I'm away on a much needed break.
And this is as neat as it can be.
At least for now.
And this is as neat as it can be.
At least for now.
Wednesday 20 May 2009
Thursday 14 May 2009
mistake.&.fraud
The MPs expenses scandal continues...
Was in the kitchen earlier watching the news and can’t help wondering how in the world can MPs ‘accidentally’ claim or submitted expenses by ‘mistake’.
How?
HOW???!!!
Does one not review their expenses before submitting?
I mean how can it be a mistake if one has to (typically) fill in an expenses claim form, submits receipt and get it approved?
How?
And again, who approves or scrutinise before approval???
Goodness!
What has been happening in the past weeks of the expenses scandal revelation are MPs showing off on TV the cheques they have signed off to be submitted to Inland Revenue and an apology.
‘Oopps, you’ve caught me. Here’s the refund. I’m sorry.’ And then get back to their work.
Whether or not it is going to happen again, who knows?
Some of the mistakes seemed so deliberate that it can be classified as fraud!
And all it takes is here is the money, sorry, and back to work.
In a typical organisation, if you are caught for fraud, what happens to you?
You lose your job and might even be arrested!
Noo... MPs have special immunity.
So, why being a British MP is the best job in the world?
#1. High salary: £64,766
#2. Unlimited expenses claim. Even though there are rules to it.
#3. Immunity on ‘mistakes’
Once again, good life for some...
Anyways, well done to those who were sensible enough not to abuse their expenses claims rights.
Why is this topic the ‘highlight’ of my day?
Well, just because these MPs are using my tax money to fund for their ‘extravagant’ lifestyle!
I'm curious to what are the allowable expenses for Malaysian politicans? Hmmm...?
Was in the kitchen earlier watching the news and can’t help wondering how in the world can MPs ‘accidentally’ claim or submitted expenses by ‘mistake’.
How?
HOW???!!!
Does one not review their expenses before submitting?
I mean how can it be a mistake if one has to (typically) fill in an expenses claim form, submits receipt and get it approved?
How?
And again, who approves or scrutinise before approval???
Goodness!
What has been happening in the past weeks of the expenses scandal revelation are MPs showing off on TV the cheques they have signed off to be submitted to Inland Revenue and an apology.
‘Oopps, you’ve caught me. Here’s the refund. I’m sorry.’ And then get back to their work.
Whether or not it is going to happen again, who knows?
Some of the mistakes seemed so deliberate that it can be classified as fraud!
And all it takes is here is the money, sorry, and back to work.
In a typical organisation, if you are caught for fraud, what happens to you?
You lose your job and might even be arrested!
Noo... MPs have special immunity.
So, why being a British MP is the best job in the world?
#1. High salary: £64,766
#2. Unlimited expenses claim. Even though there are rules to it.
#3. Immunity on ‘mistakes’
Once again, good life for some...
Anyways, well done to those who were sensible enough not to abuse their expenses claims rights.
Why is this topic the ‘highlight’ of my day?
Well, just because these MPs are using my tax money to fund for their ‘extravagant’ lifestyle!
I'm curious to what are the allowable expenses for Malaysian politicans? Hmmm...?
Wednesday 13 May 2009
Monday 11 May 2009
behind.schedule
I haven’t been blogging much about my RICS APC experience. This is due to the fact that I haven’t been doing much about it either.
Work has been so hectic that I’ve neglected my diary updating and progress reviews. So bad, I know.
:: I need to get my month 15-18 diary up to date and then arrange for reviews.
:: I need to prepare a short write up for my competencies experience and get them sign off.
:: I need to complete my development records.
:: I need to prepare a project summary with brief details of the projects I worked on.
:: I need to prepare my critical analysis structure and then the first draft.
:: And I want to sit for my final assessment in November this year!
:: I don’t want to say I can't but I need to push myself harder.
On top of that, I'm supposed to do some studying on all the competencies, mainly for Level One.
Typically,
Level One - show knowledge and understanding.
Level Two - provide proof of application of knowledge and understanding.
Level Three - provide reasoned advice and depth of technical knowledge.
I'm running really behind of schedule and I don't want to leave it for next year.
Could it be a better choice?
Hmmm...
Work has been so hectic that I’ve neglected my diary updating and progress reviews. So bad, I know.
:: I need to get my month 15-18 diary up to date and then arrange for reviews.
:: I need to prepare a short write up for my competencies experience and get them sign off.
:: I need to complete my development records.
:: I need to prepare a project summary with brief details of the projects I worked on.
:: I need to prepare my critical analysis structure and then the first draft.
:: And I want to sit for my final assessment in November this year!
:: I don’t want to say I can't but I need to push myself harder.
On top of that, I'm supposed to do some studying on all the competencies, mainly for Level One.
Typically,
Level One - show knowledge and understanding.
Level Two - provide proof of application of knowledge and understanding.
Level Three - provide reasoned advice and depth of technical knowledge.
I'm running really behind of schedule and I don't want to leave it for next year.
Could it be a better choice?
Hmmm...
ever.considered.being.a.british.politician?
For weeks, all you hear everyday on the UK news is exposure of what UK Members of Parliament (MPs) has been claiming for expenses.
You see, in the UK, MPs receive allowances to cover the costs of running an office and employing staff, having somewhere to live in London and in their constituency, and travelling between Parliament and their constituency.
Sounds fair enough, right?
But it has come to light that expenses claimed by the MPs covers from pay-per-view adult films, to magazine subscriptions. From dog food, to home repairs and luxury furnishings.
On top of all that, the annual salary for an MP is £64,766!!!
Was there no one who sets what can be claimed under expenses?
Someone who checked if all the expenses were valid?
Does the MPs not realise that they should have known better not to use tax-payers’ money as their bottomless purse to pay out their monthly expenditures?
Dog food? Come on!
It started initially with MPs employing their family members to be their staff, with good salary, mind you.
Nepotism? What Nepotism?! Doubt they even know what it really means.
So, each MP is allowed expenses for two homes - one in their constituency and the other in London.
Can the government 'impose' that the MPs constituency home to be the first home and provide accommodation in London?
Would it not be easier for the government to provide a purpose built accommodation, i.e. a one room / studio or two room apartment for each MP to live in when in London for work. The government pay for the accommodation and bills, and any additional expenses like a Wii console or fancy plasma screens, will be bore by the MPs. After all, the London 'home' should be somewhere to live in when working in London. Adequate and comfy, not the presidential suite of the Ritz-Carlton.
Do they not live in their constituency home and serve the community there? If not, then why run for election at your constituency?
Why bother?
During one of my visits to the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood, there was an extract of an MP's diary. It said that she travels to Edinburgh from her (undisclosed) constituency and stay in the Edinburgh accommodation (could be home) for a few days and then travel back to the constituency home where her family lives.
Now, why can she do it but not the others down in London?
I think if I said to my boss that I want to keep my Aberdeen home and need expenses paid for my Glasgow accommodation, I’m sure he will tell me to sort it out myself from my own pay.
In the current economic climate, it doesn't make sense that the people's representatives are having a good time - good pay (£64k, I won’t complaint) and bottomless expenses, when employment is at a record high.
Forget Hamilton Island. It does seem that the best job in the world is being a British MP. On top of a rather comfortable pay, you can claim for bottomless expenses.
Good life for some...
And people wonder why I don't have faith in politicians.
