Lunch

Haven't been preparing lunch for a long time, not since Hubby change jobs to be exact but I just bought pretty and cute cutlery and also a bag warmer from Diaso so was finding an excuse to use it la.

And so, I prepared lunch for today.

Mixed rice with hard boil egg, boiled scallops and hotdog and a bag of fresh greens (lettuce, carrots and yellow baby tomatoes)!
Complete with my cute and pretty cutlery. I got a pair of chopsticks in blue and the smiley spoon for Hubby too! The chopsticks also come with a plastic casing for easy storage.

Everything works the way it should except for the bag warmer. =( To give it credit, it’s not as cold as my rice would have been if I left it outside la. So the warmer does work for a SHORT period.

Girls, my turn for new shoes!

Claimed my half day time off (off in lieu of Mad House 2010) and was out in the afternoon with Tri.

After lunch at Kim Gary (Vivo), we went to Daiso and each of us bought a big plastic bagful of things. I had bento bag warmers, chopsticks, spoons, the detergent for MU brushes/sponge and other nitty gritty things.

But my best buy of the day is actually my new shoes. With soft rubberized sides and blings blings too! Best of all, it's only $16.90! Cheap, pretty and comfortable! It was on sale at the Atrium at Vivo and there's a further discount with Citibank card. End up, I only paid $16.05! Worth right! =)

On the other hand, today got to be the cheapest day out with Tri ever. I paid $30 at Daiso, $11.80 at Marks & Spencers ($1.80 after a $10 voucher), $2.50 at Giant for dinner and shoes. All in, less than $50!

My dear Tri spent close to $300 with her hauls. This is the FIRST time ever that she actually spent more than me in all our shopping trips!

Oh well, there's always a first in all things.

Forever 21 Haul

Brand New year, brand new haul and honestly, I've not been shopping on F21 for a loooong time.

And this is my haul. 1 top, 1 fancy hairband (which besides wearing to an impending photo shoot, I've got nowhere to wear to), 1 baret and 2 belts that amounts to USD $39. Considered very little in my own standards.

But, I guess the reason for so little items is cause, I just bursted slightly over $200 at Forntieer for 2 dresses and 2 (or was it 3?) T-shirt tunics not too long ago.

Still recovering from that hole in the pocket, it's too soon to be bursting another hole.

Open House (OH) 2010

I most certainly hope that this year will be the LAST and final year that I got to be involved in the Tours bit of OH for the rest of my life. I really have had enough of the ever changing instructions and if its not bad enough, its the shouldering of blame and faults which results of someone's else incapability.

As per the previous years, I got the tours bit again - which is also the toughest of all the various duties. My role includes contacting all the student to come for briefing (via sms, Thank God I have access to the SMS system and can use it to broadcast to limitless number of students at 1 go. But the thing is, ALL the numbers must be correct, meaning, valid HP numbers, else the whole list will not be sent). So, after contacting the students to come for briefing, got to track who has come, who haven't.

During the briefing itself, they were ALL told explicitly to look and remember which days their duties are together with some other information la. What to expect, how to behave as well as what they are required to do.

The week leading up to the OH, I got calls from different students asking me "When and which day and what are their duties." Sigh... Tell them come for briefing, don't come. Tell them to see their duty shift, don't see. Really think I am so damn bloody free to check for them individually lor. Damn.

After all these tracking and answering of students on an individual basis, I still got to sms them the day before for their duty again, in case they forgot and believe me, these students WILL forget.

The worse is, these students can still come and say "I don't know what I am supposed to do" *Argh* really feel like strangling all of them when this happens!

Actually, all these are not the worse, over the years, sort of come to terms and just accept it. There's nothing that I can do except to repeat and sound like a broken recorder.

The worse this year is that, another staff who was handling the secondary teachers actually told these teachers that when the secondary students are done with the tour, the teachers will be informed and then can meet the students back at the carpark and get on the bus together.

This, 'additional svc' has NEVER been practiced and of course, if we are told that we need to inform the teacher, we will, but the thing is, we don't even know!

So, the teacher's students left on the bus without the teacher, the teacher went back to school in a frenzy in a cab, because, MOE's guidelines. Students MUST be accompanied by teacher. Hence, if on the way back, the students met with an accident or whatsoever, the teacher will be in trouble.

Naturally, the teacher was pissed and she sent us an email thru the career guidance teacher. This matter got blown up. Super. Blown. Up. All of us in the committee is now being 'investigated' lor. All thanks to the idiot staff who caused it.

What irked me even further is, this same bloody staff, in order to cover up for this matter, blew up another small matter. My student leader got lost and led the visitors to the wrong venue. Come on lor. Lost and go wrong venue is sooooo common till we just close an eye to it already. Of course, we admitted that our student guides are wrong to go wrong venue and we have also highlighted and stress to the students the venue. *sigh*

So, yes, this year OH was a bad year. We kena blamed for something which is not our error and incapability but yet got to shoulder on the blame. Damn pissed.

Can only hope and pray very hard that this will be last year that I got to touch this explosive tours.

And the worse of the worse is, there's a very very very high chance that once, my company gets my SIM certificate, I most likely will be working UNDER this bloody staff!

*ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH*

New year, old post.

Have been very busy for the last few weeks and its already mid Jan while I'm going to document my Dec 2009!

My Dec 26 to 29 was spent in KL with my 2 sisters. During our short 4D3N there, we covered Times Square, Sungei Wang, Bukit Bintan Plaza, Pavilion (all these malls are within walking distance of each other in the Bintan area)and even Mid Valley (we managed to get to Mid Valley because my youngest sis's friend came to look for her and gave us all a lift to MV.)

