I can help

Over the past 2 weeks, Changi Airport was bustling with preparation for the IMF/World bank meeting. After all, we are the best in the world and this is a good opportunity to show why we are the best.

Since Tuesday, Cat has been involved in the IMF Airport Liaison duties. Very very tiring as my shift starts at a (god forbid) 5.45am and ends at 3pm. Nevertheless, I am required to response to office emails at home and sneak to office to clear my in-tray and answer to numerous question from doubtful engineers.

Each of the Airport Liaison Officers is given 2 grey suits for the event. We are also suppose to pin the "I can help" badge near our right chest. Due to the slow arrivals, my wing did not receive as much delegates and VIPs as expected.

Even than, the early hours are wrecking havoc to my biological clock. I am used to sleeping at 12am and waking up at 7pm. An estimated of 7 hours. Now, this event I only manage say 4-5 hours each day. Mainly because I wake up at 430pm and sleep around the same time.

Very tired now. Burnt about 12 hours today at work which i only receive 2 delegates. Business not brisk today.

Clean bill of health

It has been a year since I had the surgery to have my dermoid cyst removed from my right ovary. This morning, I was due for the one year, post-op checkup. You see, I am scared of seeing doctor. Same as daddy. Because seems like everything i go to one, I will be diagnose of something bad. So thus, I rather adopt the donno, oblivious attitude.

However, recently I have been feeling some pulling ache where I had my surgery last year. No choice, better go see doctor before it turns to something nasty. I have had enough bad news and cancer news to last me for the next few years.

As unexpected, Doc said everything is fine. Yahooo.... no need to worry!! MSpanda and T were chiding me for thinking too much. Now can rest my mind, till next year.

Meanwhile, I have found another way to watch my tv. Youtube. I accidentally stumbled onto this show by Cyndi Wong and Nicholas Teo (Malaysian)and has been chasing the series since. It's quite nice.




I thought the OST in the show are very nice. Especially 北极星的眼泪 sung by Nicholas Teo. I haven't NT prior to this show but I will definitely look out for him in future. I like his vocals which are the light, feathery and gentlemanly sort. Very refreshing to my ear! I am hooked!!

When it can be more wrong

I haven't been blogging for a long while. Just that work and family business have kept me busy and the last thing i wanted to do, is to blog. Bitching over the msn is way faster to release any pent up frustration.

Last week, I was officially without wheels. I handed over the car keys to the agent and managed to take back say $600 on top of the paper value for the car body. Thereafter, I realised it is very inconvenient not to have a car because suddenly I have alot of errands to run over !!

Dad is humpty dumpty

Dad had a fall. My dearest, chirpy dad who on the day of his discharge went and forgot that he was a patient and ran after a bus. Unfortunately, he fell and broke 2 of this front tooth, cut his lips and luckily break no bones. When I saw him on Friday, he was trying to show me his missing tooth which I thought was very funny because he looked like a comedian.

Due to the infection, Dad has to return to the PD centre at SGH for his daily dose of anti-biotics. After his fall, we can't trust him to take any bus because he is physically weak. No choice, must give him money to take cab (from chai chee to SGH !!! FAR.....rr...) so that he won't feel the pinch of the $$. I also volunteered to bring him on my off day so that I could check out whether he can eat bananas or not.

See. when you don't have wheel. Suddenly alot of this kind of things to do.

And i am feeling the pinch of taking alot of taxi recently. ARghhhh.... my car and petrol is fully paid for leh.

Oh. I think Banana is my new enemy. Dad had a fall because he went to buy bananas!!!

Kidney patients can eat bananas meh??Apparently, nurse said can. (because dad potassium level is low)

What the fish...????

Murphy's Law

What will go wrong, will go wrong. This sentence best sum up my dad's situation right now.

Last night, I received a call from Bro saying he suspects Dad having an infection. And the irony of all is, he was likely to be contaminated by the nurses doing his whatever test yesterday morning. The new nurses were being orientated and dad was the so lucky chosen guinea pig.

This early morning, (fortunately still having wheels) i zoomed dad to the A&E dept. Dad was recounting the tale that he suspected the nurses not washing their hand before handing him. Plus after drawing some liquid from him, the liquid was injected back into his body. What the fish?? Anyway, the nurse in the PD dept said the procedures were correct.

So Dad was admitted because he has an infection. Need anti-biotic drip to kill all the bad bacteria. Despite all the safety precautions he made us go through while doing the dialysis, like wash hands (soap), wash hands (alcohol), no talking so that the germs from our mouth won't jump into his wound seems laughable to me now. Even the professionals like the nurse could get it wrong too.

I am wondering whether I could write a appeal letter to SGH getting some waiver of bill. Since the prima facie evidence shows that it might be due to the nurses. Especially since he was alright during the checkup and then immediately after the nurses tests, he has the infection.

Anyone who has experience of their hospital bill waiver due to similar situation, please teach me. Must claim for some compensation.

Sigh.. another week of shuffling to SGH. More tedious now since I will be wheeless on monday. Sob Sob...

I am a idiot

Few days ago, i have accidentally dumped a plastic bag of stuff which i thought was empty wine bottles.

So on tuesday, i was shocked to see the same DFS plastic bag with the wine bottles still lying on my living room.

What the hell have i thrown away?

First, i thought it would be my pilot jacket, my scarf etc from the car since i just cleared all the rubbish on monday.

Suddenly, this evening i realised it could be my bunch of keys to my old house which also has the very expensive computer lock key to my safe box. (damage $100 over dollars)

And just a few moments ago, when i am trying to re-arrange my shoes I realised where the hell is my new NEW BALANCE sports shoe?

*realisation hits*

Darn.... This tuesday for the very first time I worn my free pair of New Balance shoes to gym and then pack my black 3 inch stiletto shoes together the addidas after shower. Duh....


Shit Shit Shit.....

The new shoe is worth $159 i think and the stiletto don't come cheap either.

Fu**

This idiot cat now has no lesser shoes.

(And i just gave mum a pair of New Balance shoes just now) :(

Heart pain. Very heart pain!

The Cat who cannot fly

On Monday, I got the shock of my life when my weighing scale suddenly shoot up by another 2-3kg, just over the weekend!!!

NO WAY!!

The last time i was THIS fat was when I had a big bad cyst in my stomach, ten over years ago. Darn! Not only i gained happiness over the weekend in Phuket. I have gained weight as well.

Looking back, my diet over the past week when T was back was hardly the healthy sort. This is what i ate.

Sunday - Chicken Rice for breakfast
Monday - Japanese Buffet for dinner
Tuesday - Indonesian feast for dinner
Wednesday - Home cook feast for T
Thursday - 8 course dinner in teochew restaurant complete with suckling pig and my fav yam paste (ohh.. nee)
Friday - Holiday in Phuket - Feast Feast Feast
Saturday - Buffet Breakfast, Seafood Feast, More Seafood Feast
Sunday - Buffet Breakfast, More Seafood, Burger King
Monday - Rest. Normal food.

And thanks to all the delicious food i have partook, the IMF uniform / skirt nearly burst the seam when i tried it on this evening.

*Alarm*

This call for emergency recovery plan. As for this week, I have hitted the gym twice. Eaten nothing but yong tau hoo and soupy food.

I am feeling so damn hungry now...

Opps.... My cheese sausages ready.

Every cats need a break !

Cat goes to the beach

I am back! Many must be wondering about my disappearance over the last week. Afraid not. This Cat was away for a short getaway at the beautiful and very "ulu" Bangtao Beach of Phuket.

The temperature was wonderful. Not too hot nor cold at about 26 to 27 degrees. The sun however wasn't co-operating!! It rained throughout the time I was there! Have to run and hide to avoid the occasionally heavy / light drizzle.

The sea was very choppy. No one dared to venture any further than the sandy beach. Not once did I get the chance to swim on the beach. (Swimming Pool yes!!)

The red flag says it all. Argh...

We stayed at a Junior Suite in Allamanda Laguna Resort. The stretch of beach/ laguna is fronted by many stars hotels, including Banyan Tree, Sheraton, Dusit Laguna etc. Allamanda Laguna is partially owned by Banyan Tree and the famous Singaporean Mr Ho and Mdm Claire Chang. In the resort, we are cut off from civilisation. No shopping centres, no night markets, no restaurants. (no shopping???? arrrr......)

*********** The Resort***********

The junior suite we had was roomy and overlooked the fairway green. The room was very artfully decorated with a very resort type of look, balinese style. The sight of the bed itself send me straight to heaven. Soooooo bl***dy huge. I haven't seen such a big bed before !!

