Self Assessment

Had been occupied with budgetary and forecasting work for the past 2 weeks. Ironically, the parent company requested us to attend a 2-day training for the year end approaching. Time was insufficient, everyone in the co had to attend it reluctantly. It wasnt such a bad thing for me, as I am always a keen learner. I didnt meet anyone for these 2 weeks, other than attending night classes. I needed a cooling down period. There are many issues roaming in my mind and I felt unsettled. I am doing a self review for the past year currently, drafting out a plan for next 2 years.

To name a few issues such as:
- relationships
I have witnessed a few relationship breakups around me. Does it mean that a relationship is hard to sustain? I am a victim of an unsustainable relationship too. Not giving up hope, but I shall shelve any plan to source a potential.

- studies
A bad patch hit me and disrupted my progress in pursuant of a degree. The first paper, which I failed in my entire study life, wasnt a nice thing to experience. I felt I can do better, so I shall commit more time to my studies from now on.

- career
I have been considering a career change from accounting to tax. Not contemplating a job switch, but just a change in job scope. There was no commitment required. My boss just wanted me to do something of my own interests.

- family commitments
In the next 2 years, my dad would be approaching retirement. How can I provide more for my parents' old age? I am always trying to contribute as much as I can. If my studies are completed, my contribution can be increased with the funds available. If I really meet my ideal girl, would I be able to fund my own wedding expenses? I need to work this out.

More Birthday Wishes

Another surprise received from an unexpected source, Miss W. Caught me off guard when she sms me in the noon asking if my day was alright. Haha. Thanks to her special gift, the disappointment I was expecting for the day didnt affect me much. Manager commented that she never encounter a guy as lucky as me to receive 2 separate flower items.

My colleagues brought forward our dinner appointment, realising that I didnt look happy on the day before my birthday. All of them cancelled theirs to have a Japanese western dinner with me at Bugis. All these little thoughts meant so much to me. I thought it was their treat, but they walked off when it was time to foot the bill. I decided to make them happy for their little sacrifice. Hehe. We went on to have coffee at TCC. Suddenly, 2 of them said they need to go to the ladies. I guessed something was amiss. Smsed them not to wander elsewhere other than the ladies. Haha. Shortly, they came back with a big bag. It's my birthday gift and they got the back cushion which I am missing in office. Looking at how cute it was, I decided to leave it at my bedside.

The Day specially for R

This evening had finally arrived after a month of waiting. Around 4pm, the weather turned bad and started a heavy downpour. Heaven playing tricks on me. I prayed hard. It stopped slightly past 5.30. There was still time for everyone to make it. Hehe.

The timing was exactly 6.30pm. Most of them were punctual, except for some who got delayed by their own commitments. I requested for those present to wait a while more, so that everyone could have their meals at the same time. Fortunately, the food was served at the appropriate time. It was my treat to let everyone had a good time interacting with each other. As a host, I probably could have done a better job. The introduction part was a bit messed up, as the table was lined up in twos. Overall, I thought the guests were enjoying themselves. The bill was the most expensive budget that I ever catered for an event, but the planning was worth it.

It was a wonderful evening that I never dream of celebrating my birthday before. Used to prefer celebrating with ling previously. But, this year she was not around. Maybe, she would never celebrate for me again. But, thanks to my frens, I managed to see the bright side after the dark clouds are cleared.

An Unforgettable Surprise

It was another friday, browsing through my work documents and cracking my head to solve difficult issues. Lunch time was approaching. I was looking forward to my birthday gathering for the group. The feeling was a mix of 1/2 anxiety n 1/2 nervousness. My phone rang. The front desk lady called and told me to pick up a parcel. I wasnt expecting any and went to have a look. As I was approaching, there was a pretty flower basket on her work desk. Out of curiosity, I requested to have a closer look at the name on the card. I couldnt believe my own eyes. The 3 ladies on site was teasing me about having a secret admirer. It was truly a secret, which I wished to know more. Brought it back to my own desk and colleagues came running towards me. They couldnt believe that a guy would receive flowers too. I would be the first in history. I took some pictures to keep as a remembrance, as the flowers were still fresh. Many thanks to the senders, who made this unforgettable for me.

