Tinh Yeu

What a long time!

2010-04-21T18:02:00.002+08:00

Location: HCM
Weather: Sunny, partially cloudy
Mood: Happy but too free
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Finally I can log into my blog. Its been so long that I thought they had terminated my account :P

I chatted with a longtime friend today, saw her online and msg her. We had a short chat, but it left me with deep thoughts.

I have always been an advocate of working women. I support and firmly believe that all women should work, for their own independence, freedom and financial capability. Now now now... I am not a sexist, nor am I a 'big woman'. I just feel that women should have their own careers too. I know many people (including my own relatives) will rebuke me for this statement, but wth, this is my stand.

One day, when I have my own family, I will take care my children, be a hands-on Mum. But at the same time, I will continue to develop my career, because financial independence is equally important. In this ever-changing and constantly evoluting world, who can guarantee me stability and certainty? Who will tell me that he will earn and provide for me forever? Who will not leave me and be by side through all good and bad?

At the end of the day, only us can provide the best guarantee to ourselves.

Emotional vacuum

2010-01-24T23:30:00.002+08:00

My second post for today. Had an unhappy 'conversation' with Dee, just exchanged smses but I feel very sad.

Sometimes I just wanna go away, do what I want and what I like.
Sometimes I just wanna be myself.
Sometimes I just wanna live for myself and no one else.
Sometimes I just wanna tell everyone to go away.
Sometimes I just wanna shut myself up, have no emotions and feelings for anyone.
Sometimes I just wanna be alone.

I wanna go away for a few days, just for myself. I want to be alone with my music and books only. No phone, no email, no internet, no computer, no communication. Not even with Anh.

Yes, I will do just that.

Happy Sunday

2010-01-24T23:15:00.003+08:00

Weather (HCM): Sunny with light breeze
Mood: Sunny with some clouds
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Back from a week of travelling. I have jetted from HCM > Danang > Hanoi from Monday till Thursday. From hot & sunny > cool and drizzling > cold and rainy. What a week!

Happy Sunday :) Had a good day with Anh, went Lotte Mart for lunch, walk around, arcade, supermarketing, coffee and chit chat. It's awesome and fun to be able to do all these, it feels very domestic, couply and peaceful.

Wish that my Geri will recover soon! Wish that my Furry will cheer up soon! Wish that Anh will be more energetic and less sian soon!

And I Love You So

2010-01-14T00:58:00.003+08:00

Weather: Sunny with clouds, breezy, cool
Mood: Light, happy, loved
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And I Love You So - By Emi Fujita

And I love you so
The people ask me how
How I've lived 'til now
I tell them
I don't know

I guess they understand
How lonely life has been
Life began again
The day you took my hand

And yes I know, how lonely life can be
The shadows follow me
And the night won't set me free
But I don't let the evening get me down
Now that you're around me

And you love me too
Your thoughts are just for me
You set my spirit free
I'm happy that you do

The book of life is brief
And once a page is read
All but life is dead
That is my belief

And yes I know, how lonely life can be
The shadows follow me
And the night won't set me free
But I don't let the evening get me down
Now that you're around me
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As I was adding songs to my new HD2 yesterday, I came across this song by Emi Fujita. Its a beautiful song with simple but touching lyrics. It also reflects my current mood.

And I love you so, Mr K. You are a wonder-dino, because you made me laugh and happy till I am floating in the air; and yet sometimes you can also make me cry and pain so much. But I still love you so. This is love, isn't it?

God, I hope this good mood of mine will not end so soon. Let it last longer, and better if forever :)

Back to where I am

2010-01-11T18:23:00.003+08:00

Weather: Sunny in morning, cloudly in afternoon - HCM
Mood: Happy, a bit hyper
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Back to HCM. Goodbye Singapore (for now).

Had a wonderful and happy trip home :) Thanks Daddy, thanks Mommy, thanks Geri, thanks Furry, thanks Sis, thanks Nai, thanks to my whole extended family :) I wish every trip can be as happy and relaxing as this. Time passed fast and easily this trip. Yeah :)

Made a good start in HCM. At least, today is a good day at work and life. I learnt to count my blessings, every single little thing is a blessing from God. Some things can be ignored, some people can be forgotten, because they are just insignificant when compared to other things in life.

I love you: Happiness and Laughter. Please be with me longer.

Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010

2010-01-03T13:54:00.003+08:00

Weather: Hot and humid in Singapore
Mood: Happy
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It's been a good start to the new year.

Had lotsa fun and parties, lots and lots of family time with Nai, Daddy, Mummy, Goddad and Godmom, Uncle Mitchell and Aunt Pauline and my dearest cousins (Edwin, Geri, Jon). I love my medium-sized extended family. 11 of us > a big close-knitted family. Kinship is the best.

Had a relatively easier and happier time with A too. Its nice: to be able to chit chat before sleep every night, whispering until both of us fell asleep. No stress about the time. No stress about when to go home. No stress about where we are. No stress about not being able to call. Except for 1 thing. Well, life is never perfect. We have to accept imperfections. Geri, I remember what you said (meaning), life is a cocktail of happiness and sadness. The happy thing in life is not to have no sadness, but to accept that sadness is part of life. I am trying though somtimes I suck at it :P

Goodbye sadness, Hello happiness.
Goodbye tears, Hello laughter.
Goodbye quarrels, Hello kisses.

For my Ger

2009-12-29T14:34:00.003+08:00

Weather: Cloudy with some sunshine in HCM.
Mood: Neutral. Not much feelings. But at least, I am not sad (for now).
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Start to blog again. At least if I can sign in, I will blog. Ger, are you reading this? I know you are my No.1 fan :) For you, I will continue to write.

Today feels like a normal day (for now). Back to work, back to proposal making (I make proposals faster than making babies :P). Anh is back to work too, I am so glad and happy to know this. Thanks Anh!

It seems that life is kinda back to normal (for now). The pain has subsided (for now). The tears are gone (for now). I am able to laugh a bit (for now).

Thanks Ger, thanks for being here and there for me always. For picking up ur phone and hearing me wailing into your ears like nobody's business, for 10 mins straight. For skyping with me till 2am, even though your eyes are closing. For sharing with me and in the process of doing so, touching your own wounds again.

Thanks Liwen.

Thanks Furry.

Thank God.

To love someone

2009-12-29T02:11:00.002+08:00

To love someone, it means letting him go.
To love someone, it means respecting his decision.
To love someone, it means wanting him to be happy.
To love someone, it means being selfless.

Anh ah, you must remember what we discussed tonight.

Anh ah, you must have more courage, have more backbone.

Anh ah, you must differentiate between true family/frens and superficial family/frens.

Anh ah, you will never know how much I love you. Until you can be selfless.
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Geri, I feel better after chatting with you. You have been my support and shoulder for the past 4 days (and of course, Edwin & Sis).
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I have never experienced such an intense love. It makes me laugh, makes me happy. But it also makes me cry, makes me pain.
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I must have faith. I must believe. I must take this risk for 1 final time.

