Monday, June 27, 2005

A Wonderful Weekend

What a day! Woke up at 5.30 am and got ready to catch the sun rise at Labrador Park with some close pals (hitch a ride in a Merc from a pal staying in the east... arrive in 'style');

At low tide, Labrador Park has some magnificent soft and hard corals and surprise find - nudibranch! (who says you have to dive deep to appreciate God's gifts?) Had a good chat with Jo and then headed for breakfast... Labrador Park brought back nostalgia of my primary school days as well as the 'ghost stories' of ex colleagues who were nurses staying at the nursing hostel during the post World War 2 era... hmm something out of the ordinary routine on a Sunday, beautiful!

Then headed for badminton session at Toa Payoh - verdict - good game after a long while. Headed home and rest before heading to gram's (mostly to discuss about bro's wedding plans). Had a good chat with my aunt over nice hot chng tng, yum! Was excited about my house renovation which is starting real soon. Also had the 'car talk' with an uncle... gonna shelf this car purchase plan till next year... indeed!

Wouldn't it be lovely if I just don't have to go to work the next day...

PS: Congrats uncle Z on the new 'stock' ... 29 cousins and counting...?

Saturday, June 25, 2005

The Family Way

I am almost finished with Tony Parson's "The Family Way", very enlightening! I learnt about pre-eclampsia, premature babies, vasectomy, reversed vasectomy, etc which led me to conclude that if you want to start a family, its better earlier than later (or never!) But most importanly, I learnt that family values are universal. Tony really knows how to pull at your heart strings and reading his book is a blast!

Today is a special day, celebrated V's birthday and did alot of catching up. I am so happy to see her finally getting a hang of motherhood and family life. Its flattering that she thinks I will make a great mother... some day. I hope not to disappoint anyone, especially myself but first I must get me a responsible man to begin with (haha, how's that for a dash of humour?) :P

Ok as usual when women gather, the usual question they ask singletons like myself is, "So are you seeing anyone?" Well, I've been happily dating but no serious commitment for now (the last one was traumatic and I need some time to grieve and recuperate.. what can I say, am an emotional schmuck sometimes!)

Anyway, can't wait for Rye to lend me a book he is currently reading "A General Theory of Love" ooohhhh.. I actually recommended him to read "He's Just Not That Into You" first if he is ever to understand the psyche of women's fear (here that, guys?) and make his moves on a certain someone... wonder how that is progressing...?

Friday, June 24, 2005

Balance in LIFE!

A close pal shared this story (thanks KS)... It'll hit the core of your conscience. Then another friend told me that his daughter passed away during a road accident and the greatest regret he has was not spending enough time with his daughter before...

His wise words to 'workaholics' like me...
'What I do today is important, because I will never have today again'

While all aspects of our life are important, without a balance, you become addicted and like all addictions you lose:
· No balance with your family - you lose them
· No balance with your work - you lose your perspective and you actually lose focus on the important aspects of your job.
· No balance with yourself - you forget who you are and when you retire you have nothing! Or worse than that, if you lose your job through a company sale or downsizing you lose your identity.

He went on to tell me that who we are is NOT what we do to make a living. Who we are is a balance of our family, our work, ourselves! It truly was the best advice I ever received."

"When you go to work...
1. Look at what you have on your desk
2. Make a list of everything you have to get done
3. And beside that list write the impact of not doing it
4. Then focus only on the top three items that have the most impact.
5. Do that everyday for a week.

At first, you will find it difficult to leave. But, after awhile, you will find that you will have more energy, and you will be more focused in your work because you have BALANCE! There are times when we have to lose balance- a special project at work, or a family matter at home but
consciously focusing on balance keeps everything in check."

"Balance of Life" - important for us ALL!

Sunday, June 19, 2005

Reunions

June seems like a pretty busy month for me with many unexpected activities and I am not talking about the Great Singapore Sale, mind you. I visited one month old Gen and caught up with some dive buddies there. It was heart-warming to see the softer side of CY, the natural way he interacts with kids. He's gonna make his future wife proud :)

I also met my former uni mates for the yearly reunion. This is something we hope to keep on doing for the longest time. It's great to see how we progress from those days slogging for our Bachelor, juggling full time work and part time studies. Regardless of the grades we got, they have my respect, especially those with family (for their endurance and perseverance).

