With the effects of my Wisdom Tooth surgery still trailing on my wallet, i was hit again with the news that i needed a root canal surgery that was going to do a damage of A$700. How freaking spectacular is that? Stunning really.
So i underwent the surgery today to take out my hyper sensitive nerve in my tooth. Was injected with a dose of numbing solution only to realise that it was not enough. It was gruelling and traumatic as i heard them drilling into my tooth but i was still curious. I got the nurse to lend me a mirror so i held it up and watched them do away with me.
I kept my nerve as a souvenir which looked like Vietnamese Pho' noodles when it was fresh out of my tooth. Currently it resembles nothing more than a tiny piece of dried up grass. So that was it.
On the way home i detoured to a suit shop to get new suits for Accenture. I felt my current suit collection needed to be revitalised so that it would not look as tired. I reasoned that they were an investment into my career to soften the blow. So that was more money gone.
Not to mention what i paid for the paintings i just bought and little unexpected things that just crept up.
Sigh.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Quotable quote by my brother.
"Be nice to people on your way up, because you are most likely to meet them again on your way down."
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Normah, a friend i have not set eyes on for 11 years.Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Monday, June 18, 2007
Yes, that will be in 1 weeks time. Received a call from Recruitment today and was advised that my date of commencement will be brought forward 1 week so instead of starting on the 4th of July, i will be commencing on the 28th.Pending that this is my last week at my current firm, i only have three working days to relish a break. I was given the option to start on the 11th of July but i thought i should just launch into it as soon as possible. I am excited with this new career direction and opportunity so why postpone?
On the other hand, my last week at Alliere... I am sad to leave honestly. My colleagues bought a cake for me today and i felt their warmth. Even people from Sydney called me for a chat before i left.
Farewell.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
The Vuitton Mirage
My very first initiation into the world of Louis Vuitton and the lesser Gucci was a few years back when I received a $1600 Louis Vuitton Messenger bag as a gift. I remembered being waltz into the store and admiring the items on display as I envied the Mainlanders parading on themselves every item imaginable that carried the LV salutation. It was as if they saw the need to convince the store personnel and the clientele that they too belonged to the LV club and to be accepted. Much to my curiosity, the store people granted no heed.
Regardless of them, it grew upon me. I admired my bag in the secrecy of my room and I longed for more. I started to understand the addiction I witnessed in people and even friends close to me; my ex, my aunts and also my grandmother. I started eyeing their leather belts and began dreaming of the day I could afford to waltz in myself and buy an item with my own dough.
It was when I brought up the subject with my designer cousin in London about my desire for more Vuittons did she reprimanded me. I was confused to say the least. She struck hard, she was ruthless. She said that Louis Vuitton was the opposite of what fashion is. It was contrary to what fashion stood for which was individuality, innovation and creativity. I was disagreeable. I refuted her with examples in the celebrity world, with Takashi Murakami and his revolutionary contribution to the company and of course the throngs of devotees that swarm to LV stores across the globe in which she simply replied: “Precisely”.
Still I doubted her perspective and her credibility. After all, her label still is… well, unheard off. However, what she said rocked my belief system. As if she dismantled the foundations of my belief system and pragmatism, threw in a few building blocks and left me to engineer the rest of what will develop.
Just the other day I caught up with a friend. Picked her up from her 5 star hotel and started to hunt for a nice secluded bar to impress her with. I remembered seeing her walking out of the foyer decked out from head to toe in Louis Vuitton gear. There were the colored monogram shoes, the blouse, the purse and of course the ubiquitous LV bag. I was impressed. Not by her clothes or style, but the manner in which she decides to spend her money. It was not a manner of reproach, do not get me wrong. I do enjoy spending money. Her style… well there was nothing wrong with it. She looked great. But then I could see my 50 year old aunty in that style, I could see rich Indonesian wives who could not speak a word of English carrying that same bag, I could recall seeing foreign maids in Hong Kong rocking the Vuitton from stalls that sold cigarette lighters adorned with naked women next to the “Vuitton”. I could see it everywhere. And you know what? I knew then and there that my decision to retire my $1600 Vuitton bag from the public eye long time ago was a much validated decision, a good one at best.
These days, my eyes instinctively look away as people draws out their Vuitton purse from their bag as if waiting for all eyes to feast on it. I understand and sympathize that it is their crowning glory as the room dims and the spotlight slowly descends on their precious little wallet.
Ludicrous. I can say in strict confidence, and I believe a lot of people share this view that Louis Vuittons, Gucci, Burberries… there are purchased for its namesake. Their motivations are not fueled by a desire to be set apart or to be differentiated, but to conform to what the status is associated with it and to feel part of the club. It is the bells and whistles that lure them. Brands like these on their own are probably great. They have however, been cheapened and tarnished until there is this stigma that develops over time until some people wised up, identified the problem and have disassociated themselves from it.
So some are alluded to the fact that as long as you are rocking a Vuitton, baby you got it made. They presumptuously assume that they are the epitome of glamour and fashion, not forgetting the big bucks. So when I see someone dangling their LVs in my face, I keep my silence and snicker to myself knowing that I am one step ahead of them.
The saying is erroneous. Not everyone looks good with a million dollars.
Regardless of them, it grew upon me. I admired my bag in the secrecy of my room and I longed for more. I started to understand the addiction I witnessed in people and even friends close to me; my ex, my aunts and also my grandmother. I started eyeing their leather belts and began dreaming of the day I could afford to waltz in myself and buy an item with my own dough.
It was when I brought up the subject with my designer cousin in London about my desire for more Vuittons did she reprimanded me. I was confused to say the least. She struck hard, she was ruthless. She said that Louis Vuitton was the opposite of what fashion is. It was contrary to what fashion stood for which was individuality, innovation and creativity. I was disagreeable. I refuted her with examples in the celebrity world, with Takashi Murakami and his revolutionary contribution to the company and of course the throngs of devotees that swarm to LV stores across the globe in which she simply replied: “Precisely”.
Still I doubted her perspective and her credibility. After all, her label still is… well, unheard off. However, what she said rocked my belief system. As if she dismantled the foundations of my belief system and pragmatism, threw in a few building blocks and left me to engineer the rest of what will develop.