FINALLY

2009-11-23T14:02:00.002+08:00

I finally can log into my blog :)

Watch this space for updates ... <3

Tuesday, 11 August 2009

2009-08-12T14:13:00.004+08:00

Weather: Neither sunny nor cloudy in HCM

Mood: Happy, light and smiley :)

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I am back in HCM, back in office for work. Not much emails to clear, but I have to finish preparing for a tender due next Friday.

Today is also the 1st day of class for Edwin and Geri at NUS and NTU respectively. I miss my cousins, and since all of them (including Jon) are in school, there is NO ONE to chat with me online. Edwin is not around to squeak me live commentary of SGX (stock-watching is soooo boring without the furry one), Geri is not around to UNO or girls' talk with me (I cannot even gossip with her about Coffee or Dino), even Jon is not free to yak with me... Sis has been missing from MSN for weeks (where are you, Kuah?), Fren is still in China (come back soon!!). Anh is in Vung Tau for work till Wed...*sob sob* poor me... :(

Nevertheless, I am still full of energy because I feel smooth in work. Strangely, I did not really miss Anh today, I only feel sleepy...zzzz.. :P

Oh yes, why shops in HCM close bloody early? I went to DFS in town and it was closed at 7pm?! Wasted trip there! I managed to eat a little at Centro, and msn on wifi, but my appetite has been poor lately, so I did not enjoy my food too. Ah....is this a sign for further slimming? I hope I slim down a bit more, just a lil' more....Hahahah!!! ^_^

Anyway, Miss Mai had a new camera phone. She and Xiao Jie took pictures for us in office today:

Me and my new hairstyle (can see that its purplish?)

Miss Mai and me

My Xiao Jie and me

Friday - Sunday, 7 - 9 August 2009

2009-08-11T16:39:00.003+08:00

Weather: Sunny days in Singapore
Mood: Happier, calmer and laugh a lot a lot ^_^
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Home trips always do wonders for my mood - I tend to relax, laugh and enjoy. Of course, I miss Anh too. Hahahaha :)

Beauty trips to the hair salon and spa/facial place are a MUST on my trips home. I got a deep rich purple color and more texture in my hair - thanks to Liz. I regain my beautiful stylish hair again after 4 months' of absence!! Got my face cleansed and treated to radiance, had a full body massage at Angela's place. My mood automatically improved when I saw myself glowing in the mirror.

Cousins and Liwen came over to my house for mahjong and food on Sunday. Thanks to Mom and Dad, we had a sumptous dinner and wonderful mahjong. Edwin, Jon and Dingyue are so funny together, Geri and I laughed non stop. Even recalling now, brings smile back to my face :P

I felt peaceful and happy throughout this trip, no quarrels, no tears, no anger. Just music, love, food, laughter, hugs :)

Thanks Dee and Mee
Thanks furry Bro
Thanks Geri
Thanks Jonny Boy
Thanks Dingyue Ge Ge
Thanks Kuah
Thanks Dino
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Geri introduced me to James Morrison and I have been hooked on his songs ever since.

My favourite song - "If You Don't Wanna Love Me"

When you lower me down
So deep that I, I can't get out
And when you're lost, lost and alone
Yes you'd think it was the last place
You'd come back for more

If you don't want me to leave
Then don't push me away
Rather blow out the lights
You can watch it all fade
But I'm going nowhere
I'm gonna stay
When you just wanna fight
When you're closing your eyes
'Cause you don't wanna love me

I'm gonna stay
You can't push me to far
There's no space in my heart
Where I don't wanna love you

And when there's no, no stone
Then how can I feel the corn
If there's nothing, nothing, nothing left to lose
Then what is this feeling
That keeps on bringing me back to you

So I'm gonna stay
When you just wanna fight
And you're closing your eyes
'Cause you don't wanna love me

So I'm gonna stay, yes I will
You can't push me to far
There's no space in my heart
Where I don't wanna love you

And if you ask me to leave
And I walked away
We'd still be alone
And we'd still be afraid
I'm going nowhere
I'm going nowhere
'Cause I'm gonna stay

When you just wanna fight
And there's tears in your eyes
'Cause you don't wanna love me
I'm gonna stay

All the tears that I've cried
I could leave them to dry
If you don't wanna love me
Could leave them to dry
If you don't wanna love me

Friday, 7 August 2009

2009-08-07T23:40:00.000+08:00

Weather: Gloomy and cloudy in HCM, hazy and cloudy in Singapore
Mood: Mixed - sad in morning, peaceful in afternoon, happier at night
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Back to Singapore for the weekend :) Whee!!!

Had lunch with Anh at Terrace Cafe, our favourite Bun Thit Nuong (BBQ pork with fresh vermicelli, vege and fish sauce) and Cafe Sua Da (Iced coffee with milk).

Reached Singapore and came back home to homecooked beehoon and soup by Mummy, a night of chatting with Geri and Nai, smell my bed, lazed in my room. Had goodnight kisses from Anh ah. I feel smoother and happier.

The sweetest words I heard today:

"Anh think (for the whole night) if *** wants em to work in China, em don't work for them. Anh don't like em to work in China, anh doesn't want em to work so far, not safe (alone). Anh doesn't feel good. Its ok if em works in Singapore, Vietnam or Malaysia, but not China."

Anh is usually very quiet with his thoughts, he is a calm person who is reserved about expressing all his feelings and thoughts, he will think for very long and clearly before saying it. I know I am the one of the few, if not only, person whom he shares a lot with. Hence I m really touched by his words today.

"A man's silence is a wonderful thing to listen to."
- by Thomas Hardy

Tuesday, 4 August 2009

2009-08-04T15:19:00.009+08:00

Weather: Cloudy, showers in the afternoon and early evening
Mood: Happy, still have a nagging headache (argh!!)
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Today, I realized that men cannot be pampered (always). We do things for them out of love, and sometimes, we expect them to pamper us in return too :)

I had a long and insightful conversation with Jie yesterday, and we discussed about this. It seems that a relationship is really not easy to maintain and nurture. Our partner is a different person from us, and we have to learn to accept each other's flaws, magnify each other's strengths, compromise and tolerate, forgive and forget. This is a lifelong process and we will always be learning about each other.

I finally 'compiled' the qualities that I am looking for in my man: Love, care, understanding, sensitivity, patience, responsibility, tolerance.

<一个爱你的男人> - 张小娴

要知道一个男人爱不爱你，那还不容易吗?

爱你的那个人会给你尊严。

什么样的尊严?