I met my cousin from KL who is preparing to get married to a guy from the 'upper crust' (so happy for her) early 2006. Its amazing how some people seems to have it easy but I know she prays really hard to get to where she is now. I wish her all the best in her future PhD course as well (something I hope to do in the near future as well).

I managed to lobby some pals to volunteer and support the career change of an ex colleague - I wish her well in her spa training. I corresponded with a dear friend in JB... glad to know that he still dives and that we will be exchanging pictures. I caught up with my potential business partner - she'll be going China soon for business trip and I hope that she can do some research on stretchable cotton.

Last but not least, I never envisioned a simple coffee session with an ex colleague (whom I was not close to back then) to lead to walks along Orchard Road and a nice conversation over dinner (he was gracious to pay for it, what a gentleman!). It started with supposedly handing him the lawyer's letter (our former company was going through liquidation) and one thing led to another... didn't know we could click coz he was too quiet for my liking. From one session together, I got to know the real Rye, which was great. Wish him well with his 'pursuit' (can't wait to hear updates).

That's all for now :)

Sunday, June 05, 2005

True Believer

This week was a special week, in remembrance of "Precious's" birthday... Its been a while since I spoke to my pals whom suddenly been 'missing in action' for the longest time; missed them. I can't complain coz I have been pretty busy myself - exams and work.

My dive buddies just got back from Layang-Layang, damn! (that was part of my dive wish list which I have yet to fulfill). Here's an extraction from their dive log:

The reef there is definitely the healthiest I've seen so far - Density of corals and sea fans were just amazing. The lagoon dive yield all the smaller stuffs like pipe fishs, lion fishs, flounders, flathead, nudibranches, resident octopus, cleaner shrimps, moray eel, crab, hermit crab and many more. Big fishes are in abundance there and is the main attraction.

I can't stop thinking about the big encounters. During the relaxing check out dives, we saw 3 hammerheads and at least 1 on subsequent days. I also saw my first Manta! The DM said it's not yet the season and it is also his first time to saw Manta in Layangx2 for this year.

On the 2nd day there is a school of devil rays (~28 of them) flying in the ocean sky. There are also schools of 9 & 5 devil rays in the next day. Plus 2 marble rays, huge schools of jacks, GT - all the big stuffs!

Anyway, I hung out with friends at Original Sins over dinner, partly as a farewell to a dear ex-colleague who will be going back to Malaysia for good and also partly to celebrate the closure of IKS matters - the food was exquisite as always... that place brought back fond memories as well... enought about that!

I also managed to take the kids from Melrose Place to watch "Aga-Boom" at Downtown East. Not only was it a time of fun for the kids, it was also a time for a few laughs for my own sanity - It felt good.

I also got down to getting quotations for my home renovation done, finally! With the exam for my first semester over (Alhamdulillah; thank God!), I got some quality leisure reading time. I bought a few good books - Nicholas Sparks "True Believer" & "Three Weeks with my Brother", Tony Parson "The Family Way" and Paul Coelho "The Alchemist".

Next week, I will be meeting up with a close pal to celebrate her birthday as well as visit one-month old Gen :)

Its been less than 6 months at my new job; enjoy the company of peers; at the same time, I need to reassess my priorities in life... remember the 5 most important things!

P.S.: Happy b'day J & Des.

Sunday, May 15, 2005

Sweet Genesis

Friday the 13th seems like a blessing for a close friend of mine - she successfully delivered a wonderful baby girl! Genesis, that's her name - already she sounds like a spirited gal with strong lungs :)

Reflecting on this incident, I wonder if the government's policy, rather incentives to lure young couples to start a family early really works or is it just a mere coincidence? Anyway, I knew there and then when I held little Genesis in my arms that I have lost my scuba diving buddy - her mum; sad but a true reality.

After the hospital visit, had a brief chat over coffee with another gal pal. She is contemplating getting married and starting a family while her biological clock is still ticking. Then there was me, yup... what will I do?

