Friday, December 31, 2010

last day of 2010

Last day of 2010, though I do not get to be out there for the countdown, but at least I'm not celebrating alone this year.

Without noticing, whole year of 2010 will be gone, in just less than an hour. Then, we'll begin a whole new year all over again. Time to reflect what had happened throughout the year, and what are the new resolutions for the coming year.

May everyone have a better year ahead!
Let's all welcome another brand new year - 2011.

Happy New Year, everyone!!

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

complicated

Feeling complicated?
Decision can't be made? Feeling turning upside down?

When things really tough, and you had really no idea what need to be done,
Why not sit down, take a sip of drink and enjoy the scenery or music.
Problems are meant to be solved, if a problem is without any solution, that ain't a problem at all.
Quite true in some ways.

The more desperate you get, the harder the problem seems to be.
To make problem easier, your feeling and mind must be in peace.
That way, everything would be falling in place, one by one.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

to fail or to succeed

I realised that ...

You don't need a reason to fail, instead you need the courage to succeed
For to succeed, you might meet failure not once but umpteen times.
And you may meet discouragement along the way.
Therefore, you need to have a reason and preserverance to continue so until you succeed.
That's the courage that not many has.

If you want to be a failure, there's 2 conditions you must meet - you can neither envy others success nor regret to fail
For even to fail, you need to fail with dignity.
If not, you'll be one of the sore losers.

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

red string of fate

A myth or belief, that couple that is destinated to be together has an invisble red thread tied between them. It's the eastern version of the soulmates.

You might fall in love with a number of people, but to be able to meet your better half, at the right place and right time, is really fate. So, do grasp on your fate when you see it and do appreciate it.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

own story

Everyone has their own story, where each and every one is unique in his or her own way.


Every chapter of the story,
Every melody of the story,
Are valuable memories that were formed and belonged to both of you.

No matter how simple you thought your story may be,
No matter how glorious you thought others may be,
And no matter how others may judge your story,
It is still, your very own story.

This very special moment,
Belongs to none others, but only both of you.

Monday, October 25, 2010

proposal ring

Most of the girls would like accessories like necklace, earrings or rings. Ring is something I had not much luck with. I do love rings, too, just like any other girls, but maybe some bad experience, made me stayed away from rings.

I still remembered, having a few times, on different occasions trying on some rings, and end up having a real hard time trying to get them off. It sort of leaving some 'bad memories'. So, everytime, I would tell myself that I would not buy any rings to wear,as they are just not suitable for me.
And now came the day, that my  proposal ring is presented to me. Surprisingly, I find it fitting well, and just as comfortable as I thought how rings should be.
He was actually quite surprised when I said, I'm not going to change the size of it. He thought the ring looked loose on my finger. But to me, it is just nice, just comfortable. Design of a ring does play a role, but nothing beats a comfortable ring on the finger.
But now, finally, I have the ring of my own.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

wedding photos

Heard the DJs conversation on a radio station, asking their listeners, what is their dream wedding like. This trigger a thought of mine - on the wedding album shots.

The shooting of wedding photos are so common and seems to be a must-have trend nowadays. Couples can easily opt to have their wedding photos taken either locally or overseas. Thanks to the wedding fairs that offer so many attractive and affordable packages to couples, to have their wedding photos taken at their dream spots. A win-win situation to both parties.

Looking back at our parents, the older generations, shooting of wedding photos were much simpler. A photo taken in wedding dress, either in pair or with families. Photos taken either at the studio or a photographer to drop by the house.

I'm sure everyone has their own fascinations on what and how their wedding photos would look like.
As for me, I feel that wedding photos are not only to be memorable, but most importantly, meaningful to both parties. I always had this thought, if I were to have my wedding photos taken, I would like to have it taken at my alma mater, our alma mater, places where we've grown up, places that we both met and started to get together. These places may not be as fanciful as those tourism places, but those were the places where memories were woven.

What about yours?

Sunday, October 17, 2010

korean love songs for wedding

I'm trying to list out at least 10 suitable korean songs to be played during wedding occasions, be it during proposal or during the wedding dinner.

"Will You Marry Me" (결혼해 줄래)
Singer: Lee Seung Gi (feat Bizniz)
Released Year: 2009
An light hearted up-beat song. The song depicts a man trying to ask for the hand of his girl.

"We Fell In Love" (우리 사랑하게 됐어요)
Singer: Ga-In (B.E.G) and Jo Kwon (2AM)
Released Year: 2009
A lively duet song showing two person finally found that they had fall in love with each other.

(Last Updated: 17 Oct 2010)

"Beautiful Life"
Singer: V.O.S (feat Lee Minwoo)
Released Year: 2008
A vibrant group song describing a guy that has find the love of his life.

"I Love You"
Singer: Han Dong Joon/Goon Woo
Released Year: 2007
A slow tempo love song reaffirming his love for his beloved.

(Last Updated: 18 Oct 2010)


"Found You" (찾았다)
Singer: JYJ
Released Year: 2010
A pleasant love song, saying that one has found his love.

(Last Updated: 27 Oct 2010)


"Two As One" (둘이 하나)
Singer: Lyn
Released Year: 2010
A joyful love song, wondering if she wanted to confess her love for him.