You see, in the UK, MPs receive allowances to cover the costs of running an office and employing staff, having somewhere to live in London and in their constituency, and travelling between Parliament and their constituency.
Sounds fair enough, right?
But it has come to light that expenses claimed by the MPs covers from pay-per-view adult films, to magazine subscriptions. From dog food, to home repairs and luxury furnishings.
On top of all that, the annual salary for an MP is £64,766!!!
Was there no one who sets what can be claimed under expenses?
Someone who checked if all the expenses were valid?
Does the MPs not realise that they should have known better not to use tax-payers’ money as their bottomless purse to pay out their monthly expenditures?
Dog food? Come on!
It started initially with MPs employing their family members to be their staff, with good salary, mind you.
Nepotism? What Nepotism?! Doubt they even know what it really means.
So, each MP is allowed expenses for two homes - one in their constituency and the other in London.
Can the government 'impose' that the MPs constituency home to be the first home and provide accommodation in London?
Would it not be easier for the government to provide a purpose built accommodation, i.e. a one room / studio or two room apartment for each MP to live in when in London for work. The government pay for the accommodation and bills, and any additional expenses like a Wii console or fancy plasma screens, will be bore by the MPs. After all, the London 'home' should be somewhere to live in when working in London. Adequate and comfy, not the presidential suite of the Ritz-Carlton.
Do they not live in their constituency home and serve the community there? If not, then why run for election at your constituency?
Why bother?
During one of my visits to the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood, there was an extract of an MP's diary. It said that she travels to Edinburgh from her (undisclosed) constituency and stay in the Edinburgh accommodation (could be home) for a few days and then travel back to the constituency home where her family lives.
Now, why can she do it but not the others down in London?
I think if I said to my boss that I want to keep my Aberdeen home and need expenses paid for my Glasgow accommodation, I’m sure he will tell me to sort it out myself from my own pay.
In the current economic climate, it doesn't make sense that the people's representatives are having a good time - good pay (£64k, I won’t complaint) and bottomless expenses, when employment is at a record high.
Forget Hamilton Island. It does seem that the best job in the world is being a British MP. On top of a rather comfortable pay, you can claim for bottomless expenses.
Good life for some...
And people wonder why I don't have faith in politicians.
Tuesday 5 May 2009
i.would.stay.here.if.i.could
...then I would have no life.
I should really not stay too late at work.
But in this economic climate, busy is good. And that is my current mantra. For busy means there is work for you. Which means that I will be kept employed. So goes the reason to it.
And the only way to get more work done in limited time, my contract is ending here end of June, is to stay back and get it done. Doesn’t help when you received ‘inheritance’ that you need to tidy up from scratch or it is in a mess.
Oh well... better busy than not.
But longer daylight and (slightly) warmer days are looming.
And this is what it is whenever I leave the office.
Oh well, it will all be worthwhile.
I should really not stay too late at work.
But in this economic climate, busy is good. And that is my current mantra. For busy means there is work for you. Which means that I will be kept employed. So goes the reason to it.
And the only way to get more work done in limited time, my contract is ending here end of June, is to stay back and get it done. Doesn’t help when you received ‘inheritance’ that you need to tidy up from scratch or it is in a mess.
Oh well... better busy than not.
But longer daylight and (slightly) warmer days are looming.
And this is what it is whenever I leave the office.
Oh well, it will all be worthwhile.
Monday 4 May 2009
day.out.to.yellowcraigs
Late evenings and late nights has prolly taken a toll on the body.
Down with cold last week. Luckily (almost) cured in time for our outing to Yellowcraigs on Saturday.
Glorious day for a picnic. My friend Chuah was generous in all ways and effort to prepare a wonderful spread for the picnic - nasi lemak, chicken rendang (so full of flavour and the burnt bits was the yummiest!), fried mee hoon, fried chicken, sausages, vegetable rolls, and the assortment of cakes. Too bad didn’t managed to take any pics of the food. Long story.
It was really windy. I don’t remember any time I had food with lots of sand. I’m sure some point in my life, sometime ago.
It was great walking about the beach, tossing the Frisbee and a torpedo thing with a whistle. My arms were aching the next day. Made TOH ran miles to pick up the Frisbee, interestingly it was mostly when I toss them. Ooopss...
The girls tried in vain to fly the kite. Somehow something wasn’t right.
How can a group of 14 not take any pics for the day? After numerous NG takes, this is the one that got loose.
We then head to Edinburgh for dinner - Chinese buffet steamboat. Not the best. I have my reasons.
Long day. We went home tanned and the few mat sallehs were burnt.
Ouch!
Down with cold last week. Luckily (almost) cured in time for our outing to Yellowcraigs on Saturday.
Glorious day for a picnic. My friend Chuah was generous in all ways and effort to prepare a wonderful spread for the picnic - nasi lemak, chicken rendang (so full of flavour and the burnt bits was the yummiest!), fried mee hoon, fried chicken, sausages, vegetable rolls, and the assortment of cakes. Too bad didn’t managed to take any pics of the food. Long story.
It was really windy. I don’t remember any time I had food with lots of sand. I’m sure some point in my life, sometime ago.
It was great walking about the beach, tossing the Frisbee and a torpedo thing with a whistle. My arms were aching the next day. Made TOH ran miles to pick up the Frisbee, interestingly it was mostly when I toss them. Ooopss...
The girls tried in vain to fly the kite. Somehow something wasn’t right.
How can a group of 14 not take any pics for the day? After numerous NG takes, this is the one that got loose.
We then head to Edinburgh for dinner - Chinese buffet steamboat. Not the best. I have my reasons.
Long day. We went home tanned and the few mat sallehs were burnt.
Ouch!
Thursday 30 April 2009
windows.live.photo
Wooowweeee...
Windows Live Photo Gallery is amazing!
After all those cool ads featuring kids using the software, telling us how easy it is to use it, I've finally decided to download it and give it a try.
I had some photos from last weekend of Loch Muick (it's pronounced as 'Mick' not 'Mui-ick', which I had enjoyed annoying the beloved TOH for no end).
Side tracked as usual... Anyways...
And the results...
and
It IS that easy and (almost) seamless! Rather good quality as well!
Now, I just have to go and find more pics!!
Such a clever software!
Now, go forth, download and have fun!
Windows Live Photo Gallery is amazing!
After all those cool ads featuring kids using the software, telling us how easy it is to use it, I've finally decided to download it and give it a try.
I had some photos from last weekend of Loch Muick (it's pronounced as 'Mick' not 'Mui-ick', which I had enjoyed annoying the beloved TOH for no end).
Side tracked as usual... Anyways...
And the results...
and
It IS that easy and (almost) seamless! Rather good quality as well!
Now, I just have to go and find more pics!!
Such a clever software!
Now, go forth, download and have fun!
Tuesday 28 April 2009
visit.to.little.chef
Last Friday, I decided to travel up north earlier than usual after my site meeting.
On the way, I was starving from not having anything since I woke up. Halfway through the meeting, someone was making toast in the kitchen and my mind wandered elsewhere thinking of toast and fried eggs sunny side up... Yum!
Anyways, I decided to stop at Little Chef somewhere after Stirling before Greenloanings exit.
I often travel pass Little Chefs along the motorwaytearing travelling between Glasgow and Aberdeen. But I actually got to know Little Chef a little better through the programme 'Big Chef Takes On Little Chef' earlier this year.
