Live, Love and Laugh

2009-01-24T19:40:00.002+09:00

Looking back on the person I am, I hate to admit that I can't communicate, and my instant reaction to problems is to pretend that they don't exist.

And I suffer from being unable to build meaningful relationships. I often lament about how empty my life feels, and how people do not care about me. SL started to point out to me that it's not a case of people not caring about me. I have a problem in not being able to communicate and relate to others. Worse, I only want friends to see me at my best, and try really hard to hide all of my vulnerabilities. That itself, is a major cause of isolation. At the end of the day, everyone sees a perfectionist as unapproachable, and hard to associate with.

The problem has been going for so long that I can't even see what is vulnerable in me. Everytime a negative emotion hits, I try to sweep it under the carpets, or just sleep on it. A new day would eventually come, and it will be burried deep in my mind. At the turn of every misunderstanding, be it on my part, or on someone else's part, instead of clearing the air, I'd just run away. I hate to question things, because I'm afraid of the truth. Or rather, I'm afraid of the preconceived negative picture of what others may think of me behind all these misunderstanding. It may or may not exist. I get worked up, and would only think of the worst of myself, and of others. These practices start to get a little too comfortable and grow into an incorrigible habit, until I start reaping the consequences.

There have been countless relationships I've given up on, by just running away. Looking back, I feel ashamed letting go of friends who have been so important to me, or a relationship that I might have able salvage and bear fruit.

Indeed, I have really created a huge fairy tale out of my life. Often, people would tell me how much they envy me. But, what everyone don't see (or believe) is, I am often quite an unhappy soul. Something might amuse me for a short while. Be it a successful project I have completed at work, or a compliment from the boss, and, extending to material things like, purchasing yet another new handbag for myself, or a holiday with my sister or friends. Happiness is merely a short stint for me. It might have to do with the lack of contendment. I seem to have an insatiable hunger for everything, and don't know where to stop.

But the real challenge is to decide, who can I bare my heart to, and who can I really trust? Things tend to get abit too complicated at times.

Afterall, what SL has said is true. Only people who has exceptional patience and bond with me would make an effort to initiate the communication. Or, a mind-reader who takes interest in my life? With this, I have to thank my dad for not giving up on me, although I have been pretty strong-willed in my ways and have acted against his advice all the time. No matter what happens or how far I try to run, he would always be there with his gentle confrontation. All for my own good.

Anyway, I'm considering closing this blog, and starting another annoymous one elsewhere. I have been wanting to get back into writing for abit. Both reading and writing has always been an enjoyable mission to me. Lately, I find myself with much incohesion and my language has been plain, and infact, pretty unappealing.

Photo updates of my life will still be posted in my FB account, which will hopefully, come across alot more subdued and meaningful than before. Just to get rid of the frivolous fairy-tale image...

I know that many friends would hop onto my blog every now and then. If you wish to have access to my new blog, just email or drop me a message on my msn =)

2009-01-23T14:55:00.002+09:00

Sure, everyone will, at some stage, realise that life isn't always like a bed of roses. But if I were to turn back time, I'd rather savour those happy, carefree days, as opposed to putting it to an end so abruptly. Silly I was!

Obviously, I didn't quite expect the detorioriation.

As every new day presents itself in an ever more gloomy picture, the zest for life evaporates. Nothing means anything to me anymore. Sweet wine tastes as bland as water and, the sky no longer looks attractive in its deep blue shade. Emotions begins to wane, and I wonder if I could feel anything at all.

It all feels very strange to me, and I just can't work out what is best for me to do now. Am I just bursting into one of my moody, emotional tirade? But didn't I just mention that I'm left without much emotions in me?

2009-01-11T18:30:00.004+09:00

An atheists' advertising campain on many of the London's public buses reads,

"There's probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life"

I think it's hilarious. This advertising slogan seems to remind me how I have lost all faith in everything- justice, ethics, religion, relationships, you name it.

Religion, to me, is just about another political organisation. If you're not clear, think about the motivation behind, say for example, Crusades and Holy wars then. I have spoken blasphemy? I might have, to a fair few.

With religious issues aside, how many of us actually question things under the layers of superfical conveyance by the multi-media and perhaps pause to think about why certain things are included, or excluded from our history education?

The truth is, we're living in an immoral world today, but yet, I don't understand why we still bother trying hard to pretend to be moral beings. So, maybe, if there's at least one thing that is real, it has to be conscience. I'm somehow glad that I don't have to graduate and become a teacher. How could I teach and supposedly inspire the lives of others when I don't even know what is moral and what is not now? Everyday, I wake up to these grey hues, and struggle with deciphering colours of black and white.

A real persimistic post for today, isn't it? My cynicism is getting infectious. I'm probably reading too much into things again. I probably just need a carefree break soon, to get myself outta the trap.

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There are brighter things than this of course. I'm a vain somebody, who loves to capture every moment of my youth, the moment where a particular style clings to me like a perfect mould.

This would often materialise into vanity shots, which I'm convinced to keep with me for the rest of my lives, and look back with great fondness when I'm old and grey.

And there we are, with fine food again on a lazy Saturday, at Bonnefoi Boulevard. It's one of my favourite places in Bunbury, with sheltered waterfront and an upmarket feel. A new hotel along the stretch, I think it's Mantra, had its official opening recently. I'd think that it's going to be great!

Looking at all these beautiful things around me, in these suburban areas I've been living in, coupled with a few ideas I have read from a novel recently, makes me feel like wanting to do a little tour package and just bring people to experience an insider's world where most travel agencies do not offer. Travelling can be so affordable and enriching without forgoing simple luxuries.

Lastly, I've finally enjoyed a good saturday with SL, without any emergency calls to attend to. The last few weeks, back from weeks leading up to Christmas have been one hell of a trying time for us. We do hold differing priorities in life sometimes, and understanding needs to be especially strong for us.

The desire for couples to try and make time for each other is important. If the promise to grow old together, and stick together for better and for worse has to hold, then time commitment to nuture the relationship is of essence. The longer a relationship is allowed to deteriorate or taken for granted, the harder it is to get it back up to scratch.

I'm looking forward to the long-awaited break. Hopefully, no last minute surprises as before!

2009-01-09T20:21:00.004+09:00

So, is there anything else for me to write about, besides work grouses that revolves around the same theme of being over-worked? I guess not actually.

My emotions had been whirled up after a strange conversation with someone today. I call it strange, because the topic just popped up from nowhere, and it felt as if it had hit the core of the problem I have been trying to bury at the back of my mind. Or perhaps, there's more reasons for the huge wash of emotions. And it's really strange as certain fond, but reserved memories came flooding in.

And then the conversation moved on to something a lil' uncomfortable. Or perhaps I'm just overly-sensitive. Anyhow, I knew that the conversation has to stop. One, for practical reasons (I would like to be working during working hours). Two, I'm not sure, and am afraid of where the conversation is heading.

People do change over time. It felt especially so with that someone. Oh well, I'm probably reading into things abit too much.

I remembered the lingering pain in the eyes of ex-lovers, as I secretly observed the hug that Jo and Ad gave each other on her last day of work here, about 2 months ago by now. Love does brings us both happiness and sadness. All of a sudden, the flame of love flickers, and you realise that both essence of emotions waivers with it. Parting with each other then seem to be no chore at all, as everything gets lost in the wind. If only all breakups are that amicable of course! For we all know, love usually ends in pain for the unwilling party.

I'm not sure what I'm really driving at actually. I just need to get the anxious little butterflies out of my stomach. That's all.

On the other hand, I'm feeling kinda afraid of my own changing behaviour and preferences. I'm basically quite afraid of meeting new people and hate going to social events nowadays. Even if I do, I'd be cringing with shyness at a corner, and praying secretly that the misery would be over soon. I'm not really sure what's going on in my life. All that is comforting is to hide in my hole and be a loser. I'm hating somone at the back of my mind for making me feel inferior about myself. By now, those words and actions have taken away quite a chunk of me. I hate those poison, and I hate myself even more by allowing someone to do this to me.

I don't want to sound like a half-crazed fool by getting all emotional. Getting my priorities right is the most important thing at the moment. What I need now is get myself ready for the next level of challenge, and reap new success in my life. I'm not refering to career per se. This must not be the only thing we strive for in life. I need to rebuild myself and the happiness I wished for. Something can be done to get things right again.

And finally, may I extend the well-wishes that I have sent via SMS to a few friends in Singapore to anyone who may see this:

"Dear friends, hope you're looking forward to new goals and continue to nuture meaningful relationships in the coming new year."

Sent on NYE

For I know, there are always many spots in this world where many others are going through a greater deal of challenges in life. Hope this brief (and not so personal) greeting would brighten your day.

P/s: I now see a whole new meaning in blogs- as we read into the lives of others, we see a part of us in the mirrors of their lives.

2009-01-03T21:52:00.006+09:00

Just a quick random post...

The stock take audit went okie on NY day. It was a huge rush, and quite a mission to tabulate the figures in time for the auditors while fighting against the hunger pangs and half-alert state from working the night before. My panic button was triggered as time closed in for the audit to commence. Whatever it is, I'm glad that it's finally over, for now.

Went for a drive after work that day, and here are some photos...

More from today... I'm becoming quite a foodie recently. Have found a new love in Northern Indian food. And it was Chicken Butter Curry from the Ship Resort on Friday night.

I'm jumping right into ASOS sales. A peek at what I've got...

It's prob a wee bit too small. Wait till they arrive then =)

2008-12-30T21:44:00.006+09:00

Yes, I have changed my blog's banner, and given it a fresh coat of colour... For a new look in preparation of 2009. Hee, it sure looks cheery, but abit too pinkish to my liking. Oh well, will do something about it later.

I'm not going to have enough time to enjoy the transition from 2008 to 2009. In fact, it might be quite a wobbly start for the new year as I'm now paying the price for procrastination, and the depressive mood that has inadvertently affected my work performance. Never mind about the hyper-activity I'm suffering from overdose of MSG from my instant noodles and canned soups, the big heap of work that is going to creep into the weekends, the 16-hour day I'm expecting for tomorrow, or waking up early in the morning for the mad rush on New Year's day. And scrap the crazy week leading up to the audit which clashes with my assignment deadline too.

The bottomline is, I'm making it happen... I'm going to be a carefree sparrow next year. The long haul of breaks from work, and catching up with people I care (my sis, my family, Ag, Map, Amy, the uni bunch, the poly bunch, you girls are all included, hehe...) I'm going to travel a bit too, perhaps a trip or two by myself to somewhere I have never been before.

Unrealistic goal it may sound. There's always a time to make up for the pain one goes through and the hard slog I have put in for the past one and a half year. I have learnt quite a lot, but it's time to think about the passion I'd like to pursue this lifetime =)

Photos from Sat's lunch at Wise Winery (they were the sponsors for our Melbourne Cup Lunch, remember?)...

Wineries have some of the best dining experience, ranging from great table service to atmosphere, and of course great food to go with the wine recommendations.

The Margaret River Wine region is dotted with so many fine wineries that I would recommend visitors to be selective if you are just planning for a day trip. Do your homework well. It's only natural that many would opt for the top ones that sit on spectacular estates. With trial and error, and the help of recommendations from friends, one will find a few personal favourites from the huge lot. I love Margaret River for its upmarket wine and dine experience =) When the bill came to a $100.00 for just entree-sized lunch of 2, I wasn't at all surprised!

What's more, there're equally many wonderful sights around the region.

Bunker's Bay

Christmas and reflections

2008-12-27T00:59:00.009+09:00

It was a frustrating Christmas Eve, with lots to finish at work, and I really didn't plan to leave early. My stifled emotions had a grip on me that afternoon. I weeped a few tears of anger, and decided to call it a day.

The rest of the afternoon was spent on gorging a ridiculous amount of (unhealthy) food. I was about to open up a bottle of wine, when SL came home. He wanted us out for dinner. I didn't want to take those negativity out on him, like a wild and uncontrollable fire.

So, I arrived at the restaurant, dressed in my bright red maxi dress, munching on a huge bowl of caesar, almost believing that I could eat up all of my unhappiness and forget about them. The restaurant was pretty quiet. As I understand, Christmas is a family affair over here. Somehow, the festive season has made my emptiness more pronounced than ever.

Despite the big plans of having SL's family over for the long weekend, I felt really upset inside me. A lot of thoughts came across my mind as I playfully swirl the glass of water. With the year coming to a close soon, the inevitable question popped up- how can I make my life better?

At this time of the year, most corporations would have finalised off their budgets. For those who are familiar with budgeting, they would have realised that it would be impossible to even start punching figures on your spreadsheet without knowing the general direction set for the upcoming year(s). With a common general direction in place, managers can then work out the kind of goals (or challenges) they would like to set for themselves, and the action plans to achieve them.

I now have a critical question to answer- what is going to be the general direction for my life next year? What kind of goals I need to achieve for myself, in order to fulfil this direction I have set for my own life, in order to live it up, for the betterment of my physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being? And what action plans?

For all I know now, as simple as it is, I would like to be happy and emotionally healthy. It is going to be a life-long direction for myself. I need to be realistic with my goals. Too many goals can cloud the direction that was once clear and straight-forward. A goal that is too challenging to tackle at a given stage in life will only set your morale and motivation for life back.

As human, we can only strive to achieve our goals, set aside time for self-evaluation, re-align our goals if neccessary. More importantly, we fight, and learn. We become stronger as we confront ourselves from time to time, keep our undue fears and worries checked.

2009 might be gloomy as predicted. But all I hope is that it will get better for me, as I shut the noise out from others, who tried to direct me with what is best for me. I appreciate the kind thoughts and advice. But, I'm the rightful one to make decisions for myself and take responsibilities for them. After all, it's really my life.

"Life is short, so be very happy"

*****************************************************************************

Some photos to balance up the serious tone of this post...

Dinner at Spinnakers Cafe- 18th Dec

Christmas Eve Dinner- Spinnakers Cafe

Christmas function lunch

2008-12-24T15:13:00.002+09:00

Time is running tight. Just a couple more days to go before I close off the financial year. I could feel this immense load pressing against my chest. It only gets heavier by the day. I haven't been sleeping well, and I'm clouded by this daze all day. I couldn't do a thing at all today. It's becoming a real chore to force my mind back and work on what I should be doing. Not even on the road (Holy shit, believe it or not, I almost hit someone today. I must never drive again in this state).

Well, I guess at this stage, I'm ready to walk out. It just seem like nothing matters to me anymore. Not my career, not my studies, not love, not hatred... Absolutely nothing!

Dear Santa, all I wish for Christmas is to run away from here...

2008-12-19T20:13:00.005+09:00

Here I am wandering in the cyber-space again, taking in unwanted information that would only serve to over-stimulate my busied and cluttered mind. I have been waking up to deep swirls of confusion every morning, trying to make out what is real and what had been a bad dream.

Some days ago, I had the worst nightmare ever. I dreamt that I was possessed and died a violent death from drowning. I heard a strange voice trying to forewarn me about getting close to the waters. Having no control over myself, I couldn't escape from that tragic fate. I remembered vividly how painful it was a process to die, with no control over my actions. My fingers tried to grasp, but the indefinite liquid just slipped through my fingers, with my chest beating and breaking into painful bursts. I woke up, numbed by fear, wondering whether I was dead, and resurrected in another dimension. Dying felt so real.

Just this morning, I was jolted awake by my alarm clock from another violent dream, of myself running away on a dangerous aircraft. I didn't really know where I was heading, but for sure, I was dodging from something that was watching me. All these night-long dreams I had sure made me wonder if I even slept a wink at all these nights.