Frankly, I don't know what lies ahead. All I know is that I am happy where I am right now, spending more time with grams and mum, redecorating my home sweet home and toiling through my studies. But at some point in time, I knew that I have to be less selfish.

Recently, over lunch, my colleagues who noticed that I've been 'spending late nights' at work asked, "What about your social life?"; I was stumped coz I didn't really thought about it. Yeah, what about it? For now, I'm happy going on casual dates (its not the same as casual sex, mind you!) without any exclusivity and to be honest, I like it. No strings attached while spending some clean, good fun catching up and exchanging ideas with the male species.

What I am driving home is that its not easy finding a good man; simply someone who is responsible and less selfish than I am (its a bonus if he's intelligent and has a cute butt). Over coffee me and my gal pal concluded that although it sounds cliche, having a man who is financially stable is practical (less complication). No longer are we, err especially women over 30, disillusioned by the notion of love. Interesting, eh? Think about it girls...

PS: Happy birthday, Daph!

Monday, February 28, 2005

Stylo Milo!

Being an analytical person, I am a big fan of Human Science Behaviour. When a pal of mine shared this personality test with me, I immediately had a go. Verdict: It was fun.

Personally, having a go at such tests will help you understand yourself a little better (with 10-20% discounted for a dash or reality, ha!):

Learning Style
Knowing your style means you:
1. learn faster in lesser time (efficiency)
2. use relevant learning aids to improve learning (quality)
Take the test and view the style description

Left or Right Brain Dominance Style
Knowing your style means you:
1. understand how the brain processes information (awareness)
2. strengthen your less dominant brain hemisphere (for balance)
Take the test and view the style description
You can view the style whole brain theory as well.

Personality Style
Knowing your style means you:
1. understand your strengths & weaknesses (intrapersonal)
2. learn to interact better with other types (interpersonal)
Take the test and view the style description here or here

Have a go, experiment & have fun :)

Friday, February 04, 2005

Education

Nothing drives me more than learning a new knowledge and I get to do what I love through my course at UMass Boston. I'd recommend this part time course (or the full time course by Carnegie Mellon) to anyone keen to pursue a profession in Education/Instructional Design.

The beauty of this profession is that we never stop learning a new knowledge. I remember a friend telling me, "I'm like a walking dictionary with 'useless' information". In this KBE era, an affinity towards lifelong learning is a necessity to remain current. As individuals, we must proactively chart our career path before we are forced towards employment restructuring.

That brings me to my next point. I have countless plans to diversify my skill sets (so that I can realise my dream of becoming a freelance Subject Matter Expert/Lecturer by 45):
1. Complete my MEd in Instructional Design (curriculum development skills)
2. Complete my ITPM Certification (improve efficiency in my job)
3. Take up a Grad. Dip. in Info-Communication (IT & Multimedia knowledge)
4. Take up MSc. in KM (for a wholistic perspective of the industry)
5. Take up a MA. in Education & Human Development (HCM knowledge)

Besides pursuing a secular education, I am also looking forward to:
1. Nourishing my soul with more knowledge (be a better person for all)
2. Spending more time with my family (neglected them earlier in my career)
3. Doing more for charity (for causes close to my heart - children & the elderly)
4. Starting my own sideline business (as a hobby for 'rainy days')
5. Settling down & being the best mummy I could ever be

At the end of the day, I want balance in my life by maintaining a healthy body, mind & soul as well as leading a fulfilling life. Is that too much, you reckon? ;)

Thursday, January 27, 2005

To buy or not to buy

Work has been great these few weeks; wonderful colleagues, great lunch sessions. To add to that, one of my ex-colleague will be joining me in Feb (he's really talented and will be a great addition in the media department). Work is slowly piling up but thus far manageable (no time to update my blog but it sure feels good to have that "Pay Day" feeling again!)

Alhamdulillah, its been a good start to 2005 - Badminton sessions, gathering at cousins' place, planned diving trips, trekking and I can revisit my plans on Caftan, Kurta, etc (my business partner is esctatic! We're going KL in Feb.) I met *Precious* just this week and had a good catch up session (glad she is enjoying volunteer work just as I am).