Food wise, we actually din eat that much (I think), besides the daily buffet breakfast we had in our hotel (Federal) we had Mdm Kwan's, Secret Recipe, Wendy's, KFC, Crispy Kreme and Beard Papa as lunch/dinner or tea in these malls.

Since, I've been to KL so many times, these malls don't attract me as much anymore but to my youngest sister, there's more things to see. The middle one, I guess, nothing much for her ba. But she just walk with us lor.

This trip, I'm proud of myself, I did not sign any credit card at all! I changed $500 SGD to get there and then changed another $100. Hence, in total, I spent $600 SGD. I came back with Warcoal Bras, (much cheaper as compared to here!), leggings, some girls' tees for Princess Clara and Queenie Chloe and lots and lots of snacks.

Hubby got the snacks as presents since I din manage to get anything for him at all. hahahha...

Came back on 29 Dec night and I was bushed. Tired after the long coach ride!

Then on 30 Dec, another happening day, right from lunch! We met up with some friends to celebrate a belated Bday for another friend in Dome, Bishan. Then hubby and I while our time away by going to town. We, 2 suakus, finally finally managed to step foot into Orchard 313! The post Christmas crowd was WOOOO... so many people!

After a break in Toast Box, we went on to meet my UniSIM friends at Raffles City for dinner at Plaza Market. More feasting. More chatting.

31 Dec, we attended the 10.30pm Thanksgiving Mass at Novena after rotting the whole day at home. The rotting also gave me the chance to recover from the trip and also yesterday... and also to rest enough for the next day!

New Year party at Toh Palace on 1 Jan 2010. My first New Year Party in my life! ahahhahaha..... We spent a good evening chatting, feasting, more chatting and playing with Queen. So much so to the extent that, hubby and I almost missed the last bus to get home!

A good ending to 2009 and a good beginning to 2010.

Recovered over the weekend as hubby is down with some virus and its back to work on Monday where, it's the Mad House 2010. This, deserves a post on its own on another day!

The Bestie's Wedding

Was about a month ago at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Changi Airport. Yes. It was freaking far. But, she's the bestie, so I MUST be there.

The one and only photo we took together before she was swampped away with her tonnes of guests. Marital Bliss Always, Tri!

YES!!!

No more night classes.

No more weekend classes.

No more traveling to and fro from Office and Home to UniSIM.

No more having to search for Tutors, download the various notes, collect notes.

No more mugging.

No more damn TMAs.

No more exams.

Bye Bye UniSIM!

I'm so so so soooooo done with my course!

I've completed my course!

HOORAY!!!!!!

Thank you Lord for the continuous blessings!

Flawless, almost.

The bestie suddenly msn-ed me yesterday asking me how to create a flawless complexion look as shown on the Benefits Cosmetics website.

After looking at the picture, I think it's not difficult to create the flawless complexion. Make Up base + a good foundation + concealers (where necessary) ought to do the trick.

Of course, not quite so flawless but should be near it especially so when photos like this should be photo-shopped a little to make it so perfect!

The happiest thing was she said that the last time she saw me at her own wedding, my skin's almost flawless, as like the picture, I was over the moon!!

She wanted to create the same effect and I shared with her my trusted brand, RMK make up base + creamy foundation and recommended that she go to the counter to take a look, to test it out before deciding on buying anything.

I guess, she'll soon be paying RMK and other counters a visit. I have a feeling, she'll go to Dior. She likes that brand. hahaha.. I love the packaging of Dior too if only if it's not so freaking expensive. =(

She made my evening, bestie. She did.

And this morning, after I reached office, a colleague commented that I look good today!

I'm of course very happy.

Must be the make up + the patent black clarks baby doll heels.

The whole package came out right I guess.

I'ts always so nice to get praises when you least expect them! =D

Should I?

Lemming for the RMK Massage Balm and Intensive Recovery Gell!The massage balm is hot seller item in Japan or so I heard. I'm trying out the samples at home now. I like the smell of it. Very soothing and pleasant. It's said to lock in moisture and things so the the skin appears better.

I'm very likely to get the intensive recovery gell, it's a night moisturizer coz I've ran out of my old moisturizer a few weeks back. Making do with the Kose night cream (free gift) but I find it way too oily and I literally look like an oil ball in the morning. Skin feels sticky as well, really dislike it but since I can't find another pdt, I made do.

Now that I know abt RMK (am using sample size too) and I feel that my make up literally glides on much more smoothly, I'm so very tempted to get this little tub of goodness! And it smells good too!

Should I? Taka is having a 10% off for cardmembers and there's a spanking new RMK counter in Taka!

I've already done my homework, the massage balm is $59 for 30g while the recovery gell is $85 for 40g. After the 10%, it should set me back by $130.

I'm quite sure, I'll be getting the recovery gell, just can't decide about the balm at this moment in time.

Forecast for year of the Tiger.

(For those of you who believe....)

The Year of The Tiger begins on February 14th 2010 (Valentines' Day!). Drama, intensity, change and travel will be the keywords for 2010. Unfortunately, world conflicts and disasters tend to feature during Tiger years also, so it won’t be a dull 12 months for anyone.

The Year of the Tiger will bring far reaching changes for everyone. New inventions and incredible technological advances have a good chance of occurring. For all of the Chinese horoscope signs, this year is one to be active – seizing opportunities and making the most of our personal and very individual talents. Everything happens quickly and dramatically in a Tiger year – blink and you could miss an important chance of a lifetime!