It felt as if, with every effort I have gathered to focus on the mad run of figures at work, those characters on my screen just seemed to jump about with a proportionate amount of enthusasium. My concentration just had to melt and dissolve into an even murky concoction as the day wore on. I could hardly make it past lunch time. It was a tempting thought to just make up some excuses and go home early to catch up on sleep. I just knew I couldn't do that. My staff seemed to be much more productive than me, and I'm pretty sure it's only a matter of time for my facade to break, and everyone would be able to read my weary looks like a book.

Sometimes, I really have the urge to just push over the table and announce that I had enough. Or probably flash that vulgar finger at everyone and say, "FxxK all of you", before I take off in a flight? Two friends of mine have already told me that they're ditching their unhappiness (from work) and looking elsewhere. I just want some quiet time to think about what really makes me happy. FxxK that degree that I'm working on if I need to. If finance or accounting isn't my cup of tea, fxxk it then. Why would I care about something as superficial as having a great career to show off, when there isn't one bit of happiness left inside me.

I can barely make it to the end of the financial year. With 22 more days to go, I'm already huffing and puffing from the annoyance of unrelated people, and my bosses (if you don't already know, my work encompasses a wide scope. IN ADDITION to the already overloaded duties within the Accounts Department, and sometimes Front Office issues, I'm also required to deal with HR matters, involving the dirty job of handling unhappy and unreasonable people. And yes, fxxk you all for non-stop harrassment).

There's just not much fight left in me to meet the deadlines and handle the auditors when the time comes. Wish I could really run away, to a place where no one knows me.

FxxK, FxxK, FxxK!

Travelling and loving life...

2008-12-14T17:25:00.007+09:00

After many nights of reading bits and pieces in my half-asleep state in bed, I've finally finished "Ooh La La! A French Romp" by Ann Rickard. As promised in the synopsis, it was a great read, based on the hilarious narration of an anxious first-time tour operator, taking a group of eight to explore Southern France. It makes me fall deeper in love with France, and painted an image beyond the Effiel Tower, or the glittering luxury boutiques of Paris, but of true accented charm of the so-french streets, culinary appreciation and bustling markets in the greater region outside of the city.

I have even found a photo gallery that gave visual descriptives of the tour!

Someone made a comment about anyone who loves France is one that has shallow obessesions for superficial creations. I beg to differ. In my opinion, I think loving, embracing and preserving any beautiful things in life is celebration of life in its own league.

Only wish I could realise a grand trip, and have as much exciting tales to write about! If only I could cast away the cares of what'd happen at work, and not think about tomorrow for just as long as the span of my trip... Only if I could spend some days doing nothing at all, but just lazing by the pool, enjoying the foreign landscape, and translating my beautiful adventures into lively tales on my laptop.

As it is, beautiful things can happen, only if you allow it to. I'll have to think of a way somehow then.

Now, I'm starting on a new book, Bitting the Big Apple, by Bella Vendramini. It's a book about New York, one of the most exciting cities in the world! With so many places tagged on my mind, I probably should stop spending on handbags and shoes, and learn to save up to realise my dreams of a globe-trotter.

In the meantime, I'm satisfied enough to try make each day as fulfilling as possible. Be it chasing the beauty of nature, or just appreciating the simplicity of life. It feels good whenever I could let let myself have the chance to sit back and watch the world go by, in such a fashion where time and space become not a subject to me.

I have been pretty satisfied with my Saturday.

Temporary Relief

2008-12-10T17:35:00.001+09:00

All work no play does really make me quite a dull toy...

At least, since crossing the big hurdle of handling clashes of exams and work deadlines, I felt much better. And perhaps good enough for a lil' celebration of some sort.

It was a ridiculous amount of dining out the week before, trying out new places in Busso, and attending a birthday celebration in Bunbury. The following weekend was a getaway to Perth City for more dining and shopping. If you don't already know Busso (or Busselton in full), it is a tourist region that is a 3-hour drive, south of Perth City. After living for 2 years in WA, I thought it'd be quite strange if I were to announce that it's my first visit to King's Street ( a renowned area that is lined with luxury boutiques and top local designers stores). And everywhere's on sale just before xmas- a sure sign of bad times!

Anyway, King Street is lovely. We (SL and I) stopped by a chic side-walk cafe to rest our feet from shopping, and I love doing people-watching there. Needless to say, I'm totally in love with the awesome street scene.

I'm spending way too much, as if the recession doesn't exist at all. But according the multiplying effect of a dollar, I'm actually doing the economy some good isn't it? Plus, when inflation is higher than bank interest rates, what good does your money serves sitting in the bank? Hard to explain... but I'm really not being funny, esp after finishing a whole SP on Econs, I think I'm being pretty rational here.

Oh well, I'll save that for another day =P

If there's anything about working in hospitality line has done for me, I'd say the perks (ie. good food at no cost), had fatten me up quite a bit!

Look who's talking about ill-controlled buying impulse!

(Above: You won't believe that this was taken in Perth City!)

It's the most beautiful time of the year!

Got this at the 30% Bally Sales. I'd say it's the most decent amount of money to spend on shoes, made out of soft calfskin leather, and heavenly to wear!

Don't ever catch me winge about waiting for others, when I'm usually the one who is late!

Dessert at Hilton (below) was great! It's worth every cent!

And thanks Ju, for putting us up at your place. It's a lovely place, and I like the idea of doing some aromatherapy while in the shower! It's a bliss!

2008-12-09T22:30:00.005+09:00

Ask me what I have been up to, and I'd probably think food and shopping straight away!

I must have been overeating, and now there's the excess weight gained I have to be worried about. I can't explain the bi-polarity of the consequence on diet when a person is overtly stressed. One might starve, and the other (ME, in particular), tend to over-eat.

My appetite must have grown sizeably, since I left Singapore. In the past, I could not even finish my favourite Macdonalds hotcakes meal for brekky. I'd usually feel full after eating two hotcakes, and have got to bin the rest (including the barely-touched hash brown). But now, I could wolf down everything, including the cuppa that comes with the meal! And I wonder why I'm fat!

Food and dining out is becoming more and more like a culture to me, especially after being in the hospitality industry for a while by now. I chat with top chefs, and analyse how certain dishes are made when I'm out with SL for meals. He's got an amazing culinary knowledge, and seems to know what ingredients go into the preparation of mouth-watering dishes. Nowadays, where fusion food have become so ever popular, we do get the essence of interesting cooking combinations.

So, the week before was 4 days of dining out, with 2-course meals minimum! That certainly bides well for my tummy huh!

We gave Del-Casa a try for the very first time, and aren't disappointed at all! The dining atmosphere was splendid too, with a strong old-fashioned Italian taste. Just what it should be!

Yummy-licious plates from my very own workplace's restaurant! It's gotta be one of the best in town. You've gotta visit if you happen to drop by in Busso. The plentiful greens stretch for acres, which makes it ideal to go for after-dinner stroll. And there's private access to the beach too! Isn't that precisely what makes the spring/ summery weather delightful? =)

Both spots are in Busselton, Western Australia. Drop me a line if you need details =) Happy eating!

2008-12-04T11:44:00.003+09:00

Ain't I'm disgusted by the "cost-slashing" strategy adopted by many unethical companies in times of recession! Or rather has it always been the usual practice to put others to disadvantage and let the gains roll into their own pockets?

Talk about selfishness, upon receiving a letter that brought back memories of what happened more than 10 months ago, that incident had come back, to haunt me again. The selfish and vicious act of two individuals, conspired out of the motivation for self gains, has brought much grief for many others who were innocently involved. I remembered vividly the heavy heart I carried with me to work the next day, after the deeds have been exposed (the evil duo wouldn't have expected that someone has found out about them). I was utterly disgusted and disappointed, to know about the truth of how the world actually works.

Have I seen enough for someone of my age, or is there more to come? That question, I can't answer, and let alone think about it at all!

No doubt that incident has not affected me physically, my faint little heart just can't take such acts betrayals. Perhaps that eventful day, 10 months ago, has brought about the turning point in my life. I have lost trust in humanity. We humans are nothing at all. Although we had god-given priviledges to feel, we have chosen to ignore our emotions for others. The emotive drive of compassion is so fragile- a gift that we have perhaps thrown away at the early stages of life, as soon as the slightest competition is spotted. Have we, the miserable mankind, been reduced to just wanting to feel the glory of victory, and nothing else at all? Is it something worth abandoning everything else for?

Little did I realise, what I thought would be the last I'd have heard about that event, have resurfaced, affecting 2 others.

Anyway, I've been pretty sick, but still dragging myself to the horrible workplace, and having to face disgusting people. What's new? Am I not told that everywhere's the same, and give up that unreal positive thought of looking for somewhere-a-bit-more-pleasant?

Why don't we deserve to even try to find happiness, not in the wake of a glorious victory in a meaningless competition in today's world, but in being true to ourselves, and act abit more responsible to others?

If only the world works this way...

2008-11-24T21:21:00.007+09:00

I'm awfully tired.

But way to go for my exams revision! And I could hardly stay awake at work! I'm not sure if the stress is getting into me or what. Even before I went on leave, I had a few nights of bad dreams. Dreams of key people resigning. The strange thing is, I dreamt of different people resigning on different nights. The worst dream was of someone coming into my office with hordes of resignation letters.

Boy, am I going mad or something? And last night, I woke up a few times, being reminded each time, of the different things I need to complete on Monday. Basically, I have been waking up with this pressure weighing down my chest that an important agenda have off my mind.

I don' think I can go through restless nights like these for long...

Anyway, this was supposed to be a quick post.

*******************************************************

SL came back yesterday with a handful of sweet stuff from his work trip.

Revealing the goodies

A book to die for! It's gotta be the most gorgeous book I have seen! Love it to death! But not sure when I'll be able to start reading this. I have got a few on my shelves that have been untouched for a while =P

My other favourite out of the lot!

In return, I decided to cook an asian-fare! I'm a terrible cook, and it took me more than 2 hours to whip up these. From chopping to stir-frying... It's been a long time since I had a meal with soup! I miss mum's cooking the most.

Pardon me for the lack-lustre presentation. But this is really supposed to be a home-cooked fare! It actually tastes better than it seems =)

2008-11-21T12:10:00.004+09:00

More bad news today from the Australian share markets... An overnight dive for the five-year low driven by the plunge in Wall Street. So what now? I can only watch the figures roll... downhill.

The initial dip in AUD exchange was a move to protect an exporting country (think about economic fundamentals between export price and demand). Many were just as puzzled as I was, when the dollar first shrank, pretty abruptly, after a series of strong soars against the USD. Later, I have learnt that the soar was caused by rising interest rates, a move to flood monies in the economy. If interest rates are high, why wouldn't you keep them in the bank? Once the monies are locked in, the dollar is then delibrately crushed, to prevent the country's export activities from slowing down.

But again, from a forum that I have been reading, someone realised the same trend that happened years ago, when the same thing was done to inflat the interest rates and inject the exchange rate to sky high, only to find it come crashing down not long after. And the same thing happened again! Shacks, I should have bought more Chanels back then! Haha, I'll know better next time! Really, the principle of "what goes up must come down" does work, and history has repeated itself.

But what happen now is, AUD has dropped way too low. 3 cents dive overnight, and an estimated overall drop of 30% in just three months! Has the strategy for export boost become a tad too pricey? Yet, no one could predict the next move by RBA (Reserve Bank of Australia) still.

I'm not inferring that Australia is heading towards recession, and economists certainly discourage "talking ourselves into recession". But the kinda market trends we are picking up from the news nowadays, I've got a feeling that the world economy has yet to hit rock-bottom yet, and will only get worse with time. The worst fear of "Great Depression II" may be eventually realised.

Alright, never mind what I say, I'm the ultimate pessimist if you don't know me by now! =)

Granted that I have job security during these rough times, it might still work out for me. The best time to build/ buy a home is to take advantage of the low interest rates, although Australia's interest rates is still not quite as low as US yet. SL's friend bought a new car in the US on the low interest rates, and then trade in his old one, with some profits from it to rejoice over!

Too much thoughts... It's back to studies now =(

Things to do before I turn 30?- Serious self-disclosure here

2008-11-21T01:22:00.004+09:00

Very interesting stuff I have read from:

http://www.cleo.com.au/30_things_to_try_before_you_turn_30.htm

Who says that Cleo is for that bimbo or air-head? It does seem that certain articles from Cleo has given me the fuel for some inspirations about life.

1.Channel an old school movie and throw a drink in a man's face.
No comment- not sure if that means anything to me =P

2.Delete the words “like, random and totally” from your vocab.
Why??

3.Break someone’s heart; similarly, have your own broken.
Yes, I did. I learnt how both sides of the coin work now, but that cycle needs to end

4.Divorce toxic friends.
Never thought I had any.

5.Drink a champagne cocktail in a Paris bar.
Would love to, once the inflation problem stops in Europe, or when the AUD bounce back a lil' (whichever happens first)

6.Master the art of choosing the perfect wine.
"master"- haha, I'm a jack of all trades, master of none!

7.Confess that (present or past) crush on your best male friend.
I did confess crushes twice (i might have perhaps wipe off those not worth remembering), but sadly, I don't have a best male friend!

8.Drive a wickedly cool car, even if you have to rent it.
Yes I did, but not allowed to do it again (don't ever trust me with one)

9.Use an alias for a day.
Yes I did, to dope some silly guy. (HAHA)

10.Visit a strip club.
Okie, wld love to... (kidding)

11.Have a favourite book which isn’t chick-lit.
hmmm....

12.Quit a job, without having another one to go to.
I think I did, but didn't spend the time as constructively as I wanted. Would love to do it again.

13.Buy a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill and a black-lace bra.
Okie, will give it a think.

14.Learn who you can trust, who you can’t and why you shouldn’t take it personally.
Done and over with... I trust no one.

15.Live by yourself (for at least six months).
Wld love to!! But not allowed to!! The max was 3 months at the hall, with a roomy!

16.Travel somewhere by yourself – a foreign country, another city or just a road trip to the country.
Awesome- have thought of this for a long while. Will make it happen, perhaps 2009?! =)

17.Forgive someone who wronged you; apologise to someone you've wronged.
Whatever... I have got a XXX years to go to get the point..

18.Master cooking one impressive three-course meal.
You're talking about Asian/ Italian/ Japanese or what? I can do fusion if that's acceptable??

19.Learn to change a tyre.
Okie, it's good to know how to anyway. I don't want to be caught in a situation where I can only hope for some cute strong dube to come to my rescue if I ever get stuck on the highway.

20.Buy an original piece of art.
HMMMMMM.... I might...

21.Volunteer for a charity you care about.
Yes, I did voluntary work before. But for a charity I really feel for... no, not yet. Wld jump on it, if time and opportunity permits.

22.Break-up with a man who you know is bad for you; similarly, have a fling with a man who you know is bad for you!
Done!

23.Dine solo in a restaurant – no phone, book or notebook allowed.
How many times have I done that?

24.Run a marathon.
Would I live to 30, if I do that??

25.Pay off your credit card(s)/HECS debt/car loan.
No debts yet, and no, not buying a car expensive enough to take up a car loan yet...

26.Spend a whole pay packet on a pair of shoes.
Hmmmm... on a handbag yes... I lust for the huge orange box! But SHOES? You gotta be kidding!!

27.Have a killer joke you tell perfectly ready to use for those awkward moments.
Can someone give me some jokes references? I sometime suspect that I can be quite a joke myself!

28.Try something you always said you’d never do – whether it be sky-driving or eating escargot.
What is it that I'd never do?? Stop shopping for one full year?? No WAY!