Big Big Bed

View of the Allamanda Villas along the Laguna

More villas

Nightscene of Sheraton Hotel

When my boss is in trouble

My very capable senior M, mother of four who manages a very small unit supporting the entire division in tenders and contract administration.

When I joined the unit last year, M was definitely the blue eye girl whom everyone told me is very influential in my division. However one year later, my senior seemed to has lost her midas touch.

What a shift in fortune. Currently, my unit is in the hot spot for not performing and making mistakes. In my directors eye, the blunders M made is seen as our unit not performing. Very unfair.

Just when i thought there is future in my current position, my senior fate is going to adversely impact my career.

Much to do about Promotion

These few days, office is abuzz with speculations on our pay increment and THE promotion list.

Last friday, those who are not to be promoted received their consolation prize of the annual increment. Not alot, a single digit percent of our meagre salary but nevertheless additional money. This Cat of course is excited to receive more money. Because Cat can spend more now!!

However one particular colleague was maddened by the increment because she expects more! Thus, there was banging of cabinet, and then face blacker than charcoal. All sensible ones (like yours truly) had to avoid her because we can't stand the blacker than black face and the anger radiaton.

Today, the promotion results are out. Those who we thought will be promoted, promoted. Those whom we didn't expect to be promoted, are also promoted. Mr T whom i earlier blogged about, hope and hope but was unfortunately not promoted. Hence fulfilling the prophecy made by several staff who i surveyed earlier. (maybe i should survey about myself !)

Of course, Mr T is devastated. Because this is the year, where staff fulfilling 2 years of service regardless of any meritocracy are being promoted. If he miss this round, chances are they will not be another one.

Sigh... when will my turn comes ? ? ? (for promotion of course)

Concert Again

This afternoon, my new piano teacher asked me to perform in the year end concert.

I got to say this Cat is no good, but then he thinks that I am better than his other students. Haha. So, this thick skin Cat of course seize the opportunity to perform. Take it as a good chance to build up my guts and hone my performing skill.

The song i decided (or my teacher Dragon decided) is "Fly me to the moon." The style i got to play is ballad, then to Latin. Very difficult to get the rhythm correct. Teacher today had to whip out his teaching stick to scare me because this Cat couldn't get the chords and notes right!
But hey!! This Cat not young any more, where got scared? ahaha

The new style of playing is difficult because I couldn't stretch one octave with my palm. And because of this, i have difficulty playing full chords and block chords. Now i am starting to regret that i say yes. The next few months will probably playing one song only. So waste my money.

Maybe should tell Dragon that I am going for holiday..Then no need to practise hard !!!

I am pissed

So very bad mood. Especially since i have been having alot of self doubts recently. Also i realised that I am having problems pronouncing words which are easy. And to add that I am not speaking coherently thinkly clearly. Everything seems to be a mess in my life right now.

And i am feeling a pulling sensation on my right pelvic area. The place where I had my surgery last year. Shit! Could it be a re-occurence. I need to see my gynae soon! Argh..

At home, no one to talk to because T is sick and is throwing tantrum. I really dislike his grumpy self. Irritate the hell out of me and I wondered why in the world i married such a grumpy, and miserable sod. It's not my fault that medical sucks in China and he is taking forever to recover from his tonsil infection.

Serve him right to stay in China and leaving me here. Maybe its time for me to start going out and have fun again.

No more stay at home.. auntie doom.

Can i say i am single? (since i am living a singleton life. Not entirely wrong yah?)

Post Lasik Checkup

Time flies. Today I was scheduled to return to Optimax clinic for my annual checkup. This is the 3rd checkup since i did the lasik 3 years ago. So far, my vision is still good. I can still see 6/6 with both eyes.

Before the lasik operation, Cat was a blind bat because my myopia was over 700 degrees on both eyes. 3 years later, my left eye is perfect vision, and right eye a residue of 50 degrees myopia and 75 degree of astig.

The only side effect from the lasik is my dry eyes. Optometrist advise me not to stare at the computer screen for long hours. How not to? Plus i luvvvv watching TV and recently back to watching marathon serial.

Oh my god. My eyes.. sure die.

So many sick

Darling T is sick. Down with fever and infection on his tonsil. As i have written in my earlier blog, medical care in China is to go to the hospital for drip. No small clinics like Singapore.

Today is the fourth day, and T is not getting better. I wonder how to survive in China like this? Medical care is so convenient in Singapore.

On the other hand, dad is getting better. He went to work yesterday and as expected, ate whatever he like. As of yesterday evening, he ate half a bag of strawberries and 2 pears. How to control? I wonder what he ate for lunch?

Life too unpredictable. I just attended the wake of my ex-student's father. He was 53 and died 3 months after diagnosis of end stage lung cancer.

So many sick and bad news make me very depressed.

I can be a night shift security guard

After seeing Spookiemouse personal note on her msn, I think I could also be a night shift security guard too!

This cat has officially upgraded to another Cat- Panda. Even the 2 days of MC last thursday and friday didn't help. Tired.. Tired.. Tired...

Eyes so tired, but the body just wouldn't sleep. Feel damn "pek chek".

The power within me

I didn't know that i have such a strong gut vocal which will unleash unintentionally when i feel threatened or i have a need to defend myself. Though Cat is not known as soft spoken person, neither I am a loudspeaker.

This evening,this cat actually raised my voice while arguing with my two big bosses. Bosses who have the power to stuff out my career. No matter what, if I have to defend my professional judgement, I have too. That's what i am employed for and that's what i was trained for. And especially it was all for the good interest of the company.

Even my colleague P was fed up with my bosses for not employing staff to assist her. The recent new staff for our division were for maintenance and some special system. Poor P, who has been piloting solo on new projects for quite a while now. No second officer in sight for her. Boss told her that it will take 2-3 months, somewhere in october when my senior management approved the hiring of more staff.

Being the naughty me, I cheekily said that if my bosses were to say that to me. I would have reply

"Like that resignation faster leh. Only 1 month"

And

To the staffing policy. I would have said

"Whats the point of hiring baby sitter when the baby is still not born yet?"

Maybe I'm more garang because I have a spring board that can spring me to Chengdu. *wink*

Is marriage so difficult to maintain?

Every fairytale or almost every one has a " live happily ever" plot for the hero and heroine.

But is the real world like this? Did the hero and heroine live happily ever after??

Perhaps, Cinderalla and her prince need not worry about how to earn more money so as to afford a condominium, a luxury car, a maid (why they have many!) and when he is getting his promotion.

Both of them also need not worry the stress and temptations of the modern world like Sex, Gambling, Fame, Status. After all, the fairy tale world is picture perfect.

The prince and the princess will love each until the day they die. (Think so, though its not written, must give Hans Christian Anderson the benefit of doubt)

But......

Is the true world like this?

Earlier this evening, I finally met up with my poly mates who braved through thick and thin with me during the times we were in Singapore Polytechnic. Once again, one of them dropped the big bomb saying that she is getting the divorce. Her reason - Husband is an impulsive gambler. We didn't know that she has been paying his debts for so many years. After all, she was the picture of happily married woman. Kid, husband, successful career and all. And her husband is her childhood sweetheart since eighteen.

Her enough is finally enough when she found her front door splash with red paint. When her husband failed to pay the car instalments and her car (under husband's name) was towed away. And any love for him was utterly doused, when he said he is not going to care and visit his daughter after the divorce.

And the ironic part is, among the six of us, three have been though a divorce. One fortunately managed to salvage her marriage after counselling. The rest of us are still luckily living "happily" but for now. Even J brother is also getting a divorce. It seems like divorce is so the rage these days. Not happy. Divorce loh. What happen to the death till up part oath/vow we took?

At the end of the evening, we agreed that marriage and family is still the most important in our life. The pain of a failed marriage is something not even money can compensate. A hole that stay and burn in your heart forever.

Hungry Ghost Month

Today is the start of the Hungry Ghost Month. This morning, I walked out of my apartment to see some elderly auntie burning incense paper on the carpark. I didn't read too much to it until Spookiemouse msn me this morning telling me about her close encounter with that kind.

Last night, Spookiemouse woke up halfway to see her handphone lighted up when she remembered switching it off. There was no call nor sms. Yeeeh...... I told her that maybe she was having nightmare "Hum bin" but she is very sure she switched it off.

Even me, had my own close encounter. Last night (pass 12 am) i thought i heard some noise in my living room. Something that sounded like the door knob turning. I couldn't care less cos i am very sure that i locked my door.

Today is the just beginning.. 60 more days to go. Will there be more spookie things happening??
Maybe should ask Spookiemouse to go pray with me for "ping an" during this lengthy 2 hungry ghost months.

At a crossroad

Still feeling very wide awake after a lenghty tele-conversation with T. Tonight, especially tonight I succumbed to the lonely and missing you bug and for once had a heart to heart talk with T.