Let’s take a look at each animal, their major personality traits and what the prospects are for 2010, The Year of the Tiger.

The Rat.

Rats are charming, elegant and clever. They can be a bit gossipy and prone to being distracted. They’re also thrifty and very good with handling money. Family and close friends are exceptionally important to them. The Rat is charming beyond words and throughout his undoubtedly long life he will always be popular and will have many friends.

Forecast for 2010
The Rat may be feeling quite tired and deflated after 2009, which saw him keeping his head down, working and staying out of trouble. The Year of the Tiger is going to be fast-paced for the Rat, which in itself does tend to make them slightly uncomfortable. But it is essential that they go with the flow and seize opportunities and take adventures – this year is going to be important for them. A lot of Rats may have dreamt of travel in 2009 but were unable to take trips either due to financial or work commitments. This year will be so different! Travel will feature strongly for many and if there is dream destination in mind, it may become a reality during 2010. February and March can bring interesting work offers, while June to August and December will bring happy social occasions. Romantically, September and October bring tempting offers for single Rats, while those who are attached will find the summer most special. It is essential for all persons born under this sign to be extra thoughtful and caring throughout the year – an inadvertent remark or gesture could lead to discord with loved ones.

Interesting Rat Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Garnet
Special Flower: Narcissus
Best Hours: 11 pm -1 am
Season: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Black, White, Purple

The Ox

Sturdy, earthy, no-nonsense – that’s the Ox. Affectionate and easy-going, the Ox can show a fierce temper when agitated. He is neat, tidy, quiet and studious, with a great love of his home. Music can be a great love. Family life and a loving partner are high on the Ox’s priorities. A wonderful loyal friend.

Forecast for 2010
The Ox loves methodical planning and everything working out in the correct time. The Year of the Tiger will throw all this to the wind with it’s fast pace and unexpected developments! People born under this sign may find 2010 a challenge but in a good way. The Ox will have to adapt to new routines, delays and obtacles thrown in his way, but he will be well able for any task and may find new hidden talents and personal power he didn’t know existed. Hobbies, relaxing pursuits and friendships will all be beautifully highlighted during the Year of the Tiger and will provide a welcome relief to any stresses he may face. Home improvements and redecorating plans will move forward smoothly with excellent results. Career opportunities will present themselves from April to June, while exciting, intense romantic encounters are likely in July, August and December. An important aspect for those under this sign in 2010 is to be mindful and caring of loved ones. It will be crucial to listen to them and also to accept any help they may offer during this changeable year.

Interesting Ox Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Aquamarine
Special Flower: Carnation
Best Hours: 1-3 amSeason: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Yellow, Black

The Tiger

Magnetic, passionate and grand! When the Tiger does anything, it’s noticed! Indecisiveness and stubbornness can mar the sparkle of the Tiger personality. On the one hand generous, on the other hand a little mean, it’s sometimes hard to know where one stands with the Tiger. Flexible, honest and truly entertaining, one has a friend for life with a Tiger.

Forecast for 2010
Being the Tiger’s own year, 2010 holds great promise for those born under this sign, with exciting developments happening for them both personally and professionally. Some Tigers may be feeling disappointed and disheartened after 2009 and it will be important to leave the past behind and concentrate on the future, which is looking so bright! Financially, everything improves this year for those born under this sign and money-making thoughts and ideas should be fully explored and investigated. With the fast pace of this year for all signs, the Tiger needs to take extra care in planning and thinking all projects through – no rushing headlong into schemes during 2010! Tigers looking for romance will possibly see a friendship suddenly develop into something more personal with exciting consequences. August, December and January will see a very active and entertaining social calendar, but all of 2010 will see fun activities for the Tiger. The Spring months, March to May, will bring encouraging and interesting job opportunities, but the Tiger will still have to make sure he puts himself forward and gets noticed at work. Interesting Tiger Facts:

Zodiac Stone: Sapphire
Special Flower: Violet
Best Hours: 3-5 amSeason: Winter
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue, Yellow

The Rabbit
Cuddly, warm and affectionate are the attributes of the Rabbit. Mysterious and a great party-giver and host, the Rabbit enjoys being the centre of attention once in a while. The Rabbit is occasionally over cautious and can be a bit boring. He is also one of the luckiest signs in the Chinese Astrology chart.

Forecast for 2010
The focus will be on the Rabbit’s career and job prospects during the Year of the Tiger, with unexpected promotions and recognition very likely. Travel is also highlighted, with short breaks and spontaneous, fun trips featuring during the late Spring and early Summer. Healthwise, the Rabbit could find the speed of the Tiger year exhausting and it’s important he balance work with rest and relaxation. Promotion at work or in the Rabbit’s career will be sure to feature and they need to act quickly – no hanging back to see what happens! Some Rabbits will be dissatisfied with their current living arrangements and the perfect new home may appear most unexpectedly – they must act quickly and not miss out! Friendships will play a big role during 2010 with possibly one or two friends needing extra care and help. May and October to January will bring special and fun social gatherings. February and March will be significant and fortunate for those looking to change jobs while July and August will be most auspicious for single Rabbits looking for love – an unexpected liaison could result from a work related social event.

Interesting Rabbit Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Pearl
Special Flower: Jonquil
Best Hours: 5-7 am
Season: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Grey, White

The Dragon
Assertive, energetic and talented are all words to describe the Dragon personality. On the other hand, the Dragon has a tendency to be condescending and tactless without realising it. They generally enjoy robust health and tend to be very successful in anything they turn their hand to.