他让你觉得自己高贵。

他让你觉得你在他的世界里是最重要的。你的地位不会排在他的事业之后。

他不会要你每天等他的电话，却从来不说什么时候会打来，也不说会不会打来。

约会之后，他不会放心你独个儿回家。不管已经多晚，也不管你住得多远，他会陪你走那段回去的路。

他不会让你总是孤伶伶地等他回家。

他不会认为你的工作比不上他的工作重要。

他肯定你的工作能力，支持你为梦想奋斗。他不介意常常要等你下班等到很晚。

他不会要你为他放弃工作。

他不可以忍受他的朋友批评你和对你不好。他会跟这些朋友绝交。

他不会在你面前盯着另一个女人看，也不会对着你不停称赞另一个女人的美貌和智慧。

上床之后，他不会要你出去买点东西回来给他吃。

上床之后，他不会赶忙穿上裤子回家去。

他让你相信，你是他今生最幸福的际遇。

他把悲伤留给自己，把痴心留给你。

Monday, 3 August 2009

2009-08-04T13:58:00.007+08:00

Weather: HCM is generally sunny, with a light drizzle in the early evening
Mood: Generally happy, with a tinge of sadness before bedtime (Fren, I remember you said that bedtime is for sleep only, so I try to cheer up and sleep :P)
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I had a good weekend and today is Monday again :P

Its a busy Monday, as usual, because I have an ongoing tender to prepare, and other small enquiries to follow. Office is still very very quiet, though there are more ongoing tenders (for M&E) now. Work and life in Vietnam is always like this: slow, light-hearted and friendly. Even when we face deadlines and difficulties, we still have time to eat, chit chat and laugh. Vietnamese's moods are not dampen by deadlines or crisis > this is one thing I like about being in Vietnam: less stress, more quality life and time.

I spent the whole day reading specs, chatting with frens and colleagues, playing UNO with Geri (so so so fun!!!). Its not a super productive day, but I have a new idea to modify my specs. Ah....modify specs = I do design and specifications for some consultants and they use this to present to Owner and integrate into the tender documents.

Anh is very cooperative today. He sms to tell me that he is going to Dong Nai province and will be back after 6pm. Haha, finally my dinosaur 'learns' > must keep each other informed. Because we tend to meet after work everyday, for dinner and chit chat, hence when one of us is late from work, we need to inform > this minimizes waiting time and frustration. Somehow, we have fallen into a domestic cycle, the feeling is very comfortable and smooth now.

I had pasta for dinner with a new book: "Thanks for the memories" by Cecelia Ahern (thanks to Geri and Jon for this birthday book). Dunno why, these days I love pasta and pizza...and I have to spend extra time in the gym because of all the carbo and calories from them!!! Passed by ice-cream shop and I got 2 tubs of ice-cream too, yummy yummy ^^

Anh came back from Dong Nai and we had ice-cream with icewine. Now now now...icewine is really nice, its sweeter than red wine, and goes very very well with desserts. Hahaha :) Under my coaching, Anh has more appreciation for wine now (he used to drink beer only). In Vietnam, most people like to drink beer or Vietnamese wine; red and white wines are not very popular now.

After Anh went home, I feel a bit bit sad. I love my life now, I like the routine too, I even enjoy staying alone. Of course, I miss my family and frens in Singapore. But to think of it, I have really adapted to the life in VN, and other than my immediate family, a few close cousins and friends, I have virtually lost touch with all other people in Singapore. I have even lost touch with the happenings in Singapore.

Mummy always says, "My pig pig has nothing to worry. She should be one of the happiest person in the world." Sigh, but I am a human, and every human has problems. As I get older, I realized life cannot be without sadness/tears, but what I can do is: minimize sadness and maximise happiness.
<心事的房子> -- 张小娴
"心情原来也可以沉淀。如许心事，渐渐会化为傻气的泪水，化为酒后脸上的微红，甚至化作一种深度。试问又有哪一个有点智慧的人是没有心事的? 心事是一个人那幢虽然残破却舍不得放弃的房子。"

A little note for today: I recalled curling up on the sofa with Anh after ice-cream, and I suddenly asked him, "Why you love me?" Hehehe, Anh replied, "Em ah, we have been together for almost 2 years, and now em ask anh why anh love em ah?" Hehhehe, actually we know the answer, but its just a silly 'game' that I like.
<女人的花冠> - 张小娴
"许多女人都玩过这个明知故问的 ‘游戏’: 你知道这个男人喜欢你，他看你的眼神总是含情脉脉。他什么都抢着替你效劳。他随传随到，不传也到。他爱跟你消磨时光。他每晚都打电话来跟你聊天，好像一天里就是等待这一刻......然而，他却从来不说喜欢你。
.
.
.
终于，他情深款款地说: ‘我喜欢你。’
就在他剖白的那一刻，你对着电话筒甜甜地笑了。
和他玩这个游戏，只是想听他说爱你，这是女人小小的虚荣。这小小的虚荣的一刻，是爱情放在一个女人头顶上的美丽花冠，在记忆中永不凋谢。"

Countdown to end of September

2009-08-04T13:32:00.003+08:00

I have not blogged for very very very long, and today, I wanna blog. Because I have exactly 2 months left in HCM and I want to record down every single happy/sad/angry/emo moment of this period. The posts will be backdated because I can only blog the day after....hahah :)

Check this space for updates ^_^

My recent look:

Oi...

2009-05-12T11:29:00.002+08:00

I have not blog for so long, because I am into using Facebook recently. Used to hesitate from signing up for an account, but I wanted to see my nephews' pictures so I sign up for it (a very big motivation), and now I enjoy using it :)

Haha, anyway...I am so irritated that I must blog. Sorry Anh ah, I know I have promised you last week, that I won't be stubborn or 'very princess'. I remember I promise to be more considerate. BUT today is an exception, I am irritated beyond words. So here it goes...

Some people just like to constantly 'prick' me. For no rhyme or reason, they like to find faults or problems with my work/lifestyle etc.

Generally, I can be very easy-going with money $$$, but when I m irritated and pricky, I CALCULATE every single cent. As the sages say, 'Do not do unto others what you do not want them to do to you". So if people calculate with me, I shall not hesitate to calculate in return and I shall be MORE calculative.

Stop asking me to report where I go, which road did I take, which taxi did I use etc...how can I remember? Yes, the human brain is the most powerful computer, BUT who are you? Why should I report all my actions and activities to you? I have to remember my customers, meeting details, our conversation, prices...How can i be bothered with little details? A smarter and time-saving way is to: set a budget and give me space to plan my activities. If you rein me in, how can I even perform?

I do not care how bad is the economy. I can eat in fine restaurants, but I can also eat bread with water everyday. DO NOT prick me further.

Valentine's

2009-02-15T15:14:00.003+08:00

"。。。其实爱对了人，情人节每天都过。。。"

Somehow this song by Fish Leong popped into my head yesterday.

I did not have a happening V-day. No posh restaurants, no big bouquets of flowers, no gifts, no coffee sessions...anyway, in our 25-odd years of life, I never get this on V-day!

On the contrary, I had a peaceful, quiet and relaxing V-day. Spent time talking and sharing, went around a while to get some wind and fresh air.

I realized the real meaning of Christmas, New Year, V-day.... to have your loved one beside you, as long as we have love, everyday is Christmas, everyday is New Year, everyday is V-day :)

Cold cold HCMC

2009-01-13T12:18:00.002+08:00

A cold wave came into HCMC this week! Mornings and evenings are cold, with temperatures going as low as 19degC. I love the cold! :)

I remember last year, this period, I was in Hanoi for a week. It was both a business trip and also a mini holiday. The weather was super cold too, and on some days, it dipped below 8degC. We celebrated A's birthday there too, as we flew there on 16 Jan. This year, we cannot go to Hanoi and must stay in HCMC.