29.Learn how to stand up for yourself, rather than silently seething when you receive poor customer service or someone makes a snide remark.
HAHA, I used to be a coward when it comes to that, but everyone has got to watch me now, cos I spit flames! =P

30.Have a one-night stand (or more than one).
HMMMMMMM.... Sorry, no comment on this =P

What'd your response be?

Just another website that's recommended http://www.cleo.com.au/mental-health.htm, interesting articles that everyone should at least have a browse..

“Happiness is not chasing fleeting moments of joy but, rather, focusing on how you can create the most meaningful life for you by thinking about what you value, and putting time and effort into these areas of your life.” Thomson concurs: “Doing something you like is more important than making loads of money and having ‘things’ to show for it.”

After reading the article, I can't help but ask, "Are you talking to me?" One of the readers left this comment, "Be very happy in life, don't waste it".

I'm really trying my best to be happy, so that everyone around have nothing to worry about me. There are times depressing enough, and it seems that I'm made to go through more troughs than others. I can't stop myself from succumbing. But, I'm honest when I say I don't wanna waste it either.

A beautiful day to remember

2008-11-20T21:45:00.012+09:00

I have indeed been very busy recently... doing unconstructive things!!!

The Chanel bug got me again. I have been looking up purse forum, and finding ways to get myself one before xmas! So, those efforts have finally translated into a purchase of my second Chanel bag... erm, in less than 6 months! Shan't reveal what I have got yet. It should arrive in a week's time. Can't wait to see it!

I often wonder how I could fall in love with something I have not physically seen! NO ONE I know here carries a Chanel, and there's NO Chanel boutique in WA yet (though I heard rumours of a boutique to be opened). Just participating in the discussion forums makes me feel like I know the bags so well, and photos of them are almost alive to me! I'm such a victim of the branding game!

It only means I have to save harder to make up for the holidays then =(

**********************************************************************************

Have taken 2 days off from work to study for my exams. The first day of leave (today) kicked off with quite a fantastic start! My craving for Mac breakfast has finally been satisfied! I could never wake up early enough to get a share. So, it was hotcakes and cuppaccino before I make a drive to Bunbury for my facial therapy this morning.

Went on to do some shopping, and I thought I was heading straight to the library for some studies. BUT........

With a beautiful day like this, how could I let myself get wasted with the books?

So, I parked my car at a weird corner, and thought I'd just go for a short walk. The next thing I knew was, to find myself comfortably seated with strategic views, immersed in the cheery rays of sunshine and, treated to a pot of freshly-brewed English Breakfast tea. What's worse was this...
DEAR ME!!! What have I done??? And I'm surprised that I'm not booked for parking my car at an illegal spot!

Side-tracking a little, Extensions Cafe ia really a great place to chill out for high tea. I love it more than the Goose, in terms of dining atmosphere. I will let the pictures justify this, although I have not captured the interior of the cafe, which has got a more formal feel.

Who wouldn't enjoy lazing the day by the beach with an interesting read? The beautiful sights that laid before my eyes today made me realise how oblivious I have been to the natural beauty on earth. I often could see, but unable to feel. I blame it on the quick pace of life. The wonders of nature- the sun, the pristine ocean front and the clear blue sky, have captivated my heart today. If only I could make an effort to spend more time with nature... it could have probably done me a lot more good with my well-being too!

Have I mentioned how lovely the drive back home was? The greens of the tuarts, blending harmoniously with the deep blue sky. A lovely sight it was indeed!

Wish me luck in catching up with revision now!

Lost

2008-11-14T17:32:00.005+09:00

Someone once wrote,

"Sometimes, one has to get lost in order to find oneself"

Hey, I'm really so tired of being lost. When will I ever find anything, and get to somewhere soon?

2008-11-09T12:36:00.006+09:00

My Saturday was great... erm, until I was called in at work unexpectedly to help some new staff out with problems at the front desk. There goes my Saturday evening again! I didn't even realise that time spent at work had creeped into midnight before I could get home and have a decent "dinner" to fix the hunger pangs.

I must have owed this company something big time, in ways I cannot see, to deserve this!

Better things to talk about here- I found a new toy in PS's new release, ROCKBAND! I've got to admit that the game can get pretty addictive. Also saw this Wii fitness at the store that looks pretty interesting. But for that price, I'd rather buy myself an elliptical to have a real workout.

Was back at the Goose for my seafood crave. Had originally wanted to head down to one of the wineries to try out their cellar collection while we lunch there. But a pity that I was too hungry for the 1/2 hour drive to Margaret River. Will see if we could do that next weekend. Margaret River would be my top choice to go for extraordinary dining culture. But it can only remain as one of those occassional treat if I do not want to burn a hole in my pocket, and grow fat! I'd rather spend that amount of money on a 1/2 day spa retreat or some new clothes, or even save towards my holidays.

I received the weirdest comment about my nose. Someone said that I obviously had a nose-job done. Can't work out how the conclusion was derived. I must have been born with quite a pretty nose, or I had a blotched job by a lousy surgeon, becos I can't afford for a top-class one to make it look more natural? Haha, why didn't I think of fixing my single eye-lids first, one of the major reason for that tired, sleepy look on my face every morning? And perhaps even consider some lasik surgery, so that I can save on long-term costs for those contact lenses? I'm firm in my beliefs about plastic surgery, even though it means that I have to pile on more makeup, use double eye-lid tapes and fake lashes, doing makeup tricks to apply colour contouring to make my facial features more defined.

Can't believe it's already Sunday- I wish I can stop wishing for time to fly to the next weekend. At this rate, I'm unknowingly wishing for the years of my youth to shred quicker!

I just have to hate my job!

Melbourne Cup 2009

2008-11-05T20:30:00.007+09:00

I'm never a fan of horse-racing, and have not even been on a live one! In saying that, the closest I have come to racing was during my short stint in the audit at the Singapore Turf Club. It was interesting to look at the distinction in crowd that pour in on a race night. They either came in hordes from the back gate via the public train, or, the VIPs would pull up at the front porch in attention-grabbing luxurious cars. I used to feel really odd walking off home after work in the opposite direction from the crowd's flow.

It was yet another year of work luncheon over the big race of the year yesterday. Melbourne Cup 2009 marked more than 16 months of my service with the resort. I wonder how I made it through the one year mark in the first place. After whining over the same things over and over at least 2 - 3 times a week, over 16 months, I'm really surprised that I'm not yet sick of complaining!

Melbourne Cup and wine goes hand in hand. Wise Wine was our sponsor =)

Good food, and great presentation, is not any paler by comparison!

And photos of my nasty, messy, little office/ work area for the very first time!I was only making my way down to Margaret River after work for dinner with the bosses. I love my red checked high-waist skirt from Forever 21 Singapore. Thanks Sis, for encouraging me to make that purchase! =)

My outfit for TODAY's liquor licensing course. The course was great! It's a fresh perspective to look at how another country's rules and regulations differ from Singapore's. The Australian government does takes a serious view on responsible service of alcohol, and in defining the duty of care from licensed venues. With the complicated laws, I just had to laugh my head off when our trainer said that it always pay to have a good corporate legal adviser!

Would soon be time for me to submit my report for compliance (or non-compliance) for our venue! Not exciting at all!

My three cents worth, on Art for the sake of Art

2008-11-03T21:21:00.007+09:00

If work is already bad enough, why make it worse? If the solid blacks are adding on to your gloomy, laden day, make a change to how you look... For the better!

Dressing up for work can be a chore, especially for a busy-body like me, who has a long list of tasks to think ahead. But really, I don't have a good reason to stick to the usuals, when my wardrobe is bursting with clothes, some never even worn before!

Part of the reason why I adore fashion is because of the way I appreciate it as a form of art. Art of expression, and an art that is culmination of a society's development of culture, affluence and creativity. When I was doing my History major in uni, I remember a professor of mine once said that man create art, not for the sake of art, but for the exploitation of it for political means.

How controversial is that! I see how both sides of the coin work. Man are naturally attracted to objects that are aesthetically pleasing. As defined in Wikipedia, art is "the process or product of deliberately and creatively arranging elements in a way that appeals to the senses or emotions, especially beauty"

Therefore, I can see how man use it as a tool of deception to convey obscure messages to audience who are lost and whose judgements turn vulnerable in the face of the appealing beauty. Appealing creations of art, which includes an inexhaustive list ranging from motion pictures, performing arts, literature to paintings, are indeed effective vehicles of propaganda.

Strangely, as much of a cynic as I am, I still want to believe in "Art for the sake of art".

Art is a subject that is so distanced from what I'm actually doing. It's unreal that I would embrace it so much. I can't imagine how dull the world would be if mankind let go of the pursue of art, one of the very last of beautiful things that remain in this ugly world.

Back to the main topic...

Some clothes I have bought from my trips this year, which I haven't got the chance to showcase =P (namely from Malaysia and Korea)

2008-11-01T14:24:00.004+09:00

Yawnz... It's a Saturday, an absolutely glorious day, but my alarm just had to go off at 8.40am! I'm just not in the mood for work! Had to snooze for about 1/2 hour before I could drag my ass outta bed.

I have been really down for a while, and haven't been taking care of myself. But as I'm recovering from the mess, I have realised that how important it is to look after one's well-being. Even the most basic things like eating well, sleeping well and devoting sufficient time for workouts can affect one's energy level. My lack of energy and negativity has been killing me all these while. It has affected my concentration level. Drinking heaps of coffee did not work and had added on to my stress.

I'm not totally onto it yet. But at least, I'm feeling much better on most days. Keeping in touch with family and friends did lots to improve the situation. Having a routine workout at the gym,

and doing scenic drives helped to take away time from feeling depressed too. One thing to learn is, arrest the mess in your life before it gets bigger than life!

Some people just finds it easier to get over things than others. For me, it haven't been easy all my life. I always struggle with happiness, and fighting the blues. Just probably due to being unable to get along with my family, distance from friends, and having unrealistic expectations of myself.

There's nothing wrong with feeling down, even if it's for a prolonged period. Just don't let it become the seed of a self-destruction cycle. And of course, there's always good coming out of it as you pull through the lows. One could only get stronger when confronted with strong emotions. Feeling down and lonely is one of those strong emotions. Defeat can only be temporary.

As it is, even though I may not be as good in many areas as others, I have always pride myself for being strong. It does take time to develop conviction and even confidence to get to where I want. So long as I stay strong and keep fighting, things will start to fall into place.

As always, there are brighter things to look forward to. I have been using the hours after work google-ing and researching on Costa Fortuna Cruise, Venice and Milan =) It was the 8-day cruise specials on Flight Centre that sparked the idea of a European getaway next year. The point of embarkation is at Venice, with port of calls in Southern Italy, Greece and Croatia. How exotic!

The more I read about Venice and Milan, the more excited I get. Especially after finishing John Berendt's The City of Falling Angels some time last year (or was it the year before?), I guess this is the best opportunity to make the much-anticipated trip to Venice? I love travelling, and I love it even more when I'm able to combine my other greatest interest (SHOPPING). So, it doesn't take much for one to realise that Milan is one of the fashion capitals in the world. The trip "research" has inevitably stretched into factory outlets shopping etc. After reading up on tons of reviews, I have decided that I have to make this trip happen, no matter what!

I have even gone to the extent of looking up on hotels and airfares!

Just some days ago, El asked about New York and Germany next June! And yes! I'd jump on it if it's going to materialise as well! It could very well be a birthday trip for myself =) It's been ages since I had a good trip in the company of close friends. I did had a few this year, but nothing can be compared to people you have known for long, and well enough!

For now, it's enough of hours spent in front of the computer, google-ing. I still need to get on with my studies. Have decided to stop for one semester, in-lieu of so much going on at work, and also the trip.

Some spoilers ahead for the dream trip:

My sis has just started an online bakery with her friends. If you might be keen, the website is: http://www.swt-sensations.blogspot.com/

Shopping Time

2008-10-25T17:33:00.000+08:00

For some reasons, I'm pressed to find ways and make up for my long-gone social life. Think about the few things I only ever do after work- gym, study or cook. It's pretty much the same for weekends, except that I get to sleep in and have to do some cleaning up at home. I'm not kidding (nor proud) about my life!

SL is away in Sydney for business. I do miss certain things about Sydney, but not as much as Melbourne I guess =)

Anyhow, I had a good day having a nice drive down to Bunbury for facial and shopping. Fiona is the best beautician I have ever met. She's a Scottish who speaks with beautiful English accent. Someone who never fails to impress me with her patience and kind advice. Above all, being the business owner, she gives me great prices for my treatments! That explains why the 45-minute drive to visit her never bothers me!

I'm amazed at my insatiable hunger for clothes and shoes! It can never be enough I guess.

Oh dear, shopping and over-eating... Have I ever realised that the credit crunch is not a mere overnight horror, but a thing that is here to stay for a few more years? And no wonder I need to frequent the gym!

Trip Report- Finale

2008-10-19T00:07:00.010+08:00

The sick feeling of missing the enjoyable times from the Korea trip, and comfort of being home with my family has finally died down, as the pace at work has picked up again. I really felt misplaced when I first got back. The voices around me, the sights and just everything! But glad that I'm back into routine now.

I have spent a bomb on skin care products at the Face Shop on the 5th day. Picked up 2 coats at Lotte Departmental Store too. Apparently it was the high-end place to go for both international and local designer labels. Again, I have to emphasize how much I adore the cuts of the lovely pieces I have browsed through. Only regret is that my pockets aren't deep enough for me to bring everything home. Ha! We ducked off for Lotte World which was just next door to the mall for more theme park junkie. Lotte World was much smaller than Everland. We did only 3 rides, explored some quaint shops around the ground, picked up some local snacks and tidbits from the supermarket, and more clothes hunting at the nearby shops. It was a fruitful day overall, although I can't say the same for my pockets!

The final day was a brief one. We managed to drop by the president's house for photos and pop in briefly at the museum, marvelling at the collection of interesting gifts received by South Korea from other countries.

I will let the photos for the last two days of the trip do the rest of the talking :)

Kimchi-making and photos in cultural costume

Lotte World Adventure ;)

Presidential House- The dube on rollers is actual a policeman. His shirt reads "Seoul Police" =)

******************************************************

I spent an awesome final day in Singapore, chilling out with my sister. Food, shopping and coffee are prob the girls' fav. Ha!

I can't get tired of saying this- I miss home, my family and my friends. I'm going to try spend more time in Singapore the next time round, to catch up with friends who have been there for me. Even though we may have drifted every now and then with distance and the pressure of work, I can't believe how easy it is to pick up from where we have left. To this, I have to say a big "THANK YOU" for listening to me when I'm down and out =)

2008-10-12T01:53:00.006+08:00

It's been a while since I have dined at the resort's restaurant. After hearing so much about the success of our recent dinner specials and the magic created by the new chef, I really have to relive the new dining experience myself.

Hence, SL made a reservation for us and his parents yesterday night. It was a treat considering how much I dread the usual takeaway dinners from the restaurant, and try to digest them while I stare at complicated spreadsheets in the office! Although I have indeed tried some of the new dishes at the office, proper table service and awesome food presentation do really contribute to that huge difference.

It was a sumptous three-course meal; garlic bread, avocado parfait served with french bread and a portion of (NON-OILY) caesar salad to share as entree, followed by pan-seared scallops for mains, and chef-made pannacotta for desserts to finish off the meal. I'm still thinking about the food now. Haha! If you're going to think that a three-course meal is way too heavy, think again, because, I have not added the fact that I was stealing portions of config duck, potato & leek soup, and sticky date pudding from SL's plates!

I will have to hit the gym for at least 30 minutes again to kill these calories gained from just one meal!