"Hope is a Dream That Never Sleeps" (희망은 잠들지 않는 꿈)
Singer: Kyu Hyun (Super Junior)
Released Year: 2010
A slightly slow beat song in the beginning, picturing love as hope.

(Last Updated: 01 Nov 2010)


"Only You" (그대만이)
Singer: Kim Jong Wook
Released Year: 2008
A slow up-beat tempo song, expressing the only love of the guy.

"Couple" (커플)
Singer: Kim Yong Joon (SG Wannabe) (feat Hwang Jung Eum)
Released Year: 2009
A happy, cheeky love song, showing the bountiful love the guy has for the girl.

"Marry U"
Singer: Super Junior
Released Year: 2007
A soft rapping song, where the guy is asking for the hand of his girl.

(Last Updated: 08 Jan 2011)


"Vanilla Love"
Singer: Lee Hyun Ji (feat Onew (SHINee))
Released Year: 2008
A soft cute love song, showing the love for each other tru the the little daily stuff.

"Marry Me"
Singer: FT Island
Released Year: 2009
Another cute love song, asking the girl for marriage.
(Last Updated: 20 Jan 2011)


"Mon Tue Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun"
Singer: Suho (feat IU)
Released Year: 2009
A very lively song, rapping the guy's daily feeling till he met his girl. The essence of the song is actually the rapping part, though the chorus part is lovelier.
(Last Updated: 24 Feb 2011)

wedding songs - korean songs?

Keep hearing wedding news on friends around me, be it wedding proposal, ROM or chinese wedding dinner.
A little of envy but what to do, as my fate is not here yet  ;p
Anyway, this is something I've wanted to do .. to find korean songs suitable to be played during wedding dinners.
I find that usually people will be playing English, Mandarin or Cantonese love songs. Why not Korean?
Maybe, so coincidentally the friends I know, are not really Korean buff.
But, if I ever had a wedding of my own, I would hope to play Korean songs through out the night.

So, keep a lookout for my up-coming post on list of Korean love songs as wedding songs.. :)

Thursday, October 14, 2010

change

For things to change, first of all, you should change your mindset.
To change your mindset, you should change the way you think.
Only with this, then only the real change can begun.

Saturday, October 9, 2010

a new chapter

Another good news, just within a few weeks apart.
They will now, finishing up the current chapter, and move towards a new chapter in their lives.
A chapter that now not only about themselves, but also about their partners in hand.
Two of my lovely ex-housemates, one had been proposed to and the other, had proposed.
It's good to know that their lives now will be filled by more love and care.

From being just in a relationship to being in a commitment, is not just a change of the stage of life or status. Instead, it is about the love you have for your better half and, most importantly the courage, determination and responsibility to be with the one you love, in whatever circumstances that may be.
I think I have salute those who will be or are in this stage.

In life, there are a few stages that we all need to go through, and this is one where mostly will be going through.
To fall in love and to carry on their love to another level - marriage.

I'ld like to wish all the married couples, to have a blissful marriage and happy life.
And to the soon-to-be married couples, may your coming chapter be filled with plentiful of beautiful memories and it's time to close your 'single' chapter. Adios.

coincidence or fate

Is it just a coincidence or fate?

It's weird, or rather, funny, I would think.

His initial plan is to come over and visit me but in the end cancel the plan. However, because of a sudden unexpected call of an unrelated matter, I get to go over and visit him instead.

His initial plan is to come and pick me up at point A and at the same time trying to learn up the route, yet decided against it, and plan to pick me up at point B as it'll be nearer. But somehow, I am let with no choice but to stop at point A and he had to come over to point A instead.

Is it just a coincidence that the latest plan can't work out and need to fall back on initial plan? Or is it fate that wants us to proceed with our initial plan?

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

changing mindset

They said, if you feel that things kept repeating themselves, then it must be that you have been making the same decision over and over again.
So, what to do?
You've got to change your mindset.
Then only the decision will be a different one.

I agree with this!

Friday, October 1, 2010

decision

Decision is made, every splitting seconds,
No time to ponder, no time to regret,
What we can do, is to make sure we choose the best choice at that very moment.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

life with flavours

Life is like taste bud, which has four different flavours - sour, sweet, bitter and spicy.
You can imagine how plain a meal would be without those flavours, and so is life.
Life would be plain and bland, till nothing to look forward to.
So, you can say that, we need to add in "flavours" in our life.

Treat life as if having good food.
Everyone loved good food, to have our taste bud the joy of savoury.
So, why not give a chance to your life, to enjoy the different flavours.
Only then, you would know, the joy of life.

moving forward

People said to move forward in life and not to look back.
Life is just like time, there's no turning back.
Maybe the creation of clock is to remind us of our life.

We should be looking forward in life. And in order to look forward, we have to give ourselves an ultimate goal in life. To have a goal in life, would make our journey more bearable no matter how hard it will become.

when love becomes memory

"When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure - unknown".
This is the post I've put in my friend's FB just now. Her mum just passed away this morning.

She's a happy-go-lucky person. She likes to live her life fully. I believe she'll be able to cope with this, but still as a human, we all have our emotional times, too. There should be a time to grief, when it's needed.

