000+08:00

Weird. Lately, there has been a ton of my friends (friends who have been single for ages) who have gotten married. There is even one Japanese lady who is in her late fifties who got married for the first time. She never dated when she was younger. Her mother died when she was young and she had to take care of her father and younger brothers. Good for her. Maybe there is hope for me yet.

On the other hand, I kind of like my freedom. Once you get married, you become a team. You can't just make decisions by yourself and only think of yourself. I don't know if I would be a good compromiser. I have some definite ideas on things and my own routine.

Tarot Card

2006-12-09T12:24:00.000+08:00

My result.

You are The Empress
Beauty, happiness, pleasure, success, luxury, dissipation.
The Empress is associated with Venus, the feminine planet, so it represents, beauty, charm, pleasure, luxury, and delight. You may be good at home decorating, art or anything to do with making things beautiful.
The Empress is a creator, be it creation of life, of romance, of art or business. While the Magician is the primal spark, the idea made real, and the High Priestess is the one who gives the idea a form, the Empress is the womb where it gestates and grows till it is ready to be born. This is why her symbol is Venus, goddess of beautiful things as well as love. Even so, the Empress is more Demeter, goddess of abundance, then sensual Venus. She is the giver of Earthly gifts, yet at the same time, she can, in anger withhold, as Demeter did when her daughter, Persephone, was kidnapped. In fury and grief, she kept the Earth barren till her child was returned to her.

What Tarot Card are You?
Take the Test to Find Out.

Decorations Galore

2006-12-09T12:08:00.000+08:00

The decorations on Orchard are getting worse and worse. This year, there are some ugly Christmas fountain and tree things at some of the junctions. And those gold bird-like things hanging from the trees are horrid too. Tacky, tacky, and tacky.

What happened to good taste? Don't they know less is more?

Winter Clothes

2006-12-03T13:08:00.000+08:00

I had to buy some winter clothes because I am going overseas for winter holidays. I actually bought a coat and two sweaters. Weird. Guess they can be used over and over, so it's not a waste of money.

But I did feel a bit silly buying a coat here. However, there is a ton of winter clothes in the stores right now. Coats, hats, scarves, and even leather gloves. Guess I am not the only one going someplace cold for winter.

Hope I don't freeze. Must try not to complain about being cold. To be honest, anything below 25 is cold for me now.

Good intentions

2006-11-26T17:23:00.000+08:00

People have to be careful when they try to help someone. Even though they believe that they are giving someone support and trying to be their friend, sometimes it is better to leave them alone. Let the family and doctors deal with the problem.

Not everyone can be fixed when they are broken. Leave things to the professionals. One may unintentionally do more harm than good. Don't do anything that you really are not qualified to do.

People who can't dress

2006-11-25T20:17:00.000+08:00

I have to say that despite all of the shopping and fashionistas around, I have seen tons of really bad dressers. I think it's because people only buy what they like or is trendy and not what looks good on them. They should know their bodies and what looks good on them.

I feel like going up to some people and telling them, "That doesn't suit you at all. Try blah blah blah instead!"

Also, I hate those flip flops. I don't care if they are comfortable or what, they don't look good. Unless you are going to the beach, don't wear them. They don't look good!

Also, if you aren't in shape, then you should avoid certain items of clothing like tight t-shirts or short skirts.

Would like to give some of my friends wardrobe makeovers! Some of my male friends wear plaid shirts all the time which look awful. Hope they don't read this....actually, maybe they should.

Travel Agents

2006-11-24T17:42:00.000+08:00

I hate dealing with booking flights and travel agents. It's so confusing. Maybe there's a communication gap. Just found out that I am waitlisted for a return flight that I thought was confirmed. But I am confirmed for return flight on Jan. 2. Oh well, means I have to stay longer over there. Better warn my friend because I am staying with her. Opps....hope she doesn't mind.

Jap Guys

2006-11-19T08:16:00.000+08:00

Have been showing some Japanese friends who are visiting Singapore around. They are from Tokyo. A few observations or comparisons with local men here.

They are more polite. (always saying thank you or sorry etc)
They are better groomed. (they are more pulled together and tidier - no run down clothes or slippers)
They are less emotional. (they don't just blurt things out without thinking first)

We are off to Sentosa today. Apparently, one of the things on their Must Do list is see the Merlion. I kept tellng them it's a tacky and embarassing Singaporean icon. Oh well....

Christmas lights

2006-11-12T10:08:00.000+08:00

The Christmas decorations have been up on Orchard Rd since October! Let the excessive spending begin. I heard Christmas music everywhere the other day. So early!

Glad my family is not big on buying gifts.

Chasing

2006-11-04T09:38:00.000+08:00

Men are weird. Especially the ones in their twenties though my friend said it doesn't matter. They just aren't very mature or sophisticated. If you like someone,they should make an effort. Otherwise, don't bother.

They also give up too easily. They don't know how to "chase" or "court" someone. My friends said that it's because they start dating someone right away. There is no real courting or romancing someone or anything exciting like that. How boring!

A colleague told me to never get married. It was kind of funny advice because she just got married for the second time like three months ago. She was like twenty when she got married the first time. Too young.

She's in her early fifies now. Actually, she is pretty happy. They were together for like 7 years before they got married. It was easier for them to work here together if they got hitched.

She said I should never get married. It may be good advice.

Singapore's Halloween

2006-10-28T09:36:00.000+08:00

Halloween is catching on in Singapore. In N. America, kids would dress up in costumes and knock on doors asking for "tricks or treats" on Halloween night which is October 31st. This is fun if you live in an area that has lots of young children.