BUT...
God is good, He brought Hanoi's weather to HCMC and let us re-lived the memories of Hanoi. When HCMC is cold, the streets are similar to Hanoi (just a few more motors). As we walked on the walkways, we enjoy the cold air, the lights, and hot steaming coffee by the sidewalk cafes.

Cold weather in HCM

2009-01-12T13:09:00.000+08:00

我们说好的幸福呢?

2009-01-07T09:33:00.002+08:00

Every song I hear now reflects my mood.

周杰伦 - 说好的幸福呢
词：方文山曲：周杰伦

你的绘画凌乱着在这个时刻
我想起喷泉旁的白鸽甜蜜散落了
情绪莫名的拉扯我还爱你呢
而你断断续续唱着歌假装没事了

时间过了走了爱情面临选择
你冷了倦了我哭了
一开始的不快乐你用卡片手写着
有些爱只给到这真的懂了

怎么了你累了说好的幸福呢
我懂了不说了爱淡了梦远了
开心与不开心一一细数着你再不舍
那些爱过的感觉都太深刻我都还记得

你不等了说好的幸福呢
我错了泪干了放手了后悔了
只是回忆的音乐盒还旋转着要怎么停呢
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是的，我们说好了，约定了，承诺了。
难道我们都忘了吗?

Little Nonya

2009-01-01T20:46:00.002+08:00

Watched the last few episodes of this drama when I am back in SG for New Year.

The story is sad.

The theme song is sadder.

I cry everytime I hear it. Especially today.

【小娘惹】主題曲 - 《如燕》
詞曲: 陳佳明
編曲: Terence Teo
演唱: Olivia Ong

愿意合上眼才能美梦无边
别让悔熏乌了从前
也许碎片才能让回忆展颜
何妨瓷花拼凑明天

谁带我寻获幸福的模
却自己谜中困锁
谁为我留下缱绻的天涯
信物是抹晚霞

思念如燕它飞舞舌尖
若是真爱配尝几分苦甜
意念婆娑时间里推磨
追随到何处才结果

燕如针线在青空缝编
几幅女红将以泪缀点
誓言斑驳情雾只是经过
风雨中且让我盈步婀娜

Home home home

2008-12-29T11:28:00.002+08:00

I miss home.

This trip is less than 4 weeks, but I feel as if I had been away for 4 months.

I really miss Daddy, Mummy and my home.

I am not able to control my emotions properly. Work, life, my health...etc etc...everything adds together and I feel as though I will breakdown soon.

I need to go back to my 'habour' and 'shelter'. To refresh, rest and relax.

I will be the cheerful and happy Evelyn again. Also to be a better person for myself, for my family, my frens and Anh.

Simplicity

2008-12-26T11:52:00.002+08:00

Merry Christmas :)

Through this festive season, I realized that a simple life is a happy life. No need fancy dresses, posh restaurants, expensive dinners... Christmas can be just as enjoyable :)

I just need my family, close frens and A with me. I feel very contented and happy. Everyday is Christmas, everyday is New Year!

Thanks A.

I'll Still Love You More

2008-12-24T12:27:00.003+08:00

~~ Lovely song...by Trisha Yearwood
Ask me how much you mean to me
And I wouldn't even know where to start
Ask if this love runs deep in me
And you won't find a deeper love in any heart

You could say you couldn't live one day without meY
ou could say all of your thoughts are about me
You could think no other love could be as strong
But you'd be wrong
You'd be wrong

If you say that you love me
More than anybody
Than anyone's ever been loved before
As much as you love me
Baby, I'll still love you
Baby, I'll still love you more
I'll still love you more

Ask me just what I'd do for you
And I'll tell you I would do anything
Ask if this heart beats true for you
And I'll show you a truer heart could never be

You could say there's not a star that you won't bring me
You could say there'll be no day that you won't need me
You could think no other love could last as long
But you'd be wrong
You'd be wrong

If you say that you love me
More than anybody
Than anyone's ever been loved before
As much as you love me
Baby, I'll still love you
Baby, I'll still love you more
I'll still love you more

And for every kiss
I'll kiss you back a hundred times
And for everything you do
I'll just do more
And for all the love you give
I'll give you so much back you'll see
Got so much love for you inside

If you say that you love me
More than anybody
Than anyone's ever been loved before
No matter how much you love me
Baby, I'll still love you
Baby, I'll still love you more, yeah
I'll still love you more
*********************************************************************************************
Yes, I'll still love you more, A.

It'll be a lovely and splendid day!

Merry Christmas :)

...

2008-12-20T23:59:00.002+08:00

A soccer match lasts 90 mins. You do not know the final score until the final whistle.

A day lasts 24 hrs. You do not know whether you are really happy until 12 midnight.

Today is not such a good, beautiful day after all.

Happiness is back :)

2008-12-20T16:21:00.002+08:00

I feel happy.

I dunno why, but this week, ever since Monday, happiness is back. I don't swing between happy and sad easily, I don't cry or tear easily, I don't cling onto my phone, I don't feel anxious and insecure constantly. I will keep this good mood going and going... ^_^

Many things happened in the past weeks. My emotions went through a roller coaster (like the King of Roller Coasters at Mt Fuji Theme Park > steep and high). Suddenly, I am no longer a little girl, who waits to be directed and taken care of. I must think and choose the path to take, be responsible for my decisions.

Thank you, to all those who have helped me. You know who you are.

Thank you, A ah.

Loving' You

2008-12-15T14:04:00.003+08:00

Today is a better day. I woke up and feel loved.
Just like this song...

Lovin' you is easy cause you're beautiful
Makin' love with you is all i wanna do
Lovin' you is more than just a dream come true
And everything that i do is out of lovin' you
La la la la la la la... do do do do do

No one else can make me feel
The colors that you bring
Stay with me while we grow old
And we will live each day in springtime
Cause lovin' you has made my life so beautiful
And every day my life is filled with lovin' you

Lovin' you i see your soul come shinin' through
And every time that we oooooh
I'm more in love with you
La la la la la la la... do do do do do

Thanks A. For everything.

I Love Cooking

2008-12-15T13:48:00.003+08:00

Recently, I love cooking.

I would go to the supermarket every Sunday, load my cart with lotsa vegetables, meat, chicken. eggs etc...and then I would return to my apt and pack them into my fridge (it's getting too small for me...i miss my 2-door fridge at home).

Then I would actually sit down, with a notepad and pen, and begin to plan the menu for the whole week. I even have a book in which I write down recipes as I go along, I get lotsa help from Mummy and Nai Nai.

Last Friday, I felt 'ready' and asked Truc over to my place for cooking and dinner. This is what we have done:

Chicken, vege and tofu > laid on top of an omelette. I got this idea when I watched TV and they were introducing Teppanyaki Tofu. I do not have the hotplate with me, hence mine is Ceramic Plate Tofu. Nevertheless, it was yummy... :)

Truc fried a fish, because its my favorite! Fried fish is the only food which I would never cook myself, because...I cannot fry a fish :P Anyway, I love the soy sauce with ginger and spring onions. Whatever i request, my Nanny would cook for me ^_^

Yummy dinner!!