Just the other day I caught up with a friend. Picked her up from her 5 star hotel and started to hunt for a nice secluded bar to impress her with. I remembered seeing her walking out of the foyer decked out from head to toe in Louis Vuitton gear. There were the colored monogram shoes, the blouse, the purse and of course the ubiquitous LV bag. I was impressed. Not by her clothes or style, but the manner in which she decides to spend her money. It was not a manner of reproach, do not get me wrong. I do enjoy spending money. Her style… well there was nothing wrong with it. She looked great. But then I could see my 50 year old aunty in that style, I could see rich Indonesian wives who could not speak a word of English carrying that same bag, I could recall seeing foreign maids in Hong Kong rocking the Vuitton from stalls that sold cigarette lighters adorned with naked women next to the “Vuitton”. I could see it everywhere. And you know what? I knew then and there that my decision to retire my $1600 Vuitton bag from the public eye long time ago was a much validated decision, a good one at best.
These days, my eyes instinctively look away as people draws out their Vuitton purse from their bag as if waiting for all eyes to feast on it. I understand and sympathize that it is their crowning glory as the room dims and the spotlight slowly descends on their precious little wallet.
Ludicrous. I can say in strict confidence, and I believe a lot of people share this view that Louis Vuittons, Gucci, Burberries… there are purchased for its namesake. Their motivations are not fueled by a desire to be set apart or to be differentiated, but to conform to what the status is associated with it and to feel part of the club. It is the bells and whistles that lure them. Brands like these on their own are probably great. They have however, been cheapened and tarnished until there is this stigma that develops over time until some people wised up, identified the problem and have disassociated themselves from it.
So some are alluded to the fact that as long as you are rocking a Vuitton, baby you got it made. They presumptuously assume that they are the epitome of glamour and fashion, not forgetting the big bucks. So when I see someone dangling their LVs in my face, I keep my silence and snicker to myself knowing that I am one step ahead of them.
The saying is erroneous. Not everyone looks good with a million dollars.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
梅 菜 扣 肉 ! ! ! ! ! !
Deep Fried Pork Belly Steamed with Preserved Mustard. (Dripping in oh-so-beautiful saturated pork oil and fat)
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
The Ugly Face of Malaysia
Below is the result of extreme discrimination and marginalisation by the BN government for too many years.
This lists covers a period of about 49 years since Independence Day in Malaysia (1957):
(1) Out of all the 5 major banks in Malaysia, only one bank is own by multi-racial, the rest are controlled by Malays.
(2) 99% of Petronas (the only one petroleum company) directors are Malays, and the former Prime Minister work as Consultant in Petronas.
(3) 3% of Petronas employees are Chinese.
(4) 99% of 2000 Petronas gasoline stations are owned by Malays.
(5) 100% all contractors working under Petronas projects must be 'bumi status' (Malay).
(6) 0% of non-Malays staffs are legally required in Malay's companies. But there must be 30% Malays staffs in Chinese companies. And big companies in Malaysia require that a Malay hold as director status with 51% shareholder. Which this mean non-Malays own company needs to give their property to Malays. And non-Malays citizen can't really own their business.
(7) 5% of all new intake for government police, nurses, army, is non-Malays.
(8) 2% is the present Chinese staff in Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), drop from 40% in 1960.
(9) 2% is the percentage of non-Malays government servants in Putrajaya (Malaysia’s main government office). But Malays make up 98%.
(10) 7% is the percentage of Chinese government servants in the whole government (in 2004), drop from 30% in 1960. Only 2 position for non-Malays in political status.
(11) 95% of government contracts are given to Malays; even it is an open tender. Non-Malays contractors tender the lower price and use better materials can't get the contract that government given.
(12) 100% all business licensees are controlled by Malay government e.g. Taxi permits, Approved permits, etc. and all the license are given to government officer families.
(13) 80% of the Chinese rice millers in Kedah (north of peninsular Malaysia) had to be sold to Malays and controlled by Bernas (Government Org.) since 1980s. Otherwise, life is made difficult for Chinese rice millers.
(14) 100 big companies set up, owned and managed by Chinese Malaysians were taken over by government, and later managed by Malays since 1970's e.g. UTC, UMBC, MISC, etc. This company now is the sole company.
(15) At least 10 Chinese owned bus companies (throughout Malaysia, throughout 40 years) had to be sold to MARA or other Malay transport companies due to rejection by Malay authority to Chinese application for bus routes and rejection for their application for new buses.
(16) 2 Chinese taxi drivers were barred from driving in Johor (South of Peninsular Malaysia) Larkin bus station. There are about 30 taxi drivers and 3 are Chinese in October 2004. Spoiling taxi club properties was the reason given.
(17) 0 non-Malays are allowed to get shop lots in the new Muar (city in south peninsular Malaysia) bus station (November 2004).
(18) 8000 billion ringgit is the total amount the government channeled to Malays pockets through ASB, ASN, MARA, privatization of government agencies like Tabung Haji etc, through NEP over 34 years periods.
(19) 48 Chinese primary schools closed down since 1968 - 2000
(20) 144 Indian primary schools closed down since 1968 - 2000
(21) 2637 Malay primary schools built since 1968 - 2000
(22) 2.5% is government budget for Chinese primary schools. Indian schools got only 1%, Malay schools got 96.5%
(23) while a Chinese parent with RM1000 salary (monthly) cannot get school-text-book-loan, and a Malay parent with RM2000 salary is eligible.
(24) 100% of all public universities vice chancellors are Malays. And politics in universities are held by Malays. If non-Malays want to form a politics parties, there is no way to get approved.
(25) 5% - the government universities lecturers of non-Malay origins had been reduced from about 70% in 1965 to only 5% in 2004 with the reason Malaysia Education Ministry give full support for Malays only.
(26) Only 5% is given to non-Malays for government scholarships over 40 years.
(27) 0 Chinese or Indians were sent to Japan and Korea under 'Look East Policy'.
(28) 128 STPM (High Study / A Level) Chinese top students could not get into the course that they aspired to i.e. Medicine and doctors (in 2004). Malays with no qualifying results can get into the course.
(29) 10% place for non-bumi students for MARA science schools beginning from year 2003, but only 7% are filled. Before that it was 100% Malays.
(30) 50 cases whereby Chinese and Indian Malaysians, are beaten up in the National Service program since 2003.
(31) 25% is the Malaysian Chinese population in 2004, a drop from 45% since 1957 because government do not support non-Malays like how the government support Malays.
(32) 7% is the present Malaysian Indian population (2004), a drop from 12% since 1957.
(33) 2 millions Chinese Malaysians had emigrated to overseas since 40 years ago due to unfair politics.
(34) 0.5 million Indians Malaysians had emigrated to overseas.
(35) 3 millions Indonesians have migrated into Malaysia and became Malaysian citizens with bumi's status.
(36) 600000 are the Chinese and Indian Malaysians with 'red I/C' (a temporary identity card) and were rejected repeatedly when applying for citizenship for 40 years. Perhaps 60% of them had already passed away due to old age. This shows racism of how easily Indonesians got their citizenships compare with the Chinese and Indians.