People would make jack-o-latterns(pumpkins with carved faces on them) and place candles inside of them for display. Some of the parents would even answer the doorbell in costume to give out candy on Halloween night. Sometimes, there are even fireworks launched from a neighbour's front yards.

In this country, Halloweeen is mostly for ex-patriots. The parents go around their condo or houses on their street with their kids in costumes asking for treats. Or if you are an adult, you wear some freaky costume and go out to one of the parties at the clubs.

What are you going to be for Halloween?

Praying for Patience

2006-10-22T14:42:00.000+08:00

I lost my temper again. At 7:30 am, some loud dance music woke me. And it's Sunday morning - my day of rest. I was so angry that I changed my clothes and went downstairs to find out who had the loud stereo. It turned out it was the building across from mine in my complex. I took the elevator up until I found the culprit. Banged on the door and rang the doorbell, but of course no one answered. They probably couldn't hear me. Complained to the security guard.

Eventually, it stopped. I told the security guard the block, floor, and unit number. Unbelieveable. I live on the ninth floor and in a different building and I could hear their music.

I wrote a letter to the management. If it happens again, I am going over to that unit again. What a bunch of inconsiderate idiots. I really don't understand why there are so many selfish and ungracious people in this country.

Yep, I definitely need to work on "Love thy neighbour."

Writing B papers

2006-10-21T11:45:00.000+08:00

Have another paper to write this weekend for a Master class. Sucks. Seems like I have to write something for a professor at the university like every two weeks.

Can only write papers on weekends because too hard to focus after work on weekdays. Fortunately, I am a fast writer. It's due on Monday. I don't like to spend the whole weekend stuck at home writing, so I get up early and write on Sat and Sun.

So far, my marks have been okay. Bs and B pluses. Could have gotten straight As if I didn't wait until the last minute to write (the weekends). Ha!

Oh well. Marks are not everything.

Getting Lost at Vivo City

2006-10-15T14:16:00.000+08:00

Have you been to the super huge mall called Vivo City? It is the largest mall in Singapore. I am not joking. You can really get lost there. It is so crowded too. Located right above Harbour Front MRT.

There are a few new stores that are attracting attention like Gap and Bear and Pull. There is a 15 hall Golden Village with its own arthouse hall called Cinema Europa.

I think it is going to be busy there all the time. It's quite wide on the ground floor but narrow on the second.

Do we really need another mall? I like shopping, but not all the time.

The Men are Scared

2006-10-10T16:37:00.000+08:00

Made dinner for a friend the other night and we got talking about the men in Singapore. He thought that Singaporean men were immature and that's why I should never date one. He's Singaporean too, but studied in the UK. He came back a couple of years ago and wants to go overseas again.

According to him, if I am too direct or assertive I could scare the guys away. My point is that if I just waited, nothing would happen because the guy does not have enough confidence to ask me out. He said I have to pretend I am in secondary school because that's how emotionallly immature guys are. They like to be in control. That's riduculous and silly.

Are men really that scared and insecure?

Fight on the MRT

2006-10-06T19:46:00.000+08:00

Okay, I am not afraid of anyone. I was taking the MRT to Boonlay on Thursday after work when I saw two secondary boys blasting their music. They didn't have headphones and wanted everyone to hear their music. I couldn't tolerate it. I was tired and annoyed.

So I yelled at them to turn it off. "Is that your music? Is it really necessary that we all hear your music. Use headphones or turn it off." The jerks totally ignored me. They didn't even make eye contact. So I yelled at them some more. I wanted to call the MRT station for help but I didn't have the number.

They were wearing short sleeved white shirts with school badges and blue pants. I couldn't tell which school they were from. If I do find out, I will talk to their principal.

They were really tall and big boys too. But I didn't care. I am sick of inconsiderate people on public transport. I think they were Malay because they were both very dark. Of course, no one else on the train stood up for me.

I hate this place sometimes. People just mind their own business even when there are idiots around.

I am going to be even more pissed off if I see them again. They better watch out because next time I am going to keep shouting until they stop or get out.

Making Noise

2006-10-01T14:44:00.000+08:00

Do you have any friends who always need to be the centre of attention? They always say stuff or do stuff to get attention. I just ignore them. But sometimes they get on my nerves.

What about guys who can't seem to make up their minds about women? They are annoying. They need to decide if they like the girl and go for it or don't like them and leave them alone. There are so many wishy-washy guys in this country.

One more thing. People who jump the queue. I never let anyone jump in front of me when I was there first and have been waiting for a long time. I will tell them that I am first if they try to budge in front of me. It really pisses me off.

Nothing Much

2006-09-30T22:20:00.000+08:00

Hmm...nothing much to write about. Not feeling very inspired or anything.

There are huge cracks on my walls. They keep getting longer and longer. Cheap workmanship. That's why I would never buy a place here.

It just falls apart after a few years. What a rip off!

Can Men Be Trusted?

2006-09-16T23:28:00.000+08:00

I have to wonder about attached men who ask single women out. I am very suspicious of guys who want to spend time with a girl they have just met.

What is he doing asking other women out when he already has a girlfriend? Is he bored of his relationship? Are they on the rocks? I have to wonder about that. Or maybe I am being paranoid?

Deadlines

2006-09-09T14:51:00.000+08:00

So much stuff to do for work and courses lately. Sucks. Fortunately, I am a fast writer. Took some paperwork to do at home on the weekend. Arghh!! Need a vacation....Soon!