Life is pretty amusing. On one side, we see people grieving on their loss, while on the other side, we see people rejoicing over their gain. It shows that life still goes on, no matter how. We just have to take in stride on the things that befall us.

Life is like puzzle remain unsolved, until you have everything piece back together.

Sunday, September 12, 2010

you're only afraid when you know nothing 'bout it

One will only be afraid when you have no idea on what is it, or what is going to happen next.
If you had known, what is there to be afraid of?
If you had known, you would have faced it like any normal stuff you usually do.
If you had known, there will be no surprise that'll jump out of the sudden.

That's the root cause of being afraid.
So, do not be afraid.
Face it, if not learn 'bout it in order to face it.
You can do it.
There's nothing to be afraid of.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

you can be better

You can be better, you can do better. As long as you have the faith in yourself. Believe it.
Sometimes, we may not know it, that we can actually cross the border that we had drawn for ourselves.
Sometimes, it takes others to remind us that we can actually do better than this.
Keep on going, you can do it.
Believe it and you will see the miracle.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

chances or choices?

Life is about chances or choices? This is a question stated in FB.
My initial reaction of this statement is - BOTH!

Having to live for another day is a chance for you to do what you have not done, what you have missed or to compensate what you have done wrong.
And having to live for the day, is where you need to make choices, of how the day would gone by.

So, isn't life is both about chances and choices?
Don't you agree?

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

autumn's concerto

Another beautiful drama. Autumn's Concerto - Happiness, which stop do I alight? - Air on the G String

I must say, I'm really amazed at all these love drama scriptwriters. It is really amazing, trying to come up with different story line, yet it can be so touching.

Love. It is really something amazing yet unfathomable. Cheers to LOVE!

Sunday, August 22, 2010

introspection

I learnt a new word today - introspection.
Quote from google defination: Introspection is the self-observation and reporting of conscious inner thoughts, desires and sensations. It is a conscious mental and usually purposive process relying on thinking, reasoning, and examining one's own thoughts, feelings, and, in more spiritual cases, one's soul. ...


We should indeed do self introspection every now and then. This way, we would learnt more about ourselves as well as our current needs and wants.

to make an effort

Things don't just come by. Trees don't just grow out of the blue. Turtles don't just grow up once pop out from the shells. Things don't just come by.
Everything that we do, everything that we see, all started with an effort. No matter how small, it may be, how insignificant it may be, but it is how everything started.
We need to put in effort in everything we do, then only things will go (most of the time) as per what we wished for. Even though there might be some things that may go out of our control, but if we make an effort to try to salvage the situation, things will still turn favourable, somehow.
You can, if you believe in it. Make an effort in your own belief. That's how miracle started.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

meaningful life - love

As a child, our life is just to eat, sleep and play. Nothing to worry, nothing to frown upon.
As a teenager, our aim is to grow up and be able to do what we want to do. So, we go to school as instructed, and try to be scored as lectured.
As a working adult, we are trapped in the rat race with others, trying to earn as much as possible, trying to live as comfortable as possible.
As a parent, our focus is on the next generation, hoping they'll do better than us, trying to provide the best for them.
As an aging folk, we know life is drawing near, thus we'll try to pursue what we had not achieved, or maybe waiting for the time to come.
This is a vicious cycle.

No doubt, this is what most of the people would or might have gone thru. May not applies to all, but i believed majority would have agree so.
We may not be able to live like those monks or sisters, where they had the calling from God.

For the rest, we would then need to live our life in a more meaningful manner. We may not be able to escape the rat race of human life, nevertheless, there are still ways to live better. We should life an interesting and meaningful life, so that when we look back the years that passes, we will not live in vain.

Life is about sharing and giving. To share the joy and spread the love to others. Though it may sounds simple but not everyone knows how to do it. There are things in life we may have taken granted for, so now is the time to really appreaciate what we have and also to pass the love we have, no matter how little, or how small it may be.

Love. This 4 letter word, although it is just a short word, but the meaning of it can be so vast and wide. Learn to love and be loved.

no one is alone

We don't live alone on earth. Although it seems alright to be living on your own, but without friends or family, life would not be what it meant to be. Life is supposed to be sharing and giving. With these, you would find your life is more vibrant and more colourful.

And you'll notice that people tend to be attracted by those happy and lively people. The positive energy that they spread, makes people feel comfortable around them. No one would like being with grumpy and complaining ones.

To be able to spread your joy with others is very self-satisfying. And to be able to find comfort in others is a blessing.

No one in the world thinks alike in every way, nor would there be anyone that's able to read your mind all the time, as we all have different personalities, living in different kind of environment, facing different problems in life. Yet, there are people, who can live happily together, doing things together and always keeping a look out for each other.

You are not alone. If only you try to open up your heart and learn to live with others. No doubt, there's good and evil, which might be hard to differentiate at times, but what is life if everything is perfect.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

feel wanted

I read someone comment, which sounds something like this - All men like to be touched and seduced. Everyone wants to be wanted.
I wondered, is it only through touch and seduction that one can only feel being wanted? That's definately not true! Though seduction is the fastest way to being "feel" wanted, I might say, and which might not be the "real" wanted.