(37) 5% - 15% discount for Malays to buy a house, regardless whether the Malay is rich or poor.
(38) 2% is what Chinese new villages get compare with 98% of what Malays villages got for rural development budget.
(39) 50 road names (at least) had been change from Chinese names to other names.
(40) 1 Dewan Gan Boon Leong (in Malacca) was altered to other name (e.g. Dewan Serbaguna or sort) when it was being officially used for a few days. Government tries to shun Chinese names. This racism happened in around year 2000 or sort.
(41) 0 temples/churches were built for each housing estate. But every housing estate MUST have at least one mosque/surau built.
(42) 3000 mosques/surau were built in all housing estates throughout Malaysia since 1970 with full government support. No temples, no churches are built in housing estates that supported by government.
(43) 1 Catholic Church in Shah Alam took 20 years to apply to be constructed and was told by the Malay authorities that it must look like a factory and not like a church. Still not approved as of 2004.
(44) Publishing of the Bible in Iban language banned (in 2002).
(45) 0 of the government TV stations (RTM1, RTM2, TV3) are directors of non-Malays origin.
(46) 30 government produced TV dramas and films always showed that the bad guys had Chinese face, and the good guys had Malay face. You can check it out since 1970s. Recent years, this tendency becomes less.
(47) 10 times, at least, Malays (especially Umno) had threatened to massacre the Chinese Malaysians similar to May 13 since 1969.
(48) 20 constituencies won by DAP would not get funds from the government to develop. Or these Chinese majority constituencies would be the last to be developed.
(49) 100 constituencies (parliaments and states) had been racist re-delineated so Chinese voters were diluted so that Chinese candidates, particularly the DAP candidates lost the election since 1970s.
(50) Only 3 out of 12 human rights items are ratified by Malaysia government since 1960.
(51) 0 elimination of, all forms of racial discrimination (UN Human Rights) is not ratified by Malaysia government since 1960s.
(52) 20 reported cases whereby Malay ambulance attendance treated Chinese patients inhumanely, and Malay government hospital staffs purposely delay attending to Chinese patients in 2003. Unreported cases may be 200.
(53) 50 cases each year whereby Chinese, especially Chinese youths being beaten up by Malay youths in public places. We may check at police reports provided the police took the report, otherwise there will be no record.
(54) 20 cases every year whereby Chinese drivers who accidentally knocked down Malays were seriously assaulted or killed by Malays.
(55) 12% is what ASB/ASN (Malays Own banks) got per annum while banks fixed deposit is only about 3.5% per annum.
(56) The latest news about the police in Malaysia. Believed that the Malaysian police have caught a Chinese girl and punished her with her naked body posed near windows so that people (believed to be the police officers) can take video recordings of it via mobile phones. This news spread to China, and finally the Malaysian government told the public that it was in fact a Malay girl. There was no further news about the case.
This lists covers a period of about 49 years since Independence Day in Malaysia (1957):
(1) Out of all the 5 major banks in Malaysia, only one bank is own by multi-racial, the rest are controlled by Malays.
(2) 99% of Petronas (the only one petroleum company) directors are Malays, and the former Prime Minister work as Consultant in Petronas.
(3) 3% of Petronas employees are Chinese.
(4) 99% of 2000 Petronas gasoline stations are owned by Malays.
(5) 100% all contractors working under Petronas projects must be 'bumi status' (Malay).
(6) 0% of non-Malays staffs are legally required in Malay's companies. But there must be 30% Malays staffs in Chinese companies. And big companies in Malaysia require that a Malay hold as director status with 51% shareholder. Which this mean non-Malays own company needs to give their property to Malays. And non-Malays citizen can't really own their business.
(7) 5% of all new intake for government police, nurses, army, is non-Malays.
(8) 2% is the present Chinese staff in Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), drop from 40% in 1960.
(9) 2% is the percentage of non-Malays government servants in Putrajaya (Malaysia’s main government office). But Malays make up 98%.
(10) 7% is the percentage of Chinese government servants in the whole government (in 2004), drop from 30% in 1960. Only 2 position for non-Malays in political status.
(11) 95% of government contracts are given to Malays; even it is an open tender. Non-Malays contractors tender the lower price and use better materials can't get the contract that government given.
(12) 100% all business licensees are controlled by Malay government e.g. Taxi permits, Approved permits, etc. and all the license are given to government officer families.
(13) 80% of the Chinese rice millers in Kedah (north of peninsular Malaysia) had to be sold to Malays and controlled by Bernas (Government Org.) since 1980s. Otherwise, life is made difficult for Chinese rice millers.
(14) 100 big companies set up, owned and managed by Chinese Malaysians were taken over by government, and later managed by Malays since 1970's e.g. UTC, UMBC, MISC, etc. This company now is the sole company.
(15) At least 10 Chinese owned bus companies (throughout Malaysia, throughout 40 years) had to be sold to MARA or other Malay transport companies due to rejection by Malay authority to Chinese application for bus routes and rejection for their application for new buses.
(16) 2 Chinese taxi drivers were barred from driving in Johor (South of Peninsular Malaysia) Larkin bus station. There are about 30 taxi drivers and 3 are Chinese in October 2004. Spoiling taxi club properties was the reason given.
(17) 0 non-Malays are allowed to get shop lots in the new Muar (city in south peninsular Malaysia) bus station (November 2004).
(18) 8000 billion ringgit is the total amount the government channeled to Malays pockets through ASB, ASN, MARA, privatization of government agencies like Tabung Haji etc, through NEP over 34 years periods.
(19) 48 Chinese primary schools closed down since 1968 - 2000
(20) 144 Indian primary schools closed down since 1968 - 2000
(21) 2637 Malay primary schools built since 1968 - 2000
(22) 2.5% is government budget for Chinese primary schools. Indian schools got only 1%, Malay schools got 96.5%
(23) while a Chinese parent with RM1000 salary (monthly) cannot get school-text-book-loan, and a Malay parent with RM2000 salary is eligible.
(24) 100% of all public universities vice chancellors are Malays. And politics in universities are held by Malays. If non-Malays want to form a politics parties, there is no way to get approved.
(25) 5% - the government universities lecturers of non-Malay origins had been reduced from about 70% in 1965 to only 5% in 2004 with the reason Malaysia Education Ministry give full support for Malays only.
(26) Only 5% is given to non-Malays for government scholarships over 40 years.
(27) 0 Chinese or Indians were sent to Japan and Korea under 'Look East Policy'.
(28) 128 STPM (High Study / A Level) Chinese top students could not get into the course that they aspired to i.e. Medicine and doctors (in 2004). Malays with no qualifying results can get into the course.