Time is fleeting

2006-09-01T22:02:00.000+08:00

Arghh! My workload is getting heavy. Too many deadlines coming up. It's actually stressing me out so that I can't sleep well. Usually, I can deal with stress fairly well, but not this time.

I keep thinking about all of the stuff I have to do and doing none of the stuff that I want to do. Must manage my time better and stay on top of things.

Going to have to do some work at home on the weekend to catch up. Angry!

The Clueless

2006-08-20T09:37:00.000+08:00

Has anyone ever noticed that there are people who don't seem to have any fun or energy? I think there must be a lot depressed people here. They work, sleep, go out with friends or family out of obligation..... and that's it.

They have no spirit or genuine interest in their lives or the things going around them. They don't care about anything. They don't care about helping others or getting involved in their community. They don't particularly like anything or hate anything. They just exist. They just go through the motions.

Sundays

2006-08-13T08:21:00.000+08:00

Do you stay home on Sundays? I like to do stuff at home on Sundays. Avoid Orchard Road if I can. Just do errands at home like finish housework and laundry. Maybe go to the nearby supermarket to pick up a few things depending on if I think I will be cooking or not.

I should cook more, but there is never enough time. I don't feel like making anything that requires more than one pot or pan if I get home late from work. Cooking is okay; it's the shopping and cleaning up which is inconvenient.

It would help if I had a car.....or a motorcycle as Unreal would say. Then I can just go to the store at the last minute to buy what I need. Fortunately, I am within 15 min walking distance from a supermarket. Nothing fancy. Just your basic stuff.

Actually, I am a bit tempted to catch a movie. But I don't feel like dealing with mobs of people walking into me. So staying home again....

ipods addicts

2006-08-09T20:20:00.000+08:00

Does anyone think that ipods are making people less sociable and even rude? I know several people who are ipod addicts. They are always plugged in during their free time. They will probably have hearing problems in the future if they aren't careful.

I hate it when say hello to ipoders and they don't bother to give a verbal reply. Just a nod of their head. Who do they think they are? Don't they have the common courtesy of unplugging themselves for two seconds to give a proper greeting?

ipods are making them into rude self-absorbed people.

Back to Work

2006-08-06T21:50:00.000+08:00

I have been on leave. One week. Back to work tomorrow. Arghh! Was getting used to getting up late and watching tons of TV. Not that there is much on, but I like just lying on the couch and being a vegetable. It was nice to hang around my place so much. I never got bored either.

Vanity

2006-08-04T15:26:00.000+08:00

I am getting more vain as I get older. I have started using proper skincare products so I will look better. Using sunblock everyday too, so I don't get wrinkles and skin cancer.

Not sure when this happened. I am a low maintenance person. I don't spend tons of money on cosmetics, facials, hair treatments, and pedicures. I have managed to ignore the constant attack of ads and products which make you want to have brighter and whiter skin. They aren't cheap either!

Are women here more vain than women in N.America? Why does everyone want whiter skin? Is it supposed to make you look younger? Or is there something else. Do Asian women want skin like Caucasian women?

CCTV on the Bus

2006-07-26T14:25:00.000+08:00

I think I saw CCTV cameras on 171 bus yesterday. There was this weird thing on the inside of the bus above the windows. It looked like a round bubble thing sticking out of the ceiling of the bus. There was another at the front of the bus and a third at the back. I think they are cameras.

Will the cameras reduce violence on buses? I remember reading a story about a man who was being beaten by another man on the bus and passengers just watching and not helping. He was finally rescued by another Indian passenger.

Actually, I am hoping that the cameras will make people behave better. I am sick of people who have their music cranked up so loud that everyone can hear. It's really annoying. I yelled at a couple of kids at the back of the bus last week. I said, "Who has their music on so loud? We don't really need to hear it, so turn it down!" The culprit turned down the volume after that.

Why do people have such bad manners on the bus? It's as bad as going to see a movie when phones keep going off or people have conversations on their phone.

Painting

2006-07-25T11:19:00.000+08:00

I must live in one of the noisest complexes. First, there's the construction across the street. Complained to NEA about how early and late they are always building. They said they can't do anything unless the noise level is over 60 decibels, but they have set up a noise level monitoring device on the street. Second, my upstairs neigbours are hammering something. Third, my complex is being repainted. The gondola is right outside of my window. Keeping the curtains drawn whenever there are painters out there.

Attack of the Mosquitoes

2006-07-20T03:46:00.000+08:00

I hate it when there's a mosquito in my place. It has bitten me like twenty times in the last three days. Driving me nuts. Sometimes, I can even here it buzz past me when I am lying in bed. I tried switching on the light to find it, but no luck.

Sucks because I get quite swollen from each bite. Itches like mad. How can something so small cause so much agony? Annoying!!!!

Cold Update

2006-07-14T23:53:00.000+08:00

Drat! The sore throat went away, but have a hacking cough. Sucks to be me. Drinking lots of fluids and honey with hot water. Honey is good for soothing the throat.

Saw the Pirates of the Caribbean sequel with my scooter friend. The movie is too long, but there are some really fun stunts. I especially like the ball cages and the swordfight on the giant wheel.

Love the Davey Jones guy too. The tentacles were pretty cool. If you watch this movie, you have to watch past all of the credits so you can see the extra scene. It's funny. But it has to be all the way to the end of the credits or you won't see it.