Forecast for 2010
Dragons will find the quick pace of 2010 very much to their liking and they will be keen to spread their wings and look for new possibilities and opportunites. As with the other signs in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon must make use of all the openings and opportunities that present themselves during this year. Teamwork will feature strongly and the Dragon will progress further and faster in his career if he bears this in mind. The Dragon’s financial situation will indeed be rosy during 2010 with a possible increase in income as well as a sum of money coming to them during the year. They must be careful to be disciplined about spending and not make too many impulse buys! May to August will be lovely months for socialising with friends and possible romantic encounters. Dragons do need to remember that love needs attention and if it is taken for granted, problems can arise. May, September and November see the most interesting career changes. Dragons need to take time during the year to have a holiday or getaway with loved ones – with such a busy year, they must not neglect those who matter to them the most.

Interesting Dragon Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Amethyst
Special Flower: Sweet Pea
Best Hours: 7-9 amSeason: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Black, Gold

The Snake

Intelligent and highly intuitive are two of the Snake’s many fine qualities. He makes an amusing and romantic friend with a definite flirtatious streak. When challenged or criticised he can be a sore loser. The Snake is very lucky with money and is fond of the odd bet or two. He is quick-witted and enjoys reading, music and occasionally the paranormal side of life.

Forecast for 2010 The Snake likes to make slow and steady progress and the Year of the Tiger will find him swept along with unexpected developments – they need to adapt and keep up the pace. On the career front, the Snake will have quite a bit of competition and needs to stay ahead of the game in order to be in line for any promotions or career advancement opportunities. He needs to seek advice from those who can help and not appear too independent – working with colleagues will pay off handsomely during the year. Money management will be crucial during the Year of the Tiger and with careful planning, they should have little to worry about. Time spent with loved ones, either on a well-earned holiday or at home, will rejuvenate the Snake’s spirit during a busy and intense year. February through April will favor work endeavors and promotion. July through December will offer many opportunies for single Snakes to meet a special romantic partner. Travel looks most likely during March and June through August, with fun and romance well starred. Snakes can be shy and loners, but the Year of the Tiger will ensure they have many happy social events to attend.

Interesting Snake Facts
Zodiac Stone: Opal
Special Flower: Passionflower
Best Hours: 9-11 amSeason: Spring
Horoscope Colors: Brown Gold, Green

The Horse

Fun, charming and attractive sums up the Horse’s traits perfectly. They love parties and crowds and being the centre of attention. They can also be egotistical, hotheaded and impatient. The Horse is a considerate and protective friend and partner and when in his company, there will always be excitement around the next corner.

Forecast for 2010
The Year of the Tiger will be an exciting and lively year for the Horse. On the home and family front, there may be some changes with family members moving in, moving out or relocating to another location altogether. On the social front, the Horse will be in much demand with invitations to parties and gatherings increasing as the year moves on. Health wise, with such a busy year and added pressures, the Horse must ensure that he looks after his diet and gets adequate rest. Otherwise, irritability and heated arguments could arise unnecessarily. Those born under this sign will do exceptionally well career-wise this year. However, they must follow up leads and career openings with vigor in order to take advantage of the fast paced energy of the Tiger year. A word of caution for the Horse – they need to keep a careful eye on their finances as overspending could happen very easily. August through September will bring fantastic opportunities for those looking for love. March through May will be lucky for changing jobs or careers while November and December will bring fun and lively social gatherings.

Interesting Horse Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Golden Topaz
Special Flower: Rose
Best Hours: 11am-1pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Orange, White, Yellow

The Goat
Graceful and optimistic, kind and easy going, would describe a Goat personality. They can also be petulant and discontented, likely to throw the towel in at the beginning of a problem. They can be charming without revealing their true feelings. The Goat is very talented and imaginative and can turn his hand to most creative pursuits.

Forecast for 2010
The Goat likes balance and moderation in all areas of life and the Year of the Tiger will ensure that he discovers new aspects and strengths of himself he didn’t know he had! For the artistic and creative Goat, 2010 will bring offers, opportunities and encouragement, leading to new projects and job offers. If they can remain adaptable, open to change and focused, this year could have long lasting positive implications. Study and developing specialist skills is also highlighted for this year. For those wishing to change jobs or find employment, there may be many frustrating moments and it won’t be easy. But then, out of the blue, a job offer or an opportunity will present itself. Be ready! September to November will bring the best chances for work related success. May to September will have outstanding moments for making new, special friends and enjoying the company of loved ones. All Goats need to be aware that the Year of the Tiger is not the time for taking financial risks. If in doubt or worried, they need to be sure to get the advice of a professional.Interesting Goat Facts

Zodiac Stone: Emerald
Special Flower: Larkspur
Best Hours: 1-3 pmSeason: Summer
Horoscope Colors: Green, Blue

The Monkey
The Monkey is playful, lively, fun and a quick thinker. They get bored very easily and find it hard to settle down to doing any one thing. The Monkey can also be vain and offhand. They are ambitious and usually very good with investing money. With their quick wit and wonderful sense of humour, they are a great party guest. The Monkey’s life will never be dull and predictable!
Forecast for 2010
The Monkey’s energetic nature will resonate well with the energy of 2010 – but he will definitely need to pace himself or he will burn out! Changes on the job front could startle the Monkey near the beginning of the year, but by adapting and staying calm, he should weather any storm. It would be wise to take a well-earned break mid-year as all Monkeys will be feeling the pressure that the Year of the Tiger is putting on them. Family expenses may very well increase this year and the wise Monkey will do a little bit of forward planning and budgeting to ensure a smooth passage through 2010. August to October will shine for romantic encounters and the unattached could possibly find the partner they’ve been searching for. July to November will be the best time to start making moves for anyone who wishes to change their job. All those born under this sign will appreciate the support they receive this year from loved ones and friends. Advice will be well-meaning and helpful; be sure to listen carefully.Interesting Monkey Facts:

