Wednesday, March 15, 2006

Normality

Boy, its been a week. Where do I even begin?
First off, I had a visitor from Penang roughly about a week ago. My old pal from college Rosalind was in town for a short holiday. Must really say, its nice to see her again. Old friends always warms the heart.
As usual, took her around to the sights and sounds of Singapore while her boyfriend Benjamin had to attend training.
Though I felt kinda bad as I unintentionally brought her to a place that I was literally hooked on! The IT Fair at Suntec!!!!!!
Heaven. Thats all I can say. I was in Heaven and I didnt wanted to leave!!!!! Every part of my body was itchin to reach for the spanking new credit card I received in the mail just the night before!
At first, I resisted temptation......but sadly....sigh. I went back to the PC fair that following weekend and got me a 200GB portable harddisk!!! Wahahahahaha!!! Guess, I'm technologically cursed. I'm damned to be weak against.....toys.
It was really insane on the last day of the fair. There were literally thousands of people. It was reported in the news that one of the days alone, it hit about 10,000 visitors. And the odd thing is, when I was there........the elderly made a large portion of the visitors!!! I could see these old men and old ladies coming in and out buying printers, LCD monitors, digital cameras...etc. I guess....you CAN make old dogs learn new tricks (no offence to the old folks...just a manner of speech).
Anyway, the other day I was introduced to a great dining place in town called My Secret Garden. Alan brought me and Don there for a few drinks and of course, the ambience of the place was simply fantastic. To think there was such a place located right in the heart of town. Will definately pay a second visit to that place again. Thats.....errr....if I can ever get a date. Hehe.
And as for work, I guess I had a taste of normal working life for this week. I'm scheduled to be on the 9am shift this week and....muraculously its from Mondays to Fridays! So, I have my Saturdays and Sunday off!!!!!! I cant believe it!!!! It might not be a big deal to alot of you....but I seriously cant remember when was the last time I was off on Saturdays and Sundays! Back to back!!!! The thought of it.....*shudders*. Hehe....guess this is the preview of my future....errr....employment.
Still, whenever I work on morning shifts, I feel that I never have enuff sleep. Everynight I'm reluctant to go to bed early and I'll end up stone-ing at work. Sigh. But seriously...its also been along time since I left the office while there is still daylight! Haha!
Though, on a more serious note. I would like to mention my deepest condolences to Samantha for the passing of her grandmother.
Attended the wake on Monday night to pay my respects. Kinda reminded of my own grandmother's funeral a few years back. She was the only grandparent I knew. And I remembered I was sobbing like a small boy on one of the prayer nights. I remembered they told me that, that particular night is when my grandmother's spirit came to see us for the last time.
For some reason.......I could really feel that my grandma was there. Over-looking us. And inside of me; I knew that was goodbye.
Guess when faced with death, life seems really short huh? Really makes us appreciate life more....and also makes us realise that we really have to make the best of the time given to us.
God speed...

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

Call Of The Day

*toot*
Me: Welcome, how may I help you?
Lady: I tell you!!! I am seriouslly annoyed and angry with your bills!!!!
Me: Erm....how may I help you ma'am?
Lady: WHAT IS THIS STUPID ROAMING CHARGE IN MY BILL?!?!?
Me: Let me take a look at your bill ma'am. Have you been out of the country recently?
Lady: Yes, I was in KL last month! But I NEVER sent any sms while I was there! How can you charge me for something I didnt use?!?!!?
Me: Hmmm, may I ask ma'am, were you the user of the phone?
Lady: No! My son was the one using it. But he told me he never send any sms at all!!
Me: You have clarified with him?
Lady: Of course!!! My son never lies to me!!! You can talk to him if you want....Desmond!!! Come to the phone and tell this operator!!!
Son: Err....hi.
Me: Hi, Desmond is it?
Desmond: Yeah?
Me: This is Sonny. Would like to check with you. Your mom mentioned that you all went to KL last month right?
Son: Yeah....
Me: Did you send any sms while you were there?
Son: Errrrr.......yeah I did. I sent alot!

I rest my case.