On the home front, I am closer to mum and younger brother and its a nice feeling. My elder brother is getting married this June and the whole family (relatives included) are excited to go up Trengganu, Malaysia to attend the wedding (the bride is there; I'll have a sis-in-law soon!)Younger brother is goading me to get a car so that, I quote, "I can drive you to work, sis, once I start at NIE"... rite!. Although, I am keen to explore getting a Toyota Vios or Suzuki Swift, it seems unnecessary given Singapore's good transportation system... Still considering.

What do you know?! My first blog for 2005. Will end my blog with a nice poem (thanks, Nic):

The Wind In My Face
I am at my best with the wind in my face,
When overcoming the challenge, with pace.
The pace that requires more effort, more strength.
But once gained momentum, endures with great length.
It's easy to sit back, placid and calm
Comfort is only a relative balm.
It seems an advantage, better than strife
But is dulled by stagnation, stifling life.
Progress needs movement, energy, drive,
No chance for improvement if you do not strive.
Nothing's for nothing: cause and effect.
That which you work for, you've more chance to get.
So give me the wind, let it blow in my face,
The more I confront, the more strength I'll embrace.
Steps are not mounted, nor challenge o'ercome.
Without certain courage or effort be done.

Sunday, December 26, 2004

Sipadan-Kapalai

What breathtaking view above and underwater. It was a more relaxing dive for me this time (I didn't puke for most of the wall dive!). Its true what CY said, "You get to see big stuff at Sipadan and small stuff at Kapalai". The only disappointment was no hammerhead as planned, although CY snapped a picture of a baby hammerhead caught by Tawau fishermen and sold for $1RM at a fish market, bah! :(

Am looking forward to the New Year Diver's Gathering next week (since I missed the Christmas gathering being away) to get all the photos we took for the dive trip. Also during this trip, I learnt to trust my instincts and free my mind from being judgmental. I learnt that you don't get to see the entire perspective to a situation hence dont be too quick to judge (thanks LG for the advice). As they say, "Accept what you can and cannot change. Knowing the difference is true wisdom".

Was glad I finished reading "Angels & Demons". Verdict = it was not as thrilling as "Da Vinci Code" but an interesting read nonetheless. Found out that the group I went with shared my reading interest (HB is reading Tony Parson's "Man & Wife" while CY is reading "Da Vinci Code"). I will get either "Deception Point" or "Digital Fortress" next *excited*.

Found out that one of my colleagues, err ex-colleague, is doing his open water dive at Koh Samui (Rye, hope you'll enjoy your trip amidst the tidal wave from Sumatra earthquake; glad you are ALIVE!). Am also quite worried about another ex-colleague who is back in Chennai, another area affected by tidal waves (Arun, hope to hear from you soon).

With the end of the year coming to a close, I pray that the new year will bring a brighter future for all. As for me, I can't wait to start work at my new place (Mum is right, when you have faith and stay close to Allah, he will guide you) Alhamdulillah. The entire 2004 has indeed brought me closer to GOD and I am thankful, Amen :)

Thursday, December 16, 2004

Man & Wife

A real story about the way most men think. Am so glad Harry decided to work things out with Cyd. Reflecting on "Man and Wife", I realized most men are hopeless romantic but ain't it a challenge, trying to get the constant high doing the 'chasing' all the time?

At some point, you've to learn to come up with ways to fall in love with the SAME person rather than changing partners (now that takes creativity which only the intelligent can muster? ah...) Maybe mum is right, "If you marry for the right reasons (religion in particular), you'll never go wrong."

Am about to start on Dan Brown's "Angels and Demons", a book recommended by Syafiq. Will bring this book along my dive trip to Sipadan, wohoo! It'll be 4 days of blissful diving - 2 days at Pulau Sipadan Resort and 2 days at Kapalai Resort. Will update you on the verdict but am sure will enjoy it there :)

Was so glad to have met some new faces (catching up with old pals too! Looking at the tiny bump, V, am so happy that you'll be a mum soon! I'll pray that baby and mum will be healthy and fine) during a recent bbq gathering at Jo's. It's funny how you can have a roomful of strangers and yet have great conversations. Key = common interest i.e. DIVING! Happy birthday to the 3 lovely ladies :)

I am looking forward to the new year and new opportunities ;)

PS: Guys, lunch at Saravana Bhavan was grreat! Hope you like the pics we took.