Zodiac Stone: Peridot
Special Flower: Gladiola
Best Hours: 3-5 pm
Season: Summer
Horoscope Colors: White, Violet, Green

The Rooster
The Rooster is always popular, extravagant and creative.. They can be brutally honest and generally like being showered with attention. They are wonderfully loyal friends and also give advice freely – whether they are asked for it or not! Family means the world to the Rooster and they are fiercely loyal to those they care about.
Forecast for 2010
The Year of the Tiger will have mixed fortunes for the Rooster, but by staying calm, observant and flexible, the Rooster will glide through 2010 coming out much wiser, stronger and with great success behind him. He will be in much demand for his sage advice and experience and, at work, this will come to the notice of his employer. Many will also decide to go back to college this year or completely change the direction of their career. Travel features quite strongly with the Rooster seeking out adventure, fun and new places to visit. A word of caution: all Roosters must ensure that they don’t overdo things – exhaustion and a depleted immune system will result if proper rest isn’t taken. Home life will bring many joys and will be seen as a cosy sanctuary throughout the year. The Spring months and November and December will be excellent for intimate romantic encounters.. March and July to October will be the optimum time for making career decisions or to change jobs.

Interesting Rooster Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Citrine
Special Flower: Aster
Best Hours: 5-7 pm
Season: AutumnHoroscope Colors: Orange , Green

The Dog

The Dog is wonderfully hard worker, a perfectionist and someone who loves the small details. He is also a bit anti-social, pessimistic and stubborn. They are one of the most honest and loyal signs of the Chinese zodiac and will always go to bat for a worthy cause. The Dog is a fantastic listener and his advice is usually very intuitive.

Forecast for 2010
The Year of the Tiger will be an excellent one for all Dogs with a significant improvement in fortune all year long. They must leave the past behind, for the Ox year was a challenging one, and look forward with optimism and determination. There will still be challenges this year for the Dog, as for all the signs, and it is important that he talk over any potential problems and worries rather than bottling them up. Socially, this is the Dog’s year to shine and many new strong friendships and alliances will be formed. The Year of the Tiger will see increased finances for the Dog with many receiving bonuses or even gifts throughout the year. However, it is important that he takes his time regarding financial matters, checking details and ensuring that he has read all the fine print. May to August will be very significant for single Dogs and all invitations should be carefully considered! September through November will have crucial career opportunities – don’t miss them! Recreational activities and hobbies will also feature strongly, with some able to turn their hobby into their career with great success.

Interesting Dog Facts:
Zodiac Stone: Diamond
Special Flower: Marigold
Best Hours of the day 7-9 pm
Season: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Silver and Red

The Pig

The Pig is an innocent, sweet and lovable personality. They can also be quite melancholy and over-sensitive. The Pig loves the company of others, and adores parties, gossip and chit chat. They are highly intelligent, but prefer to keep this side of their nature under wraps. The Pig does not care that much for money, but is one of the zodiac signs that is very lucky.

Forecast for 2010
The Pig loves activity and challenges and the Year of the Tiger will certainly provide this. There may be additional financial pressure on the Pig this year, but with prudent spending and consideration, this need not be a problem. The Pig is an open, friendly soul and very trusting, but this year he must be wary. It’s possible that gossip may prove too tempting or that he may listen to false advice, causing upset and trouble. Be guarded and careful this year! The Pig must ensure that he follows up all correspondence or financial dealings – to delay or overlook details will prove costly. Short, fun, unplanned trips will feature throughout the year and will be excellent for off-setting any stresses and pressure the Year of the Tiger may bring. Interest in spirituality and self-development will be to the fore and any opportunity to study and explore these should be taken. November to January will provide excellent opportunites for changing career direction or to find a new job. August to December will prove particularly social, with many fun occasions and opportunities to make new friends.

Interesting Pig Facts
Zodiac Stone: Ruby
Special Flower: Chrysanthemum
Best Hours: 9-11 pmSeason: Autumn
Horoscope Colors: Purple, Red, White

Unbelieveable!

I really cannot believe my eyes!

I got the last TMA back for my killer module (BUS499 - Strategy) and I was expecting to fail it coz I really had no idea what the hell I was writing and what on earth the question was asking too.

What made it worse was when I asked my classmates, each of them had like such sophisticated and chim answers and that adds to the butterflies in my tummy...

Best is, 2 of them told me, they've exceed the word limit of 5,000 words by another thousand! That's 6,000 worth of words and I literally Jaw-Dropped. I had trouble just hitting the minimum word count of 4,500 words lei and here they are, telling me, they've exceed by another thousand!

Goodness!!!

I'm very very worried for this paper. Everybody is saying that it is a killer paper and the tutors said the same. *sigh*

I barely passed my first assignment with a lousy 48, did much better in the second assignment with 62 and now, did slightly better with 64. I'm happy with my grades already.

All I need is a C for my overall grade. I'm not ambitious. I just want to clear all the papers and graduate!

Help me Lord!

Such audacity of some people.

I had a busy busy 2 days. So busy in fact that I don’t even have the chance to warm my chair in the office. But I had fun. =)

I really enjoyed the adrenaline rush and to a certain extent, working under pressure to get things done. The immense sense of satisfaction that I get when I see that all our planning and hard work paid off is indescribable!