(29) 10% place for non-bumi students for MARA science schools beginning from year 2003, but only 7% are filled. Before that it was 100% Malays.
(30) 50 cases whereby Chinese and Indian Malaysians, are beaten up in the National Service program since 2003.
(31) 25% is the Malaysian Chinese population in 2004, a drop from 45% since 1957 because government do not support non-Malays like how the government support Malays.
(32) 7% is the present Malaysian Indian population (2004), a drop from 12% since 1957.
(33) 2 millions Chinese Malaysians had emigrated to overseas since 40 years ago due to unfair politics.
(34) 0.5 million Indians Malaysians had emigrated to overseas.
(35) 3 millions Indonesians have migrated into Malaysia and became Malaysian citizens with bumi's status.
(36) 600000 are the Chinese and Indian Malaysians with 'red I/C' (a temporary identity card) and were rejected repeatedly when applying for citizenship for 40 years. Perhaps 60% of them had already passed away due to old age. This shows racism of how easily Indonesians got their citizenships compare with the Chinese and Indians.
(37) 5% - 15% discount for Malays to buy a house, regardless whether the Malay is rich or poor.
(38) 2% is what Chinese new villages get compare with 98% of what Malays villages got for rural development budget.
(39) 50 road names (at least) had been change from Chinese names to other names.
(40) 1 Dewan Gan Boon Leong (in Malacca) was altered to other name (e.g. Dewan Serbaguna or sort) when it was being officially used for a few days. Government tries to shun Chinese names. This racism happened in around year 2000 or sort.
(41) 0 temples/churches were built for each housing estate. But every housing estate MUST have at least one mosque/surau built.
(42) 3000 mosques/surau were built in all housing estates throughout Malaysia since 1970 with full government support. No temples, no churches are built in housing estates that supported by government.
(43) 1 Catholic Church in Shah Alam took 20 years to apply to be constructed and was told by the Malay authorities that it must look like a factory and not like a church. Still not approved as of 2004.
(44) Publishing of the Bible in Iban language banned (in 2002).
(45) 0 of the government TV stations (RTM1, RTM2, TV3) are directors of non-Malays origin.
(46) 30 government produced TV dramas and films always showed that the bad guys had Chinese face, and the good guys had Malay face. You can check it out since 1970s. Recent years, this tendency becomes less.
(47) 10 times, at least, Malays (especially Umno) had threatened to massacre the Chinese Malaysians similar to May 13 since 1969.
(48) 20 constituencies won by DAP would not get funds from the government to develop. Or these Chinese majority constituencies would be the last to be developed.
(49) 100 constituencies (parliaments and states) had been racist re-delineated so Chinese voters were diluted so that Chinese candidates, particularly the DAP candidates lost the election since 1970s.
(50) Only 3 out of 12 human rights items are ratified by Malaysia government since 1960.
(51) 0 elimination of, all forms of racial discrimination (UN Human Rights) is not ratified by Malaysia government since 1960s.
(52) 20 reported cases whereby Malay ambulance attendance treated Chinese patients inhumanely, and Malay government hospital staffs purposely delay attending to Chinese patients in 2003. Unreported cases may be 200.
(53) 50 cases each year whereby Chinese, especially Chinese youths being beaten up by Malay youths in public places. We may check at police reports provided the police took the report, otherwise there will be no record.
(54) 20 cases every year whereby Chinese drivers who accidentally knocked down Malays were seriously assaulted or killed by Malays.
(55) 12% is what ASB/ASN (Malays Own banks) got per annum while banks fixed deposit is only about 3.5% per annum.
(56) The latest news about the police in Malaysia. Believed that the Malaysian police have caught a Chinese girl and punished her with her naked body posed near windows so that people (believed to be the police officers) can take video recordings of it via mobile phones. This news spread to China, and finally the Malaysian government told the public that it was in fact a Malay girl. There was no further news about the case.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Monday, May 21, 2007
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Monday, May 07, 2007
(Phone rings) 7.00pm
Aaron: Hello?
XXX: Hi my name is (forgot) calling from GE finance. Can i please speak to Mrs. Freda Wong?
Aaron: Huh? GE finance? Who are you?
XXX: I am XXX from GE finance. Could you transfer me to Freda Wong please.
Aaron: Are you trying to sell me something?
XXX: NO, i am definitely NOT trying to sell you something. If she is not available could you please take a message this is important.
Aaron: She has got nothing to do with GE! What do you want? HANG ON!
***
Aaron: "Mum, are you in any way affiliated with GE finance?"
(Speaker left open so woman could overhear conversation with mum.)
Mum: "Ha??? No lah! What GE? We are not with that electric company! We are with AGL."
Aaron: "Aiya! I'm not talking about electric company. SOME WOMAN here wants to talk to you about GE finance. I dunno la! I think she just want to sell you something. So annoying!"
(Mum looks at phone held up high in my hand without any attempt to cover earpiece to muff our conversation.)
Mum: "Aaron ah!! You better be nice to THESE people."
Aaron: "Aiya! i'll just tell her to go away la."
***
Aaron: Hello? She does not want to talk to you. She has got nothing to do with GE okay?
XXX: FIRSTLY, I AM DEFINITELY NOT SELLING YOU ANYTHING. Are you going to let me talk to her or not?
Aaron: Tell me what is it in regards to first before i will do anything.
XXX: No i will not do that. It is against our privacy policy!
Aaron: Ok Bye!
(Who fucking calls from a Financial Firm at fucking 7.00pm?)
Aaron: Hello?
XXX: Hi my name is (forgot) calling from GE finance. Can i please speak to Mrs. Freda Wong?
Aaron: Huh? GE finance? Who are you?
XXX: I am XXX from GE finance. Could you transfer me to Freda Wong please.
Aaron: Are you trying to sell me something?
XXX: NO, i am definitely NOT trying to sell you something. If she is not available could you please take a message this is important.
Aaron: She has got nothing to do with GE! What do you want? HANG ON!
***
Aaron: "Mum, are you in any way affiliated with GE finance?"
(Speaker left open so woman could overhear conversation with mum.)
Mum: "Ha??? No lah! What GE? We are not with that electric company! We are with AGL."
Aaron: "Aiya! I'm not talking about electric company. SOME WOMAN here wants to talk to you about GE finance. I dunno la! I think she just want to sell you something. So annoying!"
(Mum looks at phone held up high in my hand without any attempt to cover earpiece to muff our conversation.)
Mum: "Aaron ah!! You better be nice to THESE people."
Aaron: "Aiya! i'll just tell her to go away la."
***
Aaron: Hello? She does not want to talk to you. She has got nothing to do with GE okay?