是震撼，也是无力感

2008-11-18T11:28:00.002+08:00

I had been extremely busy last week, day out at 6am, day in at 10pm. No time to read and relax. Finally, I had time to catch up on my reading this week.

<是震撼，也是无力感> -- 张小娴
一位念中六的女孩子问，爱情的定义是。。。。。她思考了很久，还是想不到。
爱情的定义，对每个人来说，也许都有点不同吧。

有些女人觉得男朋友哪天不打她就是爱她，有些女人觉得男朋友哪天打她才是爱她。
有些女人认为替男人生孩子是爱他，有些女人却认为为男人打掉孩子才是爱他。
有些女人觉得为一个男人放弃自己的理想，便是爱他。有些女人却会因为爱一个男人而有自己的理想，她怕跟不上他。

付出是一种爱，但是，想从他身上得到更多，也是一种爱。
思念是爱，但是，你叫自己不要再思念他，你负担不起了，那也是爱。

爱是有安全感，又没有安全感。
爱是一种震撼，也是一种无力感。
爱是诱惑，也惟有爱能给你力量抗拒诱惑。
爱是忠诚，可是，爱也令你背叛。

不要问我爱情的定义，它的定义会随着你的年纪和经历改变，越来越清晰，或者越来越模糊。那时候，你会明白，寻找定义是不必要的。

A day out with Mummy @ Orchard Road

2008-11-18T10:24:00.004+08:00

I was back in SG 2 weeks ago, it was a short trip home for me. As Xmas was approaching, I am itching to go out for some retail therapy, and hence I took a few days of leave and asked Mummy to go on a 1-day shopping spree with me!

When I was in NUS, I had plenty of time other than going to lectures. I could go on shopping sprees with Mummy almost every week. We will walk from one end of Orchard (Scotts Isetan) to the other end (Centrepoint), covering Scotts Isetan - Far East Plaza - Tangs - Wisma - Taka - Paragon - Heeren - Centrepoint. Our trip starts at 9am and will end at 10pm. Haha!!! Just eat and buy, eat and buy :)

On 5 Nov, we decided to do it again....we started at 9am and had breakfast at Bedok Interchange before taking a train to Orchard....

A snapshot of Orchard Road. Quite deserted as it was a weekday.

The fountain outside Ngee Ann City

Every year, Ngee Ann City will put up a gigantic Christmas Tree :)

Mummy outside Takashimaya S.C. One of our favourite places to shop as it has everything (almost) under 1 roof!

This pair of Japanese dolls stood at the entrance of Takashimaya. So cute!

Me and my Iced Passion Tea - Coffee Club Express! Whenever we go on a 1-day shopping spree, we will always stop for afternoon tea and rest.

Mummy and her Muddy Mud Pie (before)

Mummy and her Muddy Mud Pie (after)

The next time we can shop will have to be around Xmas period, when I will be back in Singapore for 2 weeks. Haha!!! Let's do it again!

The love of my life

2008-11-06T00:06:00.002+08:00

I guess I am one of the millions of people worldwide, who followed the US Elections very closely. No, this post is not about politicals or opinions. This post is about Mr Obama's acceptance speech right after his successful election to the White House.

Mr Obama thanked his supporters, running mate and family for their immense and unwavering support. He also thanked his wife, who is 'the love of his life' and attributed his success to her support.

I was immensely touched when I heard this sentence in his speech. Yes, I guess many, or I would say most, of us would not be what we are today without our family and loved ones. We need the moral support from them, the care and concern from them, and just their presences alone are enough to help us ride through the storm.

To the love of my life. Thank you for being there for me.

情人不是 LEGO

2008-11-02T21:58:00.002+08:00

Was feeling a bit sad and melacholic tonight, as I listened to oldies on radio, I read another book by 张小娴. One of the paragraphs is like this:

"...你想得到一样东西，便要首先放手。
情人不是你的LEGO积木，可以让你拿在手里，砌出心中的理想模型，有时候，你只能 LET GO。
爱便是学习去放手。
当你舍弃的时候，你便拥有。
........
肉体有边界，人心却是无边界的。隔了数不清的年月之后，你终于了解，你所爱的，是无边界的东西，你不能拥有，只能等他流向你。"
*********************************************************************************************
读后感:
有一种爱叫做放手。
如果两个人有缘，就算距离很远，两颗心也贴得很紧。你心里有我，我心里有你。
你说，真爱能够缩短距离，时间和空间。
告诉我，我还能相信你吗?

Another article from 张小娴

2008-11-02T16:59:00.003+08:00

I am back in Singapore on my monthly break. Its been raining quite frequently in Sg, and the rainy weather 'confined' me to home. I picked up some books and read...savouring each page :) I re-found meaning in some of them, one of them is this:

<和潜力恋爱> -- 张小娴

许多女人一辈子也是和男人的潜力恋爱。
她爱上的，是他的潜力。她相信这个男人将来会有她所期望的成就，他也变成她所渴望的那种人。她和一种期待恋爱，直她的期待落空了，她也失恋了。
男人不是股票，即使男人是股票，也没有一个人会笨得用自己的期望和幻想去买一支股票。女人这种动物，却会用期望和幻想去爱一个男人。
潜力即是未发生，也有可能永远不会发生的东西。只迷恋现状的女人，可能有点肤浅，只顾跟潜力恋爱得女人，又太脱离现实了。
男人爱女人的现状，女人爱男人的现状和潜力，这是无可厚非的。现状和潜力各占多少百分比，可是个智力问题。
百分之三十的现状和百分之七十的潜力，未免太危险了。
一半一半，便有一半机会会失望。
我会要百分之七十的现状和百分之三十的潜力。相信他有潜力，是相信他会和我一起进步。爱现在的他，不管将来，那么，我至少享受过他的现状，而不是跟自己的期待恋爱。
*********************************************************************************************

Miss Vy's birthday - 23 Oct 2008

2008-10-28T11:51:00.003+08:00

I was told that there will be a lunch party, compliments from Miss Vy - our company accountant on Thursday.

VN ppl are nice and friendly, they love parties and would take turns to cook and treat friends, colleagues and family members.

When I came back to the office from Dong Nai on Thursday, I was pulled to lunch with everyone and the food item was : Banh Trang Cuon. To translate into english > it means rice paper wrapped with beef (or any meat) and vegetables. Vietnamese would dip into fish sauce, while I dip into the sauce from the beef :P

After lunch, I was then told that it was Miss Vy's birthday and that's the reason she cooked and invited us for lunch :) All of us decided to pool and buy a birthday cake for her (a surprise!).

Miss Vy and her birthday cake
From left: Miss Tu Linh, Miss Dep, Miss Mai, Miss Phuong Linh, Miss Vy, Me and Miss Huong
The birthday girl

We had a lovely afternoon as we took photos (using my HTC), sang the birthday song, cut and eat the cake. There were small cups of jello too, in different flavours (coconut, yam, cherry, fruit etc...).