Saturday, December 04, 2004

Verdict: One for my baby

"Its funny. You love something and then one day it's suddenly gone or changed or lost forever. But somehow that doesn't stop your love. Maybe that's how you know it's the real thing. When it doesn't come with conditions and get-out clauses, when it doesn't have a best-by date. When you just give your love and never stop giving it, and know that you never will. That's when it is real. That's when they can never touch it or spoil it or take it away from you." - Tony Parson
Tony Parson's "One for my baby" validates my belief about love - Let your love be stronger than your hate and anger. Learn the wisdom of compromise, for it is better to bend a little than to break. In short, love like you have never been hurt coz its not what you lose when a relationship/friendship is over, its what you gained while you had it (a similar concept to the half full, half empty glass theory). I am currently reading his "Man and Wife". Let you in on the verdict soon.

Talking about compromise, sometimes we are so prone to accusing others of causing injustice to us that we fail to look at ourselves in the mirror and ask ourselves did we acted against our conscience or against our professional code of conduct to be treated in an unfavourable manner. Yes, its human nature to always point an accusing finger at others. Someone say "only the insecure would" (well, to hide their insecurities of course!).

I learnt that the strong ones do not go about feeling bitter about the small stuff (remember, don't sweat the small stuff?) but look at the big picture and reflect on how we can contribute to make things better instead of falling into the anger or apathy trap. I guess it takes maturity and not everyone grow and learn at the same pace (how true!).

But the funny thing is, through all these tribulations of late (its manageable, Alhamdulillah), I learnt who I can trust, who are ever willing to protect me and that matters alot to me (I feel really blessed - thanks guys - you know who you are). I learnt that when you stay close to Allah, Allah will stay close to you and whatever that happens in life, it was planned by the Almighty (there's a reason for everything) to bring me closer to my faith and I am ever grateful for that test (it shows I am still loved, Subhan Allah!)...

Saturday, November 20, 2004

Idulfitri 2004

This year's Shawal was special as the extended family picture below was one of the rare moments where we could gather everyone for a family portrait (then again, my aunt Sofurah and family were absent in this picture) Posted by Hello

Also this year, I managed to coax Boy (my Siamese cutie) to have a family portrait on 1 Syawal (ain't he the cutest?) Upon reflection, although this year was rather 'solemn' as there was no hustle bustle of making raya goodies or shopping for clothes, it was one of the most fulfilling Ramadhan I had and I am thankful to GOD for what I managed to accomplish thus far.

Now that the holy month has passed, I have to focus on getting my career back on track. At the turn of event, I pray that Allah shows me the way to a career that pleases him. And Subhan Allah (God is great), out of the blue, my aunt Zulia asked me if I was interested in a position that her HR friend has to offer. Syukran (thank you)! I was open to opportunities (thank you, Uncle Zul, for the referral).

An ex colleague (thank you, LW) emailed me a note regarding "Love your job but don't fall in love with the company as you never know when it will turn its back on you"... how true. I end this blog by thanking everyone for their well wishes and encouragement during Syawal :)

Tuesday, November 16, 2004

Sad Departure of Ramadhan

131104 (Saturday):
While other people rejoice on the eve of Syawal, I grieved. It was too overwhelming for me that the blessed Ramadhan passed me by (I wished I could have done more to garner all the benefits of this holy month). Mum asked if I wanted to buy a set of new clothings (she felt sad that I didn't have a new baju kurung this year) but I declined. Idulfitri is not about new clothes, shoes, etc. To me its about the spiritual cleansing of one's soul. I admit I have not been a perfect person, but am taking the time to learn and be a better person for myself, for mum and those loved ones dear to me.