XXX: FIRSTLY, I AM DEFINITELY NOT SELLING YOU ANYTHING. Are you going to let me talk to her or not?
Aaron: Tell me what is it in regards to first before i will do anything.
XXX: No i will not do that. It is against our privacy policy!
Aaron: Ok Bye!
(Who fucking calls from a Financial Firm at fucking 7.00pm?)
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Just a couple more...
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Opinion
"I think it is a very very bad idea for Aesop to associate itself with and endorse the subject of Islam. I believe the perception and image a company holds in their customers' minds are very important. Opening up my email and seeing the Aesop invitation to an Islam seminar fills me with great disappointment. It is not about being politically correct. It is about what customers want and does not want to see. I am a customer of Aesop because of its great products, not because it is a source of insight into the Islamic religion. The last thing i want to think about when Aesop comes to mind is Islam. Unfortunately the damage has been done. I have decided that i do not like Aesop anymore."
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Thanks Rosie! Monday, April 16, 2007
The death of a relationship becomes a catalyst for one to resume the cycle of singlehood armed with the determination to conquer their past and to relinquish their memories, blotting it out with rebounds and flings only to find an inconsumable emptiness.
There came to existence a checklist. A mental note of all the criterions to be satisfied. And with each encounter came a revision. It was extensive. An esoteric mental demand that few could identify or ever come to terms with. It was the tenacity of the resolve and the revulsion of any forms of compromise that became the ultimate frustration and failure to launch.
Tenacity and determination? Criterions and standards?
You see, all these dissipated with the frustration yesterday. He was disarmed as that mental checklist he has so ardently defended vapourised. For in one blink, it no longer mattered. It no longer held any meaning or significance. It was annulled, obsolete.
He is complete.
There came to existence a checklist. A mental note of all the criterions to be satisfied. And with each encounter came a revision. It was extensive. An esoteric mental demand that few could identify or ever come to terms with. It was the tenacity of the resolve and the revulsion of any forms of compromise that became the ultimate frustration and failure to launch.
Tenacity and determination? Criterions and standards?
You see, all these dissipated with the frustration yesterday. He was disarmed as that mental checklist he has so ardently defended vapourised. For in one blink, it no longer mattered. It no longer held any meaning or significance. It was annulled, obsolete.
He is complete.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
KCH - BNK - KUL
Weeks since returning to Melbourne only have i rallied enough diligence to upload my photos and write a brief synopsis of the trip.
There were three parts to this holiday. Basically 1 week in my hometown of Kuching where i have not been back for 7 years. I did all i had to do there, essentially enough to delay the need to return to this city for another 7 years.
Not that i dragged my feet grudgingly making my presence amongst my relatives, It just brought a rush of memories that i would rather stow away.
I managed to meet my cousin from Perth who went back as well for a holiday. She threw an engagement party and we all met her fiance. A Dutch, German and Indonesian bred bloke who has been dazed and assaulted with the local food delicacies hurled by my non-English speaking Grandfather whose only channel of communication is the extending of his generosity in the form of Pork innards, fish eye balls and beef penises.
And then there was my grandparents joint 87th and 82nd birthday celebration at the Hilton. It was unfortunate that not EVERY family member was able to return to this humble town for the celebrations. It was still good though, i was blessed with the opportunity to see those i have not seen for a considerable amount of time.
I made a trip to my Grandfather's nationally famous Crocodile farm and mini zoo. I hate crocodiles, evil creatures they are. Poured hot coffee on one of the crocodile's eye that was below me. 
Skull of Bujang Senang. Famous Albino Crocodile who has taken the lives of many.
Also made a trip that i have always dreamt of... to the home where i was born and raised. It was a thoroughly surreal experience. Upon arrival, everything seemed smaller, unkept and humble. The street, the neighbouring houses and then my home. We were unsure of the current landlord so we merely said that we have returned from overseas and this was the home that we used to live in, the home i grew up in.
The lady was gracious enough to let us in as i roamed the house, my bedroom, my shower, my balcony. I was gripped with excitement as i transported myself back into time, following my footsteps, imagining myself talking to my mother, my nanny, the activities i would do as a child. I imagined lazy afternoons at home on school holidays... It was heart wrenching.
As we got out and proceeded to our car, our elderly neighbour from across the road began shouting my mother's name as she ran to us... her eyes were moist. We hugged, we had coffee, we talked.
It was good.
Paying respects to my late Grandmother.
Next up was the trip to Thailand. My mum stayed on in Kuching and i flew alone to Kuala Lumpur for an immediate transit to Bangkok.
Bangkok...
I am not too sure how i should articulate my experience here. Short to say it was an undiluted shopping and culinary experience. I shopped, and then i shopped and i shopped again. Shopped during the day, have a fancy meal, go to a massage spa for an hour to ease my muscles carrying my newly found treasures and then back to shopping again. Come night and we will head off to sin city. Breaking my mould, doing shady and obscure activities and then come crashing down in my very generous friend's apartment.
The 4some at 'To Die For'
That was for a week.
Next up was Kuala Lumpur. This was going to be a mere stopover just to see people who matters. Shopping was was kept on a leash. Managed to chew through the cord however and splurged my already red and deficit bank account. This time round i stayed at my cousins newly started Motel business. Naturally i was given an above average room (although i paid for it). Met up with some old friends and then my flight back to Melbourne.
I Love Melbourne.
To see the rest of the photos taken go to: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/558557895lEtojJ
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Baroq House
Ostentatious and glamourous enough?Well this will be the new home of Dash Productions with their weekly Friday night parties.
Very Marie Antoinette, very French Boudoir.
Starting this Friday night with a masquarade party (Think Mariah Carey's "It's Like That" video).
Do not forget to mention my name at the door.
9-13 Drewery Lane
Cnr Lonsdale & Swanston Street
Melbourne
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Monday, March 19, 2007
Promotion
First day back at work. My medication has got me weak, dizzy and nauseous. Laboured on my desk feeling very much compelled to kick the bucket up and go.
I got news today that under normal circumstances would have me jumping. I got a promotion today with a pay rise. I suppose it is something positive to put in my resume. A promotion within 6 months of commencing my role at the firm. I am happy. Wished i was feeling more energetic and well to celebrate the news though.
Thank You Jesus!
I got news today that under normal circumstances would have me jumping. I got a promotion today with a pay rise. I suppose it is something positive to put in my resume. A promotion within 6 months of commencing my role at the firm. I am happy. Wished i was feeling more energetic and well to celebrate the news though.
Thank You Jesus!
Friday, March 16, 2007
Just right now i am seated at a two stationed internet cafe in my cousin's newly established motel in Kuala Lumpur. I have reached the final leg of my vacation and am ecstatic to go home to Melbourne. There is no place like Melbourne.