Anyways, since I was starving and requiring to stop for lunch, I grab the chance of having my meal at Little Chef.
I had the Fish Pie and a glass of Coke.
The meal felt like a long wait. Perhaps I was really hungry and it was just cooking at the normal time scale. But the meal was worth every minute!
The fish pie kept very hot for a very long time as it was cleverly cooked in the ovenware. It was a little salty for my taste but the filling was tasty and the fish was cubed evenly and neatly.
I planned to have dessert after the meal but was stuffed.
Service was really good as the waiting staff who served me was attentive and perhaps a little over 'enthusiastic'. Except for him trying to clear off the sauces while I was still having my meal, I would say service was perfect!
Overall, I think the price was reasonable, about the same price of a meal at a proper pub. Which is good, as more often than not, rest stop meals are often over priced and taste awful (according to TOH's words).
I find the place look really charming. It may still have the same red covered seats, the fading table tops, but it provides a charm. Perhaps a new lick of paint and brighter lights might help during the winter days, I donno. I was there, sitting by the window basking in lovely sunshine. But, why would anyone wants a contemporary revamp of the place?
Plus, the toilet was clean and tidy. They even provide you a selection of toiletries!
, it's not a big selection but tell me how many restaurant / cafe provides this kind of selection. LOL...
Not forgetting, a nice lolly for the journey too!
Overall, food was fresh and tasty; decor was clean and service was excellent! I would definitely be back there again, with TOH in tow of course!
On the way, I was starving from not having anything since I woke up. Halfway through the meeting, someone was making toast in the kitchen and my mind wandered elsewhere thinking of toast and fried eggs sunny side up... Yum!
Anyways, I decided to stop at Little Chef somewhere after Stirling before Greenloanings exit.
I often travel pass Little Chefs along the motorway
Anyways, since I was starving and requiring to stop for lunch, I grab the chance of having my meal at Little Chef.
I had the Fish Pie and a glass of Coke.
The meal felt like a long wait. Perhaps I was really hungry and it was just cooking at the normal time scale. But the meal was worth every minute!
The fish pie kept very hot for a very long time as it was cleverly cooked in the ovenware. It was a little salty for my taste but the filling was tasty and the fish was cubed evenly and neatly.
I planned to have dessert after the meal but was stuffed.
Service was really good as the waiting staff who served me was attentive and perhaps a little over 'enthusiastic'. Except for him trying to clear off the sauces while I was still having my meal, I would say service was perfect!
Overall, I think the price was reasonable, about the same price of a meal at a proper pub. Which is good, as more often than not, rest stop meals are often over priced and taste awful (according to TOH's words).
I find the place look really charming. It may still have the same red covered seats, the fading table tops, but it provides a charm. Perhaps a new lick of paint and brighter lights might help during the winter days, I donno. I was there, sitting by the window basking in lovely sunshine. But, why would anyone wants a contemporary revamp of the place?
Plus, the toilet was clean and tidy. They even provide you a selection of toiletries!
, it's not a big selection but tell me how many restaurant / cafe provides this kind of selection. LOL...
Not forgetting, a nice lolly for the journey too!
Overall, food was fresh and tasty; decor was clean and service was excellent! I would definitely be back there again, with TOH in tow of course!
Monday 27 April 2009
Wednesday 22 April 2009
coffee.overboard
Me and coffee don't seem to be going very well of late.
Last Friday I knocked over a whole flask of coffee.
Yesterday I spilled coffee over the car passenger seat.
Today, I knocked over Toni's cafetiere.
I need a break, probably...
Or I need to be more careful...
Last Friday I knocked over a whole flask of coffee.
Yesterday I spilled coffee over the car passenger seat.
Today, I knocked over Toni's cafetiere.
I need a break, probably...
Or I need to be more careful...
Wednesday 8 April 2009
Wednesday 1 April 2009
green.pencil.skirt
The US President and First Lady are currently in London for visitations and discussions today in advance of the G20 summit tomorrow.
Just heard in the kitchen whilst making a coffee, BBC news reporter was telling us that Michelle Obama (I think) was ‘wearing a xxx (certain designer) green pencil skirt’.
O.o??
Is this news or a fashion programme???
Honestly! Does it matter what designer?
Even if she had described ‘green pencil skirt’ was enough.
Honestly...
Just heard in the kitchen whilst making a coffee, BBC news reporter was telling us that Michelle Obama (I think) was ‘wearing a xxx (certain designer) green pencil skirt’.
O.o??
Is this news or a fashion programme???
Honestly! Does it matter what designer?
Even if she had described ‘green pencil skirt’ was enough.
Honestly...
Friday 20 March 2009
Tuesday 17 March 2009
Tuesday 10 March 2009
unfortunate
Heard on the radio today that YouTube is going to take down all those music video as they can't afford to pay the songwriters, or they rather not want to pay any additional more to the songwriters.
A bit drastic, I suppose.
Too bad for people like us who wants instantaneous music video whenever we want it.
I have to agree that YouTube's high traffic is mainly due to people viewing music video online.
I might be wrong, but if the Performing Rights Society wanted to demand more money and then YouTube said no, and the PRS decided to change their mind, yet, YouTube is not taking any further nonesense from PRS, and pulled out all music videos to UK viewers, then wouldn't it be a loss to YouTube AND PRS??
What were they thinking?!
Maybe YouTube know better...
YouTube Video Block on BBC
A bit drastic, I suppose.
Too bad for people like us who wants instantaneous music video whenever we want it.
I have to agree that YouTube's high traffic is mainly due to people viewing music video online.
I might be wrong, but if the Performing Rights Society wanted to demand more money and then YouTube said no, and the PRS decided to change their mind, yet, YouTube is not taking any further nonesense from PRS, and pulled out all music videos to UK viewers, then wouldn't it be a loss to YouTube AND PRS??
What were they thinking?!
Maybe YouTube know better...
YouTube Video Block on BBC
pound.foolish
It just doesn't make sense when
We can spend £19k on moving
But we can't
Get a light bulb changed
Or replace the broken microwave oven
And apparently all is done in the name of SAVING!!!
Penny wise but Pound foolish.
I think that phrase was more than likely coined by the Brits.
Yaaa-lar, I got moved again...
We can spend £19k on moving
But we can't
Get a light bulb changed
Or replace the broken microwave oven
And apparently all is done in the name of SAVING!!!
Penny wise but Pound foolish.
I think that phrase was more than likely coined by the Brits.
Yaaa-lar, I got moved again...
Monday 9 March 2009
libration.through.washing.machine
Apparently the "The Washing Machine Liberated Women".
But what's more interesting is the comment response at the bottom of the article! ^.^
But what's more interesting is the comment response at the bottom of the article! ^.^
Friday 6 March 2009
Thursday 5 March 2009
Tuesday 3 March 2009
busy.is.good
March started with a very hectic schedule. Or just hectic, not sure if there was or is any schedule.
My Line Manager suddenly left with one week notice at the end of February. It was a shock since we always thought that he would be the Last Man Standing.
But moving on is something common in our industry. After all, most of the projects are nearing completion and the programme is slowly winding down. My contract here ends in June, at least that what we all know now.
Mind you, I don't even know where I will be going after this. But I'm looking forward to new challenges, changes, and opportunities.
No, I'm not planning to jump-ship.
Again, that is the beauty of the industry, or the company you work with.
I remember I once had the dream of working by contract, moving from location to location every few months or years.