Chicken Soup

2006-07-10T16:02:00.000+08:00

Had a sore throat. Might be coming down with a mild cold. Made chicken soup with all of the funky Chinese herbs. Don't know what most of them are called.

Here are the funky Chinese herbs that went into the soup.

Here are the wolfberries and slices of ginseng that went into the soup.

The chicken...

Here is a shot of the soup cooking on the stove.

So everything had to cook for 3 hours. Then add some salt and it's done!

Felt much better after drinking it. Highly recommended if you are ever sick.

Modern Torture

2006-07-07T15:44:00.000+08:00

I discovered how women torture their boyfriends, husbands, or male coworkers in this country. Take them to the Great Singapore Sale. Make them carry your cutsey handbag and shopping bags.

It's terrible. Especially in Mango. I saw so many bored guys with the glazed look in their eyes. Felt sorry for them. Why do women do that? I would never force a guy go shopping with me.

The guys looked bored to death. Standing in the corner with no place to sit and nothing to do. They don't care which outfit or shoes the woman wants to buy.

I really think it's a kind of torture. Those guys should stay home or ditch their women. Ha!

What binds couples together?

2006-07-02T09:28:00.000+08:00

I always wonder what holds some couples together. Especially when I know ones who don't seem to have anything in common. i.e. no common interests, different values, different backgrounds, and different cultures

Is it just physical attraction? I don't think so. They aren't that physically affectionate towards each other.....well, not from what I can see.

If they don't have any common interests, then what do they do when they meet? Don't they run out of things to say? Or maybe that's not important. Maybe they just like each other's company and don't need to talk that much.

Maybe it doesn't have anything to do with each individual person. It's what they become when they are a couple. Their personalities are compatible and they are better together than alone.

Or maybe it's just trust. How many people can you really trust? That you can always rely on them no matter what?

I wonder....

Things I like

2006-07-01T09:08:00.000+08:00

Decided to write a short list of positive things to balance out the Pet Peeves list. They aren't in any particular order.

-sunny weather
-fresh fruit
-clean laundry
-cold drinks on a hot day
-helpful people
-arthouse movies
-spicy food
-dynamic conversations

Pet Peeves

2006-06-30T21:29:00.000+08:00

1. People who talk loudly on their handphones on public transportation. We don't really want to hear everything you say, so shut up or don't talk so loud.

2. Women who whine. It's not attractive. Knock it off. You aren't 12 years old.

3. People who never say thank you. I am going to say "You're welcome" until you get the hint.

4. Horrible bus drivers. You are not in Formula One. Learn how to brake properly. Why are the bus rides so jerky here?

5. The construction in my neigbourhood. Why are you drilling, hammering, and pouring concrete at 10:30 at night? Give it a rest. There are other people living around you. I am going to keep calling the NEA etc until you stop.

Stupid Chinese Superstitions

2006-06-24T11:52:00.000+08:00

I have to say this....there are some really dumb Chinese superstitions. Here are a couple of really stupid ones:

1. Don't wash your hair on Chinese New Year because it will wash away bad luck. That's stupid. If my hair is dirty, I am washing it no matter what. What does luck have to do with having dirty hair? Nothing.

2. New mothers should not bathe for the first three months after having a baby. That's also stupid. The reason for that idea was that women used to take baths in the freezing river and they might catch cold. Won't you smell terrible and look awful if you don't shower or bathe for three months? Gross.

There are tons more. What is one stupid superstition that you know? Post them here.

Spoiled Rich Kids

2006-06-23T21:23:00.000+08:00

I can't help but criticize parents who spoil their kids. For example, they give their kids credit cards or buy them whatever they want. The kids never have to do chores for an allowance or take a part-time job to make pocket money.

I think parents are not good parents if they don't teach their kids about money. They should teach them that money comes from hard work. They should teach them to save money and share it with others. Or show them that it's good to give some money to charity or use it to help others.

I remember having part-time jobs throughout university. I didn't want to ask my parents for money and I really learned the meaning of money because I worked.

I am really surprised at how many teenagers I know who have never worked a day in their life. Their parents just hand them things. It's terrible. No wonder kids today are so bratty and lazy.

Sick of World Cup

2006-06-22T15:16:00.000+08:00

If you aren't into football or soccer, then you are probably sick of hearing about the World Cup and seeing it everywhere. Anyone else feel the same?

Extreme Noise

2006-06-18T09:23:00.000+08:00

Why do construction companies think they can make as much noise as they want and whenever they want? There is a condo being built near me and the construction is going on all the time!

It's really disturbing the peace around here. For example, they were hammering and pouring cement on Monday night at 9:30 at night. I saw a cement truck drive into the construction area. It's ridiculous.

Moreover, the hammering started at 8 am today. And it's Sunday! What the fuck? Don't they realize that people are still sleeping?

I have already called NEA (National Environment Agency) to complain on Monday. I may have to call them again.

I am going to keep complaining until NEA does something. This is not acceptable.

Another week is over

2006-06-16T21:32:00.000+08:00

Long week at work. Glad it's over. Exhausted. Too tired to go out and it's Friday night. Going to be a couch potato and hang out at home.

Can't deal with crowds of people. So home, home, home.....

What is customer service? Does it exist?

2006-06-15T14:01:00.000+08:00

Some collegues were talking about the terrible customer service in this country. I have to agree with them. Workers don't know how to deal with customers' problems or complaints.

Customer service is so much better in Canada and the US. Workers are polite and try to help even if they aren't sure what to do. Here, they just say no and ignore you.