There's a lot of ways to be wanted. When someone thought of you when they are in times of trouble, or when someone thought of you when they are celebrating. When someone thought of you when they are bored, or when someone thought of you when they are being crowded by others/buried by thousands of work. Aren't these more meaningful than being seduced?

I hope people won't go seducing around just to show that they wanted to make others "feel" wanted. 'Cos, that's really lame.

looking forward

It's the first day of a new month - 1st Aug 2010. Is there anything you are looking forward to?
Don't you agree that life will seems better, if you have something that you look forward to, everyday? Be it something in years to come, or even if as near as tomorrow.
That's why people said, to look forward in life and not to linger in the past.
Let's all look forward to a brand new day! :)

Saturday, July 31, 2010

end of july

So fast, yet another month is passing by. Today is 31st July. Another new start of the month, starting from tomorrow. What does day means to you? Something that you are counting on when it's going to end? Or something to look forward to in the future?

Saturday, July 24, 2010

beauty of struggle

What would be your most memorable memories? The sweet and comfortable times or the tough struggling times? For me, it's the latter one. Do you think it's weird? It's not really, ask your ownself.
What type of memories you had that lasted longer?

Monday, July 12, 2010

waiting

Waiting. I seem to be waiting. Waiting for something, waiting for someone.
I realised that I haven't been moving on, I seem to be stationary for a very long time now. Must have been years.

What have I been waiting for? I've no idea, but I think it's high time now, to continue to move on.
Though I might have lagged behind for quite a distance, but for me, I believed in the story of the hare and the tortoise. I'll definately reach my destination and hopefully get to win the race.
I don't need to compete with anyone else, 'cause by the end of the day, I just need to win over me!

it's complicated

Feel like writing today. Wanted to express the thoughts in me - it's complicated!
Saying about that, it reminds me for a fun ice-breaking session I had recently.

We had a company team building recently and as usual, the first ice breaking session was on introducing ourselves. As some of us are quite new in the company and some are not working in the same region, so we need to go through this roll call session. The introduction was pretty simple - name, job function/dept and status availability. I guess the purpose of the status availabililty is just for teasing fun. But surprisingly, the remarks given on that was actually quite interesting.

One said he is unsure of his status, need to check back with his mother. And this bring roars to the floor and had response asking for his mother phone number. Another mentioned that her status is complicated and when asked to explain, she said it's just complicated, as once of the choices of status in Facebook. This brings laughters as well. You can imagine how widely Facebook culture is being looped into our daily life. There is also another who need to think whether she's single or already married! Guess it's because she still hasn't had kid and only married for less than 6 months, so it could be not much difference from being single.

The funniest reply was from one of the attendees' kid. He was joining our session as well, so he can't escape from the roll call, either. As a 13 year old boy, he actually mentioned his status is complicated too, mimicking the earlier feedback. Everyone was so surprised on his reply and can't help laughing over it. Even the young boy mother was also laughing uncontrollably and saying she had no idea of his son's status.

Sometimes, even if it's just a simple question, but if you put in variations in your reply, things can be pretty interesting. If we put in effort, sometimes, even simple things can be extraordinary, too. Still, maybe it still need to depend on the time and situation questions are asked, and whether direct or indirect answers can be given. Do you agree so?

losing sight (2)

I realised that I had posted a note with the same title - losing sight.
Yet, still like posting on the same thing.
Just wanted to be reminded, not to lose sight of what we need to do, or what need to be done.
Sometimes, the comfort surroundings, made us lose sight or lose hold of our initial decision.
So, you'll need to have stronger will, in order to achieve what you want.
The road ahead might not be easy, but if you can hold on your sight of your final destination, somehow or in some way, you can reach for it.

life is not fair

Life is not fair.
That's a phrase that one of my friends loved to tease me with.
Even though I know life is not fair, yet, sometimes how I wished it would be fairer.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

strike a balance

You should have been hearing words like - "Strike a balance in things you do".
When things are being balanced well, then everything will go well.

Seems like everything in the world can be balanced, or maybe I should say, should be in balance. Right and wrong, work and play, friends and family, lifestyle, food - you name it.

Are you striking balance in things you do?
Why not check it out today!

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

struggling

What does it means when you seems to be struggling with the things you do?
I guess, the answer to that is - lack of knowledge and interest.
Don't you agree?

If you have no knowledge in something, you tend to struggle when doing things related to it. For instance, you do not have the knowledge in operating a computer and asking you look up information from the net would be a core.

And if you have not interest in something, which I guess would be the worse of all, you would definately be struggling in doing it, too. Regardless if you are capable in doing that or not. You might excel in your as a lawyer, for instance, but with the lack of interest, you'll dread doing your daily work.

So, having knowledge meets interest would definately sparks life in you! And everyday would be a brand new day, full of endless energy to live your life fully.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

attitude & focus

The two big words that woke me up today - ATTITUDE and FOCUS.
I had just realised that these two words been popping up these few weeks, maybe not so apparent but it's definately trying to be conveyed out.