Plus, I'm feeling a bit itchy feet now as well.
I'm sure the novelty will wear down and off eventually. But when you were young(er) and free(er), that doesn't matter.
Somehow other phases in life will just fall into place. Somehow. Someway.
Like you travel all you ever want, to everywhere your heart desires. You don't realise that there is such a thing as danger. Or that money will stop you achieving what you want to.
You simply just believe and go with your heart.
And then you meet the guy / girl of your dreams, the one that fits all your wishes and requirements. Suddenly, a well paying job, career, car, house, family and pets just fall into place.
How?
It's called dreams, a limitless imagination. Fantasy you might even say.
Work now is hectic.
I love hectic. And my current famous words, ‘busy is good’.
It’s only day two of bigger project portfolio, bigger responsibilities, more tasks.
It’s still early.
Not like my 'whole life has gone up in smoke'.
But I really don’t mind a pay rise and promotion.
My Line Manager suddenly left with one week notice at the end of February. It was a shock since we always thought that he would be the Last Man Standing.
But moving on is something common in our industry. After all, most of the projects are nearing completion and the programme is slowly winding down. My contract here ends in June, at least that what we all know now.
Mind you, I don't even know where I will be going after this. But I'm looking forward to new challenges, changes, and opportunities.
No, I'm not planning to jump-ship.
Again, that is the beauty of the industry, or the company you work with.
I remember I once had the dream of working by contract, moving from location to location every few months or years.
Plus, I'm feeling a bit itchy feet now as well.
I'm sure the novelty will wear down and off eventually. But when you were young(er) and free(er), that doesn't matter.
Somehow other phases in life will just fall into place. Somehow. Someway.
Like you travel all you ever want, to everywhere your heart desires. You don't realise that there is such a thing as danger. Or that money will stop you achieving what you want to.
You simply just believe and go with your heart.
And then you meet the guy / girl of your dreams, the one that fits all your wishes and requirements. Suddenly, a well paying job, career, car, house, family and pets just fall into place.
How?
It's called dreams, a limitless imagination. Fantasy you might even say.
Work now is hectic.
I love hectic. And my current famous words, ‘busy is good’.
It’s only day two of bigger project portfolio, bigger responsibilities, more tasks.
It’s still early.
Not like my 'whole life has gone up in smoke'.
But I really don’t mind a pay rise and promotion.
Sunday 15 February 2009
no.parking
Right.
Either the sign is placed at the wrong place.
Or the bicycle rack is at the wrong place.
And the bike owner can't read the sign.
*Sigh*
Either the sign is placed at the wrong place.
Or the bicycle rack is at the wrong place.
And the bike owner can't read the sign.
*Sigh*
Wednesday 11 February 2009
cadbury.strikes.again.
Once again, Cadbury has come up with a totally irrelevant ad.
TOH liked it, he thought it was interesting. My first impression when I first saw it? Totally disliked it. Don’t see the point. Until The Sunday Night Project and Lily Alen did a spoof on it.
Lily and the boys did it well. It was hilarious!
Now, I see Cadbury ad again. It’s okie. I still think it is irrelevant, regardless if sales of their chocs going up.
Someone shed a light on this issue, Cadbury eyebrows: Do the eyebrows have it?
Are you convinced?
TOH liked it, he thought it was interesting. My first impression when I first saw it? Totally disliked it. Don’t see the point. Until The Sunday Night Project and Lily Alen did a spoof on it.
Lily and the boys did it well. It was hilarious!
Now, I see Cadbury ad again. It’s okie. I still think it is irrelevant, regardless if sales of their chocs going up.
Someone shed a light on this issue, Cadbury eyebrows: Do the eyebrows have it?
Are you convinced?
death.to.the.garden
Dramatisation?
Well, I live for dramatisation!
Just heard from mom last night that she hasdecided got the builders to lay cement on the whole garden, leaving only parts of the ground around the red and bottle palm trees.
Now, if you know me, I’m bias toward gardens.
I.Love.My.Gardens.
Not clear?
I.LOVE.MY.GARDENS!
Back home, we have a rather large garden by the side of our corner lot house. It is so big, that it has been mistaken that there could have been another house on that plot. And that is partially the reason why we have two numbers to our house. Partially.
I remember when we first moved in, there wasn’t much grass, as you can imagine what any newly build houses are like. Unlike new builds in the UK where you get your ground area turfed, ours had patches of grass and plenty of lumps.
Mom’s ingenuity and effort had turned the garden into a nice lush green grassy land.
Yes, we still had some of the lumps and yes, we still had some bogginess after it rains. Still, the lush green of the grass was divine!
Then we lost part of the front share of the greenery for a more practical reason. We had replaced it with interlocking bricks to park our cars.
In some ways, I see mom’s point to the cemented ground, less hassle and maintenance. But I can see many other negative points as well.
You will still need to sweep the ground. You will still need to clean the area. Even though there are trees around, the cement will absorb the heat during the day and release it in the night, and we’ll end up having a warmer area, instead of a nice cool garden for BBQs or garden parties.
And don’t get me started on the location or condition of the area or what ifs of the workmanship...
Concrete is so unsustainable as well. Besides the material itself is unsustainable, it will prevent water to be absorbed into the ground, disrupting the natural process of the water cycle.
I know. Besides mom, hardly anyone does the garden anymore. I used to do it now and then when I was back at home. And it is very unpleasant when you had those mosquitoes attacking you while you do your gardening.
But that doesn’t mean we had to get rid of the garden.
It doesn’t mean that by cementing it, there won’t be any mozzies.
Now it’s going to be like my aunt’s compound.
I will miss the wonderful times we had in the garden - BBQs, mooncake festival, and garden parties.
I will miss you beautiful green grass.
I will miss watering the grass when it was hot and dry.
When I was last back in KL, I said to TOH, how much I hated a garden being cemented or equally bad, tiled up. And here we are another statistic.
Gone will be the great and wonderful dreams of having a nice green garden with pergolas and sitting area.
Gone will be the ideas of beautiful landscaped garden.
At least, we managed to spend a little time together when I was last back.
Just like the idea of the shed, this whole cementing the garden is a really bad idea. It is going to be fugly.
*BIG SIGH*
And I know it is not mine or my money. But still...
I’m really upset about it for all that anyone cares.
Goodbye garden, you’ve served us well.
Garden (1995-2009).
Well, I live for dramatisation!
Just heard from mom last night that she has
Now, if you know me, I’m bias toward gardens.
I.Love.My.Gardens.
Not clear?
I.LOVE.MY.GARDENS!
Back home, we have a rather large garden by the side of our corner lot house. It is so big, that it has been mistaken that there could have been another house on that plot. And that is partially the reason why we have two numbers to our house. Partially.
I remember when we first moved in, there wasn’t much grass, as you can imagine what any newly build houses are like. Unlike new builds in the UK where you get your ground area turfed, ours had patches of grass and plenty of lumps.
Mom’s ingenuity and effort had turned the garden into a nice lush green grassy land.
Yes, we still had some of the lumps and yes, we still had some bogginess after it rains. Still, the lush green of the grass was divine!
Then we lost part of the front share of the greenery for a more practical reason. We had replaced it with interlocking bricks to park our cars.
In some ways, I see mom’s point to the cemented ground, less hassle and maintenance. But I can see many other negative points as well.