As usual, T with capital letters IMPATIENT T refused to speculate any sensible "what if" scenarios. He said I have cried wolves too many times and now he rather not raised his hopes too high. Indeed Cat has been giving false hopes that I WILL go. But I have never committed the time. I reminded him that all my plans are basis on whether he got his promotion, and that only realised on 1st July 2006. ( only 24 days ago)

So you can't blame me for being fickle minded. We all agreed that we will look into the matter seriously after you got you promotion!

Now, dad's illness was something unexpected and threw another perspective in the whole equation.

Life is full of choices. But sometimes, some choices are very difficult to make. There's no eat 2 cakes scenario. Any choice I choose, I lose something.

Things which are practically close to my heart.

Sigh.... Sleepless night again.

Dad who eats whatever he likes

Dad who now looks 10 years older his age and very much like my grandfather, has zilch self-control on food. His illness is the result of so too much carbonated drinks, oily food, high protein food etc. Food which taste good but harmful to our health.

Dad has never liked home-cooked food. It doesn't help that my working mum did not work and we all grew up on my grandmother bland homecooking. Dad would often bring us out for delicious supper. Supper like the famous Beh Sua Pu (hokkien translation of Bugis) Chicken, Yu Sheng, Congee or Joo Chiat Place Fei Fei Wan Tan Mee. Dad's passion for food brought us to so many places. Sometimes Joo Chiat, Haig Road, Katong, Changi you name it. We've been there. And those days in the eighties, times were not so good. Not many people went around eating like this. At least not my neighbours nor my classmates. Fortunately, Cat grew up without much hardship. Eating whatever food given to me, attended "additional" classes than friends. What more can i ask for?

Knowing Dad's weakness for food. I specially asked the Doctor to speak to him last friday.

Doc : Uncle, you cannot anyhow eat already. You only can drink 500ml of water everyday.
Cat : See lah. You cannot drink soft drinks already.
Dad : Coke can?
Doc : Cannot.
Dad : Orange Juice?
Doc : No orange juice and fruit juice. From now cannot drink all juices.
Dad : Coconut?
Doc : Also cannot.
Cat : What about fruits doctor?
Doc : Uncle, you also cannot eat fruits which has high potassium content. Only can eat one piece of apple a week and maybe watermelon. The rest you cannot eat already.
Dad : ......."looking forlorn and speechless"......

**************

Last week, Aunty P brought lycees to visit dad. Dad as usual, no self control asked to eat one. So one he ate, and then two, then four. Mum who knew nothing feed him as per request. I wasn't around so no one to stop. There were still many remaining lycees so Aunty P gave some to dad's two neighbours. All of them (whom eyes the lycee previously) happily ate the juicy fruits.

And that night , the sugar level of the 3 patients shot up and each of them given a jab to reduce their sugar level. Haha.. a painful price to pay for just eating 4 nos of lycee. (and also sabo the other 2 patients for giving them the lycee :p)

Ban my Aunty P to the hospital.

Oh.. and last night i was furious with mother because dad's asked her to bring him fishball noodle DRY w/ chilli and she unknowingly fed him that! Also, this afternoon fed him chee chong fan!! Argh.....

I am going to draw up a list of food he can and cannot eat. *Evil Grin*

National Education

Yesterday was a one full day crash course on National Education. Cat is notvery proud to say that I was volunteered to be an Airport Liaison Officer during the IMF event in the coming September 2006.

After a full day course, I learnt that Service Quality is

1. Must SMILE. (That's what the 4 million smiles campaign all about. Nevermind, my granny no teeth. Gums also can)
2. Never say NO. (very difficult leh.. especially for ladies)
3. Go the extra mile.
4. Promote Singapore. (Must be able to spout at a snap of finger tips, Singapore achievements. Best Airport, Best port (Still?) etc etc)

Anyway, Cat was most interested in the food section - What is the top 10 food that represents Singapore?

1. Chicken Rice (Me and T all time favourite)
2. Char Kway Teow
3. Bak Ku Teh
4. Satay
5. Roti Prata
6. Rojak
7. Curry Fish Head
8. Fried Carrot Cake (This one is meh??)
9. Chilli Crab
10. Laksa

What happen to our Kaya toast, Bak Chor Mee, BBQ Fish, Big Prawn Noodles?

Anyway, our service quality has nothing to rave about. Even Hong Kong has over-taken us in a recent survey. I was told recently that our one famous Bak Ku Teh shop refused to extend the working hours for Hong kong Finance Minister upsetting alot of Hong Kong press. For more information. Pls click here.

Overdress?

I am very fond of wearing dress to work. Mainly because Cat has a tendency to wake up late which left say couple of minutes to decide what to wear for the day before pulling out the ensemble. Very risky because if I am still half asleep, I will piece together a nasty combination and regret like hell (bloody miserable ) after I see myself in the office mirror .

So, dresses are often the safest bet because they tax the least fashion brain power.

As usual I woke up late for work this morning. I grabbed my newest purchase, a black dress. The sleeveless dress has a low v neckline, but not too indecent for office since it does not expose any cleavage and flare skirt up to my calves and a very stark contrasting white sash tie as a ribbon around the waist. I paused on the mirror on my way out, a little dressy for work but hell. No time already!

And....... the whole morning whoever i meet in office commented something. Most of them nice comments. BUT won't you be irritated if whoever you meet in office stop and give their comment on how you look? I was fine with the first few but it eventually got to my nerves when almost ALL my colleagues stopped and discuss my attire. In the end, I have to resort to saying "YES. I AM ATTENDING WEDDING DINNER TONIGHT" to shut them up. How bloody pathetic.

It also doesn't help that lunch was a appreciation dinner for all the senior officers from my organisation. Thus, I am "EXPOSED" to colleagues from other division. People (Men especially) who never see me before ( i bet they saw me) said hello and exclaimed that they hardly see me before. Even a director (rumored to be lecherous) singled me out and asked me for my name saying that he did not meet me before. Gosh... I felt like a stupid and irritated eye candy.

My conclusion. In an organisation it helps being a pretty young thing because you get noticed! Visibility counts greatly.

THE DRESS THAT GRABBED ALL THE ATTENTION

Hospital week

It had been a busy week since dad admitted to hospital. I had to play the role of a dutiful daughter and visit him whenever i can. It doesn't help that I work in Changi Airport and he is staying in SGH.

For the past few days, I have been a regular visitor to SGH. Very tiring because I have to commute to and fro from east to central, most of the time by MRT. I only took a break on Sunday because I was too ill to visit. Down with a cold.

Dad was lucky to have so many people turning up to visit him everyday. At least the morale support helps in cheering him up. So far, he undergone 3 dialysis since Saturday and has been showing tremendous improvement. His creatinin level has dropped from 1270 to about 500. A normal person creatinin level is below 100.

I didn't visit him today as I'm back in office after spending 2 days in British Council learning how to write.

Hopefully, that will make me a better writer in future.

Life is still looking bright this moment.... Must maintain my fighting strength for more adventures ahead.

I AM CAT FIGHTING.....!!!!

Thanks for the concern

I didn't realise I have so many friends reading my blog. These two weeks has been a difficult time for me, but because of the emotional support from you, everyday seems brighter. I don't know what to say, except thank you.

Dad was warded this afternoon in SGH. There's really nothing we could do, except watch helplessly when the doctor tried (many times) to draw his blood for test. I couldn't really bear to see him looking so lost and forlorn. The house doc was saying that due to the high toxic level in his blood, he might be having some confusion internally.

According to the nurse, there are 2 types of dialysis. Water and blood. The water treatment is very cumbersome. You can do it at home but need the assistance of a maid. The tricky part is, you got to go through the dialysis 4 times a day! Wah.... How to live like this?

The blood treatment is equally as trying. It has to be done 3 times a week, 4 hours per session.

We didn't get the chance to speak to the NKF co-ordinator and dad's doctor as it was after 5pm when the admission was completed. The next step is to apply for the NKF dialysis and get the as much subsidy as possible. Brother is tasked to meet the doctor and go to do the NKF thingy tomorrow.

Wonder what is dad doing now?

Another Perspective in Life

I haven't been getting much sleep lately. Not sure whether it was due to dad's illness or that i simply just can't sleep.

Thanks to Shaggyfish who immediately MSN me when she read my blog. She provided alot of advices as she had experienced what I will be going through in the next many years of life. Kidney treatment is very painful for the patients and their family, especially the emotional trauma coupled with the physical pain the patient has to go through . The endless poking of needles to find the veins, bruises, lengthy hours and visits to the dialysis centre. Life will never be the same again.