At least, I've been trying to adopt a much healthier lifestyle and eating habits since I've been back from my holidays. This includes, NO COFFEE, a resolution to work out regularly, and a stricter skincare regime! Someone was so right about the formula to a happier life- taking care of one's well-being and, loving and accepting yourself. =)

Another positive thing to share- I've got a fresh coat of colour on my nails yesterday! And I did some wardrobe planning for the coming work week! I'm finally back on track to look good and feel good. How great is that? =P

(I've secured my tickets for the performance on 21st Feb! Not Chandelier Reserve, but some reasonable seats from A reserve, that are still pretty close to the stage)

2008-10-10T21:18:00.003+08:00

3 positive things I have decided to do today- actually hit the threadmill for 30 minutes, made a date with Bec for kick-boxing next thursday, and book for the Phantom of the Opera performance at Burswood!

I'm quite a fan of Phantom and thus you should understand why I am upset beyond words when the booking didn't go as well as planned. It was obviously due to some hiccups on the Showbiz website! That really annoys me, as I won't be able to ring until tomorrow morning at least! I can imagine the number of seats from the Chandelier Reserve being snapped up between now and then! Even then, the Chandelier Reserve have been already all snapped up for Valentine's day 2008- it's a real shame!

I should have really started booking earlier, but can I even help it, when I'm always one of the last to receive any news?

Into day four now..

2008-10-08T20:42:00.007+08:00

The day spent at Everland themepark was probably the most exciting time of the trip. We did a hell lot on the same day. Left Yong Pyong resort early in the morning for Everland. From memory, that was a long drive, as I have dozed off for a long time.

We managed to catch a traditional performance at the theatre the same evening. I was expecting to doze off again with my adrenaline all drained at Everland. But the performance came with a humourous twist, and I was glued to the stage the whole while! We even took photos with the cast- how cool!

After our Ginseng chicken dinner treat, we made our way to the Dongdaemun market for shopping. Apparently, the stretch of shopping centres and open-air markets open till wee hours in the morning. My sis and I spent a delightful one and half hour at the malls, picking up both bargains and celebrated styles! I thought my damage control went well for that day, but it was too soon to pass such a statement!
We didn't get the chance to visit the open-air markets. And I wasn't that keen anyway, due to the crowd and the lingering summer heat.

I must have said this many times- but I really wished that time could stop! It's unrealistic, but I've been feeling so lousy with things recently, and just can't stop wishing.

No matter how tough things get, I guess I need to push on, and see through my dreams. May my career soar to greater heights very soon! I need to rise above those undeserving ones, and carve a niche for myself. Hee!

Day 3- Korea Trip

2008-10-04T20:59:00.007+08:00

Here I go again, with third instalment of the trip report!

We stayed at the hotel annex of Yong Pyong Resort from the second night, to be nearer to the attractions on our itinerary.

On the third morning, we had a bit of mixed up with the time, had breakfast too early, and ended up with spare time to have a little stroll around the area. Surrounded by hills and nature, the walk around the resort was well worth it. On top of that I love the cool and fresh air!

Took a cable car ride for 8000 Wons per adult to Dragon Peak where Winter Sonata was filmed. I'm not really a fan of Korean drama series, but I still somehow ended up with plenty of shots there. The view was impressive, but I would imagine that to be even better during autumn or winter.

Following that was an hour's drive to visit Mt Sorak National Park. It was yet another cable car ride to get us up to Mt Sorak. It was really foggy that afternoon, a sign of bad weather!

True enough, by the time we completed our little hike up to the Kwon Kum Seong fortress, with some time to catch our breath and snap some photos, it started to drizzle. It wasn't really a big issue since we had our hoodies up! But it meant we had to shorten our stay at the national park! To add, the more annoying thing was the difficulty in getting a shot at the fortress without too many people in the background. I had to complain that my sis' photos looked nicer than mine, because she wasn't quick enough to capture the moment! Haha!

Made a final stop at the Fish Market before we call it a day! Being a place where only locals would visit, we experienced some real Korean hospitality there =P

Till now, I haven't really come to conclusion how I like it in Korea! It's a beautiful country with a vast number of lovely sights. Although I have done much for a 6-day trip, there are many other attractions I have not explored, and definitely many other aspects of the culture (both modern and traditional) to learn about. I'm still debating if it's worth another visit, given my love-hate feelings towards the place. I sure need more understanding to justify the "hates". But then of course, at the back of my mind, there are more destinations waiting to be striked off from my list! The limited resources I'm really vexed over here are both time and money!

Fashion Digs!

2008-10-04T17:30:00.003+08:00

I must say that I totally dig the styles from Gossip Girls!

Full photo set available from http://grazia.ninemsn.com.au/slideshow_ajax.aspx?sectionid=8815&sectionname=celebrity&subsectionid=146961&subsectionname=gossip_girl_fashion

Style is a truly an art that I still can't master. I shop for the most mundane things, have a wardrobe bursting with clothes, handbags and shoes, but yet still find myself wearing more or less the same things to work everyday!

Even my new hairdo isn't doing as much magic now, with the lack of time to style it properly every morning.

Or perhaps, I really only wanted a conservative look for work, and didn't bother to put more thoughts to it?

With that combined with the fact that I need to work late and don't have a life at all after work? Not even once in a while? These are enough to kill anything I have in me.

Oh well, I was just chatting with Map, about birthdays. I actually realised that I haven't had a proper celebration for like 3 years since I've been here! I should really be planning for a proper one, call it the quarter-life crisis or whatever. Whatever it takes to fly back and be in the close company of friends and family! =)

Great, one thing to look forward to in life!

Day 2 of Korea Trip

2008-10-02T23:07:00.010+08:00

No, I'm still not over with my trip yet! Can't believe it takes that long to put together photos from just one day. I can't complain actually- I'm actually enjoying the process of putting some creativity to use =)

The entire of the second day was spent at a cultural village. The sort of thing similar to Kampong Glam or Chinatown in Singapore where only snapshots of certain aspects of culture are presented in a so-touristy manner. And a popular place for school excursions too! But still, it was eye-opening. I can't help alluding the similarities of Korean culture to Chinese culture all the time!

So, after a filling breakfast at the hotel, we set off to the Yeong-Ju traditional village. First up was a visit to a small museum nearby, where we had a go with "print-making" of korean characters. I can't read Korean. So "print-making" is the closest I can get in describing what we were trying to do. Followed the instructions from the pictures, and... VIOLA!

Had a yummy lunch before moving on to participate in a traditional wedding role-play. We were stinking hot in the traditional costume, and couldn't wait for the role-play to be over! There were tons of school kids watching us, and it took us a few rehearsals to get it the bowing and ettiquete right. It was good fun.

We did some Korean caligraphy too. According to my sister, who has taken Chinese caligraphy before, it seems that everything's quite the same, from the way you hold the brush to the order of the strokes. Interesting!

Rice-cake making was fun too, but it doesn't seem as simple as it looks. The giant pounder was many times heavier than it looked! I can build muscles from just making rice-cakes! Haha!

Wish I could write more reflective stuff, but this is as good as it can get, with so many other things on my mind. I gotta learn to feel happier. Also with each post, the excitement and exact thoughts would have diminish a little, bit by bit. Sigh! Talk about beautiful memories! Or am I just getting old? =P

Not practicing customer service? Know the consequences!

2008-09-29T11:51:00.002+08:00

I can't understand how some businesses think they can get away with poor customer service. Perhaps if they are in a monopoly or oliogopoly market, yes. But otherwise, get alive and start to realise that it makes more sense to retain existing customers than launching expensive marketing campaigns to attract new customers. Furthermore, facing such fast-paced developments in today's technology, even if you are a monopoly, how much longer can you monopolise the market as consumers elect the many substitutes available over your products (or services)?

Even if you are in the booming years of the business, that doesn't mean your boom will last forever, and getting too carried away with your haughtiness of conducting business will only hurt you badly in the long-run! Ill words spread faster than fire.

I have said my piece, and would like to wish those who think they're so high and almighty good luck with their business!

*** Gotta start working on assignment now ***

Detailed Trip Report

2008-09-27T15:15:00.004+08:00

Watch out this space for my trip reports... Will be adding on as and when I get the time. Things at work and studies will start to roll as soon as I get back.

It was a nice chilly morning on the 16th, when I left Busselton via the 7am coach to Perth Terminus. That indeed marks the beginning of a very long journey. That's precisely why I enjoy travelling. The sights and sounds, and sometimes even emotions that accompanied me throughout the journey are all worth remembering. No doubt, I'm someone who love reminiscing such details. I should really start making it a point to pen them down, so that they can be kept alive for a long time.

Upon arrival in Perth, I had to take another airport shuttle to the International Airport. Total travelling time before I even start flying: Aprox 4 hours!

There were some hiccups with my Qantas flight, and it was delayed for almost an hour!

Did a little bit of toiletries shopping at Mustafa after I touched down in Singapore at around 9.45pm. Also bought a huge luggage bag since I already know that I won't go easy with shopping in Korea and Singapore.

Had a pretty restless first night in Singapore. I was probably too excited about my next flight to Korea.

Dragged myself out of bed in the morning and had a traditional breakfast feast of kaya toast and coffee at Far East Plaza. How long has it been since I had something like that? The remaining day was spent on pampering myself with pedi/manicure. The last time I did one was back in April for the wedding! Unreal isn't it? But that's really how deprived I am of such enjoyment over here! Had a "makeover" at the hair salon too! I have never had such a short hairdo for many years, and I love it =)

Had a little bit of shopping around town, but didn't manage to find anything before time dictates that I get going for some last-minute packing for Korea.

Met my sister for dinner at the airport at 6pm, and the joke was, she almost couldn't find me at our agreed meeting place, with my new haircut! Dinner was beautiful, with all the catching up and gossips of what has been happening. My sister has really grown up and we found ever more topics to talk about than before.

We stuffed ourselves with a fair bit of food, walked around a little before collecting the air tickets from our travel agent. And then, my sister came up with this crazy idea of walking over to T3 after we have checked in to satisfy her curiosity. So we did exactly that, dropped by at Charles and Keith, tried a few pairs of shoes, and had nonya dumplings for desserts. Haha, little did we realise that shortly after boarding, we were served supper! We were indeed so stuffed with food! But again that's only the beginning of food galore!

Korea is only an hour ahead of Singapore (and Perth). We touched down at Incheon Airport early in the morning. Was a bit annoyed by the long Q at the immigration. The retarded-looking lady at the counter doesn't help much either. She was really slow with everything she does, and we wondered why she had to stare at her stamp for a few seconds before it was sealed on our passports! I thought we were the only ones who are dazed from the overnight flight!

So then, after the six-hour flight on Asiana Airlines, I was hungry again! Had some sandwiches at Coffee Bean while waiting to be picked up by our guide at 0730.

When the waiting time stretched a bit too long, we reckon that photo-taking is the best way to keep ourselves occupied.

Finally we were ready to make our way to Daegu for our farm visit and fruits picking. It was about 3 hours drive from Incheon. To be honest, we couldn't really recall how long was it exactly, as we were asleep most of the time, waking up only to go for toilet breaks on the highway! Haha! We tried the banana milk drink that was recommended by the guide. My sis love it, while I didn't think much of it! The aloe vera drink that she got was nice though.

Finally we arrived at the farm, where lunch was served first. It was quite a feast, although the steamboat was abit inappropriate for such warm weather. I was actually expecting cooler weather in Korea, but was disappointed.

After lunch, we headed to the farm side for fruit picking. It was an interesting experience (I have not done it in Australia myself). But both of us didnt manage to try the apples we got, because we left it behind at the hotel by accident!

Next up, we got to pamper ourselves at the Spa Valley. It was nothing like anything I have seen before. Spa Valley consists four levels of pool, jacuzzis, baths, sauna, and massage facilities, with the infamous Doctor Fish Leg Spa included! I have never felt so relaxed before! It was a real treat to soothe the tiredness from the overnight flight. For those who plan on visiting the Spa, be forewarned that the baths at the fourth level requires females and males to be split. Not only that, you need to strip for your baths- not even bikinis allowed! Haha!

Finally, we were able to head back to The Grand Daegu for a comforting night's rest. The hotel was splendid- comfy, soft beds, huge TV, well-equipped bathroom, and Nina Ricci robes to sleep in!

We couldn't ask for more for such a good rest!

************************************************************************************

2008-09-24T09:48:00.004+08:00

It may be a bit more manageable to break up my posts into tiny bits.

Here I present my favourite hobby... ever...

Apart from dining (by Australian standards), things are pretty expensive in Korea. Love the fashion here. The fabric quality is great, but comes with a pretty dear tag. Haha. 2 trench coats, a few tops, a skirt and just a dress were all I could afford, without doing much damage to my wallet! Cosmestics are must-scores as well! I bought two hundred dollars worth of cosmetics and skin care products- OoOpzzz!

There are TWO Chanel boutiques at the Incheon airport. I almost wanted to bring the metallic blue reissue with black hardware home. Phew!

Loaded my luggage full of foodstuff from the bakery and departmental stores. For those who want to get foodstuff from Korea, buy them cheap from the Lotte supermarket (near the underground exit from Lotte World Adventure).

Ahn-nyong-ha-se-yo!

2008-09-24T00:33:00.004+08:00

(Taken at Everland theme park, and yes, my hair is noticeably shorter than ever! I love it!)

Just got back from Korea about 2 hours ago, still bursting with the excitement from the trip, with heaps that I could share!

But it's nearing 1am. I gotta recover from the gruelling 6-hour flight, where I was strapped to my seat most of the time due to air turbulence. My trip is coming to a close, and I'll be flying back to Perth from Singapore on Thu morning. What a shame!

Will update when I get home!=)

2008-09-10T21:18:00.007+08:00

What are the things you do when you feel busted with stress?

In my case, I torture myself with food, by convincing my tummy that I am starving, and dig my face into more and more food.

And... increase my buying impulses!

The YSL duo-colour lipstick is awesome! The packaging is love, and functionality of it is even better! Work it out yourself from the pictures and you will get what I mean! =)

Saloon size Decleor product at a special price! Hee...

And finally, your nasty FC trying to brighten up yet another gloomy day at work with her fav colour!

2008-09-09T22:22:00.002+08:00

This is going to be an incoherent piece of message to let everyone know that the past weeks have been hectic and hellish for me. Assignment deadlines and exams, plus the long working hours that stretch into weekends. The desire for rest is, sadly, nothing more than comtemplation.

I'm still in a mad rush to "finish" the impossible workload. I can hardly hold out any longer, and I don't picture a possibility of pulling through the last quarter of the working year. Unfortunately, some people are just left with far fewer options in life than others. What can I do?

Looking forth to my holidays in Singapore and Korea. Just a week more to go. The temporary release from the living hell is much needed to keep me from breaking down. Mercy on my tired soul, and failing strength!

I'm tired, but need to catch up on my readings before I fall too far behind again! *Sulks* from the very-unwilling-financial-controller.

2008-08-30T12:31:00.004+08:00

I'm supposed to be studying for my upcoming paper. Of much relevance to what I'm studying ie. marketing management, is brand sucess. I see it in Hermes and Chanel...

So much so that, women like me, who happen to fall within the target market of luxury goods, won't even bat an eyelid, when challenged by the price tags on these beauties:

Yepz, we are talking about some unrealistic, shallow and vain obessions here. While men spend thousands on golf sets and fanciful car accessories, women have other channels for indulgence.

Oh, but wait, talking about golf sets, I saw a pink ladies' set at Golf Box the other day- it's pwwweeety! Hee, but nah, I'm hopeless with golf- I'm amused enough by the infra-red putter gadget we have got at home. My putting is fine on that little machine, but somehow, just not on the actual field =( Not with some experienced golfers who are doing their warm-ups just next to ya!