I'd always thought that I knew what attitude means. But, now I realised, how deep the meaning of the word could be. I like this definition - Attitude: a complex mental state involving beliefs and feelings and values and dispositions to act in certain ways. No wonder everyone like people with the so-called "right attitude".

Focus and goal seems to be interlinked. And I think, that focus is as important as to have a goal in life. Without focus, your goal might be shifted as time goes by or when newer things comes by. Focus: a central point, as of attraction, attention, or activity.

Life ain't easy to live by. But for now, I think life is to let you learn what is important to you and it wants you to show how you are going to achieve that.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

three to go

This month is a farewell month as three will be leaving in just few days apart.
There's a saying that says there are no functions that will not come to an end.

Everyone that we have met, befriend or maybe just crossing path, will somehow leave a footprint behind. Whether the imprint is visible or not, that depends on how deep your relationship is, with that particular person.

Friday, June 11, 2010

live the way

Live the way you want to ..
This way you'll be happy ..
But you'll need to be happy in three states - physically, mentally and spiritually ..

This way, you can live the way you want, happily ..

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

T-junction

What do you when you are at a T-junction?
When you are given two choices - left turn or right turn. Turning back is not an option, as time can't be reversed. So, you can only moved on.

Sometimes, junctions or crossroads in life are not very obvious. Same as some of our roads here. Some junctions might be too small or narrow that people missed them. Crossroads might be much obvious, as they branches out to few options.

Going through the junctions in life are just like driving at times. When driving on the road, you are not the only car. There might be a few others, if not more, driving behind or beside you. So, you need to think ahead, of which way you want to turn, even before you reach the junction. Turning at the very last minute, might cause accident or even due to unforeseen circumstances, you might make the wrong turn, instead.

No wonder people always asked what you want to do in your life, instead of how you are going to do to achieve what you want. Just like most of the people will just ask, where you are going, instead of how you are going. There might be hundreds, or even thousands or routes to reach where you want to be. Just that, which one is the best route.

If the route can reach the destination you want, then nothing is a "bad" route. It is only that you might take longer time to reach, compared to others; or maybe faced more pitfalls than others. However, by the end of the day, it is still what you learnt, through the journey of yours.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

last day

It's the last day.. another 18 days to go to be full 8 years here..

End of 2009
She told us that she might be moving soon to Barro de la Ciudad next year. She only has 2 options to choose, either to allow her company to relocate her there or to quit her job and find a new job there. Either choice, she still needs to be in Barro Ciudad as her partner is there waiting for her. After spending almost 8 years in Areca Isla, it had almost become her second home.

May 2002
We had all came to Areca Isla in year 2002, another 18 days to go to be full 8 years here, on the island. We are not that close during our first year together as we both mingled with different group of friends, but as we do have some common friends and had studied in the same field, we do get the chance to mix around.

She's a friendly person, though she might looks very sociable but she does have a shy part of her, too. She doesn't like to trouble people if she thinks she can handle her own problems herself. She is, like any other girls, who sometimes likes to gossip yet she don't say bad things about others, and would always try to find a reasonable reason for others' wrongdoing. She's quite naive and gullible at times as she rather believes the goodness in others. She loves life to be simple, and that's why she would prefer to stay in Areca Isla than Barro Ciudad.

Mid 2003 - Early 2005
We've become roommates during our second and third year. That 2 years, we have a real big family - 11 coursemates renting a double storey terrace house. Being a student then, of course we'll try to scrimp and save at times, especially when our fund are not banked in, in time. Though once a while we do have big gatherings or outings. Life was really merry and joyful then.

Her voice is actually quite good, and I would say, if she had the chance to undergo proper training since young, she might have made it big now. Her love for musics and biz shows make her quite a popular source to refer to when anyone wanted some musics to listen to or dramas to watch.

She ain't a light sleeper, yet she can manage to sleep for just a few hours a day. Whenever we are rushing for projects or exams, it's common to stay up late for burning midnight oil. Yet, she seems to do it quite often, though sometimes it was only for the urge of finishing a drama.

Mid 2005
Happy times always flew by quite fast. Soon, we have all graduated and it's time to venture into another new world - the working life. Some of us had stayed on in Areca Isla, while others either decided to try their luck in other cities or to return back to hometown.

Somehow, 6 of us who had decided to stay on then, started to look for jobs and a new home. Finally, we've found our place, an apartment with 3 rooms, for the 6 of us. However, after only 1 month, one of us left, leaving 5 of us. As years passed, one left after another. One left because of work that need her to be at another place while the other left as he had found a new home with his new found partner. Finally, the number dropped from 6 to 3.

Beginning of 2010
It's January, and she had confirmed that she'll be going down to Barro Ciudad as she had decided to let her company to relocate her there, though the exact date is not set yet. Come end of March, and she finally got the news that she needs to go early April, 2 weeks from then. Reality finally sunk in. Things need to be bought, packed or settled are cramped into that 2 weeks.

However, just 2 or 3 days before the departure day, her boss told them that the plan might be delayed for a week or two. Days till weeks of waiting and there's no final depature date. She's happy as she hoped to stay on as long as possible at Areca Isla, and if allowed, she would rather just stayed on.