I haven't been to any NKF dialysis centre before, but come soon I will probably need to conquer my fear of needles to provide moral / emotional support to my dad, who unfortunately is very terrified of pain. (He hates to see the doc!)

The hospital called up and dad has to go for a blood test tomorrow and likely an operation on thursady. I was talking to him this evening, he is sounding less coherent. Not a good sign. It just dawn on me that life is so fragile.

Suddenly, i just feel that having kids has its own advantages. At least, they will be around to provide emotional/ financial support when you are ill. (and the "send the clock" part) :p


Oh and today (just past) is Shaggyfish birthday. Happy Birthday to Shaggyfish!

Dad is Sick

The world came crashing down on my family's feet when dad has to go for dialysis.

Yes, it was a shock. But we are somewhat expecting something like this. Dad's health has taken for a worse in recent months especially he has lost so much weight which is very visible on his small frame.

Last week, we forced my brother to accompany my dad to his schedule visit to SGH which he usually does it alone. It was there that the doc said dad's kidney function has reduced to a mere 10% and need to go for dialysis. All along, dad was telling us he doesn't need to go as yet, which we took it for granted. Now, after few years it finally come to light he has been keeping to himself his condition and that the dialysis cannot wait.

Somehow, I felt rather remorseful that all of us didn't bother to accompany him for his checkup. At least we would be able to coax him to go for the dialysis or even sharing his emotional fear. Even when i see him last thursday, he was quite optimistic that the doctor was scaring him. Argh.... I really give up.

So, the next step for us to sign him up for NKF and think of how to minimise the blunt of the enormous dialysis bill. Unfortunately we are neither that needy to fall below the average mean of 3.5k per montly income, nor that rich to be able to cash out $2k per month for the dialysis.

Maybe this whole event is going to throw a spanner into my grand plans of going to Chengdu. Can't think now. Too bloody depressing.

Which was why i have no mood to blog for the entire last week.

My childhood hero

Watching Superman Returns brought back memories of growing up in the eighties. Those days where cinema tickets costed about $2.50 and there's kacang puteh Tumbi standing outside the entrance, selling what else but kacang puteh and Superman was - Christopher Reeves!!

Superman. My childhood hero in blue tights and the red cape. When I was young, i used to imagine myself as Superman, flying around with a towel and jumping up and down imitatng the some flying stunts in the movie. Also fighting my brother as if he was the evil Lex Luther. I am the Superman of my house!! (my brother can only be Lex Luther! Hehe)

Now twenty years later, I don't want to be Superman anymore! I want to be Lois Lane!! Hahaha... Replacing CR as Superman, I thought Brandon Routh did a terrific job. His chiselled look and he muscles oh... to die for. Perhaps I have grown up, suddenly Superman become a sex symbol as well. Especially with those muscles threathening to burst through the blue tights! Watching BR alone is worth the $9.50 movie ticket!

Heres a handsome pic of Superman! Drool.....

Picture taken from Warnerbros website. (Gracing my desktop background now)

By the way, i don't remember Christopher Reeves as muscular as BR. Must go check out the previous movies.

Double Celebration

Yesterday was a night of celebrations. Many good tidings (2 promotions) and 2 birthdays.
Just yesterday morning, T emailed me to confirm his promotion and the increase of his salary. So now cat has to decide whether to go china or not. (I shall fuss about it later)

Spookiemouse sms me to say that Litep is again promoted. Wah... how can. He seems to be doing the promotion jump once every two years. What is he now? Deputy Director. Maybe going to be chief executive in 10 years to come.

Back to Cat's house, we threw a steamboat celebration for Spookiemouse and lacy cat. It's their birthday next week. As lacy cat is the "pan tan" kind, she sternly reminded us not to wish her happy birthday as she is still in mourning for her granny.

So, each of us contributed something to Cat's house for the steamboat. Heres the pictures to show.

Monsieur C's Favourite Satay!

Happy C posing with her satay and the steamboat spread

ohh lala... the food..

G and spookiemouse glowing with happiness (not that kind mind you)

Happy times together, C and Spookiemouse

Rest of the gals with spookiemouse


It was such a fun night! I am so happy!!! he he hee
(husband forgotten)

Good or Bad?

Good news and bad news? You tell me.

In civil service, a high profile job is always good. Because that is when you get the opportunities to rub shoulders with the higher management whom you don't have the chance to encounter in your normal day of work. Just like the game snake and ladder, if you got to the space with ladder (which means you pull it off), there you go. Skip many steps to go up.

But, if you land up in snake, (boo boo ) then you slide down many steps. If one is super unlucky, can return to the starting point.

Today, I was told by my director that I am out of the art project. The one that i sweat blood to research, study was off my hand. Not that I am no good. But because this project is too high powered and even my director could not make decision. Working on it is like cha cha.. One step forward, two steps backwards. Rather than me dying with this job, my director wants me out and leave my senior to do it herself. Now without my assistance, her road would be more bumpy ahead.

On a happier note, my paper on a very big project was cleared by my director. So happy!

Office Superband

Like the title said, we have a superband in office, and i am proud to say we are rather good!

The superband consist of colleagues from my division who know somebit about music. Me the conveynor managed to scout few talents who made up the guitarist(s), drummer(s), keyboardist (me me), crooner (ssssss) to name a few.

The office band was formed last year starting from a simple chat over music. It was from there that i discovered that there is a music room in our recreation club, the rest was history.

And me, took up the baton to co-ordinate a session once in a blue moon. Used to be very hot, once a month but then our interest fade off. It is never easy trying to pitch to the keys our singer can hit. We only know how to read the score and chords. Thus some singers are pretty frustrated and sang off key, while the rest of the music makers just played the keys they knew.

I assure you. It was not a good sound sight.

This evening performance was rather co-ordinated, we had special guest from other division doubling up as drummer/ keyboardist. Even our rusty standards improved !

Looking forward to the next session soon.

Boring Sunday

Another boring sunday. Went to Ding Tai Feng with W for lunch. No wonder T complaint that I am getting fat. I got to agree. With no gym and no aerobics,I could hardly pull up my pants!

Mum is lazing at my home since friday. She is contending the title for marathon TV. Lucky she did all my housework (thus saving me the effort to do). I also know better than to nag her otherwise she will get upset all over again!

Yesterday pics on the food wasn't that impressive. So here it goes. More pics.





My favourite thai style steam fish. The meat was just nice and very different from the usual deep fried/ teochew steam style.












Claypot beancurd in sharkfin style. I can assure you that we couldn't tell the difference!










Thai style curry crab. This one was specially done for us. Very like curry chicken but somewhat nicer. It goes very well with toasted garlic bread. Yummy!!!

Must bring T back when he is back on holiday.

Dad's 60th Birthday

It's dad 60th birthday today! The whole family has plans to bring him out for a nice dinner. I suggested a Fish head steamboat whereas brother wanted to eat crab at the famous still road coffeeshop. So thus, we set off early at 6.00pm to the famous Joo Chiat restaurant.

Too our horror! A long queue awaiting.

From this place, we went to the one below.

The International Market & Restaurant in Big Splash.

The food were prepared by the executive Chef Somsak who won the 2005 Food Festival.

The food was great. All thai style prepared. I especially love the fish prepared using lot of green chilli and lemon. Sour and saltish which is very appetising. The claypot beancurd cooked in ala sharkfin style was also good!

Chef Somsak who is my SIL (Ah tar) boss came over and entertained us. I even went to his office and took some silly shots of me in chef uniform!




This pic is taken from Chef Somsak's office, showing off his "The lord of the Sea" the winning dish in 2005 Food Festival.

My colleague T

Sentiments in the office are rather bad lately. Even I am not spared from the depression mood. Colleagues left in bulk and the management isn't appreciative of the work until the day they received their resignations.

How do you view your current job? Is it a career or it is simply just a job. I have posed the questions to many of my colleagues. Most voted the latter, and are colleagues who worked for many years. Like me, already jaded and lost all zest to "cheong".

I am very close to T. He is a nice chap who alway hitch a ride home. A very down to earth man a good father, a good friend, good colleague. However, he is very down on his luck in my office. The bosses have bad impression of him and one particular one take every opportunity to ridicule his english. (and he is an Aussie grad!) He is more of less condemn since he has already passed the chance to promote. Did a poll in my office and 10 out of 10 would say he has no chance of promotion.

After six years, he is the longest serving contract staff in my office. Most of the entries around his time are already promoted or have left. Leaving him, biting the bullet, going on. It doesn't help that he can't write, and always remind us every chance possible that he is being condemn. In the beginning, I took it lightly and encouraged him. But recently, i felt that i can no longer stomach all the "i am victimised" comments.