Sometimes, we are so focused on our own insecurities or our own 'world' that we do not see the bigger picture; A colleague asked me once "Why are you so busy when the company is not paying you, etc?" To me, its not the fear of humans that worries me; regardless... I am still answerable to Almighty Allah. Life may seem on the downhill for me now, but it just proves that I have to have a stronger faith in GOD's will for only Allah is foreknowing on what is the best for me and I have to be ikhlas (sincere) and accept whatever comes my way with an open heart, Inna lillahi wa inna iillaihi rojiun (from him we came, to him we shall return).

I end my blog today with a poem from a dear friend (thank you, Sha):

MOMENTS IN LIFE
There are moments in life when you miss someone so much
that you just want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real!
When the door of happiness closes, another opens;
but often times we look so long at the closed door
that we don't see the one, which has been opened for us.

Don't go for looks; they can deceive.
Don't go for wealth; even that fades away.
Go for someone who makes you smile, because
it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright.

Find the one that makes your heart smile.
Dream what you want to dream;
go where you want to go; be what you want to be,
because you have only one life and
one chance to do all the things you want to do.

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet,
enough trials to make you strong,
enough sorrow to keep you human and
enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily
have the best of everything;
they just make the most of everything
that comes along their way.

The brightest future will always be
based on a forgotten past;
you can't go forward in life until
you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying
and everyone around you was smiling.
Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling
and everyone around you is crying.

Saturday, November 06, 2004

Madness - Past 2 Weeks

Subhan Allah (God is Great). The hectic speed of completing projects to chase payments really tested my patience these past weeks. Just when I was ready to call it quits, the talk with my CEO changed my perception of things. I am still unsure as to where I stand but open communication did go a long way (thanks, R). A sign? Perhaps.

Was a tad disappointed that my sideline business could not pick up speed due to cash flow. My partner said I looked distracted, like I have alot on my mind. Its true, I do and thanks for your patience, CK.

Bush got re-elected and am wondering how will that impact the economic climate of Asia. Was silently rooting for Kerry, although it could be a blessing in disguise as Kerry practises 'protectionism' and that would spell trouble for alot of countries that benefitted from the outsource business Bush advocates. Arafat is critically ill. Insya Allah (God Willing) he will get a miracle recovery if that is God's will.

A couple of special people celebrated their birthday this week. Sent them my well wishes. Unfortunately, one just read my e-greeting and not reply to say thanks! (at least now I know the state of our 'friendship').

Will focus on the next 9 days of crucial Ramadhan and devote my time to prayers. After that will seriously think about diving at Similans with CY in Dec. Stay tuned as I update this blog soon.

Wednesday, October 20, 2004

Decisions, Decisions

Monday (181004):
Monday blues... and what a way to start the day by being stuck at the banks (take note its plural!). This incident really made me rethink about 'fight or flight' situation (aptly put, HW). Went office feeling jaded. Was glad to get a follow-up sms on an offer; will see her soon. Went home early to break fast with my family.

Tuesday (191004):
Worked from home today. Felt better being home (somehow the vibe in the office was not positive). Was happy that one of the blogger commented on "Get Real" that he prefers bloggers who are not self-depreciating. Totally agree; I'd rather read a blog that veers towards current affairs or at least something profound than some mindless blabberings. I had to inform mum about the state of my company; as expected, she was worried. Reassured her that there is a time and place for everything and that this is just a test from the Almighty.

Wednesday (201004):
The meeting went well in the morning and got a call for another offer (will have to meet the lady tomorrow during lunch time). Work wise, had to update a client on the progress of the project schedule. The morale in the office was low (need an update from CEO soon!)

Thursday (211004):
The lady was also a diver, small world! However, have a strong feeling she was penalizing me for my take on money - true money is important in a rewarding job but to me working with a progressive company is more important coz of the learning curve I will take away with me. Differing in opinion is alright; as they say 'diversity breeds creativity' but somehow I don't think that rings through here for her... Time will tell. Was told to prepare a presentation but I doubt I want to pursue this offer.

Saturday, October 16, 2004

Democracy?