Another memorable experience in VN! I will never forget it :)

Old english songs

2008-10-15T12:35:00.002+08:00

Recently, a gf introduced me to a website where I can hear a lot of old English songs online. Hmmm...and suddenly this song appeared in my head:

Have I Told You Lately - Rod Stewart

Have I told you lately that I love you
Have I told you there's no one else above you
Fill my heart with gladness
Take away all my sadness
Ease my troubles that's what you do

For the morning sun in all its glory
Greets the day with hope and comfort too
You fill my life with laughter
And somehow you make it better
Ease my troubles thats what you do

There's a love thats divine
And its yours and its mine like the sun
And at the end of the day
We should give thanks and pray
To the one, to the one

Have I told you lately that I love you
Have I told you there's no one else above you
Fill my heart with gladness
Take away all my sadness
Ease my troubles that's what you do
*********************************************************************************************

Lovely song right? Oldies are always the best.
It brings tears to my eyes everytime I listen to it.

Have I told you lately that I love you?
Without words, I know that you know.
100% and 101%?

2008-10-14T15:34:00.000+08:00

时事造英雄

OR

英雄造时事

Old & New Memories

2008-10-14T15:09:00.002+08:00

For: A dearie friend who has been feeling low lately
*************************************************************************************
Memories are intricate things.

They are part of our spirit, our soul, our brain, our emotions, our feelings.

We cannot live without memories, yet we cannot live only based on memories.

Old memories are deeply embedded in our brains, we cannot forget the things that had happened, the people we had met, all laughter, all tears...

However, as we live, we will meet new people and continue to create new memories, which will create new chapters in our lives.

We should not try to erase the past. Yet we also must embrace the future.

Different stages...haha :)

2008-10-10T14:35:00.002+08:00

Mummy used to tell me that dating is an interesting process, men will behave differently at different stages. Haha, recently, I observed this trend (from people and frens around me). One scenario is when a couple eat together in a restaurant.

1st month
Waitress put a saucer of chilli sauce on the table (for dipping).
Girl: "I need soy sauce because I cannot eat chilli."
Guy: "Excuse me, could you please give us some soy sauce?"
Waitress brought a saucer of soy sauce with cut chilli.
Guy: "Sorry, please give us soy sauce w/o chilli."

2nd to 6th month
Waitress put a saucer of chilli sauce on the table (for dipping).
Girl: "Erhm..." (gave a I-do-not-eat-chilli look)
Guy: "Excuse me, could you please give us some soy sauce?" (he said it automatically because he already knows the habit of his gf)
Waitress brought a saucer of soy sauce with cut chilli.
Guy: "Sorry, please give us soy sauce w/o chilli."

6th month onwards
Waitress put a saucer of chilli sauce on the table (for dipping).
Girl: "Erhm..."
Guy: "Excuse me, could you please give us some soy sauce?"
Waitress brought a saucer of soy sauce with cut chilli.
The guy gave the soy sauce to the girl and continued eating. The girl eyed the saucer apprehensively and gave a I-do-not-eat-chilli look.
The guy used this chopsticks and removed all the cut chilli, left only the soy sauce.
Girl: "But the sauce is still spicy..."
Guy: "Eh, you can eat Thai Tom Yum soup. Why can't you eat soy sauce with some chilli?!?!"
Girl: "Sigh..." (rolled her eyes)

风雨无阻

2008-09-25T18:31:00.001+08:00

<风雨无阻> -- 周华健

给你我的全部
你是我今生唯一的赌注
只留下一段岁月
让我无怨无悔
全心的付出
怕你忧伤怕你哭
怕你孤单怕你孤独
红尘千山万里路
我可以朝朝暮暮

给你一条我的路
你是我一生不停的脚步
让我走出一片天空
让你尽情飞舞
放心的追逐
爱是漫长的旅途
梦有快乐梦有痛苦
悲欢离合人间路
我可以缝缝补补

提着昨日总总千辛万苦
向明天换一些美满和幸福
爱你够不够多
对你够不够好
可以要求不要不在乎
不愿让你看见我的伤处
是曾经无悔的风雨无阻
拥有够不够多
梦的够不够好
可以追求
不认输

Money and work

2008-08-29T10:31:00.002+08:00

Recently I realized that money and work are closely related. To be more accurate, they are directly proportional.

If money is 50% good, work feeling is 50%.
If money is 100% good, work feeling is 100%.

I have spoken with many people, Dad, Mom, some frens, Anh a...and we all agreed: work = money.

Of coz, there are other reasons too: to pass time, to get in touch with society, to have satisfaction, to have a good career etc etc etc.

But when you are really fed up, stuck, frustrated with work. When office politics bug you, ppl criticized you. When problems in work keep sprouting out. When nothing is smooth....wat keeps you going >>>>> $$$

I love money. Edwin Brother, remind what we used to say? Heehee...

Please do not tell me there is anyone who does not work for $$$.

Sashimi and Wasabi

2008-08-22T13:13:00.002+08:00

I dont eat raw food.

Salmon, tuna, wasabi...all these food are definitely out of my favourite food list.

Yesterday, i re-wrote my list and added in "raw prawns".

It was my last night in HCM and after work, Anh a brought me out for dinner at an exquisite place (it is an old Chinese teahouse, like those we see in period dramas. We sat on the 2nd floor. I'll take some pics next time!) He ordered fresh raw prawns (they call it shrimp here, but its definitely tiger prawn), deshelled, cleaned, arranged on an ice platter. The sauce was a mixture of wasabi, soy sauce with lemon.

I eyed the dish apprehensively/suspiciously and would not lift my chopsticks at all. Anh demostrated on eating the shrimp and he urged me to TRY.

Finally, I took 1 small tiny shirmp (the smallest i can find on the platter) and dipped in the sauce. Since its raw, i had to dip more so that all bacteria will be 'killed' by the wasabi. Anyway, i took a small bite...

At first, it tasted cold and salty, then choking coz of the wasabi. Its a sharp jolt to my senses, esp nose and i felt my airway cleared and then i felt shiok! I washed everything down with cold Heineken. Then i reached for the 2nd, 3rd, 4th piece....Anh a was laughing and laughing throughout...i think he enjoyed watching my expression and actions than eating it.

So, everything also has a first time. I have not tried some things before, but it does not mean i do not like them. It only means i have not grown to like them.

原来每一样东西都有第一次。

Thanks Anh a. Its really an unforgettable experience :)

Nostalgic

2008-08-21T10:17:00.002+08:00

Suddenly, when I woke up this morning, I began to reminicise my 'old life' in SG. Not that I dislike my life in HCM now, but I miss those days at home.