I have to really get confrontational to get what I want or any kind of response from workers. How does the government expect more tourists to come if the service here sucks?

What will happen when the casino opens here? Are they going to have to hire foreigners to work there? Are they going to train people to provide good customer service?

Rain, Go Away!

2006-06-11T14:15:00.000+08:00

Why has been raining so much lately? It's not the rainy season. This weathers sucks. Thunder and lightening too.

Sudden Marriages

2006-06-10T10:31:00.000+08:00

Found out from a total stranger who knew a male friend of mine that the male friend got married a few weeks ago. Wow. I was surprised. Why are guys so secretive? They suddenly get married without telling anyone. The next thing you know, you see them with their wife!

Was my friend ever going to tell me? I messaged him that I heard the big news and congradulations. His reply was "What big news?" At that point, he should have known what I meant instead of just pretending that I didn't know or pretending that he was going to tell me soon.

It's not a big deal. Do guys think that I am going to have a nervous breakdown just because I went out with them a few times? Get over yourselves.

Or maybe he didn't want everyone to know he was married. I don't know.

Anyways, forget and forgive. However, I wish him the best. I hope that they have tons of children. Ha ha! Would like to see him settled down and more responsible.

The Guys were more interesting that the girls

2006-06-04T15:49:00.000+08:00

Went to a speed dating thing last weekend. A friend of a friend was organizing it. Thought "what the heck". Gave it a try. 9 Guys and 9 gals. Talked to each guy for like 7 minutes. Went with a male friend of mine. Told him to start a few tables away from mine, so we can have a break later when he got to me.

He didn't find any of the women cute or hot. Does it really matter that much? But then he said he didn't have much in common with any of them. He was really unimpressed. One of them was shocked when he said he didn't watch TV. He's into the Arts so he thinks TV is a waste of time.

So we compared notes afterwards. He said that the guys I met sounded way more interesting than any of the gals. They were okay. A few were way too young for me. They looked like they just got out of university. No thanks! However, I think they should have dressed up more. First impressions count.

Why did all of the gals dress up and the guys didn't? One of the first guys I noticed was the best dressed one. He was wearing a white short sleeved shirt, proper pants, and shoes. Nothing too fancy or trendy. He was just presentable.

Gave my friend crap for not looking better. He was just in his usual tshirt and jeans. I think he needs to hit the Great Singapore Sale and buy some shirts.

Back to Books

2006-06-04T15:44:00.000+08:00

I bought a lot of books lately. Many book sales going on. Now I have a stack of 7 or 8 books at home to read when I feel like it. Sometimes, I read 2 or 3 books at a time. Get bored with one, then move to another. They are all so different so I don't get confused.

If a book is really terrible and I can't get into it, then I will just stop and go back to it a few weeks later. I hate not finishing a book even if it sucks. But if it really really sucks, then I just don't finish it.

People Out There

2006-06-03T11:49:00.000+08:00

How many people do you really find interesting out there? What makes a person really interesting? Their job, their experiences, or what?

I find it's hard to find people who I really like or am interested in. Am I too particular?

Okay....I am a snob! Actually.....I don't think I am. I try to talk to people. Maybe I just have ADD - Attention Deficit Disorder.

Singapore Idol Was Horrid

2006-06-01T12:36:00.000+08:00

I didn't watch the audition shows because I knew there would be a bunch of wackos who would do crazy stuff just to get attention. But I did watch the first show last night. Seven guys and almost no singing ability.

Only two of them could sing: the Goth-looking kid with the messy hair and the last singer who looked a bit like some Tawainese pop idol. They had potential because they could carry a tune.

The rest were really horrid. Can't sing and no personality.

The judges were terrible. I don't think their advice was helpful at all. Some of their comments were not useful either. Is Ken Lim trying to be Simon? He always looks so grumpy and negative.

Avoiding Staff Events

2006-05-27T14:04:00.000+08:00

Is it bad to never go to any staff parties? I rarely attend them. Actually, I don't think I have gone to a single one all year. I don't enjoy them and don't have much to say to most of my coworkers.

Most of them are foreigners working here. So am I. But very few of them seem to know any local people or have made any effort to get involved in the local community.

What's the point of living overseas if you just hang out with your own kind? Are they here just to make money and have a holiday?

Goodbye to a Collegue

2006-05-19T08:05:00.000+08:00

I just got the news on Friday moring that a collegue has died. It was very sudden. She was only in her thirties. She was on medical leave for most of last year, but returned to work this year because she was doing better. But our schedules didn't really match, so I hardly saw her this year. I didn't even know that she was going to take 2 weeks medical leave to get chemotherapy.

She checked into the hospital because she felt sick and died from cardiac arrest.

I think her death is a reminder to us.....that life is short. That any of us can die at any time. Also, there is a reason why things happen.

There was supposed to be a big event on Friday night. Even though most of us were still in shock and sad, we went ahead with it. We felt that she would have been embarassed or felt guilty if we had cancelled it because of her.

Anyways, we will all miss her. I am sure she is in a better place.

Being Polite

2006-05-12T22:57:00.000+08:00

I have always been polite to taxi drivers and cashiers. Maybe that's the way I was raised. Or I think that if I say thank you and make polite small talk, people will act nicer to me.

Or maybe I feel sorry for people who have to drive cabs all day to make a living or who are stuck behind the counter dealing with loud and rude customers all day.

The cashier at the supermarket seemed happier after I talked to her.