2008-08-24T17:46:00.003+08:00

All the emotions and thoughts that are going on in my head, are the most complex. I just couldn't explain it. It's a bit of feeling isolated, and then confused about who are the trustworthy ones in my life, to the extent of questioning how would I exactly define happiness, and whether I am really happy. Now, I can't be sure what I really want for my life!

Is life about making decisions which are in harmony with your significant other, or doing something that you really wish to do, just to fulfil that wish of your lifetime? Does happiness have to be compromised, or even sacrificed by considering the greater scheme of things for the sake of many others who matter to you? If they are really people who means the world to you, why wouldn't they have already considered how you feel, before pushing you to do things out of your own will?

Someone told me that this is the age where things can be harsh. To step out of your sheltered world and realise that the world is not quite what you think can be quite a shock. And then you begin to adjust and re-align with your real self. Another nightmare hits when you learn more about your real self. You aren't really quite what you think. Now, tell me, does that freak you out?

I still can't explain what's going on in my head. I'm just freaking out I guess. Hopefully, time is all I need to recover.

(Many thanks to those who have read my post about my keloid, and have made suggestions on how I can fix it!)

V for Vengeance

2008-08-18T17:39:00.003+08:00

Have someone ever angered you so much that your heart races a million times faster, and the veins on your temples feel like they are going to crack?

Let me make this declaration- YOU fucking liar should perish with your FALSE ACCUSATIONS! Blame your incompetency on me? You'd be better off if you drop dead now! Yes, I wish you dead with all my heart! Useless old bum! Why should you deserve to live?

2008-08-14T19:55:00.002+08:00

I can't understand how some people can be so honestly dumb, until I get to the managerial capacity. There are just so much things in life that aren't rocket science. All that is required is just common sense, to figure them out.

In a way, I'm secretly glad that I didn't pursue my teaching degree- I can't take pure stupidity! Ok, perhaps I actually should have... so that I can make a difference in the population that may fall under Category Insolvably-Stupid.

Or else, can someone tell me that it is my fault to expect someone to be able to pick things up after being taught for just once. But for God's sake, we are working adults, expecting to perform in a competitive environment! If I have got the luxury of time to repeat something over and over, why wouldn't I just do it myself instead of hiring a retard? Am I expect to show the leniency that I would to a 8-year old at elementary school?

The truth is, most people at my workplace have got way many more years of working experience than me. So tell me, what's so difficult going about figuring out simple things? I was NEVER EVER taught formally how to do anything at work before. Not even during my 6-month stint with KPMG as an intern! On my first job (not in the capacity of an intern), I could run the whole finance department from front to back without being taught, or shown much as well. Same goes for my second job! To have me sitting down with someone and going through the whole process, step by step, is a pure luxury! I have even taken the pains to explain the rationale behind things. What did I get in return now?

In saying that, I'm not trying to impress upon everyone that I'm smart. In fact, most of my peers could easily beat my grades in school. So really, it does boil down to common sense isn't it? Although common sense may not be common to everyone. But still... I'm tired... Really tired, and a bit worried that dumbness can be infectious! Hee...

Counting down to Singapore and Korea now! I'm excited, yet apprehensive.. I don't know what kinda mess would someone make while I'm not around. If judgement day should come anytime soon, please let the dumb-asses get wiped out first!

2008-08-10T20:26:00.003+08:00

I've been watching bits and pieces of Boston Legal lately. The well-heeled, beautiful characters have quite swept me off from my feet! Tara Wilson (played by Rhonda Mitra) is hot! I love her expressions and the way she folds her arms. Her tresses certainly kick off her business suits well with a sexy twist! Hee... And the intelligently-crafted humorous lines helped me to unwind a little! What's more, the show has inspired us, the professionals, can look as good as what we do.

I'm trying to work harder... But what did I just do? Watched another movie instead of moving on with my studies?

2008-08-07T22:37:00.002+08:00

Hard to believe that I'm finally at the stage of life where I realise and understand fully how it feels when friendships drift to the point of no return. The point where you tried hard to keep it alive, but things just wouldn't work out, because the difference in perspective has never been so great.

You start to feel as if friends has become strangers, and the happy days are far gone. I was feeling miserable over this for a while. But as those happy memories fade gradually, it's probably time to move on. Sharon used to tell me that man's greatest fear is loneliness. If I could ever overcome that, I'll find happiness.

I'm facing up to reality that I'll have to drop some friends at some point, and pick up new ones as I go. I think I found someone whom I can finally connect with tonight =)

I really really can't wait to be back, to catch up with people who still care.

2008-08-06T22:57:00.002+08:00

Just feeling tired as always... I wish I could feel less tired. But I really can't help it if my iron level is inherently lower than an average person.

I'm getting nothing done yet. Haven't started on my Risk Management Reports, and not much of readings covered for my assignment either.

I just wanna get away soon. In a matter of a month or so, I won't hear from this disgusting place for one and a half week! How great! I miss my girlies. At least they're rare people who still remain quite the same as I have first known them. At least in my eyes =)

I'm invited to an "Undercover" themed party. Not sure if I really wanna go. I'm not too confident with social events for the past years. I don't why. When I used to be modelling with MC and JCM, I'd kill for any cool parties or just any chance to socialise. Not anymore. I don't know what to say to people, or what to talk to them about these days. It seems to feel so much better to hide in a corner. I just feel like I've turned into some sort of lonely, socially-unwanted freak.

Wish I could grab a drink now to calm my nerves and bring me away to LaLa-Land. Sleepy, sleepy, sleepy!

Come Friday, I promise I'll be knocking off early! =)

2008-08-01T21:27:00.004+08:00

Very nolstalgic photos I've found from the webbie, from ex-NTU/ NIE students!

Presenting Hall of Residence 5... !!!!

Remembered that I stayed at the top level. So I had to climb 4 storeys, at least four times daily- on way to classes, on my way back from class, going down to the kitchen to fill my thermal with hot water, and then back again!

Shower time meant a battle to beat the crowd, and armed with a basket filled with essential toiletries, and a big towel! =)

Being the infamous Miss Nerdy, the library was my favourite hangout =P Was always lurking around, at the corner, near to the washroom. A drinking fountain can also be found close to where I sit. It was really the perfect spot for spending hours after school mugging for assignments and exams! I love the tall glass windows in particular, where I could rest my gaze on the pretty scenery outside every now and then. A reason good enough for distraction!

You can't get away with heaps of stairs and slopes around the campus. Dropping off at the bus stop near NIE's canteen was a nightmare! I couldn't even count the number of steps I had to climb, to get up to the canteen and then the library! No wonder I don't used to have problems keeping in good shape!

I should have taken some photos of the campus myself before I left. Of just where I used to live, study, play, and eat! Hey historians, let's organise a visit back to campus for the canteen food and proper photos! I'm missing even the painful 1.5 hours journey via train (and transfer by bus) to school! That is SO unreal! =P

2008-07-30T02:07:00.002+08:00

Haven't you realise, an existence that is forgotten, is a painful one? And to give up so much for nothing, is a hope lost for good?

What do you do, when your soul cries out in loneliness, and there is not a soul to help?

Start learning that solitude is the way of life?

Hearty lunch

2008-07-27T14:37:00.004+08:00

Had the most delightful and filling seafood chowder soup yesterday at the Goose restaurant! Good food coupled with al-fresco dining with the iconic Busselton Jetty and calm waters right in front of us!

The weather was exceptionally beautiful. Warm and sunny, only with occasional chilly breeze. If I'm brave enough to wear a thin cardigan and shorts for a day like this, how cold can it get?

Wish I could snap a picture of my seafood chowder! Such a luxurious treat, with generous servings of oysters, snapper and prawns and scallops! I love it to death. Shared a tapas of chorizos and herbal bread with SL. Bottom line is, I HAVE OVER-EATEN AGAIN!

The bill came up to a whopping 80 bucks for just the two of us, with my seafood chowder costing 31 bucks alone! I find the food a lil' overpriced, given that the place is more of a cafe/ al-fresco dining style. But hey, how could you complain when you can enjoy the pretty view of the jetty and sit by the waters? What a touristy catch there!

All visitors coming to busselton should at least dine here once, and work off the meal by threading on the Busselton Jetty! Check out more fab pictures of the restaurant, their menus here:

http://www.thegoose.com.au/index.php

Next on the list to try, would be the New Townhouse Restaurant! =) Good way to put my entertainment card to use!

******************************************************************************

My Chanel baby is here! =) Happy Happy... Hopefully many more to add on to my collection!

Oh yeah, I did cut my hair in a few different styles before this one. And I like shorter hair! Wish I could go shorter than this! =)

City Living...

2008-07-23T22:38:00.003+08:00

It's always been my dream to own a place of my own, right smack in the city, where all the actions begin and end.

Lounging at home wouldn't be to bad. Imagine to sip a glass of white and enjoy the city lights through the full-height glass windows. How could you complain?

I would then be able to furnish my home the way I like it! Yes, I'm already thinking about the colours of the feature wall in my living area. Likely to be a deep shade of gray with criss-crosses of white strokes on it. And my black sofa with leopard prints throw on it. I probably will go for a very sleek and zen look - (but how is it even possible if I've got heaps of bags, clothes and books to begin with??)

So now, I shall make it a point to practice the importance of delayed gratification to make this dream come true. It ain't too hard to fulfil. All it takes is self-disciplince. I CAN DO IT!

My Chanel has arrived today- hubby has picked it up, and I can't wait for him to get home! No more Chanels till I get to put down my initial deposit for the dream home! =)

And guess what? My 200 bucks purchase from Forever 21 has not gone through- the store wanted me to ring a US number to do verification. I wouldn't care to go through all the troubles for this! Boo~

Watched "Dateline" before and got me pretty keen on Maoism in India. Very interesting coverage, only too brief for one to grasp the complete context, but good enough to set us, the more-fortunate beings, thinking. Lies and perceived democracy, and as what the author said at the TV interview, "the biggest scam of the 21st century". Shall do some research on it, not later, but tommorrow!

But I think most TV audience may be more keen on the tug-of-war between Obama and McCain at the moment =P

Good night for now!

Shopping Fever

2008-07-22T11:50:00.006+08:00

My spending sprees never seem to end... First up, was the Louis Vuitton Petite Noe in Epi Leather, and then I got a bunch of dresses from an online spree, shipped all the way from Singapore. And then, I spent a good sum on a black Chanel Classic Lambskin Flap. The bag haven't even arrived, before I made another spending impulse from Forever 21 website. Altogether 8 items I have just checked out from the website-

I seem to have little resistance to lovely little things in this world. Well, at least certain expression of happiness can be bought. Sexy black is awesome! I'm drooling over Victoria Beckham's style

I could almost hear the Chanel Clutch calling out for me!

I prob have a lot of weight to shred before I can pull off this look. My face is looking rounder than before, not solely because of my new haircut. Feeling depressed and cooping myself at home is far from helping with the situation... Much needed for my well-being now is some fresh air and exercises.

Strange enough, I find my ass shrinking! Total disaster! How am I going to look sexy in the pencil skirt without a nice curve on the rear? My life has gone too weird- putting on / losing weight in the wrong areas!

Something else to share... Was talking to Bec last night briefly. She seemed really depressed and torn apart by her current guy. What would you do if you have already committed so much, but yet feel that tinge of uncertainty if he's really the one?

I can empathise with her. But then again, when can we really be sure? Perhaps only till the day we die, knowing that someone has always been true for the whole lifetime.

I'm a skeptic afterall...

And just in case you think I'm a shallow bitch with an air-head, I'm a far-cry from that... because I have just scored a distinction for my marketing assignment without even trying. You can't even dispute the fact that my job needs me more than I need it.. Only reason I'm hanging on to it is, I am building up a wardrobe with outrageous expenses!

I'm not dumb, but just lacking in ambition and conviction to do what I'm doing. As I have said to some friends, the fashion world is still my dream. But being a dream means that I have put lots of efforts and shoulder some risks to make it come true, which I'm not ready and willing to take at this moment.

So, what else can I do but winge and bitch at this time? And use excuses like "I'm spending heaps because I'm stressed out"?

If my dear friends are concerned about me getting indebted because of my spending impulses, don't worry overtly. I still stash away a good amount of money each week, and I have a husband to turn to (put it this way, I refuse to be an air-headed "tai-tai"). On top of that, it feels good to be earning my own dollars and then swiping it away on all the things on my most wanted list.

2008-07-14T20:53:00.003+08:00

I think i've catch a cold... Oh, how I hope that I would get so sick and have to be away from work for one week! Haha, can imagine how all these useful scums are going to do without me!

Blasted at two of my workers today. I enjoy the look on their faces! If I can't make life better for myself, I'll have to pass on the misery.

Work has probably driven me nuts. I had the most unpleasant conversation with my boss today. I asked to be relieved for lower duties so that I can concentrate on my studies. I even suggested that I'd take lower pay and the company should hire someone to take over my FC duties. And guess what the reply was?

Can't believe that he would actually have the cheek to say that it's too hard AND EXPENSIVE to hire a FC who is willing to work in a tourist region! I felt so exploited after hearing all these bull-shit! Oh yeah, so you mean I'm cheap, but shouldn;t be rewarded for doing an equally good job? And yes, the company should continue to exploit me and pile heaps more responsibilities on me? And also, you won't be able to find someone else whom you can so easily exploit like me???

Nice...

If you guys dont know about it yet, let me tell you how much more my job encompasses, on top of running the Accounts Dept and handling all the risk mgt shit I was raving about in my earlier posts. EVERYONE at the resort comes to me for help with EVERYTHING, however trival.

I get phone calls in my office everyday, with the strangest questions from the front desk. I had to help man the reception when they get too busy with arrivals. I had to help them fix their night audit discrepancies. I had to play PA to the GM. I had to help put together marketing materials for famil groups. I'm just fucking everything that everyone uses me for!

So, I'm just a cheap slog for the company afterall.

With work aside, I feel kinda sad. Real life feels so distant from me. It's only a matter of time when I'm completely forgotten.

Job Crisis

2008-07-06T23:18:00.002+08:00

Western Australians are still reeling from the aftermath of the gas explosion on Varanus Island where the 100km gas pipes run. As numerous workers get laid off from companies which are directly or indirectly affected from the gas explosion, I invariably fear for the bleak prospect of changing jobs at this time. Gotta hang in there for a while!

I wonder how sheltered I feel despite of the economic downturn in US and now, the plunge in consumer confidence in Australia (due to a variety of reasons of course), and the big lay-off as a result of the gas explosion. I'm saying that because, I am going to unbashedly admit that I have just bought a couple of dresses, plus the LV Epi leather petite noe I have been eyeing on!

Although my shares plunged since last December (the expected acquisition did not take place!), I havent really felt the pinch on my pockets as yet! So long as I'm far from the possibility of being in debt, I would just live for the moment!

I'm in need of...

2008-06-28T12:10:00.002+08:00

... someone to give me a push to move forth!

Now that I have finally commenced on my online studies through Uni of SA, it dawns on me how much a source of motivating forces your peers can be! They are always there to remind you that no matter how hard things get, you still gotta push on. They are there to remind you not to give up once you have decided to commit into something. They are there to cheer you up by painting a glossy picture of possibilities once you have reached the end of the tunnel.

I really miss my long-gone school days, with the best pals I had. They were such an encouraging and motivating bunch, so much that I wished I could immediately vanish back into time, where they are always there to share the laughter and sorrows. Even just sitting down over a cup of coffee and bitch about life with friends makes me feel so much better than before, knowing that i'm not alone.

It made me miss not only the support, but the infrastructure a real campus offer. Professors and lecturers who are there to speak to.