Life at home (w/o work)
Exercise and breakfast
Shower and make up
Out for lunch with Mom, Aunts or frens
Shopping
Tea time
Spa or hair time
Dinner
TV/DVD
Read novels
Sleep

Life in HCM (with work)
Shower and breakfast
Work
Lunch
Work
Dinner (either cook or eat out)
Chit chat with frens
TV (if any nice movies)
Read novels
Sleep

I just feel nostalgic and i missed my relaxing and worry-free days in Sg. Yes, i know everyone must grow up one day, and we have to face life's stress and pressure. But...just sometimes...i wish i am back to the university days, when life was much simpler, when i was much more carefree (being alone and single).

Another 5 months. I must perservere till Jan 2009.

Accident

2008-08-20T10:16:00.002+08:00

HCM has a maddening traffic system: traffic regulations are ignored, lane markings are virtually non-existent, motorcycles and cars fight for road space. The most absurb 'phenomenon' is that when vehicles need to turn right, they keep left, and then when they are about to turn, they will horn and horn to get all the right-lane-vehicles to stop, and then turn right. Totally unbelievable.

After 10 months in HCM, i had been quite safe and lucky > no accidents. Until this morning....

On my way to work in a taxi, i was reading my novel (as usual) and the driver was honking and weaving his way through the congested roads. Suddenly, there was a loud bang and a strong impact. My whole body lurched forward and i had to hold onto the front seat in order to steady myself. It seems that a motorcycle suddenly dashed out from nowhere and the taxi could not brake in time, and there was a collision. Surprisingly the motorcycle is not damaged, neither is the taxi....both driver/rider are safe. But the impact left me with a sore neck and strained back.

Is the traffic in HCM really chaotic, or is it because SG traffic is so much more normal and regulated?

Hectic days

2008-08-13T18:59:00.002+08:00

Its 6pm HCM and i am still staring at my email inbox, with a big heavy thick file beside me.
What does this mean?
Overloaded? Busy?

These days, i m terribly busy. A colleague in my team left, others are inexperienced and I take care of the whole bulk of work. Mornings would be spent going around for appointments, afternoons would be spent in office meetings, evenings would be spent in front of my lappy. Where are those days of coffee/movies/dinners and drinks with Anh and frens?

Anh a is very busy too. He would leave his home for office at 7am, then go out to other provinces for work then return to the city only at 7pm. Often, when we eventually meet, it would be 8pm (730pm is earliest) and we would be dead tired. Dinner is no longer an enjoyable activity at restaurants, we would cook something simple or just takeaway.

Weekends are more enjoyable & relaxing, but I often nap the afternoons away and would only wake up at early evening. OMG! I am so piggy...oink oink :)

So, this is real life, heh? No wonder most ppl have no time/energy to date or get into a serious relationship > work occupies 80% of our time!!!!

Olympics & The Phelps Phenomenon

2008-08-12T15:37:00.004+08:00

The 'in' thing now: Olympics.

Being in VN does not stop me from catching the Olympics, though the telecasting of the events here is.....below expectations. In SG, we have 6 dedicated channels for Olympics. In VN, only 2-3 channels, and the main problem is: they do not telecast the events as per schedule. There is actually NO schedule to speak of in the first place, they just telecast whatever events that are taking place at that moment. So we just gonna try out luck and go thru all channels...grrr...

Anyway, I count blessings coz they will telecast the swimming events!! I only watch out for Michael Phelps.. heehee... oh gosh! This man swims like a 'fish'...fast and furious...

3 gold medals...5 more to go...I am counting for him too :)

Happy 53rd Birthday!!

2008-08-05T17:39:00.004+08:00

I was back in SG last week for a break and also to celebrate Daddy's bday.

I took half-day leave and enjoyed some father-daughter time with Daddy, and of coz, we watched movies (its our fave activity). Then we had family dinner tgt.

Me and Daddy. He doesn't look a day older than 45 years old...heehee...53?? Must be joking :)
Ah... family photo. NahNah, me and Dee Dee.
Edwin, Nai Nai and Me.
Just me and NahNah
'寿桃' -- Longevity Peach

According to Chinese customs, this is for the birthday boy/girl and his guests. It is to wish him/her good health and long life :)

It was a great dinner, the food was yummy (chinese food always nice), the company was fantastic. I really treasure every minute spent in Singapore with my family :)

Happy Birthday, Dee Dee!!!!!

Another month...

2008-07-28T13:19:00.004+08:00

End of July and I m back from HCM after a month-long trip. To summarize:

What has not changed:
- My overall look (*LOL*)
- My love for home and family + frens
- My craving for local food (Laksa, Nasi Lemak, Char Kway Teow, Carrot Cake...yummy!)
- My desire to visit KBox, Kino, Spa, Facial, Hair revamp etc...to indulge myself in SG shopping!!!
- My love for my big big bed, pink bedroom, cozy house, big tv...etc
- My passion for my work (though it varies from time to time, LOL)
- Anh a

What has changed:
- My complexion (somehow it deteriorates...F1 F1 Aunt Angela!!)
- My hair (my bob has outgrown)
- My temper (somehow I m easily irritated and less able to self-control)
- My energy levels (it has decrease, i feel more sleepy and easily lethargic these days)

Need to recharge, re-energize and refresh before the trip back to VN (soon..) again...Argh....Other than the nice cafes, some close frens, Anh a...nothing appeals to me in HCM anymore...how can i re-find the adrenalin in work again??!!

Reflections

2008-06-23T15:34:00.003+08:00

I am sitting at Gloria Jeans now, enjoying some time for coffee and emails.

Sitting here, I suddenly realized how tired I am, how exhausted I have become. My eyes are droopy, my head feels heavy, my whole body is aching...nothing feels good. The most important thing: I have forgotten how to smile (from my heart).

Recently, my happiness is build on certain things. Some small things can bring a sparkle to my day and i will cheer up instantly. But if 1 small bad thing happen, my mood will take a 180-deg turn at once. Most often than not, my emotions will be built around 1 person.

As usual, a stupid misunderstanding sparked a argument between us again. As I lay in bed thinking the whole night, I cannot find any answer as to why we can quarrel over such a small thing and which does not even constitute a problem. Finally the answer dawns on me: understanding and communication. This is a difficult period, anything done and said is wrong.

My way of communication is too pressing. Too much Q are asked, too much that I want to know. And the more I cannot find out, the more i want to know.

His way of expressing is too ________. He wants to feel smooth to talk, feel smooth to share, feel natural to call. The more i ask/call, the more he escapes.

Maybe the 'old fashioned' way is still correct. Guys should chase after girls, girls must not turn around and chase guys.

Some thoughts for me to chew on.

Geri is in town

2008-06-12T13:55:00.002+08:00

Yeah! Geri is in town.

My sister had flown into HCMC this morning for 4D3N, for a short break (before uni starts) and also to accompany me :)

i have already plan the activities, dinners, cafes we are going...hehehe...

Also, another thing to note: I re-start my fitness workout today, coz I checked into a hotel with gym (small but enough). Haha... in HCM, its hard to run outdoors coz of the weather and air pollution (unless u get up real early, abt 5am). So i had to use the gym.