Our conversation:

Me: Hello. How are you?
Cashier: Fine. How are you?
Me: Good. You have to work on the holiday? (It's Vesak Day)
Cashier: Yes, but I get double pay!
Me: That's good.
Cashier: We are open every day. Even on Christmas.
Me: That's too bad.
Cashier: It's okay. I can do it. I can't if I was married.

Social Control

2006-05-12T10:54:00.000+08:00

Why do the buses and MRT stop so early? I hate trying to get home late at night. I don't want to keep spending money on taxis. Why can't there be buses like every half an hour after midnight or something?

Is this some kind of social control or is it purely economics? Not enough people will take buses or the train after midnight, so there aren't any? Or one of the higher ups think that by not offering them, people will stay off the streets? We can't have lot of people gathering outside?? Might start a crime wave?? I wonder.....

This is one of the most annoying things here. Lack of transport late at night if you don't own a car.

Election Day

2006-05-06T00:06:00.000+08:00

Tomorrow is election day. Some of my friends don't get to vote. Walkovers. Wonder what percentage the PAP will end up with in the end. I am going to guess around 65%.

Part 3

2006-04-30T20:54:00.000+08:00

Here is some more of that conversation. Oh yeah, we were driving around during the previous conversation. Were looking for a place for a quick drink.

P: Well? How many times per week?
Me: I am not telling you!
P: Why not? I am just curious.
Me: Erm.....times a week. (sorry, not going to give the number here)
P: Does that mean every time you meet up?
Me: No. It's like 80% of the time or something like that. I still can't believe that you haven't had sex with your wife in 3 months. That's so long ago!!
P: We are just busy.
Me: When the sex goes, usually everything else does too.

Silence from P. I decided not to press him further about that. But now I wonder if this is the longest period of abstinence. Maybe it's normal for them to go so long without connecting physically?

Pretty is not enough (part 2)

2006-04-29T21:09:00.000+08:00

Here is some more about the conversation with P. Didn't have time to type it all up before.

P: How often you like to have sex with your boyfriend when you had one?

Me: I am not telling you! (with slight outrage)

P: Why not? I am just curious!

Me: It's not nice to talk about it.

P: Why? (very calmly)

Me: It's just not nice. Anyways, it's kind of disrepectful!

P: Come on. Just tell me.

Me: Why do you need to know?

P: No reason.....well, since we are friends, I can ask you. I know that you don't really mind.

(Silence from both of us)

Pretty is not enough

2006-04-29T15:25:00.000+08:00

Went to a visit a friend's school. Let's call him P. He's a teacher at a neighbourhood secondary school. Was quite impressed. They specialize in the Arts, so there were lots of performances and examples of student work. There was a group of boys who were very happy to talk to me about their inventions. (They also have a robotics program.) They were quite clever.

Anyways, P and I went for a drink after. As usual, we catch up on what's been going on at work etc. Then P says what he always says, "Why is a pretty lady like you still not married? I don't get it."

Here's our conversation:

P: How come you aren't meeting any men?

Me: Don't know.

P: You're pretty, so I don't get it. It's a mystery!

Me: I keep telling you that being pretty is not enough (sounding slightly annoyed
because I have told P this a zillion times). I have to connect with the person.

P: What's going on? What happened?

Me: Nothing. Nothing happened. I am fun, smart, interesting, and do lots of things.
I am okay by myself.

P: That's what I mean. How come you are still alone?? (sounding more annoyed than
I am)

A few minutes later....

P: When was the last time you had a date?

Me: Erm....last year.

P: What!!

Me: Think it was like November 2005.

P: What happened?

Me: Nothing. Our schedules just didn't match and we weren't interested in each other
enough.

P: When was the last time you had sex?

Me: Last year. What about you? When was the last time you had sex with your wife?
(trying to turn things around and avoid further interogation)

P: 3 months ago.

Me: Holy Cow! That long ago! Why?

P: We are too busy.

Me: That's a stupid reason. I have an excuse because I am single. But you are
married!

Moving on

2006-04-23T09:45:00.000+08:00

How do you know when it's time to move on? i.e. to another company or another country. I am here because of my job. I have worked in several other countries as well, but lately I have been feeling that I really don't fit into my company and maybe it's time to find another job or even another country. Find a job in a country that I am interested in.

The downside is starting over. i.e. Making new friends (which isn't easy at my age) and still being able to do things that I like. But I never let the cons worry me too much. It wouldn't be the first time that I had to start over.

Starting over is sometimes good. New environment, new challenges, new people.

Decisions, decisions.

Groupies

2006-04-22T21:39:00.000+08:00

It's strange but people really become groupies around movie directors. Saw a friend at SIFF and he had to have his picture taken with a particular Japanese director. We got there early for the show and saw him sitting there with an interpreter.

We chatted with him for bit...the director that is. My friend got his autograph too. I could have gotten it, but I I have never really been interested in collecting autographs.

Maybe I just see directors as regular people with a unusual job. Their jobs are a lot more interesting than mine and they get to work with celebrities. But I don't really care.

After the movie, there were a bunch of people (groupies again) around the director. More autographs. A few Japanese fans. Apparently, he is going to Zouk tonight. Maybe he will be inspired by Zouk for his next movie. Not!

Motorcycles

2006-04-22T09:18:00.000+08:00

I am really thinking about getting my bike license though I still think it's really really dangerous riding in this country. But I am considering riding to work because my office is moving and I don't want to take the bus for over an hour every day.