Sunday, March 05, 2006

Phone Drama

Uncivilised *grumble* Untrustworthy *grumble* Dishonest *grumble*

Friggin security guards.
Talk about feeling safe at work. Let me tell you about my day.
Was suppose to be one long friggin day. I had scheduled OT till 2.30am and in many ways I was dreading every minute of it. And there I was, sitting in office with a Service Level that only God can save.
Taking one call at a time, suddenly I realised my handphone...............was missing! Immediately I started to recall when was the last time I saw my phone; and the only time I remembered using it was at the office lobby while I was taking my break.
After a while, I was certain that I left it there. Hence, immediately I rushed down to look for my phone. Of course, at that hour, not many people were still in office, and the only people loitering around in the office lobby was the security guard.
Feeling that this is something that I cannot handle, I informed my manager and later Engineering confirmed that the phone is still in the building.
Based on gut instincts, I went to confront the security guard and asked him whether anyone has taken my phone. I threatened him that we know that the phone is still in the building and its just a matter of time that we will locate the phone. In an instant, the bugger denied anything and said nobody came around and nobody took my phone. Subsequently, I told him, then in that case, I will inform management on this and they will go thru the security video.
However, then he retorted and says he will help me look for the phone. Feeling pissed, I gave him an ultimatum. I told him that my shift is ending at 2.30am, and I will come down once again to see if he has found my phone. If the phone is found, I will let the case go.
So, later...guess what? I came down at 2.30am, and he miraculously found my phone! He mentioned he found it in the gent's toilet. And as I inspected my phone.....the SIM card is missing!
What the?!!?
So, let me get this straight......I left my phone on the sofa-chair in the lobby. Then somebody took it; took out my SIM card, and left the phone in the toilet.
Can somebody tell me the logic of this story????? I didnt know my SIM was "that" valueble.
Geez.....maybe someone just wanted to take a look at the NYP gal video clip and accidentally flushed my SIM card down the toilet.
Security my ass!!!!

Friday, March 03, 2006

What If All Movies Were Made Porn

Another Friday night at home. Sigh....

Same old, same old. Nothing much to life these days. Especially when I'm bored out out my mind. I know its a big waste of time, but I just watched anime the entire day, reading up on new handphones, and play around with different software programs.
Whoop-dee-doo. Thats exciting.
Anyway, when bored people have too much time on their hands, we tend to get a little bit......creative.
Was talking cock online with the Black Byes (those of you who arent familiar with this term...more on this next time) the other day. It was the first time all four of us "gathered" online and we chatted nothing but but pure rubbish. But no doubt, I had alot of fun! Haha. Seriously, it was the highlight of my friggin day actually.
Still, wat transpired from our conversation was what if all movies were made pornographic. And I have to really give credit to my Slut Bro who came up with most of these ideas.
And once we're done.....this is the list of movies that we like to see. Hehe...
Underwear: Evolution............................adapted from Underworld: Evolution
The Pink Pussy..........................................adapted from The Pink Panther
Shameless: The Man Who Stood Up for Asian Porn........adapted from Fearless
V for Vagina...................................................adapted from V for Vendetta
Fantastic Foursome.................................sheesh! do I even need to clarify?
So, look out for these movies coming to a cinema near you!!!!
(Due to copyright laws or defamation, the author doesnt have the balls to publish the entire poster, so that he doenst get his ass sued in court)

Thursday, March 02, 2006

Dr. Luv

Geez...its been 3 days I have been rotting at home.

And if you'd asked me, I've done nothing productive at all. Still, atleast my eye is getting much much better.

So, what have I been doing at home? Nothing but watching movies and stuffing my face with junk food.

Though, its kinda ironic that I have all this free time and yet, can't seem to find anything to do with it. Quite sometime ago, I have mentioned before that relationships is the furthest thing on my mind.

Well, maybe its the free time and maybe its the loneliness; but its getting to me.

Was talking to a friend earlier on. Seems like he has an interest with this gal and was askin me how to make his next move. So, there I was, trying to give him my "expert" advice.

But then it dawned on me. On a regular basis, I have alot of friends that always comes to me whenever they have BGR problems. And of course, time and again, I would tell them wat to do best...from a neutral party's perspective.

In the end, then only I realise, thats just me. All talk but no action. I can give fantastic advice, but when it comes down to my own love life, I'm such a screw up.

Always saying the wrong things and always fumbling around myself. And you know what? To make matters worse, I was just reflecting on the past the other day. And it seems that all the girls that I was once interested in.....are all now like my best friends!

I mean, its great to see that when people cant make it as lovers, they are able to make it as bestfriends. But seriously....its rubbing salt in the would when these girls come to me telling me their relationship problems when, once a upon a time, I had feelings for them. Ironic, huh?

Anyway, to me its alright. In many ways, I'm happy for that friend of mine. Atleast he has a target. And just the other day, a friend just got attached too. Really happy for them.

Sometimes thats one of the things I consider if ever I were to return to Penang. There, atleast I have a social life. My phone rings non-stop. Here, I don't even need to charge it for 4 to 5 days straight. And not to mention, I have no idea who to call.

Sometimes, when the inferior complex sets in; I do ask myself whats wrong with me. I mean, there has to be something wrong rite? Being single has its perks, but when you are a working-financially stable guy.....who doenst seem to be able to get hitched...then I guess its the personality then. Or maybe I have an attitude problem. Or maybe I don't have the looks. Who knows? Most probably the girls.

Work has been bad too. Was talking to the sluts earlier on. Seems like nothing's going right at work. Talks of retrenchment, pay cuts and procedural changes really worries us. Seems to us that even good and productive CSOs are being targeted these days. And like Ah Ho said it best, "Staff morale has hit rock bottom".