Personal time with sis

Since I came back from Redang in Apr, I havent caught up with my sis, Lorraine. Whenever I am meeting anyone, I get anxious whenever it is near time to knock off. My luck has not been good. Last min work is often popping up, which makes me worried. Today was a lucky day.

She wanted to try Mushroom Pot and the branch at Orchard Point was fine with her. My job was to fulfil her dream. She was in a skirt this time, surprisingly but sweet. I selected the combo meals and she had the privilege of picking the dishes. A nice meal for both, but it was the least I could do for her birthday. When I was attached previously, I missed many chances of celebrating for her. Promised her something to come on her actual birthday. Learnt from her that a guy is interested in her. My sis is not easy to woo, so this guy has to work harder. We discussed abt a possible overseas trip next year. I mentioned about my birthday appointment with some friends on saturday. Her mischevious self hinted to me to invite her as well. No reason to reject her, as she could interact with people easily.

I ordered mango pudding for her dessert. A funny thing that she asked me if I wished to try, but she ate everything. It was irresistable after all. Haha. I shared my coffee ice cream with her. As a bro, seeing her happy is my joy as well. She bought me a belt for my present, while i treat her to this meal. Waited with her for her cab, thereafter i went to take a bus ride home.

Small Things are not always cute

To many, Monday is not meant for working long hours. That applies to me too. I made an arrangement to see W for a movie treat. After a day of hard work, I love going orchard from my workplace in Tanjong Pagar. Met her at 7 pm, as she had to knock off work later than I do. We chose to watch "Little Man", as the trailer protraited it to be a comedy. Many friends had avoided the show, commenting that the movie rating was low. If I dont watch, I cant confirm that comment. It was sweet of W to do advance booking and picked the best seats. I didnt know ticket price on weekdays is $7. My memory check was $7.50.

There was ample time for a quick dinner. We checked into Yuki Yaki Jap restaurant, W's recommendation. Bento set for me, while she had a spicy noodle dish. My serving looked small, but finishing it proved otherwise. Time was up to proceed to the movie theatre, but the usher delayed our entrance. Surprisingly, the movie had started as we made our way to our seats. Another lesson learnt was dont trust movie time timings on weekdays. Laughter filled the theatre for majority of the show. If the rating was low, I think the raters have to improve on their rating abilities. Overall, I felt the little man was a nasty person with a soft heart. Hehe. As the show ended, we decided to proceed home to rest early. Along the journey home, I wondered how many times I shall have to come orchard area for this whole week. Do count for me ya?

Operation R

Paul was invited to join me to do a recce. I am planning for a gathering at Jack's Place Orchard. But, I wanted to be certain that the arrangements can be made. It has been quite a while, since I last went to their branch at Causeway Point. As Paul was with Rebec in the afternoon, I thought it would nice to her to come along too. I highlighted to her that I had no intentions to stay out late after the dinner.

We met each other at 6pm, just the right time to have our dinner. Rebec has asked her friend to join us, but she would be late. The ambience was nice when we were enjoying our dinner. Past 7, the crowd started to fill the seats. Soon, it turned out to be like a night market. But, the menu had many selections. I am considering if red wine is necessary. Surprisingly, I havent drink that yet. It all depends on the guests' choices.

As we footed the bill, I spoke to Keith, the manager to make the reservation. He will see to the arrangements and I shall confirm the attendance as the date gets closer. Looking forward to the big day.