It made me realise as much as I used to think I was a loner and how independent I am back then, it was never true until I have experienced real loneliness that chills me to the bone, like the cold of brutal wintery winds. It feels like you are fighting a battle on your own- you can never win.

Going through the same torturous motions of assignments, course readings and exams made me regretting giving up my prev degree course, which I had already endured for 2 years. I blame no one since it was a decision that I have voluntarily made. Am suffering the consequences of starting all over again with little strength and conviction to do it.

I hate to wake up every morning and having to battle real hard with the soul inside of me, trying to reason why I have to do finish my work in the most efficient time, so that I can get more time after to spend on my lecture readings and pen down my assignments.

I'm struggling with more than lethargy everyday. What I'm need to fight against is the lack of concentration to do what I need to do, and the lack of will to do it! It's gotten to more than being physically tired, where drinking two cans of Red-Bulls and no amount of coffee would offer any relief at all.

I too realise that something needs to be done- I'm still thinking if I should just stop working for a few months and take a real break. It's really no use fighting a losing battle everyday, especially with my concentration level plunging to a new low each day! But then the consequences of getting work makes me afraid. I am just starting to build a good resume that people of my age can hardly achieve. But how far do I want to go? I can't think of a reason why I am in this line, other the financial rewards the job offers.

Now, tell me, is it happiness or pragmatism that matters here?

A year older- To grief over?

2008-06-19T18:29:00.005+08:00

Another painful day at work!

It also marks another uneventful day, save for a few sms-es and email greetings from friends, for someone who is turning a year older again!

Some people outgrow birthdays as they get older. It's in fact something to grief for if one looks back and finds more to regret over. Negativity never stops... Especially so for me...

Somehow, I'm grateful for the kind thoughts showered by some friends. Silly me shredded some tears as I read K's message:

"Happy Birthday to You
Happy Birthday to You....
Though you are one year older but congrats for having grown wiser and prettier!!!
Just have confidence in yourself and do your best in whatever you believe in. Life's about having fun hence enjoy and experience what comes along :) To live in this world is the greatest gift and hence we've got to treasure the time we've had. Enjoy your precious day !!!"

Is there something worth working for in life? Perhaps, to learn how to unveil the beauty in it, day by day, as I age.

Wish me luck then! =)

2008-06-18T22:57:00.002+08:00

Feeling really tired and isolated. The bad feelings just won't go away.

I hate the way things are going now. I hate where I live, I hate the people around me, and I hate being the most lonely person in the world. I basically hate anything and everything in my pathetic world. If there is a way for me to make everyone else feel bad for the rest of their lives, I will take it up right away, at all costs.

It's scary how I feel that certain stages of my life had been a living nightmare.

I'm really tired, but why can't I sleep at all???

2008-06-16T22:20:00.003+08:00

I'm so exhausted- just done tidying up the folders for the famil group tmr! And yes, you're right, I have not gotten anything important done for myself today!

I wonder why I have to do the job for someone who just took the day off on premise that she is sick!!! Oh bitch, watch it, I promise that I will give you one hell of a time tmr!

I wonder why I have to put up with stagnant salary, and swallow my complains even with bigger responsibilities stuffed in my face!

I wonder how people can get away with doing a shit job!

I wonder how people can get away without having a stinking reputation that stick with them forever!

I just have to wonder why God has got to be so fucking unfair to me! Nothing seems to be on my side, and what about the bad lots for everything?!

Now tell me...

How could I stay positive and convince myself that tmr will be a better day, if things get progressively worse?

How could I look forward to tommorrow if I don't even know what's there to look forward to?

How could I think of a future when I'm almost convinced that God has no future for me?

Life is such a bitch! Please, let me vanish at this instance!

2008-06-15T19:20:00.004+08:00

I've gone through my weekends without getting anything constructive done! Something's bad going on in my life, and it's slowly killing me.

I hate to admit it, but I think I could have very well lost it. The sense of purpose in life is gone- I can't love, I can't be happy, and I don't want to know about tommorrow. Everything is driving me insane!

Somehow, my of late chocolate binges, uncontrolled spending impulses, and lack of concentration aren't there for a reason. I wish I could just vanish into thin air right now!

If you think this post is anything entertaining for a table topic or gossips among friends, please yourself then. What others think of me no longer matters.

For all I know, I'm dying a slow death inside.

2008-06-14T23:45:00.004+08:00

"Solitude non e essere soli, e amare gli altri inutilmente" -Mario Stefani

Another one of those pensive nights- I wonder if there is someone out there who could empathise with the solitary walker?

2008-06-11T17:00:00.004+08:00

I'm just struggling at work... Finding it hard to focus recently, and needless to say, I haven't been able to get much done. It's taken me a painful one and a half week to get my May's reports out, with loose details to tie in still! The best part is, while that is happening, there are 101 other tasks on the list waiting to be ticked off.

There are just too much things thrown in my court at the moment. I'm practically handling the workload of 3 persons- ranging from Payroll to Human Resource Administration, Accounts Payable to Receivable, and then an on-going project with Risk Management. Oh yeah, not to forget, I have got to fix the leaks in internal control, and keep up with the corporate policies and procedures. No, wait, I've yet to mention the weight of the swanky title of "Assistant Financial Controller" on me. Be very aware of the expectations and responsibilities that come with it!

Imagine being hit by this dreaded sensation of.... WOW-I'M-SO-OVERWHELMED, once the office door swings open in your face every morning! That's how much I loathe work!!

I know I shouldnt be complaining- shouldn't I be thankful that I have at least got a career to stress over?

The early knock-off today should hopefully help me to unwind a bit and catch up on my readings, which in turn helps to relieve part of my pressure!

2008-06-06T22:55:00.003+08:00

The semester has just started for my self-paced degree program. To juggle between full-on work, and studies isn't as easy as I have thought. It's only the first week and I feel that I'm pretty behind time with the readings. The slow shipment, which was accordingly due to new semester peak, doesn't help the situation much either, especially with an assignment that is due in 4 weeks time!

It looks like I might have to postpone my Hong Kong/ Japan trip this year if I want to be able to finish 4 units each year! Delayed gratification is the key to reason this out with myself.

And then there's my month-end reports which I'm struggling to finish. Oh dearie, the world is crashing down on me! Ha!

I can't complain much, not if I want a good career for myself. With the proper qualifications and the invaluable experience I'm gaining day by day, I'm pretty sure that I can carve out a good career. It takes endurance and time management to get to my ends. I need the conviction to push on =)

Nonetheless, there are ways to make it up for myself... I'm going to the hair salon tmr to get a new colour and perhaps a new hairdo (im still undecided about getting my long hair snipped off), and not forgetting the facial to soothe my skin-under-stress... and perhaps check out the brown boots that I wanted for winter? =P

I deserve to be pampered!

Off to bed now- have promised myself to wake up at 6am to go through my study notes and get a hang of what's going on at the learning portal.

2008-06-03T21:22:00.002+08:00

Feeling somewhat awful tonight...

It is just strange to think that someone actually do (or perhaps, did) still treat me as a friend after all, despite all the mean things I have done. To think that it was humanly possible to overlook my pettiness and the way I look at the world with narrow lenses!

There're indeed certain things in life that are hard to measure and judge. And life has surprised me in an amazing way- by proving to me that such wonderful personality exists!

2008-05-26T20:25:00.003+08:00

The strong signal that triggers my nerves, seduces my senses with such a warm longing feeling... I'm trying to explain my most unhealthy addiction to anything "chocolate-ty" (esp Tim Tam!). I just can't fight against this comforting and fulfilling bite!

Wonder if it's really true with the "happy chemicals" that are interacting with my brains, giving the illusion of this comfy feeling which recreational druggies can allude to.

Some pictures to share from the weekend! It's been a busy month for the resort, with 3 exhibitions marked on our calendar! First it was the A-Van, and then the very interesting Mineral Drilling bunch exhibiting their exciting drilling equipments (sorry, no pics for this!)... and then just yesterday, we had the exorbitant budgies coming under the spotlight! I mean business when I say exorbitant! Each of these budgies cost at least 5 grands! So, the tiny hall at our resort actually hosted budgies worth over a quarter of a million bucks!!

Accordingly, the budgies originated from Tasmania, and somehow, they became an expensive hobby for those who can afford! =)

Personally, I'm not as fascinated! But it's interesting enough to have a peep!

2008-05-24T21:23:00.006+08:00

A much-deserved treat consisting an aromatic cup of brazilian full-bodied coffee (I only save this for the weekend to savor!), accompanied by a very rich chocolate muffin from the Kent Street Bakery! A great way to make it up to myself after a punishing work week isn't it? Or am I just putting more pressure on my already serious caffine addiction and insatiable appetite for sweets? ...Oh no, I'm already thinking of having a can of Red-Bull or V-Energy... and perhaps a hot cup of cuppaccino would be really nice, on a cold day like this!

Something I have whipped up for dinner =) The pasta actually tasted great with the Italian meatballs I have baked! By the time I finished cooking, I was too hungry to mix in the tomato paste and melted cheese with the meatballs. Pretty surprise that they are edible (not that presentable thou; your Italian mama will be horrified by this!) Haha!

Now, with my improved cooking skills and new-found interest in gourmet, don't be surprised if I have doubled my size when you guys next see me!!!

Psssst, I'm somehow under the impression that the more caffine I take, the easier these fatty inputs will get burnt off (isn't that's how diet pills work??)

Counting my blessings

2008-05-17T20:40:00.005+08:00

I have not been keeping up with the news telecast for a long while. I was apalled by the natural disasters and man-made accidents happening in some of the poorest parts of the world!

The broadcast on TV was really heart-wrenching- from the earthquake in China to the flood in Myanmar, and a huge explosion caused by the oil pipes in Nigeria! The tragedy is not so much in the destruction itself. Gross human negligence of some self-conceited beings are often responsible for the deepened impact of the destruction. On the other hand, apathy from the key persons who have the power to make a difference is unforgivable.

I really gotta count my blessings for being able to sit comfortably on my couch, against the ear-soothing backdrop of music in my living area, while there are a lot more people out there battling with the physical and emotional aftermath of these disasters.

" ‘Dear little Swallow,’ said the Prince, ‘you tell me of marvellous things, but more marvellous than anything is the suffering of men and of women. There is no Mystery so great as Misery..."
(Oscar Wilde- Happy Prince)

2008-05-11T22:44:00.005+08:00

I'm using the last bits of my again, short weekend, to pamper myself, hopefully with a good read again before bed. While waiting for my nuggets and potato wedges to bake in the oven, I'm just trying to post more, fond photo memories from my last trip.

Enjoy!

I love the works of Ming! Didn't regret at all to engage him for the photography services! =)

Check out the junior suite at my sister hotel in Penang! I love the space! I should have taken some pictures of the other suite in the Singapore property. It's got a very stylish black and white theme!

I missed the great food in Malaysia and Singapore- really enjoyed each and every meals! Only pity is that there's a limit to how much I can stomach for each meal! Hmmp! I'm salivating, just by looking at these pictures!

First wedding celebration in Penang!

On the other hand, shopping was a blast! The shopping experience in Penang has improved a great deal, with lotsa lovely boutiques emerging and the new mega Queensbay Mall. Came back with a load of nice jackets and shoes!

Cigars from Penang Duty-Free!

I've regretted not buying the Coach and Bally items that caught my eye at the Duty-Free in Penang. Though not all are the latest designs, they were all priced reasonably! And there was the Chloe boutique at T3 in Singapore I have missed. They were selling one of the newer Paddington for SGD 1700++ ! Regretted again, for not getting my hands on one of them! =( But well, hopefully I can get some good buys in Hong Kong later this year!

My loot from the Bvlgari boutique at T3- shopping really was quite an experience there! SL picked up a leather Mont Blanc briefcase himself.

The Experience

2008-05-03T23:51:00.012+08:00

Abandon the city landscape of cluttered skyscrapers and noisy traffic behind the stark white walls of the Raffles Hotel. In this unique piece of space, I'm all prepared to be lost in the lush greenery and the colonial inspiration of everything- from the jacquered arm-chair in the reception area, to ceiling fans at the restaurants or facade of a old-fashioned counter as the front desk.

Named after the founder of modern Singapore, Raffles Hotel is not only the most prestigious hospitality icon in this country, but also regarded as a national monument. The hotel is an acclaimation of pure luxury.

Upon arrival, the well-groomed front desk staff greeted us and walked us to our suite. The personalised check-in is completed as we sign off the last bits on the guest registration card. From this moment on, I took time to inspect the fine details in the room- the deliberate furnishings, generous toiletries supplied by Amrita Spa, hand-written card from the management, sweet dose of praline chocolates.

Under the camouflage of luxury, what impressed me most was the diligent maintenance at the hotel. Despite the overwhelming mid-day heat, gardeners toiled hard in their beautiful, but stiff-looking and seemingly uncomfortable uniforms, to preserve the tidiness of the greens. On the other hand, painters busied themselves with dusting coats of purity white on spots that needed attention. Other housekeeping staff were frequently spotted along the corridors with their loaded trolleys to service guest rooms.

Looking at the industrious workers reminds me that there are people out there who have much
tougher waves in life to endure. Life is never meant to be easy.

I'm somehow glad that beautiful things do happen once in a while in my life =) It's the rainbows I wanna remember, not the dark clouds that command rain!

2008-05-02T20:17:00.003+08:00

Just back from walking in the cold, I'm enjoying the warmth in my villa, and stuffing out my hunger with leftover corn chips. I'm being totally honest- this is the best time I had in the week!

Compared to the ever more demands from my job, being able to fufil the
most basic needs
of a human has never felt better! I shouldn't be thinking too much about
the mountain-high workload that is in store for me in the next 1.5 weeks.

Time to relax a few work-stressed muscles and enjoy a good read for this weekend!

I'm trying to get hold of Oscar Wilde's Happy Prince.

‘When I was alive and had a human heart,’ answered the statue, ‘I did not know what tears were, for I lived in the palace of Sans-Souci, where sorrow is not allowed to enter. In the daytime I played with my companions in the garden, and in the evening I led the dance in the Great Hall. Round the garden ran a very lofty wall, but I never cared to ask what lay beyond it, everything about me was so beautiful. My courtiers called me the Happy Prince, and happy indeed I was, if pleasure be happiness. So I lived, and so I died. And now that I am dead they have set me up here so high that I can see all the ugliness and all the misery of my city, and though my heart is made of lead yet I cannot choose but weep.’

2008-04-26T01:12:00.002+08:00

As the sound tracks from Paul Cardall’s album resonates through my busy routine in the office today, I can’t help but wonder how much I find those melodies so sorrowful, and yet beautiful at the same time. Or perhaps it’s just me who is constantly looking at the world with a sad, pathetic perspective.

I have been drowned with much thoughts recently. Of all, I am amazed by the shit we human can put up with at work, just to have a roof over our heads, and warm meals to enjoy. It all boils down to our basic instinct to survive isn’t it?

Apart from those gloomy thoughts, I have really missed out a fair bit when I was last in Singapore. Time is never enough! I missed the extraordinary treat at the Raffles Hotel. It felt as though the wedding celebration has blown over so quickly without having enough time bask in what was supposed to be the happiest day of my life. That’s the price to pay for being too caught up with the hustle and bustle of life! Or is it because, as humans, we are always preoccupied with thinking how much things could be better?

I feel kinda sad looking back at those pictures! To be exact, I have always felt this tinge of sadness when the time to bid goodbye to the land where my life has taken roots in.

It’s time for me to knuckle down and save up enough for another trip in late August. This time, it will not only be a physical journey to take, but also a journey for me to connect with my inner self!