But, as with working with many people and in a big team, there are bound to be some conflicts and shunning of responsibility. But that happens daily and it can happen in almost any situation right? So what to do, work round it la. But woah! A series of events really opened up my eyes to the depth of ‘tai chi-ing’ being played by EDUCATORS!!! (Ya la, I’m in the education industry, I don’t teach, I do the administrative part of it, if you don’t already know.)

Incident 1:

My event(s) was on Wednesday and of course the prep work got to start wayyy in advance.

But like anything, we can plan till the cows come home, but it would be the actual day itself that all the planning will unfold as like a flower slowly unfolding its petals to present to the world the full glory within.

And like any big project, there’s always delegation of duties to make the whole event come together to be presented as one event. So, colleague A was made in charge of registration. Now, this registration process is complicated and delicate.

First, we need to register the participants and their teams from 8.15am. Then, their names are to be printed on certificates to be given to them before the end of the event at 5pm. Hence, we only have a few short hours to do the printing (and in between to tabulate the champions and runner ups). All these, planning stage about a week before the event.

On Thursday, EVENING no less. I got an email from colleague A, saying, he is away from office from Friday onwards only back on Wednesday. (Wednesday is the event!) and in his email, I was on the BCC list. Our boss NOWHERE on the list at all!

So, I forwarded the mail (not that I need to la, BCC ma but of course I will).

My boss saw the mail at 9pm from home. Texted me. My other colleague saw the sms that boss texted her and texted me too. Win lei. Both of them did not get any “MIA” email at all. Only me. And I’m not even colleague A’s reporting officer! I’m the smallest fry within all of them. I was cheesed off.

Bloody guy no guts lor. Want to MIA, dare not tell boss himself, made use of me to tell boss.

My conclusion is bloody old man waiting for retirement, hence no balls to tell boss that he is MIA-ing. Either that or on purpose to let the event flop!

So the whole of Friday was to clear the mess that bloody colleague A created. And we must all pat ourselves on our back. We did a good job without bloody colleague A!

Incident 2:

Another event but still on Wednesday, the same day.

I’ve been trying to contact this teacher for a long long long time (weeks! In fact). I’ve called her office, not there. So leave messages for her to call back. Never did. I’ve sent her emails, never reply. Finally, I called her mobile. Never answer and NEVER called back too.

And when she finally finally did. She told me to email her the details. Ok. Fine. I emailed. And once again, the whole cycle. Email, phone, messages, the full works. No answer.

Wednesday morning, 9.25am, I got an email from her. Her email goes

“Dear S*****,

Is it possible for you to arrange your student leaders to bring my students to your campus from my school, A******* Secondary?

Regards
L****”

What the…………. Her school and my school is barely 10 mins walk away and her kids are at least 14 year olds.

I’m so pissed.

Because she don’t want to be responsible for the kids, make us responsible for them?!

Incident 3:

Still same day, another event.

Colleague B called me at 2.30pm saying that the participants were not here yet. Hinting that I should go find out what happened la. And so I did.

I called the teacher. No answer on mobile. (Just what’s wrong with teachers har? What IS the point of having a hp if they don’t answer?)

So I texted my colleague giving her the teacher’s contact and she can try calling since the teacher did not answer my call.

Her reply is classic.

“Please close the loop with the teacher as I am not the contact person.”

Win lor. I AM the contact person. But teacher don’t want to answer my call how? So I replied my colleague.

“I have another event now, am out of office. Have called teacher but he’s not answering.”

Colleague B, no reply.

Finally, the teacher called back a short while later. And so I enquired about his students. His reply is the best.

“Sorry, I forgot. My kids also forgot about the event. All went home already. Sorry.” (Not quite in these words, but the general message is there.)

So what to do, I have to call back my colleague B right? I did that and I got an earful from her.

If she was in front of me there and then, I think I would have slapped her.

Colleague B scolded me no end. “How can the teacher to do? How can he forget? How can he not tell his students? How can he be so irresponsible, we’ve gone through so much efforts to do the workshop for him and he just forget?! How can… how can…”

I kept quiet.

She’s still going on and on and on despite my silence.

Her ending sentence “I expect some actions to be taken!” while still screaming on the phone, at MY mobile expense.

Sure. Go ahead to do something lor. What you want to do? Talk loud nia. And hor, excuse me, you so fierce to me for what!? I’ve done my due diligence, dare to be the same to the teacher or not? Dare, then come and scold me. No, then please get the hell out of my way. I’m very busy and have a ton of things to do.

And so, people, I present to you. The bloody-old-person waiting for retirement who tai-chi every single thing away, the irresponsible teacher, the forgetful teacher and a bark like crazy colleague.

All in a day’s work, so double pats on my own shoulders for handling each of them AND the 8 events I had altogether yesterday.

Boy, am I proud of myself la!

And people, we all should be afriad. VERY. worried and VERY. afraid. Such weird people are EDUCATORS lor. Teaching our future generations. I shudder at the things that is being passed down to the kids!

My future kid being added on to the brood that's being trained and taught by these people!

Clever Boy!

A first-grade teacher, Ms Neelam (Age 28) was having trouble with one of her students.

The teacher asked, "Boy what is your problem?"

Boy answered, "I'm too smart for the first-grade. My sister is in third-grade and I'm smarter than she is! I think I should be in the third-grade too!"

Ms Neelam had enough. She took Boy to the Principal's office. The principal told Ms Neelam he would give the boy a test and if he failed to answer any of his questions he was to go back to the first-grade and behave.

She agreed.

Boy was brought in and the conditions were explained to him and he agreed to take the test.