No Femme Fatale

This evening was a dinner date with army mates. We would want to have a meal together after every reservist. There is Leong, Little Flower and the Godfather. One person, Ah Huat reported sick. Hehe. We picked Suntec Kuishin Bo Japanese Restaurant to dine. Cat held me back, requesting me to wait for her to go Suntec too. She need to purchase tickets for the duck ride, but the station was closed when we arrived. She went home disappointed, as it was an idea for her bf upcoming birthday.

I caught up with the guys, who were at the restaurant, busy eating. They addressed me as the Boss, since I look like one in my working wear. I cant deny the fact that they are all big eaters. They have finished one plate of big prawns and crabs each. My appetitzer was mushroom cream based soup. Kicked off the main courses with all the fried japanese stuff. Had one chicken jap steamboat. Followed by mini sushis and my favourite squids!!! We were avoiding anything pork, as Leong is converting to muslim for his gf. We didnt want him to feel tempted. My final taste was the ice cream, jellies and pastries. A sumptous buffet I had, which I would recommend friends to try it at least once.

We discussed alot of funny situations that any of us witnessed while in camp. Such laughable topics. A lady and 2 guys were sitting beside our table. She was wearing a low-cut spaghetti, so we all thought the 2 guys must be drooling. Too bad they can only see, but no touch. Haha. Leong was tired and he wanted to go back to rest. We went separate ways, but I told them that we dont have to wait for reservist to have a meal. Maybe, I shall gather them again.

Being Stacked Upon

It's the first day back to my work desk, after going on a break. Not surprising to see my In tray stacked with plenty of documents. My colleagues welcomed my comeback and highlighted something was missing for a week, as I like to joke while working. Another piece of news was the lady, who is often associated with me, had asked my whereabouts and they joked that she must be missing me alot. Anyway, I have been treating her like a sister. I cant figure out why she likes addressing me as Richard 哥, as I am younger than her. Haha.

Jokes aside. I had to clear that pile of documents as fast as possible. I started with those that was meant for filing. The challenge was to catch up my work in the shortest time, and proved that my work was only slightly affected. I am in the midst of preparing Budget 2007 for the company and some presentation slides. During my absence, there were changes in the assumptions and a revision of the Budget was required. Some reporting work was submitted to Cat, as I assured her that I could clear it in the morning. Due to our work being closely related, it was a relief to her for me to be around. She hoped I won't fall sick due to stress and extend my absence. :P

By end of the day, I had normalised my working pace. Supposed to finish the presentation slides for a meeting tomorrow, but I chucked it aside. Went Jurong Point GV to see "The Devil Wears Prada" with Pat. This was the first time to see her in specs since we know each other. She would fit better as a 才女 with this appearance. Hope she is not reading this. The show did provided an insight to my life, that a career is not as important as family and friends. Pursuing a career without support from family and friends is not a situation I want to be in. She was in a rush to head back to hostel after the show. I couldnt pursuade her to let me cover the ticket costs, but I shall treat her the next time. It was a nice gesture for her to reject her friends to catch this one with me.

Strangers No More

While I was idling in camp one night, the thought of smsing F to request for a date came to my mind. Wondering how she would react to my request? Since I only knew her online, I hope to see her in person. 不管三七二十一. No try No date. Haha. Her reply came and my heart was pounding. To the contrary, she agreed directly. Of coz, I would expect her to bring a fren along to make her more comfortable. Today was the meetup and I was anxious. When u meet a stranger the first time, u wont know what is expected of u. Just hope to present myself to lay a good first impression upon her.

We arranged to catch a show together, but seems none was interesting. They were delayed and I walked the entire Plaza Sing at least 2 times before they smsed me on their arrival. Saw them walking towards my direction and didnt know F was fun loving. Haha. Her fren, M, was friendly too. We had a heavy lunch at Cafe Cartel, as agreed among ourselves. We learnt more about each other's lifestyles and shared some career thoughts. F has a plan to further her studies, which I hope she succeeds in.