May 2010
3 days ago, she finally got the final departure day, which is today, Sunday 9th May. Coincidentally, today is also Mother's Day. She'd start packing the remaining stuff since Friday. Her office stuff need to be cleared, and also here, at home. It's the final call, the day that she really has to moved on. A place that she had stayed on for almost 8 years, a place that's been home apart from her hometown.

Her bus is to leave at 2:30pm. At 1:50pm, I've drived her and her partner to the bus station, with all the stuff she had packed. She had almost wanted to cry when she say goodbye. I didn't want to stay on long, and went straight back home after dropping them off. I don't feel like saying goodbye, it's not final goodbyes, we are still in the same country, though far apart now.

I've lost a roommate and a housemate that I had for so long. The house is now emptier, leaving only me and Miguel. Her place is almost bare now, the place where she used to put her stuff and her computer, leaving behing only things that she don't plan to bring along. Now, only memories linger behind.

I'm not good in saying goodbyes. I'm not even good in expressing myself. There's something I didn't tell her before. Sometimes, she reminds me of my mum. Their way of thinkings (when my mum was in her younger years), their laughters, their expressions when trying out or seeing new things. Honestly, it sometimes irks me, yet I know, I've long regarded her as part of my family.

Be brave and be strong, my dear sis. This is not an ending, but instead, it is just another new beginning at a new place. A new journey that you need to embark on by yourself. Though there are times where you try act like my big sister, but, there are times too, that I feel as if you are my younger sis that I need to worry all the time, yet I know that one needs to be given the time and space to grow up.
I really wanted to say sorry and thank you for everything all these years. Don't forget the we are just a few hours apart and the world is actually just a mouse click away.
We are all far away from our own families, the family ties we had on Areca Isla is what I hold onto dearly till today. I hoped our ties will remain strong, even though we are all far apart now.

Goodbye for now, but we'll meet again soon enough. Take care & all the best!

Monday, April 26, 2010

doomsday

2012 - That's the prophecy for end of the world. There seems to be quite a lot of prophecies which ended in 2012. Are you worried about doomsday?
Quite on contrary, I am kind of looking forward to it. Not because of everything will be ended, but instead, something new will be emerging.

In facing the end of the world, we will be facing the real us, trying to survive in the world. I believed that everyone of us, has been learning about surviving skills. But sadly, it's only about how to survive in the business world or the so-called, dog-eat-dog world.What about basic nature surviving skills?

Nature is still part of us, despite the ever growing industrialism or modernization. We still need to learn about basic surviving skill of the nature as we are living on mother earth, where the there are still vast, unknown mother nature where we are not accustomed to.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

time to spare

What do you do in your free time?
I guess, when asked on this question, most people will think of what they do when they have the whole weekend by themselves.
Well, what about the free time between after dinner till before sleeping time?
Or the 30 minutes extra time you've got as you finish your lunch earlier today?
Or the 5 minutes break that you have between the 2 meetings you are having?
Ain't all these free time, too?

Saturday, April 17, 2010

not to be short-changed

I'd actually put it behind me after the lunch, yesterday. Had even apologized to the others on the unpleasant experience, after all, I feel that I do have some responsibility over it, as I was the one who organized it.

However, after the call this afternoon, some how I was triggered to re-think or maybe to re-evaluate what had happened yesterday noon as well as what was mentioned to me in the call today.

I'm considered a mild-tempered person, and I'm the one that normally be at the disadvantage, should there be any situation arised. But, what happened yesterday noon plus the phone call I got today noon, perks me up. Sometimes, we do need justification done if we felt that we are being short-changed by others.

I am trying not to be too biased on the whole situation, I weighed what the others had been thinking as well as what the other party might be thinking. But, as a consumer, I would think more on that perspective.

From my own booking experience, plus yesterday's lunch experience, plus the conversation the restaurant owner had with me today, I had tried to come out with the analysis and summary as below:

I'm organizing a birthday cum farewell lunch for 20++ of us. After I've identified the venue, I tried to contact the restaurant hoping that I can get a copy of the menu without going over to the place itself (since they have email), end up, I still went over the restaurant and only got the online copy of the menu later in the afternoon.

1) Cancelling of order
As there are 20++ of us going there, I've faxed in my order on Thurs noon, so that they can get prepared earlier and we can be served on time.
On Fri morn, I need to call in to cancel 2 orders as one can't make it for the lunch and another is not feeling well. The manager did not say that it wasn't convenient to cancel or that they had already prepared the food, so, I assumed they have no issue with it. I was actually quite grateful for them to be able to cancel the orders an hour before our lunch appointment.
However, in my conversation with the restaurant owner, apparently, my cancelling of order had caused problem for the kitchen as they started preparing the pre-ordered food at 10:30am that day.
Analysis: I do have the responsibility over cancelling the 2 orders an hour before the appointed time, but, I wasn't informed that the kitchen is/will be having problem with that. Don't the manager or the kitchen staffs have the responsibility as well? For not trying to tell me the difficulties they are facing? So, why is the blame shifted over one-sided and not be shared across?