Principal: "What is 3x3?"
Boy: "9"

Principal: "What is 6x6?"
Boy: "36"

And so it went with every question the principal thought a third-grade should know. The principal looks at Ms Neelam and tells her, "I think the Boy can go to the third-grade."

Ms Neelam says to the principal, "I have some of my own questions. Can ask him?" The principal and Boy both agree.

Ms Neelam asks: "What does a cow have four of that I have only two of?
Boy, after a moment: "Legs"!

Ms Neelam: "What is in your pants that you have but I do not have?"
Boy: "Pockets"!

Ms Neelam: "What starts with a C and ends with a T, is hairy, oval, delicious and contains thin whitish liquid?"
Boy: Coconut

Ms Neelam: "What goes in hard and pink then comes out soft and sticky?"

The Principal's eyes open really wide and before he could stop the answer, Boy was taking charge.
Boy: Bubblegum

Ms Neelam: "What does a man do standing up, a woman does sitting down and a dog does on three legs?" The Principal's eyes open really wide and before he could stop the answer...
Boy: Shake hands

Ms Neelam: "Now I will ask some "Who am I" sort of questions, okay?"
Boy: "Yep"

Ms Neelam: "You stick your poles inside me. You tie me down to get me up.. I get wet before you do."
Boy: "Tent"

Ms Neelam: "A finger goes in me. You fiddle with me when you're bored. The best man always has me first."

The Principal was looking restless, a bit tense and took one large Patiala Vodka peg.
Boy: "Wedding Ring"

Ms Neelam: "I come in many sizes.. When I'm not well, I drip. When you blow me, you feel good."
Boy: "Nose"

Ms Neelam: "I have a stiff shaft. My tip penetrates. I come with quiver."
Boy: "Arrow"

Ms Neelam: "What word starts with a 'F' and ends in 'K that means lot of heat and excitement?"
Boy: "Firetruck"

Ms Neelam: "What word starts with a 'F' and ends in 'K' & if u don't get it u have to use your hand"
Boy: "Fork"

Ms Neelam: "What is it that all men have one of it's longer on some men than on others, the pope doesn't use his and a man gives it to his wife after they're married?"
Boy: "SURNAME"

Ms Neelam: "What part of the man has no bone but has muscles, has lot of veins, like pumping, & is responsible for making love?"
Boy: "HEART"

The principal breathed a sigh of relief and said to the teacher "Send this Boy to University, I got the last ten questions wrong myself!"
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.Did you have a good laugh yet?

Back dated post - Revisit to Watami

I din have time to do a proper post on our visit to Watami at Clarke Quay, their 2nd branch in Singapore.

After the first visit to Watami (ION) for sis's bday lunch, I was in fact quite pissed off. 2 hours for our food to arrive and still have to argue with them is not my idea of a nice lunch.at.all.

So, I made an online feedback.

The marketing comms person apologized profusely and she invited me and 3 other friends to the branch at Clarke Quay for another lunch. The branch at Clarke Quay was not yet opened then. I got my sis, her friend and hub to go with me for this invite.

It was a pre-launched session and besides us, I think there were some photographers and journalists.

We were treated to a yummy-licious lunch!

Service was good too!

Their staff; regardless at ION or Clarke Quay has always been attentive.

This, I really appreciate and like. Of course, I do think that they need to improve on product knowledge. But then again, its a new store, and staff are new too. Training and learning will take time too. Give them another chance to learn and train their staff and it should improve.

Watami @ Clarke QuayOur lunch menu.Long long list of food for just the 4 of us!

Our drinks for the day... Looks pretty. But I cannot remember what is what now. One for each of us... But we can't differentiate and we just cross drank. Hahahah...

Seafood Salad I thinkThe crispy prawns in the salad are so good! We were fighting for more!

My ALL time favorite - Sashimi!!!One Word. FRESH!

Stir fried UdonI find this OK. But a little too oily.

Beef SkewersYUMS lor!

One of the main dish - Sukiyaki. I like this very much!Soup base is just a little too salty but very tasty!

Desert - Chocolate sauce on brownie!
My sis's favorite!

Mochi with mocha ice cream (LOVE the mochi!)The red beans are pretty good too!

In my excitement, I forgot to take a pic of the garlic rice in stone bowl! But for that, I don't quite like. Or maybe, to me, I've already associated stone bowl rice to Korean food.

I can be sure to say that we would re-visit the place another time if there’s another chance. The ambiance is nice, food’s really quite worth the amount that we are paying for!

Check out Watami at ION, #B3-23 or at Clarke Quay, The Central, #02-82/83/85

shopping by proxy

I missed the Isetan Private Sale physically yesterday but my proxy did my shopping for me. And she did a fanastic job!

I got tones of RMK as I was trying to hit the min purchase and to get the freebies. These can last me till next year at least!

Freebies from RMK....Got this off the online brochure, there's supposed to be a pocket mirror and cosmetic pouch and an additional face protector that comes with my purchase of $220. Whoo hoo!

A must-have for washing off those cosmetics that I pile on my face daily! 10% off per bottle lei. Even cheaper than the bundle price! Of course must get. I use 1 bottle in about 5 to 6 weeks. So this should last me till Dec since I still have 1 new bottle at home - which I should be opening soon.

This is my favourite sunblock. Nothing else comes close. It's totally so smooth and so easily absorbs into skin!

Clarins Sunblock with SPF 40.

Damage... $56.

20% off lei! Orginal $70 lor. Current bottle about 40% left. This should last me till June 2010.

The down side of shopping, proxy or not, I'm $330 poorer.