You will still need to sweep the ground. You will still need to clean the area. Even though there are trees around, the cement will absorb the heat during the day and release it in the night, and we’ll end up having a warmer area, instead of a nice cool garden for BBQs or garden parties.
And don’t get me started on the location or condition of the area or what ifs of the workmanship...
Concrete is so unsustainable as well. Besides the material itself is unsustainable, it will prevent water to be absorbed into the ground, disrupting the natural process of the water cycle.
I know. Besides mom, hardly anyone does the garden anymore. I used to do it now and then when I was back at home. And it is very unpleasant when you had those mosquitoes attacking you while you do your gardening.
But that doesn’t mean we had to get rid of the garden.
It doesn’t mean that by cementing it, there won’t be any mozzies.
Now it’s going to be like my aunt’s compound.
I will miss the wonderful times we had in the garden - BBQs, mooncake festival, and garden parties.
I will miss you beautiful green grass.
I will miss watering the grass when it was hot and dry.
When I was last back in KL, I said to TOH, how much I hated a garden being cemented or equally bad, tiled up. And here we are another statistic.
Gone will be the great and wonderful dreams of having a nice green garden with pergolas and sitting area.
Gone will be the ideas of beautiful landscaped garden.
At least, we managed to spend a little time together when I was last back.
Just like the idea of the shed, this whole cementing the garden is a really bad idea. It is going to be fugly.
*BIG SIGH*
And I know it is not mine or my money. But still...
I’m really upset about it for all that anyone cares.
Goodbye garden, you’ve served us well.
Garden (1995-2009).
Tuesday 10 February 2009
Friday 6 February 2009
honestly? promptly?!
I checked my email and guess what I received?!
An email from VFS, regarding 'Feedback on UK Visa in Malaysia'!
I sent my feedback like eons ago. Last year! In DECEMBER!!!
And they only sent me a reply now.
"Dear Applicant,
Thank you for registering your feedback. Your email will be responded within 2 working days promptly."
Blardiehell, I have to wait a respond in 2 working days, as well!
Promptly? O.o??
Promptly should have been December 2008!
Let's wait and see...
An email from VFS, regarding 'Feedback on UK Visa in Malaysia'!
I sent my feedback like eons ago. Last year! In DECEMBER!!!
And they only sent me a reply now.
"Dear Applicant,
Thank you for registering your feedback. Your email will be responded within 2 working days promptly."
Blardiehell, I have to wait a respond in 2 working days, as well!
Promptly? O.o??
Promptly should have been December 2008!
Let's wait and see...
Wednesday 4 February 2009
songsmith
Songsmith eh?
Sounds like a good idea. Until everything in your life becomes a song.
Still a good idea?
Sounds like a good idea. Until everything in your life becomes a song.
Still a good idea?
changes.to.APC.process
Did anyone know that there have been changes to the APC process???
Read Jon Lever’s article, ‘APC Tips: Recent changes to the APC process’ on Building website.
The article summarises the recent changes.
Then go to RICS APC to read on what has been changed.
For anyone sitting for Final Assessment from 2009 onwards, these changes affect you.
That means all of us who are still recording our diary, and referred candidates.
RICS has provided a comprehensive guidance for your APC. You can get the following from the link:
1. APC candidate’s guide
2. APC / ATC requirements and competencies guide
3. APC guide for supervisors, counsellors and employers
4. APC pathway guides
5. Rules of Conduct - Guidance notes
First of all, read up on the updated Candidate’s Guide, which everyone should have a copy handy for reference. This was recently updated in December 2008.
For UK candidates, you will need to read through the changes in the APC Templates, for non-UK candidates, please go to the link at the end of the second paragraph provided on RICS APC Guidance Notes.
For us UK candidates, read what is provided in the APC Templates. This article explains the changes in APC templates in December 2008 and the way you submit your Final assessments.
There are pathway specific Excel workbooks (located on your right on the APC Templates webpage), which you need to download for your pathway, to be completed for your Final Assessment submission. This workbook should be updated every quarterly.
The Interim Assessment has been deleted from the process.
There are no changes to the APC diary, and Supervisor Report and Counsellor Report templates.
However, I did not check if there are any changes to the RICS Structured Training template. I suppose it is a template (?) after all, for guidance.
There is also a guide on how Final Assessment Submissions should be sent to RICS.
All the above mentioned documents are available for download. Documents for download if not appeared as a link on the article will be available on your right: PDF downloads, Word downloads, and Excel downloads.
So that would be your reading exercise and updating your pathway workbook for this week.
I’m going to speak to my Supervisor and see if the company is aware of the recent changes, read the new workbook and updated Candidate’s Guide, and start filling up my pathway workbook.
Don’t you just hate it when these changes occur when you are halfway through your training?
p.s.: Please click on ‘APC journey’ link below for my APC experience. It is based on my experience and opinion only. Please check with your Supervisor, Counsellor or local APC Doctor if in doubt.
Read Jon Lever’s article, ‘APC Tips: Recent changes to the APC process’ on Building website.
The article summarises the recent changes.
Then go to RICS APC to read on what has been changed.
For anyone sitting for Final Assessment from 2009 onwards, these changes affect you.
That means all of us who are still recording our diary, and referred candidates.
RICS has provided a comprehensive guidance for your APC. You can get the following from the link:
1. APC candidate’s guide
2. APC / ATC requirements and competencies guide
3. APC guide for supervisors, counsellors and employers
4. APC pathway guides
5. Rules of Conduct - Guidance notes
First of all, read up on the updated Candidate’s Guide, which everyone should have a copy handy for reference. This was recently updated in December 2008.
For UK candidates, you will need to read through the changes in the APC Templates, for non-UK candidates, please go to the link at the end of the second paragraph provided on RICS APC Guidance Notes.
For us UK candidates, read what is provided in the APC Templates. This article explains the changes in APC templates in December 2008 and the way you submit your Final assessments.
There are pathway specific Excel workbooks (located on your right on the APC Templates webpage), which you need to download for your pathway, to be completed for your Final Assessment submission. This workbook should be updated every quarterly.
The Interim Assessment has been deleted from the process.
There are no changes to the APC diary, and Supervisor Report and Counsellor Report templates.
However, I did not check if there are any changes to the RICS Structured Training template. I suppose it is a template (?) after all, for guidance.
There is also a guide on how Final Assessment Submissions should be sent to RICS.
All the above mentioned documents are available for download. Documents for download if not appeared as a link on the article will be available on your right: PDF downloads, Word downloads, and Excel downloads.
So that would be your reading exercise and updating your pathway workbook for this week.
I’m going to speak to my Supervisor and see if the company is aware of the recent changes, read the new workbook and updated Candidate’s Guide, and start filling up my pathway workbook.
Don’t you just hate it when these changes occur when you are halfway through your training?
p.s.: Please click on ‘APC journey’ link below for my APC experience. It is based on my experience and opinion only. Please check with your Supervisor, Counsellor or local APC Doctor if in doubt.
Tuesday 3 February 2009
contactless.barclay
New Barclay ad. So cool! This is the extended version - a whole minute extra! Well, almost.
Friday 30 January 2009
see.you.again!
Have you ever felt that you wished you had done something when you had the chance to do so?
It was Robert's last day.
He was the very first Project Manager I worked with. He was a good and patient teacher, often provided opportunities for me to learn, brought me along to sites to see the project, to learn more about my project, to provide an understanding of the numbers - the value of my projecet.