2) Changed of menu
At first I didn't notice on the differences until someone pointed out that they have ordered grilled fish and what it came was fried fish (fish dipped in batter then fried). The only answer we got was the kitchen/manager mixed up the fish menu. But, it should indeed be grilled fish - one of the set lunch for Fri.
Analysis: Why was there no apology made on the mistake of the menu? This was obviously the mistake made by the restaurant and though we do not pursue the matter, then why no credit were given to us on that matter?

3) Food is hard to eat/not edible
We have ordered 12 sets of the fish set, where 8 were being served first, then later 1 set and the other 3 do not have the chance to serve at all, as they don't dare to eat after hearing complaints on the fish and opt for other sets instead. What were the complaint about? The fishes were so hard that they were having a hard time trying to cut it with the knife, much less to chew it.
I was being told off for using the word 'food is not edible'. What I was told is that, if the fish is not edible then the other customers would have complaint and throw the food back to them as well. And I was being told that everyone had different taste which some might find the food is hard while some may find it soft, and some may find the food to be salty while some may not.
Analysis: After pondering for quite some time, then only I realised few points that I should have pointed out to the restaurant owner. Firstly, out of the 9 fish sets that were served, 89% of them complaint on that. So, don't tell me that 89% out of 100% people have "different" taste? The restaurant can't even meet the 50% of the consumer's standard of taste? Secondly, as for why no other customer complaint, that brings up another query, is it that the food served for pre-orders and walk-in customer are different? Or is it that pre-made orders are not as fresh as current orders?

4) Lousy service
There were only 1 waitress, 1 cashier and 1 manager that serves the customers. As we had pre-booked, of course, we will assumed that our food will be served on time, or at least we do not need to wait for too long as they already know what to serve for us. But what we faced was, where half of us had finish eating the main course, there are still some that had not had theirs yet. And indeed, I do agreed that when we all had arrived, the place was full of customers.
I was told that we had said out so loud that the restaurant gave lousy service that it was giving bad image of the restaurant. I was also being asked whether our food was served to us? If yes, then there was service done. And I was being told that one person has only 2 hands and 2 legs, and the place was full of people, so definately the service would be slow and customers need to be understanding and patient.
Analysis: Is it our fault that the restaurant is short-handed? Is it our fault that the restaurant is full house that day? I have told the restaurant that I have 20 people coming, don't the restaurant know that it will already take up 50% of their capacity? If I were to made known of their shortage of staffs and the possibility of not being able to serve us on time, I might still be able to either opt for another bigger restaurant with more resources or to have pre-warned the others to have more patience. Am I supposed to consider the management side for the restaurant as well? Another note, lousy in dictionary means bad and bad is the opposite of good.

5) Creating havoc
I was told that we were creating havoc in the restaurant and we were giving bad image of the restaurant, and we complaint too loud that the other customers might think we are ignorant.
Analysis: We, consumers have our rights, too. If the food served is not up to the standard, and if we feel that the service is slow, can't we voice out our concerns? I think, for not speaking out loud on our discomfort, that would be really ignorant on our own rights. And not being able to pacify your customers at such a situation, that would be the restaurant management ignorance.

6) Discount given
I was being repetitive highlighted in the call by the restaurant owner that, we were being given the discount of RM94.20. And I was being told that that they were doing a loss in the business and they do not have the practice of giving discount unless we used specified credit card.
Why were we demanding discount? Because we felt that we were being short-changed by the food and the service when we were there. The manager couldn't really explained why the menu is changed and why the fish is hard and I don't recall the manager apologizing over the matter or look apologetic. We were just keep being told that no discount couldn't be made.
Even though in the end, after endless of bargaining, we do get some items being deducted off (another form of discount), seems like the manager was really unhappy over it.
Analysis: In any normal situation, if the restaurant said there's no discount, I believed that the customer wouldn't ask twice. But in this kind of situation, isn't it fair to compensate more? As a person in business line, isn't customer interest be in the first place? Is it that earning that extra RM94.20 is more important than building up the customers' relationship and trust in you?

7) Past experiences
Funnily enough, the restaurant manager mentioned that they have opened the restaurant for 2 and 1/2 years now and also have such big party with those big factories, yet this is the first time such situation occured. And I even had to mention to her that I have also been there few times before and one of the wonderful impressions I had previously was - we had a similar kind of birthday celebration there and food was nice, service was good, even the manager at that time came and served us and even gave some cakes which was on-the-house. That small gestures actually leaves good impression, so that why I chose that place. But what we faced on Fri noon was totally opposite and came as a shock to us.
Analysis: If the restaurant faced no problem previously, doesn't means that they would never, especially that they have so new staff around and even short-handed. Don't all these contribute to the problem we faced? If the food is nice and the service is good, would we have complaint at all?

A summary I had made on the call the owner gave me.
The owner is trying to make their stand, and to protect its staffs. From an employee's and business owner's perspective - I would have applaud the owner for that. The staffs have worked hard trying to keep the business alive, so naturally, as a boss, one should recognize this and protect its own staffs.
However, from a consumer's perspective - I would say that the owner is trying to have the blame shifted to us (though the owner keep telling me that it don't plan to pinpoint the blame to anyone). Why? Because, the owner is not apologetic over the situation occured and the owner had just called up to hear my end of story, yet no empathy were given at all. To make it worse, the owner said, what is passed, is passed. Erhm, that's it? Surprising, right? Something to be spoken of from a business person to its customer.