Friday (151004):
When you thought that the end is near, a miracle happened, Subhan Allah (God is Great)! Going in to the staff meeting was the best thing that happened to me today. For once, I saw the 'person' my CEO was since we started this company. I was so glad that he wanted to hear our point of view and took the time to find an alternative, Alhamdullilah (Thank God). From there after, you could see the spark back around the office. Although I have not recuperated, I felt much better at the turn of event. I know that there is still uncertainty but at least whatever that is to come will be way better than where we are right now...

Went home on the first day of Ramadhan feeling relieved; Surfed the net to get more info on my sideline business with the hope that we could progress further in this arrangement. My business partner told me that there was a retailer who is keen to see our stock; a possibile channel? Perhaps... There's always a reason for everything :)

Saturday (161004):
Second day of Ramadhan. Was tabulating my finances. Verdict = short! Was supposed to see my orthodontist but had to take a 'rain check' on that. Was thinking of baking cookies and cakes for Syawal but... don't think that is possible this year. Spent the day researching for more suppliers as well as ideas for the clothes line.

Sunday (171004):
Third day of Ramadhan and I learnt that when I could not process my thoughts well enough, it was better to step back and analyse the situation and think things through before making a decision; CK made me realize that I have to give more room to options (thank you CK for having faith in me as your business partner and for being open). I realized that having your own business is a new ball game all together; its not that I am fearful (hey, having some fear is good as it keeps you on your toes) of the uncertainty, just don't want to disappoint my partner in crime. Am glad that we managed to resolve the slight hiccup we have and work towards our common goal. Here's to a new lease of life! Amen.

Life suddenly seems so uncertain at all fronts but I am not about to buckle under pressure. Its important to keep a clear head (a good sense of humour helps too). No one says life is a bed of roses so I shall take life with a pinch of salt. Hikmah behind everything, Insya Allah!

Thursday, October 14, 2004

Down, Not Out...

Monday (111004):
Was supposed to be at client's place today but client postponed meeting to Tuesday morning. As I was heading to work, alot ran through my mind - life, work, finances, education, etc. Post 30, it seems as though I have reached an impasse; its the same with the rest of my peers. Is the economy really picking up? Doesn't seem the case. The elearning market seemed to have reached a standstill. Maybe I need to restrategise in terms of my careerpath...

Tuesday (121004):
Woke up and headed to client's place in the morning. Then got back to office and had quick lunch before another meeting with client. Saw Luke online. As I was feeling bored, I started chatting online (I know it was kinda rude but can't help it, bah!). We decided to meet up with the rest the next day (kinda excited as it has been awhile since we all got together... miss them loads!). Went back feeling slightly better; sharead a cab with my colleagues.

Wednesday (131004):
Today, mum left for JB with nan. I went to work feeling down. Got sms from CY; he informed me about White Manta (frontpage news!). He also asked me if I wanted anything from Beijing. He'll be flying this Saturday and be back next Sunday. I declined any (what a sweet gesture). Also sms one of my dive buddy who just got back from her honeymoon. She mentioned meeting 'my ex' in NY but did not elaborate. Frankly, I am not keen to know more about him. Live and let live considering its all over.

Then I got a call from Luke and went down for a brief chat at Subway, Amara (sorry about the bad outcome of the interview). Decided to leave early to meet the rest for dinner. We checked out Dempsey Road and ended up at Holland Village and chatted the night away. Got home after 1am; felt tired and a little unwell...

Thursday (141004):
Was down with bad cough and runny nose; decided to take medical leave. Spoke to "Precious" (good chat) then saw Luke online (busy surfing for jobs again I see? Join the club!). Got a reply for another offer; considering... Heard that today pay cheque is in and mum's back and for once nice home cooked meal during my off day (hallelujah!). There will be a staff meeting tomorrow at 4pm; wish me luck!
"Call on Me, I will answer your prayer" (40:60)

Sunday, October 10, 2004

Realities of Life?

Saturday (091004):
Woke up for gym and then had a quick shower and lunch before meeting CK (what is it with people and being late?! Gone are the days when professionals believe that "time is money"?) We reached an impasse in our business ideas. Have to rework the strategies (will sleep on it over the weekend; somehow I got the feeling that am the only one who really know what's going on...)