A short period of time spent for a meal but fruitful. They had other appointments to rush to, while I took a bus ride home. Sent her a Thank You sms, telling her that it was a good start to bypass the boundary of strangers. Well, a good ending has its bad side as well. My best fren wasn't having a good day, but I am unable to provide her with any comfort whatsoever. Does it show that I am a lousy friend? I know she didnt want me to be affected by her. Friends are around to show care n concern when there is a need. That is what true friendship represents.....

Significant COC Parade

The biggest event for the whole ICT was the Change in Command Parade scheduled at 5pm this evening. I was one of the many selected to be part of the main contingent. There would be a full day rehearsal before the actual event. We went for an early breakfast at 6 am, when the sun had not rise. I drew out my rifle from the armskote for the arms drill. Missed my "wife" very much to rendezvous with. Hehe.

I changed into my parade uniform and brought my wife to the parade square. The army uniform has changed over the period of time. Now, we have our vocation batch on our collar, formation batch on the right shoulder and singapore batch on our left chest. Most guys wont like to put on the uniform. However, a sense of pride develops in me whenever I dawn the beryl green colours.

For hours, we rehearsed many times to get things right. My legs still aching from yesterday's running test, were feeling the effects of long hours of standing. The consolation was a cooling weather to hover over the parade square. The hard work paid off eventually, as the incoming commander praised us for giving him a warm welcome. He will be leading us for the next 3 years. Although it has been a long day, compliments from the commander was the most encouraging for many.

Reporting to Serve My Nation

7 months have passed since my In Camp Training(ICT) in early Jan this year. Memorable memories have surfaced each time the battalion gathers for a training. Every callup has its specific objectives to be met. Accomplishing those would make everyone feel fulfilling. As the saying goes, "Unity is Strength". Companionship is something which motivates me to achieve more than necessary.

With this strong belief, I reported to Yishun Camp at 7am. The in-processing progressed smoothly and there were missing personnel who failed to report for duty. The first day was catered for admin matters. That meant lots of waiting due to the big group. The battalion has roughly 400 personnels. It's pleasant to see the common faces of my army buddies. We make it a point to attend each ICT without fail, so that we share the good n tough times together. I forgot to mention that I am a signaller by vocation. So, communication via radio or line is my bread n butter. Of course, if the equipment fails, there is always smsing thru the mobile. Haha.

Was briefed on the training programme for the next 3 days and our key objectives. We went to our assigned bunks to unpack our stuff. My army buddies picked me as the bunk IC, whom they felt was most suitable. My first task was to ensure everyone has a pillow case, bedsheet and blanket. In the evening, everyone was allowed to book out. But, I chose to stay behind with two friends. The time n cost to travel defeated the purpose of going home to sleep in my own comfy bed. We did a slight catching up and everyone had an early rest.

Last day in office before NS

I reached office earlier than usual, knowing that today is the last day for me to clear my work before I serve my National Service liability for the entire next week. I am prepared to stay late to clear it by hook or by crook. My friends describe me as a nice guy who always think of others. I could foresee my colleague being stressed up in my absence. I cant bear to see others suffer for my doings. My CFO had an adhoc assignment for me to rush for him and I attended to it immediately. Speaking about work efficiency, he told me to relax next time I am given an assignment. Haha.

Went for lunch with colleagues and we popped by this bakery shop selling muffins. Very interesting stuff that they sold. Took some snapshots of their creative products. I got their namecard just in case. Bought some muffins of different flavours to try. I like their black pepper chicken pie very much. It makes me feel awake at work, with its strong pepper content.

Not knowing that its time to knock off, all my colleagues left the office on the dot. I was left all alone to slave. Hmm. But, the quiet environment made me more focused and worked better at optimal level. When everything was done, it's 11 pm. At least I managed to achieve my objective set out. Smsed my colleague that I have settled most of the things and she was shocked by my work commitment. Exhausted but fulfilling after a long day. Hope everything is fine when I am away.