Heard it would only take 20 minutes if I drove. But a car is too expensive. It's a waste of money too. COE for a car is ridiculous. Rather spend my hard earned money on something else.

Any advice? Unreal? Good driving school? Do you have life insurance? What happens if you get into an accident.

Change

2006-04-15T09:35:00.000+08:00

If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be? Financial situation, physical appearance, or a personality trait? What??

My First Time

2006-04-14T12:23:00.000+08:00

I am finally going to do it! E-file my tax returns for the first time. I am always a bit nervous about doing any kind of online government form.

Will the computer crash? Did I forget to input something? Did I type in the wrong amount? Will I get charged with tax evasion for doing it wrong??

Fortunately, the e-filing deadline has been extended to April 18. So I saved a draft and will submit it later.

It's so easy!

Boring Ms Singapore Universe

2006-04-10T20:06:00.000+08:00

Did anyone watch the show? I only saw the ending to see who won and what type the judges liked. It's all subjective, of course.

Actually, I kind of guessed the winner just by reading the papers. It kept mentioning the woman with the biggest assets, so it's no surprise when she won.

I feel sorry for her. The press kept raving about her breasts and not much else. On the other hand, she gets cash and prizes....and maybe she will become nominated MP one day just like another former pageant winner.

I did notice something weird. The finalists didn't seem to care if they won or not. Even the hosts sounded so fake and bored.

The Last One

2006-04-07T10:30:00.000+08:00

Have one paper left to write. The last one for this semester of master's classes. Sick of academic writing. Have to put myself under house arrest to get it done. Day off today, so can stay home and write in between watching TV and eating.

Goal: finish by 3 o'clock. Then I can get out and enjoy the sunshine.

Excess Baggage

2006-04-06T15:02:00.000+08:00

Got back from my trip. On the return flight, there was a Japanse lady with her son and tons of hand luggage. Why would someone bring 6 pieces of hand luggage plus 3 boxes of computer stuff? It's kind of weird and also expensive. She was hogging all of the space in the overhead compartments. Why didn't she just buy some large suitcases instead? It's really weird.

Also, her son (or maybe her grandson) was completely indifferent and not helping her at all. What a lazy bum! He was probably 16 or 17 and he just sat in his seat while she tried to put stuff up in the compartments. She had to climb up on the arms of the seats too while the son was a lot bigger and taller.

I have to say that there are 3 places where I see inconsiderate people:

1. movie theatre
2. buses
3. airplanes

Do you have patience?

2006-04-02T14:27:00.000+08:00

Maybe it's because I get tired of the inconsiderate people around me all the time or Singapore is so small and everyone lives so close together, but sometimes I really lose my temper and patience.

I try to let things go and not let other people's actions get on my nerves, but sometimes I immediately react with anger. If it's someone being really noisy, then I tell them to be quiet. Especially in a movie theatre. Actually, I would even yell at them to shut up if they keep making noise.

I didn't used to be so intolerant. Or maybe I encounter more rude people here. I should try to be more calm before reacting.

Getting off of the island

2006-03-31T20:15:00.000+08:00

Taking a few days off next week to get away. Feeling a bit uninspired lately. Not sure why. It happens periodically. Maybe it's the environment. Time for a change? Another country?

Big Brother is Watching

2006-03-25T18:53:00.000+08:00

So I read in the paper that LTA may put CCTV cameras on all of the buses. It's a pretty expensive solution to getting people to behave better on buses.

Are people really going to give up their seats to pregnant ladies and the elderly just because there are a few CCTV cameras on board? I wonder....

This country is interesting. You never know when you are being watched.

Accidental Trip to NTU Hostess Bar

2006-03-17T13:49:00.000+08:00

Erm...I somehow ended up at a hostess bar a couple of nights ago with a friend. We went to NTU Alumni Club and shock......there had been some massive changes. And I don't mean moving the furniture around or changing the menu.

There is a hostess bar in in the NTU ALUMNI CLUB!!

It really felt like we had walked onto a movie set....Hong Kong in the 1970s. There were Chinese women in beaded gowns of various colours like electric blue, royal purple, and florescent pink. Very decadent.

There was a stage decorated with balloons and the hostesses took turns singing old Chinese songs while some old guy played the keyboard. They were probably songs about undying love or something like that. There was even a strobe light and dance floor with middle-aged people waltzing around.

It was quite funny. Oh yeah....the hostesses looked kind of old too. They were over forty and wearing a many layers of cosmetics.

We only stayed for a quick drink and left. Too strange for us.

As my friend noted, "None of the customers looked like NTU graduates!!"

Passion or Obsession

2006-03-11T23:30:00.000+08:00

When does a passion or hobby become an obsession? When you start neglecting your friends, family, or other things in your life? I recently realized that someone I know is too into one hobby. He doesn't seem to do anything else except work and pursue his passion. I don't think he has any friends and his family is not here.

I think it's good to have a passion for something....something that you really like to do as long as it doesn't hurt yourself or others. But when someone is too into something, then isn't that unhealthy? Shouldn't he have more balance in his life?

It's probably none of my business....but I have to wonder. It's not normal to spend so much time on one thing, right?

Sucker for Girl Guides

2006-03-10T18:52:00.001+08:00

Two cute little girl guides (Brownies actually) came to my door to ask if I wanted to donate money. I asked them why they weren't wearing their uniforms. Apparently, they just came from home and live in the neigbourhood.

Wonder how they got past the security guard. Guess it's hard to say no to two little girls even though they aren't supposed to be ringing doorbells. They looked like they were 9 or 10 years old.