I had fun and i had bad times as well. I guess i will delve into more detail once i am in the comfort of my bedroom in Australia because right now i am sweating my jocks off in this humid humid weather.
Just this afternoon i made a visit to the doctor at Bangkok's airport. I was feeling unwell and i had a rough idea of the cause and how i contracted the infection. Yes, i was a bad bad boi in Bangkok. It is a city of sin. So it turned out i had caught the flu and some infectious bacteria that is simply remedied with the basic antibiotics. Am scared though.
So i will be back home on Saturday... New ravishing clothes to wear, new footwear, new everything.
Yay.
I had fun and i had bad times as well. I guess i will delve into more detail once i am in the comfort of my bedroom in Australia because right now i am sweating my jocks off in this humid humid weather.
Just this afternoon i made a visit to the doctor at Bangkok's airport. I was feeling unwell and i had a rough idea of the cause and how i contracted the infection. Yes, i was a bad bad boi in Bangkok. It is a city of sin. So it turned out i had caught the flu and some infectious bacteria that is simply remedied with the basic antibiotics. Am scared though.
So i will be back home on Saturday... New ravishing clothes to wear, new footwear, new everything.
Yay.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Apprehensive
Just arrived in Bangkok 2 hours ago. Reached my motel via taxi, went out to buy some bottled water, had some food delivered to my room and now using the internet in an internet cafe, the first time in 1 week.
I feel insecure. I am in a totally alien place, alien language, unfriendly people and an old rustic motel room with dim lights, less than clean toilet and no TV. I suppose i can not ask for much for around A$25 per night but i regret not going to a 4 star hotel just down the road for the comfort and security in my much needed predicament where the comfort of a hotel would lull me into a peaceful sleep ready for tomorrow. But i count it as an experience. I am all alone here in Bangkok. No friends waiting for me, no relatives like i did in Malaysia, not even acquaintances! I have to wait for my friends from Melbourne to arrive a couple of days from now so we could rendezvous and i could get the hell out of this motel.
I am not very sure what i would do tomorrow. I guess the first place i have to visit would be the tailor. All these designs i brought i want tailored here in Thailand. Followed by shopping... Shitty as my motel is, it is located just 1 minute away from Bangkok's biggest shopping area.
Ok. It is late and i have been flying around this peninsula for long enough. I feel dizzy and i feel like fainting... Kinda like in and out.
Bye.
I feel insecure. I am in a totally alien place, alien language, unfriendly people and an old rustic motel room with dim lights, less than clean toilet and no TV. I suppose i can not ask for much for around A$25 per night but i regret not going to a 4 star hotel just down the road for the comfort and security in my much needed predicament where the comfort of a hotel would lull me into a peaceful sleep ready for tomorrow. But i count it as an experience. I am all alone here in Bangkok. No friends waiting for me, no relatives like i did in Malaysia, not even acquaintances! I have to wait for my friends from Melbourne to arrive a couple of days from now so we could rendezvous and i could get the hell out of this motel.
I am not very sure what i would do tomorrow. I guess the first place i have to visit would be the tailor. All these designs i brought i want tailored here in Thailand. Followed by shopping... Shitty as my motel is, it is located just 1 minute away from Bangkok's biggest shopping area.
Ok. It is late and i have been flying around this peninsula for long enough. I feel dizzy and i feel like fainting... Kinda like in and out.
Bye.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
My mind is steeped in melancholy. Essentially i am at a point where i thought i would have accomplished more. The thing i have conscientiously cultivated over the past month has abruptly came to a halt. I have become disillusioned with the folly of my actions. I feel... daft.
My greatest fear is the fear of complacency. I fear the recession of my drive and the surrender to routine and the monotonous humdrum of LIFE. I am flying tomoro and i am distracted and unexcited. My mind awashed with all the things i need to deal with when i return. Apprehension mostly and then worry...
Just this afternoon as i gazed out my window in the office, i surveyed my surrounds and pictured first day back at work.
My greatest fear is the fear of complacency. I fear the recession of my drive and the surrender to routine and the monotonous humdrum of LIFE. I am flying tomoro and i am distracted and unexcited. My mind awashed with all the things i need to deal with when i return. Apprehension mostly and then worry...
Just this afternoon as i gazed out my window in the office, i surveyed my surrounds and pictured first day back at work.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Thursday, February 15, 2007
The Surgery
After four years of procrastination i finally did what i had to do. I underwent a surgery to remove all four of my wisdom tooth. Had the procedure on Monday and have been in discomfort since. Thank God i did not balloon up like a chipmunk like most people do. Just a slight bulge around my cheeks that somehow make me look like i have been playing the "Chubby Bunny" game in lower high school.
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were spend on light liquid food such as soups and shakes. Made a big pot of tomato soup to last me a couple of days and burnt my tongue over and over again over the course of the two days due to my ravenous appetite that is due to my insubstantial diet. So i developed this huge ulcer on my tongue that has tormented me the whole of today. Great huh!
I have all these events to go to this weekend i can not possibly have a bulge around my cheeks regardless of how inconspicuous it is. I truly hope the bulge will miraculously wane this evening so i can look normal and splendid for the weekend. Dang.
So today i decided i could no longer live on liquids and ate half a chicken as i started to taste blood in my mouth. The wounds and stiches were still too raw for the grind of chicken meat. It is back to soups i suppose.
I WANT MY NORMAL LIFE BACK!
Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were spend on light liquid food such as soups and shakes. Made a big pot of tomato soup to last me a couple of days and burnt my tongue over and over again over the course of the two days due to my ravenous appetite that is due to my insubstantial diet. So i developed this huge ulcer on my tongue that has tormented me the whole of today. Great huh!
I have all these events to go to this weekend i can not possibly have a bulge around my cheeks regardless of how inconspicuous it is. I truly hope the bulge will miraculously wane this evening so i can look normal and splendid for the weekend. Dang.
So today i decided i could no longer live on liquids and ate half a chicken as i started to taste blood in my mouth. The wounds and stiches were still too raw for the grind of chicken meat. It is back to soups i suppose.
I WANT MY NORMAL LIFE BACK!
Sunday, February 11, 2007
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Monday, January 29, 2007
My flight to Malaysia and Thailand was confirmed today.
So that is one worry down. This trip will be very productive because everything is falling into place. The whole trip is roughly 20 days and every segment of it i will be spent meeting old friends at just the right timimg.
It is a stroke of pure coincidence i suppose.