Breaking Up is always a hard thing to swallow

Yesterday, the results for Jun 06 ACCA exams were released. The moment I waited for has arrived. My result was not surprising, as I failed to meet the standard required. It proved to be a good learning point. I realised that I had taken for granted on achieving results with minimal effort. Coping with work and part time studies is not an easy task for everyone. From this point in time, I am inspired to work harder to ensure success. Probably signing up for revision class might help, as I never rely on that previously. My new mobile acquisition scheduled for october has to be delayed to provide funds for another attempt. Hehe.

Sad things casted aside. I arranged with a fren to watch "The Breakup" together. Note that she is still single, so I can ask her along. Haha. I wont bother asking someone attached to know more about breaking up. It may make their lives worse. It was the first time I went to Bishan Junction 8 to see a show and bought nachos from Golden Village. Not too bad, compared to Eng Wah's nachos. But, Cathay should improve on their quality, especially the cheese. The ticket usher forgot to update the display panel to alert the audience to enter the theatre. We highlighted to them that the show is starting in 2 mins time. Haha.

The show was filled with laughter and sad moments. Maybe, u can catch it to know where the funny parts are. :P Well, the saddest part was to learn that the house shared by the couple had a buyer. That made them think through why they had fought with each other all the while. The lady wanted to make a last reconcilition attempt, by inviting the guy to join her for a concert. Fate was cruel to her. The guy didnt turned up and she broke down into tears. I could feel her emotions, as I went through that phase in life before. She had sacrificed alot for the relationship, but the other person was not appreciative. A good ending was their friendship was intact a few years after they broke up.

Had coffee at Cafe Cartel following the end of the show. We shared more things of our life and the friendship is developing well. I would advise her to stay cheerful and take things easy.

Can your ex be that super hot??

An appointment was set for tuesday to see this movie. But, I brought it forward to avoid clashing with an office meeting, which might result in disappointment. Why I pick this movie? Not because of wendy's review. Haha. I wanted to check out how the guy will be punished for saying that he wanted a breakup. He and I have something in common, such as the frustrations he faced in the relationship and he never know that the relationship with a possessive female could be a nightmare. Life is ambiguous sometimes. U never know that the person who u love is always beside you until you have a bad encounter. A touching sight near the end of the show, where the couples were rightfully matched. There are plenty of funny conversations during the show, which can make ur laughter lasts. I can recommend this movie, but there are other good ones screening now too. It's your choice. After the 1 n 1/2 hr show, I requested my fren to join me for coffee at TCC. They have a huge variety of coffee to choose, much better than Coffee Bean. Did I catch the waitress wink at me? Maybe its my illusion. I gave her a smile in return. We chatted several issues and got to know each other better. Before we know it, they were closing for the day. I accompanied her on the train to talk with her further, up till her alighting station. Thereon, I had my MP3 to end the night on a high note.

Casual Meet with Army Mates

My Army Buddy, Thing, smsed me if I was free to meet him for some catching up. He drove to fetch me up in the late morning and we went to pick up another fren, Yong, together. We went up to Yong's house, as he was still preparing. Said hi to his mum and discovered their resembiance. We decided to go Taka for Dim Sum, despite dressing in shorts, sandals and tees.

Settled down at Crystal Jade 小龙包 restaurant. We ordered a feast. A main course for everyone and shared about 5 dishes of dim sum. My Wanton soup noodles have 6 big Wantons. Never took so many at one go.
Felt like avoiding Wantons for a month after this meal.

After our sumptous feast, I asked the guys to accompany me to shop for presents for my colleagues. Well, it didnt take long before I set my eyes on the ideal gifts. Bought a Pooh bear touch light and Tigger MP3 speakers. One of them likes Pooh, the other likes listening to music. Planning to present to them next tuesday during our dinner.

We headed to West Coast Recreation Center for some pool and billard sessions. Havent been playing and I hitted more white balls than coloured ones in the holes. Haha. It was a cheap game, as we paid ten bucks for about 3 hours of games.