Perhaps I have a very strong self-esteem. If i think i am not valued in a company despite giving my best shot, I will leave. This is what I said but Mr T has another theory himself. He will only leave if he have an offer (which is fair) but then his criterias in the next job really sabotage his chance of finding one.

First. Don want to work in contractor. 2nd - Want to work in consultant firm/ or developer at the current pay. (say 4.5k?)

Have he ever thought about what he has to offer? Consultant firms don't engage engineer who have no experience in designing, and with his salary expectation. I find his road out of the airport, very difficult.

Unless he do something to change other people's perception of him. Otherwise i think most of us will surpass him in few years to come.

Oh. and i feel that sometimes he just unintentionally do things which make himself looks bad. For example, he likes to claim his time off on every friday afternoon. Since this year (and last) he has been on 1/2 day off every friday. God knows where he got the time to claim time off because non of the engineers on the same duties is claiming the off like he does.

Sigh.. does he knows he is sabotaging his career? Or is he simply bo chap?

What would you do if you were him? Late 3os and going no where?

Induction Course

Over the 3 days, today is the most interesting and exciting day of all.

The day started with Mr Rozario teaching us the fundamentals of Writing which was very enriching for bad writers like me. Most of the activities involved hands-on, and each team was made to write and submit their essays for the whole class to comment.

Our team comprised of Me and Hanqi. Potential and George , Shirley and Naomi. It was really fun. We joked, laugh and took the whole writing exercises non too seriously. We nominated Foong, whom we called "Potential" to be the official typist cum writer. "Potential" because he is a scholar and has the highest CEP among all.

Learnt of alot of tips in writing from the trainer. Now i know writing is very important in public service because our boss, judge us based on our writing skills. Our train of thoughts, our coherency, our grammar etc.

Very motivated to improve my writing skills. My promotion depends on it!

Who moved my kaya?

An interesting lesson learnt today while I was attending the MOT induction course at civil service college. The trainer showed us an motivating clip of two mice and two little people who spend their time running around a maze looking for cheese. Cheese in this case is a metaphor in which something we want in life. Could be money, career , love whatever.

In the beginning, the two mice Scurry and Sniff together with Hem and Haw found a cheese station C after running around the maze. They kept going back to the cheese station for cheese everyday after. However one day, the cheese ran out / disappear.

So what did the mice and little people do?


The disappearance of cheese signify the changes in life and how we cope and change ourselves when we encounter such situations. In the clip, both scurry and sniff ran out to search for new cheese once the realised that the cheese had ran out. Hem and Haw on the contrary stayed behind hoping that the cheese would re-appear. The cheese never did.

Lessons learnt today.

1. Changes occur in life. One must adapt to changes quickly to look for new cheese. And it occur to me that this is what T is doing. Looking for new cheese because he realised that the cheese he has now will run out in a few years time. He represent the mice, venturing into the maze (unknown) hoping to look for new cheese.

2. Anticipate changes. One must get ready for the cheese to move.

During the training, the cheese issue set me thinking. Me currently like Hem or Haw is too comfortable with the current situation and dislike any changes. But if i don't change and my cheese is moved, what will happen to me? If i venture into the unknown, maybe there is a new and bigger cheese for me.

This is really quite true in business world. One must keep on changing in order to stay relevant. No wonder our government keep on emphasising in innovation, creative, new, changes.

The moral of the story - We must be ready and be quick to change.

My Kaya (Singapore context) has moved, should i chase ?

I am no computer idiot after all

Great! The chanting must have given me alot of power and good luck. After many futile attempts at setting up my linksys password and also the singnet broadband, I finally got it!

I am so excited. It seems very simple yet how it eludes me for the past 2 weeks. i don't understand. Must be the chanting. Ah ma must be blessing me now. (for going to the chanting ceremony)

This time no escape

Having escape the chanting two weeks ago, i have no excuse not to go this time round. The last round chanting was for T's Grand-dad who passed away almost the same time as the grandma, one year later. This time, the chanting is for grandma's 3 years anniverary.

The last chanting lasted for 45 mins. This time, the chanting is increased to 1 and half hours. We were joking that must be because of the 10k donation FIL made to the temple. So the monks must work hard to chant otherwise really not worth oh.

FIL rang me up early at 9am to wake and remind me that the ceremony will start at 1030pm. I will be hitching a ride from my younger brother in law.

Was complaining to T online, and he michievously replied that I need not do all these if I am in China.

Awwww... i feel like smacking his backside!

Lei Gardens

For a change, the whole family grandkids and all went to the Lei Gardens at Chimes to celebrate my MIL's birthday. It is my first trip to the chimes Lei Gardens. My previous trip was years ago when i was temping for Caltex.

The boiled chicken with sharkin soup was yummy! Very thick and full flavour. Even the chicken meat has absorbed the overall essence. I haven't taste such yummy soup in along long time.

The rest of the meal was disappointing. Not worth the $720 price tag. Even the signature dish - chicken was a tad too salty for my taste. In fact, almost all the dishes were too saltish for me. Even the dessert was too sweet.

Deep fried fish / Sliced fish fried with French Beans.

Steam prawns with egg white


(Cat Flying apologies the lack of imagination in decribing the dishes)

Family love and ties

I am very fond of my latest toy - my compaq V2000 notebook. Using it always reminds me of T because this is a present from him! Heehee.

My house is quiet once again since Spookiemouse return to her rat hole on thursday. Mum came over today to help me iron my clothes and clean my house. Mother is really the best in the world. She will come to help me out with housework and then the accompany me so that i won't be lonely. I am very fortunate, to have my mum uncondition love. (my dad too) Must remind myself to be more filial and bring them out for more dinners.

I always feel lonely on friday nights. Especially since I used to hang out with friends. Nowadays i just want to hole up at home, play the piano, surf the net, watch tv and msn.

Oh no ! I am showing the signs of auntie-doom. Argh.....

Chris's Morris Pot

Spookiemouse has been staying over with me since monday as her room was under renovation. It was rather fun staying together and it brought back memories of our Trinity Hall days in Reading.

Yesterday, we had a Morris Pot session. Morris pot is a small steamboat and can be used as dry pan fry or normal steamboat. There is a cute story behind the buying of the morris pot. I shan't say it here. That's our Chris's secret.

It was fun, having a small steamboat for just the 3 of us. Chris brought alot of food from cold storage. We chatted, joked and watched Sex and the City together. It was for all for good fun.

The spread with Morris Pot

Farewell, Adieus, Good Bye

Not in the mood to do anything. This afternoon we threw a farewell lunch to J who is leaving at the end month. It seems there's a farewell once every week.

Many reasons for people to go. I could sprout out some. Every chance possible, my colleagues and I will discuss and lament at our misfortune and poor treatment by the organisation (in dollars and cents).

J's departure sparks off a serious of kamikaze engineers who feedback that our employment package sucks. Cat flying had her turn too yesterday. Very courageous, very unlike me though i am quite vocal but talking about dollars and cents is a very sensitive topic.

After everything, T's offer of stay at home wife in china looks very tempting.

Family Bliss. Is that what we want?

Yesterday was family fun at my in law place. The occasion was to celebrate my little niece wen's 1 year old and hao's 4 years.

All T's siblings who were married have 2 kids each. My younger sil C, a year younger than me has 2 children. Hao's who is now 4 years old, and baby Ee turning 1 year in September.

Even Dan, my china sil, married a year later than me has 2 kids too. Lei - A smart 2 years gal who can recite Tang Poems if you dangle the ice-cream or coke carrot and the michelin baby wen.

Family bliss (with kids). Something which eludes me. I can't really say i crave for it, but then is having a complete family (as in kids and hubby) one's milestone in life?

Advantage of Kids
1. A total distraction from work
2. Reason for you to buy kiddie stuff you couldn't afford when you were young
3. Watching him / her grow up
4. See shaggyfish blog (for more)
5. Someone to "送终”

Disadvantage
1. Need to wake up at wee hours to milk
2. Need to reserve funds for their education
3. No longer able to wake up at 12pm.
4. No guarantee they will be good to you when old
5. No korean drama marathons
6. Cannot travel as and when u wish
7. May come to blows with inlaw how u educate them
8. Time no longer yours, it's theirs.
9. Divorce - where are they going?

So what happens if one is single or married but couldn't have kids?

Can happiness and family bliss be between husband and wife?

Happiness to a singleton if they enjoy what they want in life? (By choice)

Communications Technique

Thanks to Litep who send me this article.

-----------------------------------------------

A very warm welcome from Carmen Sutra:

We recently discussed the major indicators that a relation-
ship will not succeed long-term: stonewalling during argu-
ments, criticism, defensiveness, anger, resentment, etc.
These warning signs are not inevitabilities, though. The
good thing is that strong communication between partners can
greatly help combat these negative aspects.