Ultimately, I'm starting to really hate shift work too. For instance, last Friday night a friend told me she was going clubbing and asked me what would I be doing. After thinking a while, I told her that I'm going bowling and will be going home early to sleep cos I will be working at 8am the next morning.

At that time, I didnt think much of it.

But at the bowling alley, my mind started to wander. I told myself; I'm a 25 year old swinging bachelor. And I'm bowling on a Friday night and most probably I'll be going to bed at 10pm cos I have to work the next day. Is this the kinda of life I should be living?

Unfortunately, the word "No" resonates in my mind. In many aspects, I feel I am earning good money for the work. But also, sometimes I feel I'm sacrifing the best parts of my youth. I dont want to look back next time and regret I've not allowed myself to enjoy my life.....and regret not doing the things I want to do. For almost 3 years now, I have been working mostly on weekends and public holidays. And the only free time I have are when I am off on weekdays. So, its really stressful on the social life. And of course, it sounds wierd when you say, "Gee, want to go clubbing on a Monday night?".

Guess nothing's going well. Failure in love and feels like I'm a failure in my career too. Though, atleast I am thankful that I have a roof over my head and food on my plate.

Just wish that atleast my life is moving somewhere. Cos now it seems like I'm stuck in this hole and place, and I don't know how to get out of it.

Tuesday, February 28, 2006

Won something for the first time in my life...

Gee...look at the date. Seems like I havent blogged for quite a while. Cant help it I guess. Been seriously busy for the past couple of weeks.

And now; the only time I have the time to blog.....is when I'm out for 4 days MC. Still suffering from conjuctivitis (the spelling IS correct. I've looked it up), I hit a case of all time red-gruesome-freaking-bleeding eye in office the yesterday. So, under the advice of my manager, was allowed to leave at half-day and went to the A&E center at SGH. Apparently, you're not suppose to fall sick on Sundays, cos every freakin clinic at my area was closed. Hence, the onli available avenue for medical treatment is at the nearest hospital. And even so, its categorised under "Accidents & Emergencies".
So....its an accident that I got a bad case of conjunctivitis.
Anyway, some of you might be wondering where have I dissapeared to thruout the past 1 week. Well, first off I was in Sunway, KL for 3 days and then after that spent another night at Genting.
It was the Hungry Turkey's second overseas trip. Again, the trip was all about bowling, bowling, bowling. And of course, who can forget....eating.
Also, whenever I'm in KL, I took the opportunity to meet up with my ex-colleague Carmen. As usual, it was great to see her again. Sweet and charming as ever, we had lunch with one of her colleague.
As for the bowling competition, this time around, personally to me it was a fulfilling endeavor. Not expecting much, and considering my bowling form has been in the dumps for the past 3 months, all I can hoped for is to make it to Division 1.
But who would have guessed it. I played my game. I played so hard and concentrated like I've never concentrated before.....and to my surprised, the team I was in won Gold medal in the team events!
Immeadiately, I wiped the sweat off my brows and told myself, "That's it. By winning Gold in the team events, I made it to Division 1. Mission accomplised".
But later.....in the Division 1 Masters individual games, seems like luck was on my side as well. I was hitting my high games and the favourites crashed!!! By then, I reminded myself again to push harder cos you'll never know in sports......anything's possible.
And you know what? I walked home with Gold for the team event,....and Silver for the individual Division 1 Masters!!!!! Man, I was delirious! Never in my life I would have imagine taking those trophies back.
Me and Captain Don
Though, it was a personal accomplishment to me. But I still believed very much that luck played a part in it. In anytime of the day, I could never have beaten the favourites.
The next few days later, seemed like such a blur to me. Went to Genting for a few rounds at the Tai-Sai table. After a while, it just felt more like donations, rather than gambling. Guess the cliche is true....the house always wins.
And, when we finally came back to Singapore, I was off to JB the next day. The JB trip was interesting I guess. Don drove in and it was his Mazda's virgin drive to JB. Naturally, he was abit more cautious, but it turned out quite fun. Of course, again we went to have seafood and ordered food like there were 10 people at the table.
So here I am now, after a whirl-wind trip to KL, Genting and Johor, been slacking around at home and also been draggin myself to work after that.
Nevertheless, its been a fulfilling trip to KL. To have won 1 trophy was unexpected, but to have won 2, was......unbelievable!

Thursday, February 16, 2006

Johor Indulgence

Round 2! Round 2!