In a nutshell, this trip will allow me to meet up with my cousin from London whom i have not seen in 4 years, my friend from New Zealand whom i have not seen in 2 years, my friends from Melbourne who will "coincindentally" be at Thailand in the seven days i am there and lastly an old friend from Sydney.
Yay and Wow.
So that is one worry down. This trip will be very productive because everything is falling into place. The whole trip is roughly 20 days and every segment of it i will be spent meeting old friends at just the right timimg.
It is a stroke of pure coincidence i suppose.
In a nutshell, this trip will allow me to meet up with my cousin from London whom i have not seen in 4 years, my friend from New Zealand whom i have not seen in 2 years, my friends from Melbourne who will "coincindentally" be at Thailand in the seven days i am there and lastly an old friend from Sydney.
Yay and Wow.
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Fleeting Pleasures
Your face, your scent, your presence, your embrace, my memory.
Let us cross paths again one day.
Let us cross paths again one day.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
My Family
The recent passing of my favourite grandmother has given me a change of heart. If everything goes according to plan, i will be making my way back home in a month time for my other grandmother's birthday. I have always shied from the opportunity to return home. I would make a stop at Kuala Lumpur but never divert to Kuching although it was merely an hour flight away.
This time however, i realised that i could no longer hold my family in contempt. Sure the typical folks back home are nosy and gossipy. Nontheless, that is who they are and they are my family, my heritage, my identity. I love them.
I am rather excited honestly. Everyone from across the globe will be back. Cousins i have not seen for twenty odd years, aunties who i have never met and new additions to the family tree whom i have not seen as yet.
Take a big family photo and then wait another ten GODDAMN years to get together again. By then... who knows what changes there would be. There will be fresh blood, offsprings, but also missing loved ones who will leave us. Those who have witnessed the exponential growth of the family, those who were there at the very beginning.
Looking back at the photo taken ten years ago of the whole family fills me with sadness. Everyone has grown up, people have moved away, take the head of the family away and everyone disperses. You see, after the death of my grandmother, there would not be any more reason for anyone to return home. Who knows when would my dad see all his brothers and sisters all at once again? No one is left to pull the cords.
I remembered just four years ago i used to boast of my family. I had two greatgrandmothers, two grandmothers and two grandfathers. And in just a span of 4 years i have only one grandmother and grandfather left. Circumstances change before you even realise it.
I am going home!
This time however, i realised that i could no longer hold my family in contempt. Sure the typical folks back home are nosy and gossipy. Nontheless, that is who they are and they are my family, my heritage, my identity. I love them.
I am rather excited honestly. Everyone from across the globe will be back. Cousins i have not seen for twenty odd years, aunties who i have never met and new additions to the family tree whom i have not seen as yet.
Take a big family photo and then wait another ten GODDAMN years to get together again. By then... who knows what changes there would be. There will be fresh blood, offsprings, but also missing loved ones who will leave us. Those who have witnessed the exponential growth of the family, those who were there at the very beginning.
Looking back at the photo taken ten years ago of the whole family fills me with sadness. Everyone has grown up, people have moved away, take the head of the family away and everyone disperses. You see, after the death of my grandmother, there would not be any more reason for anyone to return home. Who knows when would my dad see all his brothers and sisters all at once again? No one is left to pull the cords.
I remembered just four years ago i used to boast of my family. I had two greatgrandmothers, two grandmothers and two grandfathers. And in just a span of 4 years i have only one grandmother and grandfather left. Circumstances change before you even realise it.
I am going home!
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Time to get shortchanged. HEFTILY!
So i have reached the age where my four wisdom teeth are emerging. Basically i was referred to by two dentists to a surgeon as my case was very serious. Lookin at the X Ray image, my bottom two teeth marked with a X are growing horizontally. The dental term being "Impacted" pretty serious as the roots are threathening my nerves near my jawline. Any mistakes in the surgery would mean paralysis around my jaw.I am pissed scared to tell you the truth.
The other downside is the money involved. I will be charged A$2200!!! The whole procedure and all. That was when my friend recommended me to do overseas. In malaysia, the same procedure would cost A$150. Just compare the difference! The ticket back would be in the vicinity of A$1000. Add it all up and it still is much cheaper. What is more, i get to go on a holiday, go shopping and eat my favourite noodles.
Called my dad who is currently in Malaysia to investigate the dental practices in my hometown. He showed them my X Ray and they said it is better i did it in Australia where they are better at such a complicated procedure.
Sigh I HATE THIS!
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
A Delayed Retrospect of 2006
2006 will not be remembered as a year of undiluted pleasures. As a matter of fact, i scorn it. It is ironic that my graduation certificate and studio photos of me with the forementioned document clenched in my fist and embellished on the walls of my home should in fact instill in me a sense of pride and accomplishment. What more to say that i secured myself a place in the workforce? Accomplishments designed to be recorded in the annals of my own memory.
Nope! It definitely was not enough. 2006 was wrought with uncertainty, blemished with the perpetual reminder of my shortcomings, loneliness and the erosion of my dignity. So i laboured all the past years to be in receipt of my current status. What next? I definitely did see the light at the end of the tunnel and upon arrival deemed myself as dissatisfied as ever.
I am frantic! A zealot of progress and advancement. The impetus in me gnawing at me. 2006 was a hindrance, a transition. Imperative as it may be, it was a grievance.
There was however, something that would balance the scales. Once again i have met and befriended a great deal of people that has that effect on me... "Did i REALLY meet that many people in 2006???"
I am rather certain of myself the relationships forged in 2006 will follow me through many years.
Goodnight!
Nope! It definitely was not enough. 2006 was wrought with uncertainty, blemished with the perpetual reminder of my shortcomings, loneliness and the erosion of my dignity. So i laboured all the past years to be in receipt of my current status. What next? I definitely did see the light at the end of the tunnel and upon arrival deemed myself as dissatisfied as ever.
I am frantic! A zealot of progress and advancement. The impetus in me gnawing at me. 2006 was a hindrance, a transition. Imperative as it may be, it was a grievance.
There was however, something that would balance the scales. Once again i have met and befriended a great deal of people that has that effect on me... "Did i REALLY meet that many people in 2006???"
I am rather certain of myself the relationships forged in 2006 will follow me through many years.
Goodnight!
Monday, January 01, 2007
Friday, December 29, 2006
On Bars
So a Finnish friend is down under and we decided to bring him around to impress him with the highly established Melbourne bar life.
We bar hopped over 10 venues in the whole night starting at 8pm untill 2am. A drink and then the next.
This was not just a learning curve for Jukka (Yuu Ka) but i was again amazed and awed by the variety, the cultural depth and the intensity of the Melbourne bar life that is very much alive at any day of the week.