Affective communication does not have to be an enigma. As we
will discuss in our communication series, positive outcomes
are often about the presentation: the order of the words you
choose, the TONE, and more. Keep in mind that many of the
techniques we will review can be applied to different types
of relationships: your romantic partner, child/parent
relationships, friends, etc. After our alarming anger article
a couple weeks ago, many of you asked that I print infor-
mation on how to affectively communicate. Just ask and you
shall receive! I have divided the communication series into
three parts, but we can adjust if necessary.


Today's Topic: Communication Techniques Part I

This might sound simplistic, but the first thing you need to
ask yourself is whether you are genuinely interested in your
partner. Also, do you sincerely WANT to know the details of
their day? Do you really want the relationship to succeed?
You both need to answer yes to those questions in order for
a successful, happy union. One person cannot maintain a
relationship. That being said, if a couple is genuinely
interested in one another, asks questions, is mutually
supportive, laughs together, etc., they have an increased
chance of long-term happiness. The question is how to achieve
a positive balance.

Affective communication is a delicate balance between properly
listening to your partner and knowing how to express yourself.
One of the most important ways a person can feel loved is by
being heard. But there are important components to knowing
HOW listen and hearing the right messages. For instance,
when a partner vents about a day or shares a problem, many
of us immediately want to solve said problem. But we need to
take ourselves out of the equation. Perhaps your partner
doesn't NEED you to solve an issue; may he/she just wants
to physcially release the problem and know you are listening.

In this case, we don't need to provide solutions; we just
need to be a sounding board. In fact, when we listen we are
actually striving to validate the person's feelings, not
necessarily solve a problem. Validate that what they are
feeling is okay; after all, we can't control our feelings,
but we can control how we express them. Thus, sometimes the
healing is in the act of being heard. Enter "reflective
listening", in which we reflect back to our partner what we
have heard .

Like I mentioned before, presentation is everything. That
means your body language needs to be in check. You must make
positive eye contact (not a blank stare, you must look alert),
bend down if the situation calls for it, mirror your partner's
body language, etc. Your body language needs to reflect that
you are fully engaged in the conversation - that means no
arms crossed or bored expressions!

Specifically listen for words that indicate how your partner
is feeling and what caused it. You want to hear as specific-
ally as possible so you can get the best possible under-
standing of the situation. But also note your partner's body
language as well. Not all people are comfortable verbally
expressing their feelings, which is why you also need to
"listen" to their body language. Note if your partner is
especially quiet, eyes are downcast, they are distracted,
etc. To hear feeling words and notice body language, you
must, again, be fully engaged. You will miss important
words or gestures if you are constantly distracted by a
chore, mentally reviewing your day, etc. I know our days
are split into a thousand different tasks, but this needs to
be a very high priority.

Now you need to "reflect" back to your partner what you have
heard. This lets your partner know you are listening and
allows them to correct an interpretation, if necessary. Even
if you hear something in a different way, your partner knows
you are genuinely concerned and making an effort. To "reflect,"
identify your partner's feeling, ie sadness, frustration,
anger, etc. Then identify WHY they are feeling this way and
then RELFECT it. For instance, "You are hurt because I went
out with my friends without considering our schedule."

In this situation, you are identifying the feeling (hurt)
followed by the reason for the situation (because you did
not consult him/her). Remember, feeling, then cause. Feeling,
then because. Try to be as exact as you can. This might seem
awkward at first, but the more you do it, the easier it will
become. Your new techniques might catch your partner off
guard, so be patient if he/she doesn't respond exactly how
you would have expected. Just as you are learning a new skill,
so are they.

Listening and affectively expressing ourselves go hand-in-hand
and create a cycle. Next we will address how to affectively
express our feelings. A positive communication cycle can
create a harmonious atmosphere and a well of goodwill. The
more relationship goodwill you have, the more smoothly you
will be able to handle arguments. So what do you think of
reflective listening? Give it a try and let me know how it
goes for you! As always, I remain...

Home Alone

When night falls, all of us will pack our bags, drag our weary body and be on the way home.

Home - A place which gives u security and happiness. Place where you can be with your love ones, where u will missed ur love ones when they are not around. Home, a place where every nook and corner of the house bring back memories.

After a tired day from work, i missed T. Missed my mum and my family. Mum used to come over for the weekend to help alleviate my loneliness, yet sometimes I would take the opportunity to throw tantrums, and complaint that she watched too much TV. I am a bad bad daughter!

The 1 hr 1/2 piano pounding helps a little. At least it lets me forget that i am alone and there's music to accompany me. Somehow, my home looks terribly cold tonight. Lacking the breath of life, lacking the human "aura".

Maybe Spookiemouse might think its a good idea to stay alone. But i would give an arm to have my family with me right now.

Argh....I feeling moody.

My Siang Siang

One of the things i like in life is sunning my pillows. My personal pillow has followed me since young, bearing the stain of my happiness, sorrow and needless to say, my sa**v*!

I simply love the scent of sun on the pillow, remind me of fresh mellow, of happiness, of bright light! A sniff of it will bring me to cloud nine and assure me of the sweet dreams to come. Having my "siang siang" is one enjoyment i missed when i was in UK.

Any slightest chance i have , i would bring my siang siang out to sun. Saturday, Sunday, Public Holiday.

This morning I did something foolish. I left my siang siang out in the open hoping to catch some sun. This is something i never done before, some risk on my part but hey.. the weather so hot these few days, better get some "food" for my SS.

While walking home this evening, I noticed the wet puddles of water on the pavement! auntie at the chi char store told me :

"Rain? Yes. Quite heavy oh, for a short while this afternoon"

Sad enough, when i reached home, i saw my half drown siang siang dangling on my window parapet!

All my fault!!!! ARgh................My pillow!!!!

There goes my sweet dreams!

Techno Idiot has a new notebook

This morning, I was one of those kiasu people cramming the PC show at Suntec.

Not because i wanted anything badly to brave the terrible human traffic, no parking lots and the sticky hot weather, but T wanted to get a Palm TX!! and a new notebook for me! Very wasteful because Cat has a fujitsu lifestyle notebook (office) and the dell at home is working albeit alittle slow. Very wasteful.

But since T is going to pay most of it, who am i to say no ? So after 4 hours of browsing in the PC show, I got a brand new Compaq Pesario. Don't ask me what model. I also no idea. I just know that its' 1 G ram, 60G memory, 1.8mhz, Pentium Centrino, DVD RW. Freebies i got 1g SD Card, 1 headphone with mic, the rest standard. Damage was 1.5k. $15 dollars extra for visa charge.

Meanwhile, i also got his palm tx and a linksys wireless router which is causing me alot of grieve from 830 pm till now. I couldn't figure out how to set the password.

First, i thought the package didn't come with the CD rom, so i tried to set up myself. Then realise any tom, dick harry can log into my router cos theres no password. Alot of cursing and swearing later, i managed to discover my installation pack. So i tried to set up again, with password and all.

Then... I can't log into my secured network ! #$#^%$^

HELP....!!!!!

Big Event at Work

This morning, my entire office was bustling with activities. From as early as 8am, most of us were already in our position for the T3 Topping Up Ceremony.


Unlike Budget Terminal, no expense were spared for this event. After all, T3 is going to be the flagship terminal when it opens up in year 2008. Coincidently, this is the last event for ex Minister for Transport, Mr Yeo Cheow Tong. Ex because in the afternoon, he will passing the portfolio to Mr Raymond Lim.

Sunflowers decorated the event hall, stage and the entrance. It was a burst of yellowness every where! (plus Cat wore a yellow shirt, so blend in with the flowers! ) My only complain was its too hot. Despite many portable coolers, the temperature hovered at about i think 28 degrees. With so many spot lights shining, nearly impossible to cool the event are to 24 degrees! *sweat*

Cat Flying was tasked the reception in-charge. All our guests were given a piece of T3 roof to go home with! Ha... at this point you might be puzzled, how to carry the roof home?

Make a guess!

Staying Alone

Staying alone could be quite fun at first. You can have parties, do late nights, wear whatever I fancy without anyone nagging.

After one year and five months of staying alone, I can say its no longer fun.

Reasons :

1. Becoming a hermit. Lazy to interact with friends
2. Changing bulb is no fun
3. Cleaning the house is worse
4. Cooking for one person is almost impossible. (unless u count instant noodle as "cooking"
5. I hate to investigate why the door bell is not working
6. The new year decor is still hanging there. No one is taking it down
7. The house is too quiet sometimes

Sometimes i just wish that T is home with me. At least there's someone who won't fail to nag at me!!