Just merely a month has passed since our Johor outing, the slut brothers gathered for another outing of massages, shopping and food, food, food!!!!
In many ways, today has been a fulfilling day.
Woke up at 9am today and made my way to ICA at Levender. And after months of procastination, I finally have...in my hands......my blue Singaporean IC!!!!! Hahahhaha...
When I got hold of the IC, the feeling was kinda surreal. 2 and a half years ago, if you asked me, I would never have applied for PR-ship. But now, here I am. Holding the IC and thinking in a small way, I'm part of this country.
But dammit. I'm not considered an ExPat anymore. Hehe.
Anyway, met up with Douglas, Ah Ho and Donald and Kimchee (Kranji) MRT and made our way to the Woodlands checkpoint.
For the first time, I get to queue in the "Singaporeans and PR Only" queue!!!
Ok, ok....I know. Big deal.
But what the hell?!?! Not many Malaysians can queue there can!??! Hehe. And so, hence forth we set our journey of gluttony and greed!
We went straight to Holiday Plaza to check out the so-called "friendly" shops. Browsed around and stumbled onto this particular shop.
Don't play play. Steven Spielberg has gone to DVD franchising. And this Jurrasic Park. I likey.
Later on, obeying to the growl of our stomachs, we settled down to have a quick bite at KFC before the main feast. And true to what people say.......Malaysian KFC is better!!!!
After the meal, we then moved on to City Square, one of Johor's main shopping complexes. Must admit today was definately a better day compared to the previous outing on a weekend. Being a weekday, the crowd was lesser and not too chaotic. Took a quick refresher before we indulge ourselves with shopping and one of the main highlights....massage!
The Convicts & The Jokers
Thai Odyssey is one of our favourite places to get a massage. Its clean, its reputable and its professional. And what's best? Its only RM 98 for a 2 hour full body massage!!!! Where can you find that in Singapore?!?!?
No doubt, we really enjoyed the massage. Though, I finally found out why people always have massages lying on their fronts rather than their backs. Its because you can god-damn hide the expressions on you face because of the PAIN!!!! In some instances, the pain was so unbearable I nearly wanted to scream out loud! But of course, the relieve after that feels so, so, so good. Never in my life I'd imagine that my body is able to bend that way!
After 2 hours of kneading fats and meat......we felt like a million bucks!
Moving on, the next itineray of the day was; shopping! I noticed that these days, the IN thing in Johor is the grunge, hip hop, style of fashion. Urban streetwear. Its kinda cool actually. We stumbled onto this uber cool boutique called CrossOver.
Man, the clothes there are seriously cool. Apparently, the carry one particluar brand called "Obey". Its a UK designer house that symbolises urban rebellion. The only down part about it, is its price tag. Even after the currency exchange, I still think its a bit pricey. But if I had the cash to burn, dun mind shopping there every week.
Other than that, there are also plenty of shops like this that sprouting up like mushrooms. Urban streetwear themed, Billabong, Puma and Vans were the hot cheaper alternatives.
Then, finally........
After hours of shopping and massage.....its time for SEAFOOD!!!!!!!!!
As usual, we went to our favourite makan haven, Da Ma aka Taman Sentosa. Though this time, our favourite stall was closed and we had to settle for another stall.
Still as good, and........only the 3 of us (Douglas had to rush back).........we still ordered like we had 10 people with us. This time, we ordered crayfish and stingray!!!
So there we were at 7.30pm......
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
And there we were at 8.45pm....
Heheheheeh.......*burp*

Wednesday, February 15, 2006

No time, Valentine

Huh? Its Valentine's Day?

Well, seems like this year, Valentine's Day sint as big a deal anymore. Or.....is it just me?
From what I recall, Valentine's Day use to be this really really big thing in Singapore. Everywhere you go, there will be an overkill of the color PINK. Everything's PINK, PINK, PINK!!!
Not only that, every nook, cranny, shop or diner has hearts pasted all over them and people were really in the mood. Eben shopping centers were jumping intp the band-wagon and there were non-stop sales gimmicks to increase revenues on this seriously commercialised day.
But....this year is....la'mour, no more...
Things in a way...died down. Like I said, maybe its just me. But I was in Orchard earlier tonight, and there I was expecting a visual barrage of PINK, BEARS and HEARTs. But no. It was just like every other night. And instead of any Valentine's Day kiosk or display in front of the famous Takashimaya lobby....there was a FRIGGIN JET PLANE!!!!!
Anyway, Valentine's Day is not what it used to be for me. I used think that its one of those special days where its nice to be attached, and its miserable to be alone. However....things are just different this year.
Maybe I have matured, maybe I just lost the feeling. Who knows. This year? Valentine's Day? Pttf!!! So what?
Though, I must admit that I was with great company. My best buddy Cheah Sin came down to Singapore for work assigments and I met him up for drinks. There we were. 2 bachelors, pub hopping and finally ended up in Starbucks.
We chatted like we used, catch up on old times and shared alot. Seems like the more I chatted with him, the more I realised so much have happened over the years I missed back in Penang.
Its been almost 15 years now we know each other. We practically see each other grow up. And boy, have we changed.
In the end, you can say this is one of the best Valentine's Day I have ever had. No date? No girlfriend?
Never mind. I'm drinking beer, having supper and sipping coffee with my best friend.