We explored the realms of project commercial management. And no matter how busy Robert was, he often have time for me - whether it was work or just about life in general.
Our little outing to sites, provided many opportunities for us to get to know each other - our lives, families, background, etc.
Like how active he was with the Boys Brigade, or that he and his pal swapped a suit outside of a company for the same interview and then returned the suit back to Marks & Spencer.
How he meets his sister once a year in Aberdeen for Christmas shopping, presents wrapping, exchange and she onto the ferry back to Shetland, and he into the car back to Glasgow.
How he explained to my why houses in the UK has a name and how they are used, just like another member of the family.
How he is the first person who told me that it is possible for a car to have 'cleavage'.
When Robert left his role as Project Manager back to the contractor side as Quality manager, we don't speak as much as we used to. Much less when he moved desk to the bottom of the room.
We still chat. Often, I do make a point to make time to have a chat to catch up.
I'll not forget once Robert said a lot of good things about my work performance. It was great getting good feedback - but I wasn't sure did the alcohol played a part in it or not.
Whichever way, it seems so suddent that Robert was leaving for pastures new. I suppose for one who is a big fan of attention, he didn't make big announcements. That is the kind of humble man that he is.
Looking back to earlier today, I wished I had given Robert a hug, rahter than a handshake.
A hug for being a good listener, the misunderstanding we had about 'red' and 'rape'.
A hug for being a patient teacher, and more importantly a friend.
Robert didn't have a farewell party / drinks or provided cakes to widen our already wide waistlines, instead he was really kind to make a donation to Water Aid for the amount he would have spent as a parting gift.
I thought that was more meaningful.
Although I did say what I wanted to say, my wishes and thanks to him; I wished I did get hiim a farewell / good luck card.
I wished I had given him my contact details.
But the industry is not as large as we imagine, so I'm sure we will cross paths again.
In the meantime, Robert, good luck and thanks for all the great times we had, for being a patient teacher who is generous in your time and knowledge. More importantly, thanks for being a great friend.
All the best, you'll be surely missed!
It was Robert's last day.
He was the very first Project Manager I worked with. He was a good and patient teacher, often provided opportunities for me to learn, brought me along to sites to see the project, to learn more about my project, to provide an understanding of the numbers - the value of my projecet.
We explored the realms of project commercial management. And no matter how busy Robert was, he often have time for me - whether it was work or just about life in general.
Our little outing to sites, provided many opportunities for us to get to know each other - our lives, families, background, etc.
Like how active he was with the Boys Brigade, or that he and his pal swapped a suit outside of a company for the same interview and then returned the suit back to Marks & Spencer.
How he meets his sister once a year in Aberdeen for Christmas shopping, presents wrapping, exchange and she onto the ferry back to Shetland, and he into the car back to Glasgow.
How he explained to my why houses in the UK has a name and how they are used, just like another member of the family.
How he is the first person who told me that it is possible for a car to have 'cleavage'.
When Robert left his role as Project Manager back to the contractor side as Quality manager, we don't speak as much as we used to. Much less when he moved desk to the bottom of the room.
We still chat. Often, I do make a point to make time to have a chat to catch up.
I'll not forget once Robert said a lot of good things about my work performance. It was great getting good feedback - but I wasn't sure did the alcohol played a part in it or not.
Whichever way, it seems so suddent that Robert was leaving for pastures new. I suppose for one who is a big fan of attention, he didn't make big announcements. That is the kind of humble man that he is.
Looking back to earlier today, I wished I had given Robert a hug, rahter than a handshake.
A hug for being a good listener, the misunderstanding we had about 'red' and 'rape'.
A hug for being a patient teacher, and more importantly a friend.
Robert didn't have a farewell party / drinks or provided cakes to widen our already wide waistlines, instead he was really kind to make a donation to Water Aid for the amount he would have spent as a parting gift.
I thought that was more meaningful.
Although I did say what I wanted to say, my wishes and thanks to him; I wished I did get hiim a farewell / good luck card.
I wished I had given him my contact details.
But the industry is not as large as we imagine, so I'm sure we will cross paths again.
In the meantime, Robert, good luck and thanks for all the great times we had, for being a patient teacher who is generous in your time and knowledge. More importantly, thanks for being a great friend.
All the best, you'll be surely missed!
Friday 23 January 2009
UK.recession
"UK is now officially in recession"
The newscaster announced, as if it is a good thing.
Bah!
BBC: UK in Recession.
The newscaster announced, as if it is a good thing.
Bah!
BBC: UK in Recession.
heinz.deli.mayo
I know. I love my ads and I've been watching some or wanting to blog some for a while.
So here is one by Heinz, their new deli mayo ad. I think it is quite nice. Although it is a bit wrong. Just a bit...
So here is one by Heinz, their new deli mayo ad. I think it is quite nice. Although it is a bit wrong. Just a bit...
Wednesday 21 January 2009
you.gotta.fall.when.you.gotta
Brighter days are coming soon.
Well, at least it was much brighter this morning. But it was really cold and icy.
Luckily I wasn't running late. It's so icy that even if you want to run, you don't dare to.
The roads and pavements were not gritted. I think nobody expected it to be so icy.
Unfortuntately, this morning, yours truly had to slip and fall just after crossing a very busy main road. I haven't even step on the pavement yet, and fell on my right knee. I quickly got up and kept walking, don't even dare look at the cars in a queue behind me. At least, they were on the other side and there was no cars on my side of the road.
How embarrassing! Luckily there wasn't anything else on show since I was wearing a skirt.
But, man was it painful!
I suppose, if you are going to fall, you just have to fall.
Oh well... Nice day today but not going to be nice weather from tomorrow onwards.
Come on drier days!
Well, at least it was much brighter this morning. But it was really cold and icy.
Luckily I wasn't running late. It's so icy that even if you want to run, you don't dare to.
The roads and pavements were not gritted. I think nobody expected it to be so icy.
Unfortuntately, this morning, yours truly had to slip and fall just after crossing a very busy main road. I haven't even step on the pavement yet, and fell on my right knee. I quickly got up and kept walking, don't even dare look at the cars in a queue behind me. At least, they were on the other side and there was no cars on my side of the road.
How embarrassing! Luckily there wasn't anything else on show since I was wearing a skirt.
But, man was it painful!
I suppose, if you are going to fall, you just have to fall.
Oh well... Nice day today but not going to be nice weather from tomorrow onwards.
Come on drier days!
Tuesday 20 January 2009
the.time.of.change.has.come
Today is the day the world will change.
This is the day, where the first African-American President of the United States of America takes office (or taken office by this time).
Today, a Barack H Obama created history.
All eyes will be on President Obama. All his electoral promises will be kept in close scrutiny as President Obama fulfill those promises one by one.
The fact that what seemed impossible in the past, just shows that nothing is impossible.
This is an encouragement to all, that we can do what we want as long as we believe, stay focused and pour determintation into our goals, then all things are possible.
And as the man himself said,
'if you're walking down the right path and you're willing to keep walking, eventually you'll make progress'.
This is definitely a great message of hope in grim times like this.
I do hope that the inauguration of President Obama will not only change history as him being the first black President of the United States of America, but also this change will improve the economy and world peace.
We shall just have to wait with much anticipation.
The first black man in the white house.
President Barack Obama.
Who would have thought?
Congratulations President Obama!
This is the day, where the first African-American President of the United States of America takes office (or taken office by this time).