Out of the 10 plus venues we visited, i would say i have only been to 2 or 3. Alot were random bars and pubs that we stumbled upon or through asking strangers on the street.
It was awesome! Interestingly we stumbled on alot of "Underground" bars. Not your plush, minimalism, modern, chic or Sex and the City kind of bar. It was truly underground playing international underground house music, a make shift drinking area in the alleys where drainage pipes hits you in your face as you down your drink. Where the crowd is grungy, rough, and they come in a whole assortment of races.
Why! i even found a bar that played my much idolised French hip hop and R&B!!!! Sexy.
Then there was Polly. A velvety bar reminiscent of French Boudouirs. Very gay friendly from my observation.
Apart from being the only Asian, i had a ton load of fun. Brazilians, Africans, Australians, The Swedes, and then my Finnish friend.
I wanna do this again.
We bar hopped over 10 venues in the whole night starting at 8pm untill 2am. A drink and then the next.
This was not just a learning curve for Jukka (Yuu Ka) but i was again amazed and awed by the variety, the cultural depth and the intensity of the Melbourne bar life that is very much alive at any day of the week.
Out of the 10 plus venues we visited, i would say i have only been to 2 or 3. Alot were random bars and pubs that we stumbled upon or through asking strangers on the street.
It was awesome! Interestingly we stumbled on alot of "Underground" bars. Not your plush, minimalism, modern, chic or Sex and the City kind of bar. It was truly underground playing international underground house music, a make shift drinking area in the alleys where drainage pipes hits you in your face as you down your drink. Where the crowd is grungy, rough, and they come in a whole assortment of races.
Why! i even found a bar that played my much idolised French hip hop and R&B!!!! Sexy.
Then there was Polly. A velvety bar reminiscent of French Boudouirs. Very gay friendly from my observation.
Apart from being the only Asian, i had a ton load of fun. Brazilians, Africans, Australians, The Swedes, and then my Finnish friend.
I wanna do this again.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Memory harbors vast amount of events that somehow gives the perception that it has only occurred in recent memory. A birthday, a holiday, a special moment with someone or the final hour spent with a friend before he or she boards a plane. We could assume that these have only coincided in the past six months when in fact it has been over a year ago.
Christmas Eve has prodded me to reflect. What was I doing last year during this month? What was the weather like? Who was I with? What other important events have taken place?
So when I was prompted by a friend as to how long it has been since I have been single and was forced to pen the facts. I was astounded by the one year period. I was under the impression that it was merely eight to nine months. So what if I was never prompted to consciously make a mental calculation of the months that has elapse? Would I always assume the nine month lapse for another five months?
It is unanimous that time flies and that we are continuously reminded of its reality over and over again. I do not think its effect would ever wear out on me. Because each time it proves itself to me, it imprints on me a greater appreciation for something. I am always lost for words.
Christmas Eve has prodded me to reflect. What was I doing last year during this month? What was the weather like? Who was I with? What other important events have taken place?
So when I was prompted by a friend as to how long it has been since I have been single and was forced to pen the facts. I was astounded by the one year period. I was under the impression that it was merely eight to nine months. So what if I was never prompted to consciously make a mental calculation of the months that has elapse? Would I always assume the nine month lapse for another five months?
It is unanimous that time flies and that we are continuously reminded of its reality over and over again. I do not think its effect would ever wear out on me. Because each time it proves itself to me, it imprints on me a greater appreciation for something. I am always lost for words.
oh, and Merry Christmas!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
In the name of shopping.
So the pace of my life has been fairly slow and monotonous for now... what, with all the Holiday preparation (what preparation?) and the winding down of work, i have not any interesting stories to share.
However, i am rather pleased with myself with the little crevices i have opportuned upon to get me that extra cash in this season where money is sought after.
Apart from my day job, my old boss from the bar calls me occasionally to help him out during busy nights. You see, i am the best bar tender there is for miles around. In my whole tenure at the bar, everyone came and go. Either they were discontinued by the manager or they simply did not live up to MY expectations or they simply could not cope with the high pressure environment. Hence they were shown the door.
So this time when i am asked back to lend a hand, i decided to monopolise the negotiations in regards to my pay. I demanded to be paid $20 an hour, all tips to go to me and to be paid on the spot at the conclusion of the night.
Naturally my former boss was grappling with this "oh so unreasonable" demand and attempted to haggle but i did not allow any of it! So he did finally concede to my demands and i have been getting extra cash for shopping. Mua haha.
In addition, i got a call on my mobile on Monday from a person who goes a long way back. It was this Polish guy who used to call me for help on using the computer. He needed someone to tutor him on using Excel and asked how much i would charge him. Off my head, i just blurted out $30 an hour and to my surprise he agreed within the second.
Oh goody!
So today after work i went to his place to tutor him for two hours.
Time to shop tomorrow. My Christmas shopping list is far from finished.
However, i am rather pleased with myself with the little crevices i have opportuned upon to get me that extra cash in this season where money is sought after.
Apart from my day job, my old boss from the bar calls me occasionally to help him out during busy nights. You see, i am the best bar tender there is for miles around. In my whole tenure at the bar, everyone came and go. Either they were discontinued by the manager or they simply did not live up to MY expectations or they simply could not cope with the high pressure environment. Hence they were shown the door.
So this time when i am asked back to lend a hand, i decided to monopolise the negotiations in regards to my pay. I demanded to be paid $20 an hour, all tips to go to me and to be paid on the spot at the conclusion of the night.
Naturally my former boss was grappling with this "oh so unreasonable" demand and attempted to haggle but i did not allow any of it! So he did finally concede to my demands and i have been getting extra cash for shopping. Mua haha.
In addition, i got a call on my mobile on Monday from a person who goes a long way back. It was this Polish guy who used to call me for help on using the computer. He needed someone to tutor him on using Excel and asked how much i would charge him. Off my head, i just blurted out $30 an hour and to my surprise he agreed within the second.
Oh goody!
So today after work i went to his place to tutor him for two hours.
Time to shop tomorrow. My Christmas shopping list is far from finished.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
The story of,
I sat in my room today and analysed. I analysed objects in my room that I have become so accustomed to. I analysed objects that I have grown oblivious over time to their existence when each of them had a meaningful history attached to it. I sat down and retraced the story of each object.
There was the artwork I created in school eight years ago where I can still see myself creating them.
Then there was my name tag I wore when I was still schooling in
The 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle sitting on my table top I created with my dear cousins when they were still in
A newspaper cutting that has been sitting on top of my bed for the past 10 years.
8 years old photo films yet to be developed.
A wooden plaque that was given by my mother in my first year in
The list goes on.
Try it. Sit down, analyse and retrace the memories.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
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