Friday, February 10, 2006

Mummy Dearest

Today is my mum's birthday. Kinda sad that I'm not able to celebrate it with her....
Happy birthday, Ma!
Though, being superstitious and all, I did sent her $188 via internet banking. =) I'm sure she'll find some good use to it. Hey....when everything else fails, cash is the best kinda present.
Called home earlier on and seems like me mum will be having dinner at my aunt's place as part of a birthday/CNY celebrations. And tomorrow, I think my brother will be taking my parents out for lunch.
All in all, I'll make it up to them whenever I go back to Penang.
Was trying tirelessly to get into the Singapore Pools website tonight. The traffic tonight is apocalyptically high!!!! EVERYONE in Singapore is trying to get in. And with good reason. The results of the $10 Million Toto draw is out!!!!
I only manage to log on to the website only about after an hour of trying.
And guess what????? I WON!!!!!!!!
Heeee...
If you believe me...you should be shot in the head. Twice.
I'd win, if pigs start to fly and cows learned to juggle. Only the other day a few colleagues and I were talking; what if we wont the $10 million.
Hmmm, so I guess for now.....we'll keep on talking only.
One interesting about the winning ticket, there was 9 winners in total, and most of it were bought from the System 7 rolls. So, each person walked away with about $1 million plus. Not too bad for a small bet of only $3.50. Thats considering the winners didnt splash thousands of dollars buying multiple System 7 bets.
Anyway, am on MC today. My throat finally tore. It feels like there one friggin fork stuck in my throat and its playing ping-pong with my tonsils.
Hence, I was woken about 8am this morning with the friggin pain in my throat. And then on the stroke of 9am, I rushed to the neighbourhood clinic.
There's really something that needs to be said about Singaporean clinics and doctors. They don't know the meaning of punctuality!!!! I have been to a few clinics before in Singapore, and all of them are the same.
The sign says operating hours are from 9am to 2pm....what they really mean is....."We are open at 9am to make coffee, do streching, boot up the PC and read the newspapers. The doctor will come in at 10am".
FUG!!!!!
I waited 1 bloody hour for the doctor to show up! Sleepy and feeling immense pain in my throat, I thought being there early, I could quickly get my meds and come home to rest.
But no.....I had to sit there and waited 1 friggin hour for the doctor to come. And when he finally arrived, the consultation only took 10 minutes and the doctor sent me off with a slap on the ass.
Ok...I made that last part up.
Guess, the only consolation is; while waiting from 9am...the clinic nurse was kinda cute.
Heeeeeeeee.......

Thursday, February 09, 2006

Temporary Permanence

Red Eye.
No, not the movie. But I DO have RED EYE!!! Now I look like a friggin drunk with bloodshot eyes. And to top it all off, I have a bad case of sore throat.
To all you House fans out there....thats conjunctivitis and loringitis. Ok, ok, fine, the spelling mught be wrong, but I'm too god-damn lazy to look it up in the disctionary. Sue me for bad spelling.
Anyway, once again, I did it. Finished work last night at 11pm, and pusposely stayed back until 12.30am just to go out and have supper with da 2 Bosses and Ah Ho.
And....
It was worth it!!!!! Screw the red eye I have been suffering the whole day! Screw the sore throat! Screw the diet!!! All hail Boon Lay's DIE-DIE-MUST-EAT-NASI-LEMAK!!!!!!
And of course.....this morning when I woke up.....the pain in my throat really made me fee l like dying. Haha...
Went to ICA today to finalise my PR Application. And guess what people!??!!? I'm getting my Singaporean IC next week!!!! WOoOOoOOoHoOOoOoOOO!!!!
Welcome to prospects!! Welcome to progress!!! And err.....welcome to CPF contributions. DAMN.
But still, I am really glad I applied for PR. Now I'm able to get out from the god-forsaking place they call an office. Like what I said last time.....shaopping for a moron? Come to Moron-R-Us.
Though, I was thinking; sometimes they shouldnt use the words Permanent Residence. Cos for 1 thing, I need to renew it every 5 friggin years!!!! I mean....cmon!! Where's the logic in the word permanent if I have to keep on renewing it??? Isnt it suppose to me PERMANENTLY mine????
Oh well, I guess its just a technicality.
The experience at ICA was really an...infuriating one. With so much red tape, a single process that can be done within 5 minutes lead to me waiting for almost 4 hours. Sigh.....
Bored out of my mind, all I can do was to observe the people around me. Mannerism, body language and the way they talk. Its really interesting. I've read books on how to analyse people from their externalities and in a way, you can more or less estimate what kinda people they are even before you actually talk to them. Way to go Alan Pease!!!
So, 4 hours later, I finally was issued my IC number. And man.....what a feeling. Knowing that those 7 little numbers will be able to change my career.
And what do I do with them???? First stop......SINGAPORE POOLS!!!!!! 4D, 4D, 4D!!!!!!
Alas, after a looOoOOOg day. Went to cut my hair and watched anime the entire night. Oh yea....and don't forget. Eat like a pig.
One thing though, was reading kennysia.com, and I guess anyone featured on his website instantaneously becomes a celebrity...or I guess in some cases, public enemy. Still, he was talking about this blogger, FireAngel.
I'm not too sure on who she is, but seems to me like she's quite well-known, though her blog is only about 2 months old. Hmmmm....maybe I'm too out of touch with the Malaysian internet society.
After reading her blog, my first impression is that this is one drunk bitch. Haha! But seriously, she's really hilarious. And when you see her video-post, she's kinda cute. Though, in her video she looks more down to earth and less sluttier than her mocked-up pics.
Anyhoo.....I aint complaining. These internet babes gives us internet-geek boys something to droll over I guess.
Sigh, deprived, deprived....... =(
*As a tribute to all House fans....the song playing now sounds familiar huh??? Its the opening soundtrack title!!!!! Enjoy!*