Today, a Barack H Obama created history.
All eyes will be on President Obama. All his electoral promises will be kept in close scrutiny as President Obama fulfill those promises one by one.
The fact that what seemed impossible in the past, just shows that nothing is impossible.
This is an encouragement to all, that we can do what we want as long as we believe, stay focused and pour determintation into our goals, then all things are possible.
And as the man himself said,
'if you're walking down the right path and you're willing to keep walking, eventually you'll make progress'.
This is definitely a great message of hope in grim times like this.
I do hope that the inauguration of President Obama will not only change history as him being the first black President of the United States of America, but also this change will improve the economy and world peace.
We shall just have to wait with much anticipation.
The first black man in the white house.
President Barack Obama.
Who would have thought?
Congratulations President Obama!
Monday 19 January 2009
i.passed.i.passed.i.passed!!
I passed my driving test today! *beams*
*More beams*
Yes, you can imagine my joy.
Interestingly enough, besides the initially beaming, it just seemed... normal.
I’m not trying to be ungrateful, unemotional. I guess it is just me.
Meaning, it’s not much fun celebrating it alone, does it?
But, the amazing TOH will be taking us out for dinner to celebrate this weekend. And it is double celebration - me being a qualified driver and us, eighteen months together.
Back to my driving test...
Yes, I was nervous.
I had to remind myself not to think so much of the past, not to overanalyse all the things I should and should not do.
Heck, I have at least 10 years driving experience! But all this getting back to basics has really waver my confidence.
Luckily I did some driving when I was back in KL. In fact, a lot of driving. I’m not complaining, as it did make a significant difference.
I was really lucky today.
When I was going to work this morning, it was wet, grey and miserable. All I could think of is ‘I hope it will be dry and brighter’ and ‘no stress this morning’. I even had camomile tea for good measure!
Thankfully, by test time, it was dry, bright and I even caught some sunlight in my eyes.
Even luckier is that it snowed an hour after I reached home. Of which, if either rain or snow during my test would have meant I will need to reschedule my test!
Also, I had a really good examiner. He was kind, friendly and helpful. Put me at ease, especially the usual pressure you put on yourself to pass. He passed on good advice. Bless the man!
Bear in mind, I’m sure all of them are really nice.
Anyways...
I took longer than I should on the reverse parking. But I did it!
I received a minor point for speeding. Interestingly enough, my instructor always had to shout out for me to ‘ACCELERATE!’. When I realised to correct, it was a little too late. But I did it!
Whatever it was, I’m just so glad to have passed my exams!
One thing for sure, I won’t miss forking out lots of money to pay for my own lessons and tests. Where I learn it must have been not easy for mom to pay for the three of us to obtain our driving license in the past.
Thanks so much mom! xx
I know for sure I will miss my driving instructor, Jenny.
I remember the first time we met, she kinda barked at all my mistakes.
I suppose it was just me, not wanting to accept that I can be improved, that I’m that bad.
That evening and many evenings, I learnt a lot - not only about proper driving but also the many pointers that work the same for life too.
And as time passed by, Jenny did only what any nurturing teacher would do, wanting the best for their students.
And for that I’m always grateful. And her friendship as well.
So whilst I wait for the driving license to come through the post, I’ll just have to smile proudly and broadly at my Practical Driving Test Pass Certificate!
*beams!*
*More beams*
Yes, you can imagine my joy.
Interestingly enough, besides the initially beaming, it just seemed... normal.
I’m not trying to be ungrateful, unemotional. I guess it is just me.
Meaning, it’s not much fun celebrating it alone, does it?
But, the amazing TOH will be taking us out for dinner to celebrate this weekend. And it is double celebration - me being a qualified driver and us, eighteen months together.
Back to my driving test...
Yes, I was nervous.
I had to remind myself not to think so much of the past, not to overanalyse all the things I should and should not do.
Heck, I have at least 10 years driving experience! But all this getting back to basics has really waver my confidence.
Luckily I did some driving when I was back in KL. In fact, a lot of driving. I’m not complaining, as it did make a significant difference.
I was really lucky today.
When I was going to work this morning, it was wet, grey and miserable. All I could think of is ‘I hope it will be dry and brighter’ and ‘no stress this morning’. I even had camomile tea for good measure!
Thankfully, by test time, it was dry, bright and I even caught some sunlight in my eyes.
Even luckier is that it snowed an hour after I reached home. Of which, if either rain or snow during my test would have meant I will need to reschedule my test!
Also, I had a really good examiner. He was kind, friendly and helpful. Put me at ease, especially the usual pressure you put on yourself to pass. He passed on good advice. Bless the man!
Bear in mind, I’m sure all of them are really nice.
Anyways...
I took longer than I should on the reverse parking. But I did it!
I received a minor point for speeding. Interestingly enough, my instructor always had to shout out for me to ‘ACCELERATE!’. When I realised to correct, it was a little too late. But I did it!
Whatever it was, I’m just so glad to have passed my exams!
One thing for sure, I won’t miss forking out lots of money to pay for my own lessons and tests. Where I learn it must have been not easy for mom to pay for the three of us to obtain our driving license in the past.
Thanks so much mom! xx
I know for sure I will miss my driving instructor, Jenny.
I remember the first time we met, she kinda barked at all my mistakes.
I suppose it was just me, not wanting to accept that I can be improved, that I’m that bad.
That evening and many evenings, I learnt a lot - not only about proper driving but also the many pointers that work the same for life too.
And as time passed by, Jenny did only what any nurturing teacher would do, wanting the best for their students.
And for that I’m always grateful. And her friendship as well.
So whilst I wait for the driving license to come through the post, I’ll just have to smile proudly and broadly at my Practical Driving Test Pass Certificate!
*beams!*
Thursday 15 January 2009
unbox.the.box
Ad with cute line animation transforming a box.
Oh yes, and it has a really good tune: 'Take Me Riding'.
Oh yes, and it has a really good tune: 'Take Me Riding'.
Friday 9 January 2009
so.called.scottish.poetry
See how much of it can you understand?
Wee man fae Dundee:
There wis a wee man fae Dundee
Got stung on the leg wi a wasp
When said did it hurt
He said no really
It can dae it again if it likes
To a mouse:
Hickory dickory dock
A coo run up the clock
The clock collapsed
To a coo:
On yonder hill there stands a coo
Its no there noo
It must have shifted
Have a good weekend!
Wee man fae Dundee:
There wis a wee man fae Dundee
Got stung on the leg wi a wasp
When said did it hurt
He said no really
It can dae it again if it likes
To a mouse:
Hickory dickory dock
A coo run up the clock
The clock collapsed
To a coo:
On yonder hill there stands a coo
Its no there noo
It must have shifted
Have a good weekend!
Thursday 8 January 2009
normality
Saw SM off this morning at the airport. So that is the lot all away home now.
This is it, the sign of life back or getting back to normal.
In some ways I don’t want life back to normal. I don’t know how long more I have to wait until I see them again. But I’m really glad we all managed to meet up and spent Christmas and New Year together as a family. Hopefully we don't have to wait another eight years.
I’m sure all of us gained weight. I know I did. What with the food in Malaysia and then the eating over the seasonal holidays plus the bumming around at home. It’s not rocket science that we put on weight.
But hey ho, January is the month of diet, or when everyone consciously moan about going on a diet.