TGIF - 金龙船 n KTV

A public holiday in the middle of the week made this week a short one. I thought why waste a friday evening and go home after work? Paul was available on friday for a meal. Jason and Rebec were roped in as well. We met up at Marina Square Billy Bombers to decide where to have our dinner. I was given the choice to decide, and I picked this Kam Boat Dim Sum Kitchen from the list of dining places available on the directory.

Just as we were searching for the place in the big mall, call of nature came and I got to head to the Gents to negotiate a deal. Negotiation was smoother than I expected. Hehe. The restaurant was located where we came from initially. The management should do a better job to provide direction signs, since they have expanded. We had the deluxe meal as shown in the pamphlet, plus some dim sum. The manager was tactful to replace my tea with warm water, having heard that I am not having a good tummy. Felt like calling her "Mum". Haha. Plenty of jokes and sharing topics about our own experiences, as we tucked in the dishes served. Midway, the fireworks were displayed but we didnt catch much of it.

After dinner, singing at Kbox continued. I had to go for another round of negotiation before I could settle down to start singing. As requested, I sang more than previous sessions. My voice is more suitable for english songs. Song after song we sang and crazed, until 3 am in the morning. It was my first to hang out till this time. Felt tired but fulfiling.

Happy 41st Birthday to My Nation

It's the annual 9th of August that all Singaporeans are proud of. 41 years ago, Singapore announced its independence. Every year on this day, I stay home to wait for the NDP parade to be screened on tv in the evening. For the record books, this year was an exception.

Pat was willing to catch the movie "Fast & Furious 2" with me. Haha. It was not easy to ask her out by the way. Her schedule was packed by her NIE training. I went to causeway point earlier to collect the tickets in advance. The theatre has shifted its location and I was unaware of that. Got to depend on the direction signs. She arrived just in time to enter the theatre. The show kicked off with very loud music. Many intense driving scenes and drivers performing drifts. I can only admire, as I cant perform those in real driving. But, I do play videogames and do those stunts.

After that, Pat suggested to go clementi Kbox for a singing session. She wanted to practise her vocal for a singing competition. It was a good opportunity to train my vocal too. I never sang so many songs in a 3 hr session before. She wanted me to try singing without stressing my throat. It's a hard technique to master though. Had a great time spent with Pat and I hope she felt the same way as well.

Promotion Treat

The ladies in the office planned the dinner tonight. Two weeks ago, they wanted to go Swensen. But, I had an appointment to see a movie back then. Today, I was free to accompany them. The location to go was Lemon Grass Thai Restaurant at Heeren. Thai food wass a good choice for a change of food. Kim and I arrived earlier, as we knocked off at an earlier time. The dishes were pre-selected using the website and Kim took out a list to read out to the waitress. Haha. The titbits was a good appetitzer. We finished a whole basket before the rest joined us.

The dishes were served one after another and the thai waitresses were providing good services. As we were feasting, Cat was unlucky to have a stomach upset. I am her lucky star, as I got the medicine to cure it. It's my habit to carry some medicine with me. She felt better after consuming one tablet. Shortly after, we headed to Swensen to have Earth-quake ice cream for dessert. Our manager footed all the bills. Congrats to her promotion as our senior manager.

The Sound of Ticking

The thought of waking up late to prepare for work was getting on my nerves. I am a systematic person, always planning my schedule to provide for contingencies. Went inside a hardware shop, which sells clocks. Browsed through their clocks display, and one caught my attention. It has Doraemon on it and my favourite colour is sky blue. There is a light function to use for dark areas. It should serve my purpose. I tink its a good buy for $8.

I showed mummy what a cute thing I have. She asked if it is for someone. Chinese folks believe that we cant 送钟 (equivalent of sending u for the last ride). I guessed her age is catching up on her and she overlooked that before asking. I set the alarm to wake me up after a short nap in the noon. The sound was irritating, but it works great!!!