It was nice of CK to say that I have changed for the better, mellower, nicer and incredibly attractive (ok, I added the "incredibly", you got me there; Hey am entitled to some vanity some times yeah! Btw was that flirting with me?!) Its nice to meet friends once in a while and catch up and was glad CK enjoyed my company (sorry you were late for yr date. Hope you didn't get into trouble with yr girl? hahaha)

Had a nice banter with CY over sms; will see him tomorrow for badminton (Nope, am not gonna fall for that trap anymore; have resolved to remain single for a while now) ... Interestingly enough, when I got home on Friday night and was surfing the net, CY sms and asked me out for a drink at Clarke Quay; declined his offer... Besides, if you wanna date a girl, at least extend an invitation in advance (guys out there, learn from this - give the girl some 'face' will ya?) Could a guy have a platonic friendship with a girl? According to CY, its not possible...but CY, were friends so what was that all about? *confused*

Sunday (101004):
What do you make of an employee who has not seen her pay cheque for 2 months? Darn broke! I was grumbling to mum over breakfast and she asked if I am keeping a look out, duh! Suddenly I felt immersed in Harry's role in Tony Parson's "A Man & A Boy" (sans the kid, death of a family and divorce issues) .

Anyway, I went for my badminton and got to know 9 nice guys. Would have joined them for lunch if I wasn't penny pinching being broke... I think CY was a tad disappointed that we didn't get to partner for any of the doubles game; maybe next time. It was sweet of him, in between games, he asked me if I was tired, if I have my bottle of water with me yada yada yada. Its true that I am easily appreciative but I also know that I could never come in between a couple and I would want to play it safe this time round and not think about hooking up with someone just because he likes me... its got to be for the right reasons (no more giving someone the benefit of the doubt)

Guess somehow, all the past experiences have made me a little bit more grown up (pray to GOD that is so), Btw, I have finished "A Man & A Boy". Verdict = Heart warming. I learnt that if you love someone, you don't just see them as extension of yourself. You don't just love them for what's in it for you. Love means knowing when to let go and you will learn to let go coz that is part of what it means to love someone. I guess Nancy Sinatra was right when she said, "A life without love is no life at all".

At a time like this, I could hear Frank Sinatra singing:
Someday when I'm awfully low.
When the world is cold, I will feel a glow;
Just thinking of you and the way you look tonight.
But you're lovely!
With your smile so warm and your cheek so soft;
There is nothing for me but to love you
Just the way you look tonight.

Thursday, October 07, 2004

Business Partner

Wednesday (061004):
What a day! I had a fruitful day at work; got all the tasks that I needed to do completed. I then went for the coffee session to discuss possibilities of a work arrangement with another company. Verdict = it was a replacement position. I am still considering the offer and will probably have a second round next week. Spoke to a pal and asked for her opinion as well; will probably meet her and an ex of mine next week if time permits (that reminds me, I have to RSVP for the talk by RMIT for the MBA, IT course).

After that, I met my dive buddy at his badminton session (he seems really happy to see me... hmmm) Had dinner with a potential business partner at 7pm and we discussed the possiblity of a business arranagement till 10pm; we will touch base again this Saturday to map out the blueprint. Went home feeling fulfilled; achieved alot today. Alhamdulillah!

Thursday (071004):
Forwarded some info I have researched to my business partner and will discuss online tonight. I was still toying with the idea of the work arrangement. A colleague told me it would be better than where I am now but... still undecided. Perhaps I shall sleep on it till the weekend. Had a fruitful discussion on the prototype of a client's project in the west; will be presenting that next Monday...Hmm. seems like next week will be another busy week before the fasting month begins.

Friday (081004):
Today was at work for half a day and had lunch with HW and LW (it may be LW's last day, but I got to know LW and family better). Then we headed to HP EduFest at Suntec City. It was insightful. We all headed home and when I was surfing for the exact address of Bukit Gombak CC for my badminton session on Sunday morning, CY sms and asked me out for a drink. Declined the offer (partly coz I was already home and partly coz I will be seeing him this Sunday and I already saw him on Wednesday this week).

Something in my bones is telling me that the weeks ahead will get more interesting...