Chanting - Less

I did not go for the chanting after all. Spent the morning lazing in bed as the weather was awfully good for such an activity.

Going for piano class now. Alot to update later.

Go Chanting? No Thank you.

Yesterday my mother in law called me up.

MIL : Are you free this sunday?
Cat : Hmmm (alarm) why?
MIL : We are going to the temple to pray and chant for ah ma. Time is about 11-12.30 pm Can you come?
Cat : No.
MIL : Why?
Cat : My mother coming to stay over the weekend, got to send her to temple also.
Mil : Ohh...

I have all along been a rebellious daughter. My parents could hardly force or nag me to do anything that i dislike. Even if i feel oblige to do it, I will make a ruckus first to voice my displeasure.

Don't talk about going to temple to pray for my husband's granny. I hardly even go to pray to my own grandparents. However, after saying no. I felt alittle guilty. Like i have done something wrong. I msg T to ask for his comment and he replied "You go and represent me loh".

Bloody Hell! I am already pissed with T for leaving me to clear all the shit in Singapore and he happily working in China. Who is taking care of the house, the car, his parents, my parents, his bills? Me!!!

I asked around for opinions during lunch time, and by the time i finished counting the strikes against my in laws I realised that my not going is justified after all. I told my mum about it when she is here over the weekend.

Mum, of course scolded me. Said she never missed any of this thing when my grandparents were around. Haha... I told her times are different now. And why should i go when tim hardly even goes to my own grandparents praying ceremony?

You see... all is fair. And I made excuse not to go for dinner too tonight. I told mum that she didn't even report to my granny every once a week. Now T is not around, I should lessen the trip!!

In law woes... Better off not married.

Cancer - A lifestyle disease?

My first encounter with cancer is at the age of 8, when my brother had a malignant growth removed from his neck.

I came to know more of cancer when dating T. From the marathon chats over the phone, I learnt that his aunt died of womb cancer, and cancer has 4 stages. Early detection of cancer increase the chance of survival. But, if the cancer is at the 4th stage then, it's "sorry, no cure".

Yesterday night, T told me his GM was diagnosed 3rd stage of colon cancer. The second victim so far. The first was his director Mr Y who had nose cancer late last year. Mr GM had to return to Singapore for treatment. Could it be a sheer coincidence that both the highest managment in Chengdu caught the cancer bug in less than 1 year apart? Could it be stress induce?

Now everyone in the office is afraid of covering the post of the senior management. It seems that the positions are jinx! and some are blaming on bad fengshui. Mr Sky was told to cover the GM duties while his away and he called Mr Y in Singapore to refuse/protest, citing reason that he doesn't want to die early! Haha.

The cancer scare caused alot of alarm in the office and suddenly, everybody is suspecting themselves having cancer. The most hilarious incident is again from Mr Sky (has piles) told T he suspects he might also get the cancer! After this, many staff are scrambling to get their medical checkup.

Even Cat Flying in Singapore is not spared by the news. Just today, there's some blood in my stools. Not a good sign cos' it is a symptom of colecteral cancer. I better monitor my bowels and see the doc if necessary.

I googled Colon cancer for more information and this this what i found out -

It was discovered that most colon cancer patients usually consume diets lower in fiber and high in animal protein, fat, and refined sugars. To reduce the chance of getting colon cancer, eat more fiber such as fruits, vegetables and reduce the intake of fatty meat and animal protein.

Better ask T to come back end of the year. Cancer is really frightening!

To T - Don't forget your ah ma also got colon cancer huh! so you are in the high risk category!

Housewife-Doom

Last night, I "fly kite" my colleagues. Suppose to go for a dinner then followed by clubbing. A farewell bash to C whose last day is on coming Monday. In the end, the night was spent snuggling in the bed watching DVD till wee hours in the morning 4.00am.

Amazingly I woke up at 7.30am this moring without the alarm ringing, considering the fact that I slept late.

Currently grilling one of my cat friend on his ONS thru msn. Will post updates of the affair later! haha.. why are all my friend leading exciting lives while i am alone at home watching soapy drama... Darn. I think sooner or later, i am going to be confirm - chop stamp - housewife-doom.

Another down

Just when we threw a farewell bash for C on wednesday, I received news that J had succumbed to the resignation bug.

Not a surprise. I have been expecting him to throw in the white towel. So many push factors and hardly any pull factor.

Got to dig in my pocket for more farewell parties. Argh...

My fair Gentleman

My latest project. To become Dr Higgins and transform a male version of Eliza Doolittle in an ala My Fair Lady style.

I am faced with a challenge. Mr A according to my survey in office top the chart for being un-charming. To make matter worse, even the male colleagues admit that A is rather ummph.. ungentleman. Catflying must come up with training list. A Charming list.

A charming man should be :

1. Witty and humourous (able to make a gal laugh)
2. Sweet tongue (Able to sweet talk )
3. Generous (meaning not stingy and calculative)
4. Good Looking
5. Charismatic
6. Knowledgable and well read

Anymore suggestions?

Why marry?

Yesterday while my stylist K was dyeing my hair, he asked me a very challenging question. An easy yet diffificult to answer..

K : How long have you been married ?
Cat : Almost 4 years
K : Why do you get married?
Cat : Umm...(Thinking hard)
K : Why do you want to marry if you don't want to start a family immediately. I thought marrying is for kids. Otherwise might as well remain single. Easier this way.

My reaction was : Hey. He is right! Why in the right mind did i get married? Is it because of the house? Otherwise, might as well stay single and date cos' there's nothing to look forward for. And probably, if T goes to Chengdu. I can bloody hell start dating other guys!!

Well. Maybe watching too many trashy and weepy korean dramas are making me go daft.

***********

And i msn T about it.

Cat : Yesterday my my stylist ask me why i got married?
T : What you say?
Cat : House loh
T : Wow. I very disappointed.
Cat : Like so long liao. Cannot say because of the big diamond right?
Cat : Maybe it's a natural progression.
T : marriage is the indication that two person wan to spend their life together
Cat : what about love?
T : Love has nothing to do with marriage. But marriage must be initiated by love
T : It is a pity that nowaday couple stop loving each other after marriage
Cat : So you love me or not?
T : Of course!

At least tonight I can sleep in peace and be reminded why I got married. Haha.

Latest Hobby

My latest hobby has everything to do with TV!

Since my trip back to chengdu, I have bought many korean serials. So thus like a typical "auntie", Cat Flying was glued to the TV since Friday night. Watching one drama one after another. Averaging of one set per day.

Ouchie. My eyes really hurts and it started to water after midnight. What to do? I am a big sucker for trashy romance and would not sleep until i hit the last episode.

Just wonder, why the hero can sacrifice their million dollars inheritance for the lady they love?

And

Why T can leave me behind yet professing that he loves me?

This equation doesn't tally.

Lijiang Part II

We stayed in "Mu Fu Inn" in the old town. It was converted from "Shi He Yuan" 四和院. The facilities was bleah... Our room was not well lit, compared to W. The timber floor were cold and hard. Creaking and protesting if i stomped too hard. No bath tub and no shower screen. On the first night, I was told no water after 8pm! Argh...



Our inn was next to Mu Fu 木府. House of the local leader or Tu Shi 土司. For 500 years, the Mus ruled the town. The old town was the only old city build without a city wall. It was explained that the surname of the leader, 木 (Mu) add a wall outside become 困 (Kun or meaning trap) The Mus deemed it as inauspicious as it meant his family and descendant be trapped. Thus, the old town was never given a city wall.



Weeping willows are planted along the streets. A common sight every where. Summer is a good season to visit as the weather is just about 15-18 degrees. There's cool breeze blowing from the Snow mountain, and the lovely sunlight. Sun-block is mandatory as Lijiang is about 2000 over metres above sea. The rays could be very harmful.







Gifts shops lining up the streets is a common sight. The old town's economy is tourism based. Lijiang is well known for its silver-wares and handicraft. Accessories shop can be easily found along the streets. It was such a fun time for Cat Flying, looking out for good buys and bargaining with the store owners. Shopping always make my day!








Cat Flying and Hubby T checking out the accessories in one of the shop. (While holding on to my RMB 1 ice cream!)













The ladies of the local tribe enjoying a dance in the Square Street. (Shifangjie)











Shifangjie is at the heart of the Old Town. From here it extended to four main streets of different directions and further expanded to smaller lanes which connect to every corner of the town. Think it like a "ba gua". Where all streets connect to the centre. Honestly, if you are first time here, you will be confused!