I gave them $10. Didn't even hesitate. Probably because they were so cute and industrious. They gave me one tiny package of sweets and said thank you very politely.

Glad they had good manners. I have noticed the lack of manners in shops lately. Why don't people say thank you in this country? Is everyone so rude and only care about taking your cash? Managers should be teaching their staff to be more polite. I always say thank you even though the cashier ignores me.

Wonder what the two girl guides will do with the money....

Good Works

2006-03-09T12:42:00.000+08:00

How many people do good works or good deeds for their own personal benefit? Is it still a good deed if you have other motives or you would also benefit from doing it?

Christians believe that having faith is what really counts. It doesn't matter if you do good works or not.

In the end, it's who or what you believe in.

A conversation

2006-03-04T22:48:00.000+08:00

Friend: Why are you still single?

Me: Umm....no idea. Surprises me too.

Friend: What have you been doing?

Me: ....., ..... and ..... Lots of stuff. Why?

Friend: You should be going out more.

Me: Why?

Friend: Don't you want to meet any guys?

Me: I've met tons, but none of them.....interest me enough.

Friend: Really? What's wrong with them?

Me: Why do I have to be dating anyone?

Friend: (silence)

Below Minimum Standard

2006-02-24T21:16:00.000+08:00

What should the boss do about people who can't meet the minimum standard at their job? Should they be fired? Give them a few more chances and then get rid of them if they don't improve? I think they should be given extra training or support to bring them up to the level of the other employees.

What about someone who far exeeds the minimum? Shouldn't they be given more challenges and allowed to fly? Shouldn't they be recognized for their accomplishments? They would probably quit if they feel bored. These are the people who are going to drive the company and keep it going.

I think a company fails when it can't deal with the poor workers and the excellent workers.

What kind of boss would you be? Someone who just cuts away the dead wood? Or someone who tries to find another way to solve the problem?

Forgiveness

2006-02-19T14:11:00.000+08:00

I have always believed that one should forgive and forget in order to move on. The past is past and I should keep moving forward. Don't get hung up on things that I can't change.

But have I really been doing that? Are there some things which are just "unforgiveable"? What are those things? It's probably different for each person.

How can people spend so much on a wedding?

2006-02-17T13:16:00.000+08:00

I have been planning a company event.... dinner and dance. It's pretty easy. Venue, menu, decorations, entertainment, invitations,photographer, and music.

It costs close to $10,000 dollars for 100 guests.

So it got me thinking. How can couples spend so much money on their weddings?

Sure, I am not booking a 5 star hotel, but how do people waste so much money for one evening? I guess there is the wedding party's clothes and church ceremony, but still.....

How do people spend over $20,000 on a wedding?

All you really need is decent food, a few flowers, and entertainment.

The Guy Should Pay the Bill

2006-02-12T17:20:00.001+08:00

Read an article in The Sunday Times today discussing the opinion that some men think Singaporean women are cheap because they expect the guy to always pay the bill.

Am I old fashioned?

I think the guy should pay the bill. I am not cheap. I work, so it's not a money issue. If a guy takes me on a date, then he should pay for everything. That's how I feel. I am not really sure why. Maybe I want to believe that the guy can take care of me? But I can take care of myself. What does take care of mean? It's more than money but on a date, it ends up being money?

However, if I keep going out with him, then I would offer to go dutch. I would probably even pay the whole bill occassionally.

Sleepless in Singapore

2006-02-11T07:17:00.000+08:00

Sorry, it's a stupid title. But that's my situation. Not sleeping well. Maybe it's because of the medicine that I am still taking from my ER episode. Sucks.

So I end up taking hours to fall asleep and then I wake up at 2 am. Toss and turn some more like satay. Give up and get up before the sun rises. Might as well do stuff or type if I can't sleep, right?

Slowly Going Mad

2006-02-10T18:32:00.000+08:00

Feeling like I need to get off of this island soon. I like it here, but sometimes I start to feel like I am suffocating or need more space. Where to go??

Don't want to spend tons of money, but want to feel like I am on another planet. Desperately need a vacation.

Children in Church

2006-02-05T20:37:00.000+08:00

Why do parents bring their children to church if they can't sit still? I saw a boy (he was at least 9 years old) who was sitting with his parents and not paying attention at all. Why was he there? Is this some kind of punishment?

I felt the boy was torturing me by his distracting behaviour. He was even sitting on the floor and they were in the first row. His parents should have enrolled him in one of the Sunday school classes instead if they want him to get something out of church.

Or even better, leave him at home. He doesn't want to be there.

It's Not ER

2006-02-03T22:39:00.000+08:00

I ended up going to the emergency room at a hospital a couple of days ago. Will not name the hospital for fear of being sued. But it sucked. Fortunately, they let me into the inner waiting area and gave me a seat after I registered with the nurse. There were eight other ladies there, most were over 50, lying in beds.

So there was a lot of waiting around. Waiting for a nurse to check my vitals. Waiting for a doctor to examine me. Waiting for medicine. Got a shot in the arm from a nurse. That hurt like hell.

There were only 2 or 3 nurses and 1 or 2 young looking doctors. Are they even real doctors? They look like they are fresh out of medical school or something.

So had to stay around for another 4 hours to see if I could go home. Doctor came back and said I could go. But then I had to wait for another hour and half to get discharged. Really sucked. I just wanted to go home to sleep in my own bed.

However, the hospital were pretty fast and taking my payment for the services and medicine.