Pictures for Melbourne, Malaysia and Singapore trip will be up soon (I hope!)

Quick Update!

2008-04-11T22:13:00.002+08:00

I have got lotsa fantastic photos to share- just haven't got the time to resize them for posting! And there's heaps of other things to catch up with at work.

The Malaysia and Singapore trip was a blast, even though I kept thinking back on how it could have been made better! Needless to say, I did plenty of fruitful shopping! To top it off, the special company of friends from Australia and the States made the trip complete!

Will post more photos real soon!

Melbourne Trip- A big Boo-Boo!

2008-03-17T10:52:00.002+09:00

This is certainly what I have expected to do on a holiday- sitting in front of the lappy, in my hotel room, and winge about how disappointing this trip is.

I have not enjoyed the boring company of my travel companions at all. Their inconsideration doesnt help either! Planning breakfast at 8.30am in the morning is not what I would like to have on a holiday. Not even if the brekky is served by some top Hongkong restaurant! I haven't come to Melbourne for HongKong food anyway!

The unexpected mingling of work into my supposed leisure trip was annoying! Meetings that are fitted in almost daily have really shortened my days!

In short, I will be flying back to Perth at 5pm this afternoon feeling empty- without the Great Ocean Road experience, not shopping at Melbourne Central or Victoria Markets, and not tasted the talked-about Greek culinary, or savour the aromatic coffee from the chic side-walk cafes!

I can't believe how much waste of time my 7 days were! I was expecting to feel refreshed after this trip and now, without much rest, I have to combat the overwhelming workload that has built up while im away!

Now, I'm full of regrets for taking up this holidays! Arrggghhhhh!!! I could have done a lot better if I'm travelling by myself.

2008-03-08T13:05:00.002+09:00

Finally done up the wedding invitations last week!

Have been so up to my neck at work! And so much flying around within these two months... But hopefully, im all up to scratch with my wedding preps now. Although there was a huge hiccup just before, I'm not at all discouraged from going with what has been planned on the 05th Apr!

So friends, please bear with me for a bit. The invites should arrive in your mail shortly =)

Finally...

2008-03-02T12:19:00.007+09:00

... all of the pictures from my Sydney trip!

Here's how the story goes. I woke up after a fulfilling rest on a beautiful Sunday morning. And mind you, it's RARE I would use the phrase "beautiful Sunday morning"! After dolling myself up for the day, I finally felt the hunger pangs in my stomach. I wolfed down a sumptous breakfast at the hotel's cafe, and washed it down with an aromatic cup of coffee. How much better can a Sunday morning get, with the allowance to take my time over breakfast (if I had not been so hungry!)

Waited for Fiona to pick me up and headed for desserts at The Rocks (an icon in the early history of European Settlement). The place was just swamped with people either looking for a cafe to enjoy lunch or
trying to cross over to the harbour to catch a glimpse of Queen Victoria before she leaves Sydney for the next destination. It's a lovely quaint place despite the crowd!

To help in the digestion of desserts, we girls decided to enjoy some retail therapy at DFO Homebush. It didn't look that huge, but surprisingly, I couldn't finish going through the entire building in even 2.5 hours! How disappointing! Nonetheless, I'm thankful that I didn't do much damage to my wallet!

I was dropped off at Harbourside for more shopping. I'm equally enthralled by the colourful Harbour view and its many pretty restaurants/ bars along the harbour!

I retreated with sore feet from trotting around in my heels at the end of the day!

Risk Management training on Monday was great! I'm glad to expand my knowledge in the management field and hope that will help me to beef up my resume! The training in the following 2 days were just as great! They do get me excited about the all the possibilities! =) Looking forward to implement the new structure in my organisation soon!

My last meeting ended at 5pm sharp on Monday, signalling the end of the working day! Still bouncing with energy, I took a little walk out, not having any particular location to go in mind. And... erm... I landed up at the same place as I have been on Sat and Sun! Unreal! But I have got an explanation now for the overwhelming repeated pictures of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour.

But well, looking back on the pictures, the views do differ with the locations I took them from.
Was rather amused by them. The first set of pictures from Sat were taken from the Ferry Terminal and also from somewhere in front of a gallery, the popular hang-out for baskers. Second set of pictures taken on Sunday was under the bridge.
I was watching Sun Princess enter the harbour and couldn't resist snapping more pictures. The final set of pictures were taken within closer range of the Opera House. And of course, I managed to catch Queen Elizabeth II from Southampton.

More...

Here's a piece of the view I enjoyed, while digging in.

I was strolling back to the hotel after dinner, with a cup of Robin Baskin Ice-cream in hand. Good way to work it all off! (I was actually glad that I didn't lose my way, since I was only intending to wander around, within close radii of the hotel. I'm also glad that I have chosen walking over taking a bus or even a taxi! It gave me chance to explore and examine the cool architecture as I come across them.)

The majesty of St. Mary's Cathedral! I love it!

The exterior of a hospital- A lot of government organisations like the Department of Education, the municipal building are contained in a timeless facade, such as this.

Sydney Photos- First Instalment

2008-03-02T00:20:00.008+09:00

Hee, funny title for this post isn't it?

But anyway, here are some photos I have snapped on the first day. Touched down at 8am, and found to my dismay, that I was unable to check in.
After hanging around the lobby
for about half an hour or so, I decided to venture out for a walk. Little did I know,
the direction I have decided on, led me to King's Cross, a supposed notorious nightlife area. I stopped at King's Cross Centre to chill at the Nail Spa, while having
my manicure and
pedicure done. Love the colours!

I would liken the area to North Bridge in Perth. The street was lined with Al Fresco bars and restaurants, and I do see the usual enticing signs that call out for in-house "Peep Shows"
from the sleazy bars. Nothing has really shaken me that much except for a mad freak who
showed some obscene gestures. But he was really mad, and had annoyed other passer-bys just as much.

I got 2 books from a second-hand bookstore. They have got an amazing selection of books,
a couple of which were actually
recent publications. The walk to-and-fro King's Cross took about 25 mins or so.
After munching on the cheesemite I have gotten earlier, I went into a 1.5 hour snooze.

Lovely place I was provided with isn't it?

Despite of the lack of rest for the whole night, I was surprised to find myself hopping
around town with energy for shopping and sightseeing.
Further to that, I had enough reserved for dinner and sweets after!
How unbelievable was that!

Finally managed to catch up with Fiona babe!

Taking heaps of pictures to amuse ourselves while waiting for food to be served! And revealing my wedding gift here! =P

Great dining ambience, accompanied by equally high standards of food served! And we still had room for desserts! (We went to Pancakes on the Rocks, which had an astonishing long Q). Don't be misled by the desserts shown above. I actually had them from French Patisserie the next day.
Just stuffed them in this becos they so happened to fit.

Mouth-watering stuff from Pancakes on the Rocks! YUM!!!!

That's about all the photos for this time round. Will try to collate the rest soon! I just had so much catching up with work since I've been back!

The perfect timeout

2008-02-28T19:19:00.006+09:00

Just a quick post to let everyone know that I'm back from the Sydney work trip.

I totally love it! Both at work and at play! I'm a bit too tired to elaborate on the details for now. You would have been as overwhelmed if you were in my shoes. Reality sets in as soon as I get home- the looming reporting deadlines, wedding cards to finish up and mail out by Tuesday, and not including many other miscellaneous tasks snowballing on my agenda list. And god knows which category of storm I'll be expecting at work tmr!

In any case, I really am grateful for the timeout from my regimented work/ personal routine.

Admittedly, it's almost gone to the extent that I wished I didn't have to come home! More pics to come later, I promise!

Beyond Recognition

2008-02-19T19:54:00.002+09:00

I can hardly believe that pair of lack-lustre eyes belong to someone I thought I have known so well... How did the zest and purpose get evaporated, at such a rate?

Time and tide indeed waits for no man. Can life ever afford to wait for the forsaken to be in sync with the rest?

Ouch, it hurts!

2008-02-10T11:23:00.000+09:00

My wisdom tooth is disturbing me again. I dont think I can avoid the extraction at all. That tooth is growing in the strangest position! It gives me shivers when I look at it in the mirror. I'm already imagining myself wriggling in pain on the chair as the dentist struggle with pulling out
that strayed growth spotted in the most challenging position. And the blood! And also swollen cheeks! Eek! I think I'll probably pass out with the amount of anesthetics I need!

It's only a matter of time for that nightmare to come true!

Anyway, I'll be leaving on a work trip to Sydney in two weeks time. Planning to arrive a day earlier for some exploration in the city. I'm basically looking forward to shopping over there! And visiting the famed Opera House! =)

Come mid-march, I'll be heading with SL and my boss to Melb for Grand Prix. The airfare costs $900 for each person. That's such a dear price to pay, compared to the usual $500 fare! But SL reckons with the free accomodation we get at the sister hotel, it works out to be pretty fair. Besides Melbourne, I can envisage myself enjoying a shopping spree in Singapore and Malaysia after the wedding. So yeah, I'm prepared for the most unhealthy financial position in the coming two months. Other than the shopping sprees, I would be expecting a huge bill for the lavish wedding I have opted to have at the Raffles Hotel (I have decided to pay for the Singapore one and SL paying for the Malaysia one)! It's a good thing that I have already started putting aside money every week for my credit card account. So, hopefully, that will not set my cash flow back too much by then! And hopefully,
the monetary gifts will help to cover the bulk of the remaining bill.

But, I really need to scrimp after the wedding in late March! I still wanna make my Europe getaway come true! =)

Had an amazing CNY dinner at Ade's place! Although the atmosphere was different from Singapore, it's still nice to know that somewhere in Aust, there'll still be people around to celebrate those special events with you!

So here's a photo of me, all dolled up for the dinner! (it's been a while since I've posted any photos of myself here in this blog!)

Oh yep, I have kept the tradition of getting new clothes for CNY alive! Hee!

I realised, as I was posting the pictures, these clothes aren't of very exciting colours actually! Not at all befitting of the supposed festive! =P

Anyway, I got these stuff from Valley Girl online store. If any of you from Singapore need anything from Valley Girl, have a peep at their website and drop me a line =)

When dreams crumble to dust

2008-02-02T15:41:00.000+09:00

The pressure in me is exploding. I have got some really bad feelings... that people are plotting and big troubles are brewing.

I felt totally drained last night. I could feel the exhuastion overtaking my body violently. As I drifted to sleep, it feels as if I have surrendered in my own battle. It had been a difficult battle. Those beautiful dreams I had about my future, my life and all the little things I have wished for, have all crumbled. It makes me ponder, what then happens after I get to where I wanted. Would I still be happy or would I be wishing for more? Would I have hurt anyone in my pursuit?

I'm still trying to come to terms with the reality of life. I'm still feeling bitter over the fact that there isn't an inch on earth
that is not spared by the evil of mankind.

Man are despicable beings- we turn so power-hungry that nothing would stop us from jumping at each other's throats. Life is so fucking ugly and I wish I was never human to have any emotions at all.

Truely, life is such a bitch and all man are born to be political beings, which really makes us worse than animals. If there is such a thing as judgement day, I wish with all my heart that all man will be wiped out, leaving behind only a tragic vacuum that serves to remind how much we deserve it.

The first big step in life...

2008-01-19T17:54:00.000+09:00

I bought the wallet for my brother just then. It's meant to be a gift for his 21st birthday. Can't fly back to celebrate with him.

As for my sister's gift, I honestly haven't thought of what to buy yet. I have in fact forgotten to send her my birthday wishes! =P But will make up for it by having a nice girls' out together when I get back.

As I look back on my own 21st birthday celebration, I can still vividly recall those fond memories of celebration and fun in the company of my close friends!

Can't wait for April to come! Not only because of my excitement for the wedding, but i'm also looking very much forward to catch up with my family and friends. Really, they are people who mean the world to me!

My day's playing up on me

2008-01-14T21:09:00.000+09:00

My day has been a hellish one. Enough is enough. I have decided that I should move for greener pastures soon. Too much things are happening at once. I'm leaving those betrayal, legal suits and dick-head-bosses behind.

The thing I need to learn is to have more faith in myself and what the future lies ahead for me.

My shoes have finally arrived today! This could be very well the last shopping spree.

I could perhaps settle for a job that pays less for the short-term, until I have decided what to do next. Really need the time to recover especially after suffering the bad luck of ending up with companies for notorious reputations, one after the next.

Wonder when this bad luck will end.

Some pics to lighten up this post...

(Yesh, I painted that myself. Going to put it up this weekend!)

Late Xmas Pressies!

2008-01-12T13:56:00.000+09:00

Finally get to see what my xmas pressies are when SL came home on tuesday!

The bag and the lovely bracelet! I love them! That ring in the picture is actually my wedding band...and therefore not really part of my xmas pressies! The bracelet is abit too long for my, uh-hmm, tiny wrist =P And Im not supposed to wear the ring until the wedding. So for now, I can only look at it with longing eyes.

I have done the mock-ups for my giant canvas. But I might perhaps end up doing a simple stripped design instead. They are way easier to handle!

New fitted sheets!

2008-01-03T21:31:00.000+09:00

It's after-work shopping again today... with high hopes of getting real bargains from K-Mart.. But... nothing more than heaps of chocs, and oh yes, the 1000 thread count fitted sheets and pillowcase!

The material feels heavenly! More importantly, the price is unbelievable! Gave me the urge to pull off the old sheets from my bed and start using them tonight! =P

Will be adding some adornments on the pillow cases to match my duvet set. Can't wait to snap some better quality pictures of the finished products! =) There's also the painting I wanna use to dress up our boring "featured" wall. Hopefully, they will get done before SL comes home on Tue!

I'm waiting to say "Home Sweet Home"!

Shoppen! (German word for shopping, if I'm not wrong)

2007-12-30T10:52:00.000+09:00

Did some shopping yesterday... at the malls, alright! =P

Check out the textiles I have bought for my wedding dresses. Sorry for the low quality photos! SL has taken my cam with him to Singapore/Malaysia. And I believe my doggie's head looks heavy with our caps piled on him! Hee...

Hopefully, the final product will turn out alright. While shopping at Spotlight, I found a lovely duvet cover set! Can't resist the price and the quality! The passionate-red covers are really appealing. I'm going to sew some golden pillow cases from the leftover fabrics to match them. And perhaps get some fitted sheets too! Trust me, sewing fitted sheets is a nightmare, and I will never do it again!

Couldn't have a good rest last night... Just can't stop thinking about work and how to handle next week! The consolation is that, at least the big bosses are happy with my performance. But, I really don't know how long I can sustain working like this, without getting burnt-out =(

Ninewest Shoes for sale!

2007-12-29T21:02:00.000+09:00

I've scrapped off the idea of getting a thousand-dollar handbag and decided to get a few pairs of Ninewest shoes instead.

Going to do my mail order sometime next week. In the meantime, if anyone's keen to purchase stuff from Ninewest, (see photos below), please let me know. They should basically be cheaper than those selling in Singapore's boutiques.

AMEYA- SGD150.00

JELLZEY- SGD150.00

KAIROSE- SGD150.00

LACEYROSE- SGD120.00 (Not $150.00 as listed on photo)

RIMA- SGD150.00

RHEA HOBO- SGD48

GEORGIO HOBO- SGD89.00

Please email me or contact me on my msn if you are interested to make purchases. Information I need to complete the orders would be:

1. Name
2. Contact Details
3. Shoe size (I'd suggest that you try out the same designs or if not, similar cuts at the local boutiques before confirming the orders)
4. Style
5. Mailing Address

Payment Mode: Direct Deposit/ Paypal

Terms and Conditions

1. Exchange may be made within 07 days upon receipt of goods, provided that goods are returned in its original condition
2. Buyers have to bear the costs of shipping (not included in the prices listed)
3. Goods are subject to availability. Please check before ordering
4. Goods will not be shipped until payment has been received in full

Inclination to spend again!