Ancient City - Lijiang

Lijiang. An ancient city in the north west of Yunan with over 800 years of history. Home to many enthic groups such as Naxi, Bai, Tibetan, Yi, Miao etc. Weather is beautiful all year round averaging from 9 to 12 degrees. Lijiang is mostly populated by the Naxi people.

Lijiang also known as the Venice of Asia is situated at the foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yu Long Xue Shan). Cool crystal clear water flows through the town at the back and front of houses with stone bridges build across the little streams. Willow trees and flowers are planted along these streams and, the floors we walked upon were the very ink slabs that dated all the way back to Song /Yuan Dynasty.


A typical morning walking through the small and narrow street of the ancient town . Notice the littlel red lanterns hanging at every shop. All shops start looks as if they jump out of a a sword fight movie. I feel like a am the "xiao long nu" already. (minus the long hair and flowly robes)












Crystal clear water from Jade Dragon Snow mountain (Yu Long Xue Shan) flows through the town at the front and back of houses.









I was told that this building housed a family which produced 3 imperial scholars. A incredible feat during the ancient days.

Men of the Naxi tribe were a fortunate lots. During the olden days, the men did music, chess, books, paint, smoke, drink, and tea.(琴棋书画烟酒茶) The women farmed and brought back the bread for the family.






While walking along the street, I was stopped by the beautiful sight of sunrays hitting the pitched terrocotta roofs. No photoshop here. My favourite pic of the trip!

Staff movements

So many resignations recently. 4 in offices and then 2 ex-colleagues.

I am still feeling the post holi blues. The 30 mins jamming on my piano didn't help much, but helps release some frustration.

Not in the mood to write.

Post Holiday Blues

I am suffering from post holiday blues.

For the past two nights, I have not been sleeping well. Though i hate to admit it, but I miss T. Strange, because the feelings only come when i am about to lights off "Cat". It comes in the chronological order like this.

Lights off. Jump onto bed. Close eyes. *Pang* the missing start. Eyes big big the whole night.

And for Cat Flying. The one who can practical fall asleep everywhere, (plane, train, bus, jungle) start to lose her sleep.

Sigh.. Does that mean that this is a sign that I might be going to Chengdu soon? Sigh Sigh...

T is off washing leg AGAIN. How many times can one tahan? My right leg has the evidence of the overkill of leg massage.

Off to sleep. Not waiting for him...

Our voices heard

The elections are over!

Amazing results. Nothing too shocking but the incumbent PAP no longer enjoy landslide victories as before. Good. Because finally people are getting more gutsy. Daring to vote.

Friends and family members from Potong Pasir and Hougang are very proud that they are the gungho ones. Ha.. It takes guts to stay in Potong Pasir and Hougang. And more than guts to say "No" to the 80 million carrot dangled.

Kudos to the kamikaze six who dare challenged our own PM Lee. 33% for the young guns. Well Done! At first we are still afraid that they may lose their deposit.

Well, if the gahmen didn't give the progress package? What would be the result yesterday?

Bye .. and Home

In another few hours time, i am leaving my T behind and heading home.

Feeling rather "ok" instead of sad. Maybe the sadness will hit after i reach singapore. Back to staying alone.

Bad timing really bcos' i couldn't vote. After so many years, I finally got the chance to vote yet I am oversea. The plane only reached after midnight, missing the time for the chance to cast the last vote.

Just as well, PAP going to lose 2 votes. Me and T.

Idyllic life in Chengdu Part II

The sky was overcast this morning and it drizzled in the early part of the afternoon.

Life is still good. I woke up early at 10 o'clock once again. T and Mil has already returned from the nearby wet market. I could smell the nice aromatic fragrance of the yummy salted vegetable cooking in the kitchen. Yummy.

You may wonder why I am getting excited over cooked salted vegetable. This is because T makes the best cooked salted vegetable to go with my favourite Bah Ku Teh. We had Bak Ku Teh, Salted Vegetable, Green Leafy Vege and Deep Fried Doughnuts for lunch.

I was in heaven!!

****************

More tales on MIL.

Yesterday, we went to carrefour and she bought some sausages and preserved szechuan vegetable to bring back to singapore (those loose type). I scared her by saying that immigration is very strict on food due to the recent Bird Flu and, that at least stopped her from buying more. Otherwise, I fear the damage would be worst. (She bought many more of others )

And

The luggage she brought is the cabin type and was already over-flowing with her shoppings. I told her to check and pack her stuff to gauge how much more shopping she could do. What i don't understand is, she is always saying she can't carry much things cos' she need to look after the babies when flying, and yet she starts to buy whatever she sees,to the extent of buying szechuan vege.

No szechuan vege in Singapore meh?

I offered to lighten her burden by carring some in my red gym bag (which i'm going to hand carry on board) and she whipped out 2 big DFS plastic bag full of stuff. My blood start to boil.

Lucky, T intervene scolding MIL how to put her things in my bag? She reacted by smiling sheepishly. Bloody Hell...

So in the end, T offer to swap his 25 inch luggage back for her cabin size luggage so that she could put more things. However, another mountainous task appear in front of her.

How is she going to carry her full luggage to my SIL home?

SIL home is 5th storey high with no lift.

*Sweat*

Idyllic life in Chengdu

Life in Chengdu is really good.

Cat Flying woke up early in the morning at 10.00am and then zoomed out of house to meet Sister-in-law for tim sum breakfast at Jade Laurel. The afternoon was spend shopping in "Bai Lian Tian Fu" shopping mall and went home empty-handed.

The rest of the gang went to "Big Foot" for another foot massage, which I declined.

W is flying back to Singapore today. I am also looking forward to going home, resume my normal working life. Though of cos, I am reluctant to leave my hubby. What to do? Cat has a life back home.

My infamous MIL is washing clothes (hand wash) despite me telling her there's a washing machine. In the end, some of my clothes left un-washed in the machine as i dare not pass her my clothes to wash. It's so personal. And she is NOT my maid.

Wonder how my China SIL can get along with her? To me i find it an insult to my independence and competency, if she keeps on calling me to find out whether baby is ok blar blar... You reach home safely blar blar.. My SIL seems to be able to take it in stride. Unlike me.

Oh.. and my SIL knows MIL is going to stay with her after i leave. She looks quite alright with it. I am sure deep down, she must be resenting it. After all, her parents house has only 2 bedrooms, 1 toilet and there will be 4 adults 1 kiddo, 1 baby to share.

What a crowd!

Enough of Washing Leg

For the past 5 consecutive days (since Friday) minus the day I had diarrhea. W has been dragging us go to the local health club called "Tian Yi Zhen Tang" for washing leg.

Washing leg = Where one's leg were being rubbed, washed and massage by the young gal masseur for 110 mins and and occasional shoulder pounding and some almost bone breaking maneuver. Cost 40-60RMB per session.

Not to mention some ocassions where the gal's hand will wander up to accidentally touch some "um humph" part when they apply pressure our the pelvic bone.

W has been enjoying all these and we the gang, like the "pei tai zi du shu" (accompany the crown prince to study).

Washing leg is Not cheap. So far we have spend a total of 350 RMB no less till date. And my muscles are protesting over the "overkill".

Oh.. i forgot to add that you can choose whoever the masseur you fancy!

Update - 3 April Wednesday. Discovered some bruise on my leg.. Argh...

My blur blur MIL

Few days with mil and I already find that she is very lacking in intelligence aka blur.

Just this morning she demonstrated her skills while washing hair in the local salon.

We were told by T not to reveal our identities - as in where we come from to any service providers. Reasons being - once they know you are from singapore, the SA will try to hard sell you into buying very expensive products and also try to convince you to buy the most expensive service.

Because, Singaporeans can afford it!

So I was very pissed when my mil, washing hair beside me start to narrate her whole family history to the shampoo gal. My jaw dropped? Didn't I say we were from Guandong province yesterday? Now she over-turned my so nice story to said we are from Singapore.

Shit!!!!

As expected, the tub of spa which i was asking earlier escalated from 300 rmb to 388 rmb when she said she want to buy. Then while washing hair she revealed.

1. She has 4 kids. (Policy in China only 1 kid!! argh...)
2. We come from Singapore
3. She will ask the maid to apply the spa product at home
4. How much it cost to do her hair in Singapore
5. She assured the SA she will definitely buy the product 388rmb tomorrow
6. She told the shampoo gal, that W wanted to come last night despite we had done shampooing yesterday morning. And W lovvvveee to wash hair.

Are all the above necessary? I hardly chit chat with my stylist. And if i do it, will ask rather say reveal. Especially not to strangers in a foreign land. So dangerous!

So, before she finished. All the SA pound on her like a pack of wolves.

A blur lamb who is oblivious about all the happenings?

I always find it funny. Why she who helps out in the family business could be this street unsavvy??