But, with the mega sale rebates and credit card rebates, I have earn for myself a total of $60 in vouchers! So, my shopping is only $270 la. Not so bad after all considering I have soooooo many things!

Loots are now with another friend (proxy shopper passed it to friend of mine, her colleague)... got to wait till I meet friend for dinner to get my loots. Heng, I have enough stock of everything at home for the time being.

Thank you hor, Proxy Shopper! =) Appreciate your hard work in squeezing with all those women!

Lobang lobang for I Nouvi Cosmetics.

Yo Girls!

My friend has a voucher for 40% off regular priced cosmetics / skincare / accessories from I Nouvi. (Site is US based, but there's Inouvi stores in J8, Vivo, Suntec and Far East Plaza)

Do go and browse and see if anything catches your eye, let me know! 40% off is a very good deal lor!

I'm thinking of getting some myself too! hahahha...

Voucher expires by end of this month. Let me know by 28 Sep LATEST.

Just wanna know...

WHAT brand of skin care and regime you girls are using / following? And what skin do you have? Oily? Normal? Combi? Any specific problem areas?

I just want to have some back up brands as earlier this morning, to my shock and horror, the brand that I've been using has gone thru a price hike! *Yikes!* and the amount is quite substantial compared to before the hike.

Luckily for me, I've already spent enough to become their member and so the hike would not have that much of significiant impact on me for the moment.

But it's always good to have some back up brands... you never know when a switch is necessary!

To start off, I have combination skin, (more oily T-zone and normal to dry cheeks - depends on environment and which period of my cycle I'm at la), visible pores, dark eye circles (the damn late nights!).

My basic skin care is from Vitasence.
Cleansing: Cleansing Mousse,
Toning: Revitalising Tonic,
Moisturizers: Protective Hydrator (day) and soothing moisturiser with antioxidant (night).

For my visible pores, I'm using KOSE - Pore Serum and for eyes, Estee's Advanced Night Repair Eye Recovery Complex.

What about the rest of you?

waiting...

... for the online version of the Isetan promotional flyers to be loaded on the net.

I need some skincare and cosmetics if there is a sale!

My list of items is likely to be
Clarins Sunblock
RMK Make Up Base (if there's a sale or attractive feebies)
Fancl MCO (if there's a sale)

I estimate if I were to get all these, easily $200!

misc pic

Had lunch at Soup Restaurant at Seah Street last Friday, as I was at NLB for an event.

And the toilet impresses me!

Olden feel! I normally don't like such olden chinese feel.. but I felt this was quite nicely done and with the light, the traditional feel is indeed pretty! Basin. Another view. Wall mirror. I wanted to take a pic of the basket.. but it din turn out clear.

Sis's Bday

Happy Bday Sis!She's on leave, I took leave and together with the youngest sis, us, Sisters 3 went to ION. They have been there many times I think, but for me, the first.

We had lunch at Watami in ION. Food's not bad, price is reasonable. Service by staff is good too. Only thing is, the food is served cold, wrong and the wait for food, SUPER LONG! It took almost 1 hour for 3 sets of set lunch and 2 side dishes to arrive! That's really very bad lor!!!

Really is mountain turtle. But, the shops there don't attract me much. It seems like the same stores are all over the place. Nothing special while the expensive shops are wayyyy too expensive for me!

I guess, the only boutique that I can afford is Longchamp. I like the new limited edition Le Pilage! Pink with white trimmings! So pretty! There's a 10% off for citibank card holders... but it's a whopping $191 for the small one... Think I'll give it a miss... also coz I find it tough to bring out... and also coz I have too many bags. =(

Went over to Taka and the only exciting thing I got was this bottle of Aqua Gel that my sis highly recommends. Coming from her, its definitely something that I shd not miss. She seldom recommend me any skincare pdts la. Most of the time, its me the SA who keeps recommending her to get this, that and goodness knows what else!

Anyway, the gel removes dead skin gently and I tried it the moment I washed my face. WORKS!! I find my skin so clear and radiant after just 1 time. Definitely going back to buy some more after this bottle finishes.$38 I think, available at Watsons.

We went over to Paragon for tea after that, wanted to go to Coffeebean... and just by this, brought about a joke among us 3. I led the way up to level 1 and the last to come up was the middle sis came up the escalator, she asked me, "Why u come up? At B1 what."

I replied, "But I don't see it ma. So I thought it was higher."

At which the youngest sis said to us both, "Closed already what!"

And by this time, all 3 of us realized that we made a mistake and we all burst out laughing at our silly-ness. The youngest had a conclusion and that's us, the older ones have not been visiting Orchard for far too long.

*sigh* too long did not visit town can't even remember what stores are in Taka or is it a sign of old age?

Anyway, we crossed over to Paragon and we had tea at Bakerzin. Where, the bday girl finally got her slice of cake.

Here, we chatted and laughed at each other for our youth sillyness.. such good time spent together with 2 sisters!

Then, we went over to Tangs where I got Hub's advance Bday and Wedding Anniversary Present. Nothing special, tie and cuff rings. Boring gift yes, but really no idea what to get. Stick to something that he needs is the best!

And now I'm lemming for the Christian Dior. DiorSkin Poudre Shimmer (Ultra Shimmering All Over Face Powder) - # 002 Amber Diamond.$66.

I would have gotten it at Tangs, if it was not out of stock. We have to pass by Isetan to get the bus home and I went to look for the same item. OOS again!

Conclusion: Hot item and hence it's OOS!

It was a good day with my 2 sisters... and I think we should do this again after my exams in Nov!

Happy Birthday once again, Sis!