Monday, February 06, 2006

Lost Drive, Lost Value

woops....
Looks I didnt get around to posting those CNY pics that I promised.
Hmmm....looks like I havent been about to get around alot of things lately. Guess one thing explains it all, I lack....drive. Motivation.
I've been feeling that I have lost control of my life lately. I feel as if I'm down in the dumps and I cant seem to get myself out. Though, I'm not exactly miserable....just refusing to do anything about it.
My primary concern? My career.
I really have lost all interest with my current job. Just the other day, I took half day's leave on 2 days, back to back.
With only 2 hours after logging in, I just want to get the hell out of there. No reason for me to stay and I'm just wasting my time.
I was contemplating the other day; I'm really happy to be in Customer Service (CS) for my first job. Because, I am exposed to so many types of different people that really open my eyes as a fresh grad. But then again, this blessing might turn out to be a curse.
I have come to a point, that other than doing CS, I cant see myself doing anything else. I have zero experience in other fields and if I were to jump ship, I might end up getting a pay cut. And IF i want to get a pay increase, then I end up doing CS again.
So, in the end, I feel that my value as an employee in the job market is practically worth nuts. Sure you can say I can go back into CS. But c'mon, I dont want to be doing this shit-for-brains job forever. Crappy shifts and handling assholes (and still being polite to them) is not what I can a decent career.
Confused in the operative word. I seriously don't know what I want.
One good thing is atleast these days I don't have to worry about these things yet. Was so damn busy that I even had time to sleep.
Don't ask me, I have no idea where all my time go. But I have been having quite alot of fun yesterday. Invited some friends over for a small get-together at my place.
Always enjoy myself having frens over talking cock, slacking away.....

Thursday, February 02, 2006

Best CNY Yet!!!

Okay!! I'm back!!!
For those of you that has been wondering where on Earth did I dissapear to....well, I was back in Penang!!!!
I know, I know I have been bitching about having to work during CNY, but as it turns out, I was granted a last minute leave to go back to Penang!
And you know what? I had the time of my life!!!!!! Its one of the best CNY I have ever celebrated!
Drinking till the wee hours of the night. Driving home at 7am after a night with friends. Eating non-stop. Being with my friends. Visiting my friend's RM 1.6 million house.
Truly, there's no better way to celebrate CNY. I have tonnes to update and so many pics to post up.
But I guess I did it all when I was back. Clubbing, pubbing, mamak stall loitering, hanging out with friends until the sunrise, drinking (alot). And I even took a stroll down memory lane by going for a round of CS!!!! Hahahaha!!!!
Just like a good old times. Receive calls from friends around 11pm, rendezvous around 11.30pm. Then CS till 3am, then head to a mamak stall for supper and chitchat till 5am.
Average sleeping time when I was back in Pg was around 3 hours per day. When I reach home around 7am; went to sleep and woke up again at 10am to meet my relatives. And the cycle continues the following night. *grins*
Thats the life I miss.
I will be posting pics soon, but for now damn shack. Just came back to Sg last night, and worked my ass off today with scheduled OT. And now I'm back to do my laundry and head to bed asap.
Anyway, everytime I go back to Penang, I'll be updated with the latest music that's been playing on the Malaysian airways. I have always thought that in terms of english songs, Malaysia is much much more updated with the latest its, rather than Singapore. For Singapore, more emphasis is given to the Chinese music scene.
So, just want to share this list of songs that I'm now currently listening to. They're all from different genres.....but do get your hands on them if you can.
Far Away - Nickelback
Statue - Low Millions
Ever The Same - Rob Thomas
Just Feel Better - Carlos Santana featuring Steven Tyler
Be Without You - Mary J Blige
Where Did All the Good People Go - Jack Johnson

Thursday, January 19, 2006

New Breed of Mat RoCk!!!!