I hoped that next time, should I need to dealt with such situation again, I would be able to analyse better and faster, and to react more appropriately.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

falling in love

Do you still remember the feeling of falling in love?
The sweet, strong feeling the envelope yourself, that makes you think the world is ever wonderful and you seems to be able shoot up the sky.
The feeling of being in love is such a wonderful power that if can brings you over mountain or sea, just to reach where you want to.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

financial crisis

It's common to hear financial crisis in the news, it's a cycle that comes every 10 years, though the cycle is getting shorter and shorter each time.

What happens during your own financial crisis? Suddenly, you seems to be short on cash, and everything around you seems to be talking in monetary terms. Even if you are willing to forgo the luxuries, but you will still need money for survival - meals, transportation, etc. Coincidentally, somehow it also seems to be the time where there's a need to buy something.

If you have notice it, sometimes, it's during the crisis that we truly take note of what we need. It's during crisis that really make us think of what is really important, make us think of priorities. Although, it's hard to endure, but if we can go through it, bravo, we have actually survive through a hurdle in life.

So, maybe that's why every now and then, we tend to have the need to face certain kind of crisis. It's actually the chance for us, to come face to face, with the real us.

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Night Run 2010

It's my first night run ever, it's also the first one organised in Putrajaya on 6th Feb 2010. I had completed the half marathon, but it's not within the given time frame. I would said it's kind of more challenging compared to the half marathon I had ran for Penang Bridge.
Well, I don't plan to discuss further on how's the run had been, but rather on the things I've learnt.

I think I found my 4 main ingredients for my recipe of having a good run. But I think, everyone has his or hers own very secret recipe.

Music. Music is not only the source of entertainment, but it can be the source of inspiration, the source of encouragement and etc. No wonder people loved to listen to music while running. I had tried out this time, after I've gotten my little gift. However, having this alone is not really sufficient as it can only try to block you off from not thinking how hard your run might be.

Companionship. Actually, I didn't realise how important the companionship was, until last night. I had always thought that running is something personal, as if living your own life. People can be passing by now and then, but the one that truly lived your life, is yourself. So, basically, everyone's speed and the challenges faced are different. I had met a runner last night and had a very brief chat over the 3 times we crossed each other.It was actually fun and refreshing when you had someone with on the run which you think it's hard and that person talked and encouraged you.

Mind over matters. I still think that running, same as life, is personal, as everyone handle a same challenge differently. So, sometimes, we have to hypnotize ourselves. Our own mind is actually a very powerful substance. When your heart and feet are failing you, sometimes the mind can actually overturn the outcome of it.

Pratice. Last but not the least, practice, pratice, pratice. People said that practice makes perfect. I fully agreed in it. But in this context, I would think it in another aspect. Joining a running competition is like a baby trying to run. In order to run, one has to learn how to stand up and how to walk. So, in other words, before joining a competition, one has to practice as well as to learn up the correct techniques.

Alright, I think that's all for now. Hmm, I am still having sore back, sore arms and legs. Luckily did some strecthing before I slept and after I woke up. Should be able to get over it in 1 or 2 days. :)

Saturday, January 23, 2010

poetry

In school, we used to have poetry lessons now and then. Hmm, but come to think of it, the poetry lessons we had are mostly for Malay classes, not much for English, except the reading part.

Suddenly have the urge to try my hands on poetry. Well, hope it rhymes.


How much do you need me?
You don't seem to need me for anything
Not for company, Not for supporting

People said that lovers need each other
But how much do you need me?
Do you really ever needed me?

I know I need you, everywhere around me
I need you as my companion
I need you as my supporter

But how much do you need me?
Do you really ever needed me?
The way as I needed you?

You lived in a world of your own
Where needs means dependents
Where dependents means burdens

So how much do you need me?
Do you really ever needed me?
Or am I just the one that needed you?

Monday, January 18, 2010

soulmate

I like this definition of soulmate - someone with whom one has a special, almost spiritual connection.

I have first heard this word, when I am quite young, actually. Could not really recall when was that, but I believed that I had came across the word in a storybook. Amazingly, one can really learn a lot of words in storybooks.

There are times indeed that I hoped I had a soulmate of mine, somewhere in the world, where we would some how meet up each other and be there for each other. However, not everyone is so lucky to be able to meet their own soulmate.

Still, all is not lost, even if we do not get to meet our soulmate. This is because, besides soulmate, there are still other people who cares for us, who loves us. We must treasure those that are around us as it is fate that two person gets to meet and it is love that binds us all together.

Cherish them!

Friday, January 1, 2010

happy 2010

Happy New Year, everyone !!
It's the first day of year 2010, and I hope everyone had a good end of 2009 and a good start of 2010 today.

Well, I myself have had a good end of 2009. I found a great website to check out for freelance job, a great dinner (and get to sit next (table) to an artist) and an excellent countdown new year concert with fireworks!

May hope be renewed,
May goals be set,
May lady luck smiles upon you,
and may everyone have a great year ahead!