2007-12-29T00:45:00.000+09:00

Alright, I promise that this will be my last purchase of the year! And I know it's not a promise that is easy to break, with the new year approaching in just 3 days time!

The truth is, I can't decide which handbag I should get! (I know, some of you would be going, "Duh?!!) I really dont know why I can't resist adding new stuff to my collection.

So, before I pull out my credit card to commit, can someone tell me which looks better? The first one is Burberry Prorsum's Manor Patent Bag (a quilted leather tote with silver hardware), and the second, being a Fendi B canvas.

Another useful news for shopaholics like me! Net-A-Porter is having sales! They have a reduction of round about 30-40% for handbags! The selection seems pretty good!

I really need to start saving so that I can afford my dream vacations! Hmmp! Maybe someone should just tell me to forget about them and get over it!

Xmas Galore!

2007-12-26T23:11:00.000+09:00

Showing off...

my cheery bright orange xmas top! Haha...

Huong dropped me my xmas gifts today! Coincidentally, Rozy and her, both of whom are my good pals, bought me similar stuff!

Perhaps they realised how much encourage I need at work! =) Thanks a zillion for those gifts, and for the thought of it!

It's time to set some realistic goals for next year!

2007-12-25T12:19:00.000+09:00

As I looked upon those delicately wrapped gifts, I can't help feeling a sense of satisfaction, and hence can't resist taking a picture of them! =)

Rozy has invited me over again this year. It feels a bit odd this time round as dinner is held at her cousin's place instead of hers. Nonetheless, I'm looking forward to meet her family again! Made some peach jelly to share tonight too!

SL is away in Malaysia now. I'm looking forward to the Bvlgari handbag he has gotten from Singapore Airport! He originally wanted to get the Balenciaga Biker bag. We later decided against it cos it resembles too much of those $20 look-alikes that you can get from Target (admittedly, I own a red Marc Jacobs look-alike! For just $10 after a hefty discount!). Get my point?

Anyway, being anxious to know how it looks like, I made futile attempts to look for a picture of it on the website. Yet, while looking for it, i chanced upon this website.

I'm impressed with the selection! On top of that, I read from someone's blog that they do deliveries to Singapore too! I'm already thinking about more handbags to add to the existing collection! =P

Here's how it goes: (from top-down) Dior Quilted Leather, another one from Dior and there's Dolce and Gabbana. Dior bags are too sweet to resist! But rather hard for me to keep up with their designs! And because of its style, they are not functional for all occasions (with exception to the leather collection of course!)

However, I would really love to own one of those bigger black quilted leather stuff. They are too handy for work! The good news is, they come with an affordable price tag of just below USD1000.

Having said that, I certainly would not want to compromise my travel plans next year by going all out to acquire those little desires!

I really ought to be satisfied with the handbags I have bought/ received for this year! *Smacks*

Feeling Drained...

2007-12-14T18:06:00.000+09:00

It feels as if I haven't had a good rest for a long while!

I'm determined to have a quiet weekend next week. I should start putting my creative hands to use soon! Haha! Being in Australia all these while made me realise how much I love being on my own. Or perhaps I'm just growing accustomed to the way of life here.

But anyway, I have been doing heaps of driving recently. That, no doubt, has contributed to my recent exhaustion too.

YH came over for the weekend and I showed her around Bunbury and Busselton! I have finally checked out the art gallery... and the Christmas Shop I would never have known about if I haven't been there!

Some pics to share...

Curious to know where these places are? Hee! Nothing more than the beach (Rocky Point), the tall Bunbury Lookout and the Art Gallery (last pic)

2007-11-29T21:06:00.000+09:00

I have a weakness for perfume set recently. Useless me can't resist this beautiful perfume set from Burberry! I'm trying hard to convince myself it wasn't largely because of the sweet coffret!

Help me with my addiction!

2007-11-29T19:00:00.000+09:00

Feeling tired of having to guard myself against others all the time. Work really sucks. Oh well, whatever it is, since when I have ever blogged about work going well for me? I'm wondering if it's purely tough luck or it is my own fault for getting myself too involved? My job is not meant to be a pleasant one to begin with.

Finally done up the sums for my Singapore trip! You won't believe it! I have spent a painful AUD2700 on just a 5 days trip! Gotta work really hard to re-pay my credit card bills! I can't complain too much though. Really enjoyed the trip. Missed the good shopping experience!

I'm already thinking about when I can see my girls next!

P/S: My next shopping expedition will be sweeping habourtown after xmas! Woohoo!

Singapore Trip

2007-11-24T21:43:00.000+09:00

The recent trip back to Singapore, though short, was a blast! Managed to meet up with quite a few friends and did heaps of shopping. Beefed up my wardrobe with cool work wear.

The highlight of my trip must be this gorgeous bridal gown I got from a wholesale retailer! I fell in love with it at first sight and decided that I just have to buy it!

I also bought a Louis Vuitton handbag (something I have yearned to own for a long while!) and
a Givenchy perfume set at the airport. Can't believe how long the queue ran at the LV boutique!

And talking about catching up with friends, I have finally checked out the much-talked-about mega club- St James Powerhouse.

Needless to say, it was a fabulous night!

What joys impulsive buys bring!

2007-10-06T17:55:00.000+08:00

No one can understand how little new purchases brighten up my week!

Last weekend, I bought this innovative essential oil diffuser from the Olive Oil Soap factory in Marg River. It's amazing just by looking at how it works! Instead of using the candle flame, the scent is diffused, not by heat, but by just sticking the bamboo sticks into the bottle mouth! It works perfect!

I have been such an avid shopper at Strawberry Net of late. Following my purchase of Vit C serum and Phyto Corrective Gel, I have been receiving news and updates of specials. And it won't take long for one to guess what happens next! This lovely travel kit is on its way!

Lovely surprises

2007-09-26T19:55:00.000+08:00

SL came back from the States on Monday, with lovely surprises! Check out the latest Gucci design he got from San Francisco airport! They have been out in Europe for only a month! It's not even selling in Asia or on the Gucci website yet.

And there's this lovely scarf from Coach too. A good one for the winter-turn-spring transitional period! =P

I might be due in Sydney for a bi-annual meeting in mid-dec... erm... I mean, only if I can survive the rough waves in the coming weeks, and of course, IF I decide to stay on. Will see how things go. I welcome a free trip to Sydney, granted that extension is permitted! =P

Mission Impossible

2007-09-23T11:00:00.000+08:00

I'm feeling so drained. Finished work at 10.30pm last night. The previous week has been a crazy one. Had a full 3-day management training programme. It was enriching, BUT having to squeeze in time in between breaks to follow up on phone calls and finish up urgent matters was totally EXHAUSTING! The following 2 days after the training session was filled with
LONG meeting schedules.

And thus, I ended my work week yesterday with a full day meeting which finished 10.30pm! What really wears me out is the thought of organising my agenda for the
following 2 weeks. I can't imagine how I can handle month-end closing and the very inquisitive internal auditors at the same time.

I can't figure how I can try to put in place the policies and procedures
that have not been followed for a long while.

Thanks to those people who just walk
away from their jobs without tying up the loose ends. And thanks for receiving the credits for what you manage to hide and thanks to the management for making me responsible for
cleaning up your mess!

I might be going to Sydney for a work trip in November, IF I'm going to remain here till then.

More training to come next Wednesday on labour relations.

I'm going to have fun!

Liberal or labour?

2007-09-09T13:48:00.000+08:00

My mind is definitely not built for understanding the intricacies of politics.

With the upcoming election in australia, the speculation of who's going to be in power next,
never cease to be the common dinner table topic. Having to admit that I can't carry such conversation well, I tried to read up a bit on that. Not much progress, as I have given up just halfway! But I THINK I have at least make out what is a federation, constitution and parliament. I hope I have! =)

For all I know, my company is watching the election closely as well. Will AWA be here to stay??

I'm feeling all stressed up now for some reasons. Over work and over what my in-laws think about my resignation. But well, since I have decided on what is best for myself, why worry excessively over it? I need to switch off on others sometimes. And perhaps I should just chill and start doodling in my sketchbook! =)

Contemplation

2007-09-08T22:03:00.000+08:00

Work is seriously getting too much. I'm going to tender my resignation. It's only a matter of when is the right time. The bosses are coming from Singapore and Sydney soon. I don't suppose it will be a good time for me to do that just before they arrive. I can imagine the awkwardness if they were to probe too much. But yeah, perhaps it will be a good chance for me to voice out my discontent with certain dumb-asses.

It doesn't matter the amount of renumeration or manpower they are offering to keep me. I'm just not ready for it yet. Yes, I admit that I do wanna climb that ladder. But taking on things too early will only work to my disadvantage. I need the experience to deal with those snakes at work. I probably need to be almost like a mind-reader, and develop my intuition to avoid the dangerous tracks.

I know I'm such a loser. But not quite yet. I learnt from every job. It doesn't really matter if I have all the job knowledge required. It does make a difference, I agree. As much as I hate to agree with this fact, it is impossible to deny that diplomacy and effective people management forms the core battle at workplace. I can't have the responsibility of running the whole department without understanding the game of politics. I just need to learn to play my cards right. No man can go to a battle unprepared...

Anyway, enough of my cynical rattling, I have got better things to share ;)

My resignation just means that my trip back to Singapore will be sooner than scheduled!

It also means that I'm able to plan for more exciting stuff while I'm back!

How excited am I!

Was chatting with Agnes the whole day about Bali. It will be such a thrill for me if the trip is going to materialise! It's been ages since I last gone on a trip with my gfs. Really miss doing all the gally stuff.

If it falls through, I might make a solo-trip to Bangkok! Hee.

I just can't believe that I've spent the whole day reading up on Bali, checking out accomodation deals and the best shopping spots! And oh my, not to forget the bargain paintings I would be dying to get, to dress up the bare feature wall in my bedroom!

Was looking for some ideas on the internet and came across these two pieces. I love the first piece in particular. It would be most perfect for this seductive (subtle and tasteful) piece to find its place on a bedroom wall. If the second piece could take up a substantial place on the wall, it would look equally good as well!

I might even do up my own paintings if I could be bothered at all! I know how rewarding it will be, if and when someone compliments on it.

Did I mention that SL is going away on business trip to San Francisco? And did I mention that I enjoy this timeout zone? =P Just kidding! I guess everyone needs time off alone. And no doubts I'm really serious about going away on my own if the Bali trip falls through.

It's good once in a while to have your own space... for self-reflection and erm, reconciliation of identity? Time for my cosy retreat!

Certified Pass!

2007-08-17T19:18:00.000+08:00

I have finally passed my driving assessment! After a long period of inconsistent practice and one failed attempt, I'm totally elated!

What's next is to think about what sort of cars I'm going to get! *Winks*

And check out the new jacket by J Lo bought just today! Love the faux-fur style!

Exhausted

2007-08-04T23:46:00.000+08:00

Work has taken up the bulk of my energy and time of late. So much so that I can't even be bothered to pen my grouses for many weekends.

I badly need a break, but only after I have got things up and running smoothly in my department. With a painful agenda as follows, I'm not sure how long that will be...

1. Plenty of back-log to clear
2. Difficult staff to handle
3. Coordination with other Department heads (even more difficult to handle?!)
4. Reporting to a very demanding regional FC and a wishy-washy GM!

But I guess it's a good learning curve for myself. Hope to have brighter stuff to update the next time round. In the meantime, I'll be hugging my newly arrived book (Hotel Operations Management) from Amazon to sleep!

Back to work

2007-07-07T22:46:00.000+08:00

I'm finally back, after what seemed like a long while of disappearance!

I have been busy at work! After all the fun I had with my siblings in Perth, doing crazy shopping and all, I was made to face up with reality the following day. I packed and left for work on Monday morning.

Lotsa drama at work, even in just 2 weeks. I also realised that I'll need to be responsible for new duties like budgeting and doing cashflow forecast. The job is going to be challenging and hectic! But also promising at the same time, if i can survive it all. So, I'm hanging on there, so that i can fulfil my first dream vacation in 2009! *Fingers crossed*

Lucky thing is that accomodation is provided at the hotel. So it's pretty convenient for me to crash after finishing work late at night!

A Quick Post

2007-06-19T23:51:00.000+08:00

I'm officially 23 today!

Dinner at Lighthouse was awesome and the Gelare ice-cream treat topped off the night beautifully!

I was at Margaret River and Augusta today. Bought two bottles of wine from Gralyn. They just taste so beautiful. Wonder who I can share the wine with now... Haha! The coastline along Augusta was equally great! The breathtaking scenery had made my day! Well, actually, it's heaps better to let the pictures do the talking!

I'm back with some updates!

2007-06-18T22:52:00.000+08:00

Snippets of what I have been up to for the past one week or so...

My siblings touched down last Saturday midnight (or rather Sunday morning). Had a quick supper at the hotel and a chat that dragged till 3am in the morning. Great to have them here... for two weeks!

Coincidentally, that day was also our 1 year wedding anniversary. SL and I had a dip in the spa in our room at Hotel Northbridge before going out for dinner at 150 Eastside. If you enjoy a spa session with more privacy, Hotel Northbridge has got the cheapest spa suites in town. The interior of the room isn't that fantastic, but it's the spa I love! Anyway, coming back to 150 Eastside, the pictures of the restaurant i have seen on the website are pretty misleading. I can't deny that the food was marvellous though!

So, the whole of last week was spent on sight-seeing and SHOPPING... The following pictures will pretty much sum up the fun we had!

King's Park and Fremantle

Busselton

Busselton Jetty- Worth prob 2km long! Certain parts of the jetty are known to be structurally unsound! Gave me jitters as I paced up the longest jetty I have ever been to in my life!

Ferguson Valley- I love the drive scenic drive there! A pity that we have not taken the 4WD for the unpaved roads leading to the winery!

The Old Quarry at Wellington Dam. It was blown off many years ago, leaving behind a nice U-shape remnant.

Archery! I broke my personal record this time! Haha!

And erm, some stuff I got while I was accompanying my sis for some retail therapy! Haha! =)

Two more things to announce! First, I'm turning 23 tmr! Will be going to the Lighthouse for dinner. My siblings will be celebrating with me too. Mum has bought me another set of Parker pens. Hee, a very traditional gift from her! Second, I'm finally employed! The salary is comfy but certainly not fat enough for me to fulfil my dream destinations that soon (but I could probably afford to pamper myself with spa indulgence and massage once every month or so, plus small trips to cheaper destinations)! The prospects for career advancement within the company sounds pretty exciting though! So, wish me luck!

Can't wait to...

2007-06-08T23:10:00.000+08:00

I'm keeping my fingers crossed, real tight... that I would get the job and work my way up the corporate ladder.

I can't wait to earn those big bucks, my qualifications and realise the dream vacations that I have been yearning for. And also, not to mention my dream car! =)

Going to fetch my siblings tmr at the airport. We're going to have a great time tog! Haha! More later!

My Lil' Prayer

2007-06-03T18:26:00.000+08:00

Grant me wings so that I can soar. Grant me the hands of destruction so that I can ruin those whom I so despise. Grant me sanity and forgiveness after all I have done.

I feel bad for saying such words. But I have never seethed with such intensed hatred in my life. I have never hated someone to the extent that only their downfall would mark the beginning of my happiness. The cruel knowledge had dawned on me. Gone are the days of living in a naive world of good-will-triumph-over-evil. The fairy-tale life I used to know was a lie.