I've been meaning to mention this for a very long time now. Have anyone of you ever heard the song that is playing right now? I can tell you one thing. The song is called Crumbs by Disagree.
Have anyone heard of this song before? Well, if you're a Malaysian, chances are you have heard this song a million times. And for Singaporeans......maybe, just maybe, you have heard of it once.
The first time I heard this song, I thought it was just mediocre. But apparently, the more I listened to it....the more I fell in love with it. And you know what?????
Disagree is a Malaysian group!!!!!!! Boy, this is the rare moments I'm actually proud to be a Malaysian!!!
The Malaysian music industry has definately come a long long way....especially from the Mat Rock days. I remember Malay rock singers back in the hey days can only sing those tormented love songs. SHrieking and shouting like there's no tomomrow. One of the most memorable....Isabela....man, there is no Malaysian that doesnt know that ear-piercing song.
And to top it all off, when I asked one of my friends who did he think the singer was? He said, "Hootie and the Blowfish?"
Koaz!!!! Whahahaha.....I guess there's never a better compliment.
Anyway, its been a rough day at work. Alot of complain calls and I'm glad that I'm home. But the highlight of the day came when one of the Ops Managers came and told me that another Ops Manager is looking for me. And she wants to meet me tomorrow personally for some issue.
For a moment...I sat there in silence. First thought that came in my mind, "Shit! What have I done wrong."
Second thought, "What the F*CK?!?!!?!?".
Anyway, then only I was informed that its nothing serious, and I will be briefed about it tomorrow. What I gatehered so far is that maybe it has something to do with the call center's rec-comm activities.
Normally, I wouldnt be too affected by it. But knowing the Ops Managers in my officer, you can never be too sure.
As the saying goes, "No news is GOOD news!".

Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Bowlin' Blues

Dear God of Bowling,
I'm looking for your 2 friends Strike and Spare. Please show me the way.
But seriously, I dont mind if all the Strikes come only. If its not too much to ask. Heee....
Help.
Lost,
Sonny
Man......Its been 2 weeks already that I'm plagued with bad bowlin form. Can't seem to get my aim correct and cant seem to spare any pins. And of course, the pressure's on that our scores are broadcast every week to the entire team.
CURSE YOU BLOODY PINS!!!!!! I'll swear one day I'll break you into tiny pieces even if it kills me!!!!
Anyway, I was thinking back the other day. In the past when me and my buddies bowled every week just for fun; using house balls, rented shoes and unpolished free-form bowling; I performed better.
I could hit 150+ or 160+ anytime. No problem. And on a good game, I can hit 180. But now, with own shoes, customised ball and proper training, I cant even hit pass 130!!!! Its infuriating, its frustrating.
Still, today didnt turn out too bad with the exception of my poor bowling performance.
Finally did some of my CNY shoppin! Went to Queenstown with Ah Ho to buy some football jerseys. I ended up buying a Juventus jersey. I'm pretty happy with it though it did cost me quite a penny. I was also contemplating a wind-breaker and also a Bayern Munich jersey. If its not for the price, I would have gotten them in an instant.
Though, up till now, I'm still thinking about it! Haha...knowing me, I'll be thinking of it until I get so fed up and I'll buy them eventually.
But till this Saturday, we're going for another round of football jersey hunting at Peninsular Plaza. Hehe.....maybe I'll see the same wind-breaker and Bayern jersey there.
Then after that.....Its the SLUTS' DAY OUT!!!!!!!! A few of us will be going to JB for some "seafood". Hehe....interpret it however you like.
But its been a long time since all of us can make it for an outing...... So, I'm definately lookiing forward to it.
Till then; Dear God of Bowling, I'd also..........

Sunday, January 15, 2006

Tong-tong-cheang!!!!

The tong-tong-cheang has finally arrived!!!!!~

Its that time off the year again. Irritating high-pitched brats on TV and radio singing Chinese New Year songs, money in red packets (whoever first came out with this idea was a genius!!), family reunions and ALOT of BAK-KUA!!!

Hehe...and I'm one happy boy.

I've always looked forward to Chinese New Year's celebrations. I've never thought much of in the past. But ever since I came to Singapore nearly 3 years ago, I've learned to treasure what it truly means to be with your family during those reunion dinners.


All I could remember about those pesky dinners was there were a whole lot of uncles and aunties, and I could never remember all thier names or salutations. First uncle, second uncle, third uncle and bla bla bla.....

sheesh.....and coming from a Hakka family....the wrong salutation could mean disrespect!!!!

So wat do I do? just put on a smirk....and...*SMILE* HELLO HELLO....