I’ll start mine next week. You heard it here. I will need to lose 10kg by end of the year. So let’s see if I manage to shift 5kg by mid year.
It was great having a busy flat for a month, even though there had been quite a bit of compromising.
I do hope to see the gang soon. In the meantime, I will enjoy what remains of those yummy Reese’s Mini Peanut Cups (so so bad I tell ya!) and I have SM’s note for the memories.
And mind you, that note is really bad as all I had today were cravings of all sorts of food!
Diet? What Diet?!
This is it, the sign of life back or getting back to normal.
In some ways I don’t want life back to normal. I don’t know how long more I have to wait until I see them again. But I’m really glad we all managed to meet up and spent Christmas and New Year together as a family. Hopefully we don't have to wait another eight years.
I’m sure all of us gained weight. I know I did. What with the food in Malaysia and then the eating over the seasonal holidays plus the bumming around at home. It’s not rocket science that we put on weight.
But hey ho, January is the month of diet, or when everyone consciously moan about going on a diet.
I’ll start mine next week. You heard it here. I will need to lose 10kg by end of the year. So let’s see if I manage to shift 5kg by mid year.
It was great having a busy flat for a month, even though there had been quite a bit of compromising.
I do hope to see the gang soon. In the meantime, I will enjoy what remains of those yummy Reese’s Mini Peanut Cups (so so bad I tell ya!) and I have SM’s note for the memories.
And mind you, that note is really bad as all I had today were cravings of all sorts of food!
Diet? What Diet?!
Monday 5 January 2009
grim.grim.grim
Before the end of 2008, at least five retail companies have announced that they were going into administration.
The high street old timer, Woolworths will close all of their stores after 99 years on close of play Tuesday, 6th January 2009.
I’m sure each one of us have been into a Woolies at one point or another in our lives – browsing, games / toys, sweets and chocolates, home ware, gardening items, Christmas, etc.
I was at their store just before Christmas, and a wave of sadness come over me. Although I don’t frequent Woolies as often as some, it is really sad to see a business of 99 years to just wrap up and go. The shelves bare from bargain hunters, the soul of the store just sucked all out.
The closure of 807 stores see the lost of 27,000 jobs.
Others who called in the administrator include:
Adams: Children / baby fashion
USC: Fashion
MFI: Furniture
Whittard: Tea and coffee shop
Zavvi: Music and games
The Officer’s Club: Fashion
A variety of businesses from other industries has also called in the administrators.
And today, the prestigious Waterford Wedgwood, china and ceramics firm, has announced that they are going into administration. This means that 10 companies within the group will go bust.
The Pound is really weak. With the Euros almost one to one with the Pounds.
On the high street, sales started before Christmas, traditionally saved for after Boxing Day.
Perhaps the only company enjoying this difficult time are the administrators.
Hopefully this will all end soon. We just need a miracle.
The high street old timer, Woolworths will close all of their stores after 99 years on close of play Tuesday, 6th January 2009.
I’m sure each one of us have been into a Woolies at one point or another in our lives – browsing, games / toys, sweets and chocolates, home ware, gardening items, Christmas, etc.
I was at their store just before Christmas, and a wave of sadness come over me. Although I don’t frequent Woolies as often as some, it is really sad to see a business of 99 years to just wrap up and go. The shelves bare from bargain hunters, the soul of the store just sucked all out.
The closure of 807 stores see the lost of 27,000 jobs.
Others who called in the administrator include:
Adams: Children / baby fashion
USC: Fashion
MFI: Furniture
Whittard: Tea and coffee shop
Zavvi: Music and games
The Officer’s Club: Fashion
A variety of businesses from other industries has also called in the administrators.
And today, the prestigious Waterford Wedgwood, china and ceramics firm, has announced that they are going into administration. This means that 10 companies within the group will go bust.
The Pound is really weak. With the Euros almost one to one with the Pounds.
On the high street, sales started before Christmas, traditionally saved for after Boxing Day.
Perhaps the only company enjoying this difficult time are the administrators.
Hopefully this will all end soon. We just need a miracle.
first.day.of.work.2009
I’ve been struggling since morning. *Yawn yawn*.
Thankfully, I managed to get up and be at work around 8am, half an hour earlier than usual. But I had been yawning since I get in and all I feel is just lethargy.
Now, a bit of headache.
Psychological? Maybe.
Laziness? Definitely!
I know I know... I should be thankful.
I did get to work in one piece and safely. No train delays for me compared to some.
And more importantly, I have a job to go to. The grim economy and job market news throughout the holidays haven’t been at all encouraging.
So yes, I should be thankful for everything.
There's even the lovely blue sky out there, even though it is seriously cold.
Anyways, to those of you, like me has just got back to work, hang in there, it’s not long till home time.
Thankfully, I managed to get up and be at work around 8am, half an hour earlier than usual. But I had been yawning since I get in and all I feel is just lethargy.
Now, a bit of headache.
Psychological? Maybe.
Laziness? Definitely!
I know I know... I should be thankful.
I did get to work in one piece and safely. No train delays for me compared to some.
And more importantly, I have a job to go to. The grim economy and job market news throughout the holidays haven’t been at all encouraging.
So yes, I should be thankful for everything.
There's even the lovely blue sky out there, even though it is seriously cold.
Anyways, to those of you, like me has just got back to work, hang in there, it’s not long till home time.
Saturday 3 January 2009
we.did.it!
Yes, indeed we did it!
What? You say?
We completed sixty 40-minutes episodes of the Chinese series - The Drive of Life!!!
Probably in record time. At least, in our record time.
Interestingly, the series made so many references that you can learn a lot of things in life from manufacturing, to business, to even a pair of shoes!
Anyways, we spent nights watching episodes after episodes of the series just trying to complete it before mom and SA return to Malaysia.
I admit that it is not everyone's cup of tea and there can be so many other better stuff to do. Instead the main thing here is that we did it all together. Us crazy bunch of people.
I've done ten episodes (on Marriage of Inconvenience) on my own, and it is waaaaaaay more fun doing it with others.
We had a common goal.
Of course, the living room became a temporary sleeping ground. At one point there wasn't a reason to clear the temporary 'beds'.
Having to watch each CD (ten 40-minutes episodes), there were six CDs altogther in this series, from the night before until 7am the next day is not an easy feat.
In the end, it was a different way of spending time together. Now, we just have to find a super long series for our next family meet.
Thanks for the company y'all! xxx
What? You say?
We completed sixty 40-minutes episodes of the Chinese series - The Drive of Life!!!
Probably in record time. At least, in our record time.
Interestingly, the series made so many references that you can learn a lot of things in life from manufacturing, to business, to even a pair of shoes!
Anyways, we spent nights watching episodes after episodes of the series just trying to complete it before mom and SA return to Malaysia.
I admit that it is not everyone's cup of tea and there can be so many other better stuff to do. Instead the main thing here is that we did it all together. Us crazy bunch of people.
I've done ten episodes (on Marriage of Inconvenience) on my own, and it is waaaaaaay more fun doing it with others.
We had a common goal.
Of course, the living room became a temporary sleeping ground. At one point there wasn't a reason to clear the temporary 'beds'.
Having to watch each CD (ten 40-minutes episodes), there were six CDs altogther in this series, from the night before until 7am the next day is not an easy feat.
In the end, it was a different way of spending time together. Now, we just have to find a super long series for our next family meet.
Thanks for the company y'all! xxx
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