Still, to me now chinese new year is more about bitching how small the ang pow that $%%#@ uncle gave me. But now its more about seeing my family again. Its the only time of the year when I go home, everyone's around.

Aneeeee-way....woke up at 2pm (yeah....don't ya just love it?) today. Too lazy to do anything, I just laze on my bed watching TV till about 5pm. After that, the inevitable happened...

I needed to go to the toilet. And of course, I was famished as well......stomach was growling to no end.

Soon, I manage to drag myself out of the house and.....damn, BIG mistake.

Forgot it was a Saturday - seeing that I don't get off on Saturdays often - there were hundreds of people around!!!!!! You see, when you live in Chinatown, and Chinese New Year is about 2 weeks away.......all hell breaks loose.

Err...ok, ok. "Hell" might not be the best word to use during CNY. But seriously, there were so many people, I had to practicallypush my way thru the crowd just to get by.

Co-incidetanlly......I had my camera with me. Haha....right.


I manage to snap a few pics, and I guess you can say....in all things festive; Chinese New year is in FULL SWING!!!~

Twas' it is the year of the dog....








As you can see, people are literally flooding into Chinatown










The stage is being prepped for the annual CNY celebrations. In many ways, till they close off the roads, the celebrations havent even started. They're really throwing everything into this year's celebrations....even the kitchen sink.

And of course, the "annual" mad rush for Lim CHee Guan Bak-Kuas. I've been living in Chinatown for almost 3 years and I havent even tasted these bak-kuas. But still, people come as early as 8am and queue up till 1pm to buy these pieces of meat!

Ha! hmmmm, maybe I'll attempt to buy some this year.

Friday, January 13, 2006

LEADers

Freezin'!
Been raining everyday for the past couple of days that I'm shiverring my pants off. Every night I cover myself with blankets before I tuck myself in to bed and I didnt even needed to switch on the fan for the past 4 nights!
It kinda reminded me when I was back in China. Though it wasnt as cold as China, but I remember the numb feelings I had with my hands and feet in this cold weather. Everyday I come home, I look forward to the hot bath.....geez, how I wish I had a bath tub.
Was talking to a friend the other day, we asked ourselves, what made great men, great? Are leaders born or made? (ok lar....we very bohliau...but we're bored out of our minds at work)
Anyway, throughout the conversation, I have always thought that great men, successful leaders and influential men; all had one thing in common. The ability to talk.
Just look at a few examples, Winston Churchill. It was said that he practically won the war with his words. On the eve of every Allied offensive against Hitler, normally Winston Churchill will give a pep-talk to his soldiers to get their blood going. You can say, he's a olden day motivational speaker.
And on another hand, the CEO of Microsoft, Steve Balmer. This fella is one of the most aggresive and commanding yet inspiring speaker I have known. When I saw him giving a speech on television, I was awed. Immediately when you hear him speak, all you want to do is salute this man. There was one politician who quoted, "If Steve Balmer was born in the 40's, he would definately be an Army General".
And lastly, lets look at the people closer to home. For instance, ex-Malaysian PM Mahathir and ex-Singapore PM Lee Kuan Yew. These 2 people has an amazing way of capturing the hearts and attention of the audience they are speaking to. Their ability to talk makes them the few most influential people in Asia.
I remember there was once, I saw LKY on the TV giving a National Day speech. Normally, during these speeches, within the first 5 minutes I would already have switched channels. But what do y'know......I was glued to the TV for 1 friggin hour listening to him!!!
Back to my point, great men can really talk. Its the simplest form of communication. It doesnt really matter what you talk about. You can talk cock, talk rubbish, or talk about something totally mind-boggling, but its the way you do it. Do it in a manner that people want to listen. Remember what we always say about college lecturers? Some lecturer can make the most dry and boring subject into something really interesting.
So, in the end, are leaders made or born? Well, some might argue they are born with it. Though, I feel that if what makes a leader great is his ability to talk, then in a small way, they can be made. The ability to talk and the flair while giving a speech are traits that can be cultivated.
Hahhaahahahah...come to think of it, maybe I'm not too far off myself. So far I do have the ability to "smoke" my customers. And I know I'm good at it.
My testament?
Well, there was this time where a customer called in to enquire about his bill. When I saw the bill, trust me....there was a BIG questionmark on my forehead. I had no idea why certain items has been charged that way.
Never the less, I was too lazy to have it checked with the relavant departments....I just smoked my way thru and tried to give a valid explanation to the customer. And you know what the customer said?
"Oh! I see! Very clear explaination. Thank you very much!"
!?!
So, then boys and girls. At that time, I knew I have achieved "Smoking" nirvana. I have reached the highest level of "smoking".
So, if ever I'm a leader of anything.....I'm the Leader of "Smoking"!!!!!!!
Update: From the latest reports, another 3 in my cluster has resigned and 1 more is still unconfirmed.