Mood: Very very happy
Time on treadmill: 30 mins
Speed: 6km/hr
Inclination: 4.0

Small things

2008-06-12T13:52:00.002+08:00

Humans are funny creatures...it is weird how we can get angry or happy over small things.

Sometimes, i feel really fed up and irritated, over the most trivial thing or a sentence. I will get into a pek chek and unreasonable mood, and argue with him.

Sometimes, the little things people do can brighten up my day instantly. Even if it is a small gesture or a sms, I feel happier and more cheerful instantly.

Then i realized....its actually all in the mind. Our brain controls our emotions and reactions. Whether to be happy or sad, 80% depends on our mind power.

As Anh a said, "Stay positive, think positively".

Back at home

2008-06-07T12:30:00.001+08:00

Yeah, i m back home in SG.

Yeah, i feel happier and busier.

Yeah, i really love my home. Nothing beats my own home, family and frens.

Keke...must enjoy my short short stay in SG :)

I Love You -- by Joanna Wang

2008-05-29T10:53:00.005+08:00

I love this song.

I still remember that someone sang the Chinese version (by David Tao) to me before. It was very very long ago, on a night when we were chatting online. Suddenly he sang the song and I was surprised (well, a bit shocked too). The warm feeling touched my heart and at that time, I really like him.

So many years later.. now, i still love this song. And I love the English version, by Joanna Wang. The music is the same, the lyrics is still penned by David Tao and has the same meaning.

But the person in my heart is not the same person anymore. My feeling when I listen to this song is different, the face that comes to my mind when the song is played is also different. This time, the feeling is stronger, and its a mixture of happiness, sadness and bitterness. I really love him.

Anh a, this is for you:

王若琳- i love you

I love you
Say we're together baby
You and me

I can only give my life and show you all i am in the breath i breathe
I will promise you my heart and give you all you need if it takes some time
If you tell me you don't need me anymore
That our love won't last forever
I will ask you for a chance to try again
To make our love a little better

I love you
Say we're together, baby
Say we're together, woh~~

I need you
I need you forever baby
You and me

Say you hardly know exactly who i am so hard to understand
I knew right from the start
The way i felt inside
If you read my mind
If you tell you don't need me anymore
That our love won't last forever
I will ask you for a chance to try again
To make our love a little better

I love you
Say we're together, baby
Say we're together, woh~~

I need you
I need you forever baby
You and me

Remember when you used to hold me
Remember when you made me cry
You said you loved me
Oh~~
You did
Yes you do

I love you
Say we're together, baby
Say we're together, woh~~

I need you
I need you forever baby
You and me

Slee

2008-05-27T12:52:00.003+08:00

Recently, I have sleeping problems. Just can't sleep!!

I will lie on my bed, counting sheep, listening to soft music, reading books etc...i try every means and ways, but i just CAN'T sleep!!! Argh~~~

Sometimes I will drift off to sleep but I will soon wake up again, and continue to stare at the ceiling, listening to any activity out of my room (which is nearly zero, cause its so late at night). My brain starts to wander again, and i will start thinking again...all the problems come back to me...and i can't sleep anymore... a vicious cycle :P

Now i have flu, and i m taking flu medicine, which makes me drowsy and able to sleep. Tried that last night, popped 1 pill before i shower and within 30 mins, i m knocked out. But as the medicine wore off, i woke up at 4am again.

Hours clocked on 26/5/08: 5 hrs

How can i sleep well??? Any recommendations?

Short homecoming, party, family...& a lot more!!

2008-05-26T13:19:00.005+08:00

Last wkend, I flew back home to celebrate Mummy's and Edwin's birthdays. It was a big big surprise for Mama :) The look on her face when she saw me was INDESCRIABLE. Being a mother, the first thing she said was ,"OMG! Did something happen to you in HCM that makes you come home suddenly?" Heehee, it is just to surprise her and spend time with her :)

Agenda: To celebrate Mummy's and Brother's bdays
Duration: 830pm Friday till 12noon Sunday

I mmust attribute this to Bro's generous sponsorship :) Thanks!!

Edwin's 21st bday party was at Aquamarine @ Marina Mandarin. He invited the whole family plus his sch frens > a party of 20. As soon as everyone settled down, we began to 'attack' the food. When i say attack, i really mean it! Coz we were so hungry and could not resist the temptation of food...glorious glorious food~~

I was Edwin's PA, event organizer, planner, camera lady and even spokeswoman for the day. And i must say that my 'Client' is pleased with my A *** contribution :)

Photos:

Picture is a bit blur...but its me and Mummy :)

My dear parents

The 2 birthday stars

Group photo
Cutting the cake. Edwin specially ordered a strawberry shortcake for Mummy :)
I like this pic the most! See how Mummy holds my hand while she blew the candles.

Granny's 4 diamonds (as she calls us): Edwin, me, Jon, Geri

Edwin handing out "Thank You" gifts to everyone

Sharing a strawberry

It was a great party > sumptous food, wonderful ambience, fantastic company and attentive service from the restaurant (who took care of our whims and needs).

Family gatherings are really enjoyable and fun. Its a great way to gather together and chit-chat, filling in each other on the details and happenings, to savour tasty food together. And most of all, I am sure the older generation would love to see their children, grandchildren be together (as we are often busy with our own daily lives).

Kinship is the most important in the world!

Reminisence

2008-05-21T15:14:00.004+08:00

It is weird how I reminisence some things and my heart still flutters...hehehe...last wkend, i had the chance to re-live a date which i would never forget... at a beach resort..

I still vividly remember the first time we went there, it was impromptu and by a cab. It took us more than 1 hr to reach there and we were exhausted (in addition of a long day's work). We spent the whole wkend (sat and sun) there. Strolling along the beach, eating fresh seafood with ice-cold Heineken, lying on the chairs and just listening to the waves and feel the sea breeze. And of coz, enjoy the cafes there (something not to be missed in VN). All these are even more perfect when you have a perfect companion :)

Last wkend, we went to the beach again. This time it was planned (well... by him, and i was kept in the dark till the last min) and we ride there instead of cab. According to him, it is to 'enjoy the scenery on the way, and also to stop for coffee and rest - a nice experience'. So off we went, and it took us 4 hrs to reach!

The weather was perfect, light drizzle accompanied by warm sunshine. Not too sweltering hot, not too wet and gloomy too. Just nice :) Coffee, seafood (lots of prawns, crabs and even baby lobsters), jokes, laughter...very very enjoyable... the best experience was on Sunday morn, when we went a bit further to buy seafood from a wholesaler, and it was cooked by them and packed into bags. We took the seafood, found a nice spot along the coastline and finished everything with bottles of Heineken.

There were many families there too, parents brought their kids out for family gathering. Adults were chatting and eating, while children enjoyed the sun, beach, sea and games. As a 'spectator', i also feel the happiness and contentment radiating from them. Happiness in life is really made up from simple pleasures :)

Lying on the reclining chairs, listening to the waves, enjoying the sea breeze, chatting with him, sharing feelings...I savour every minute and I guess, I will never tire of it.... :)

Favourite Quotes

2008-05-14T15:19:00.003+08:00

Recently, I have the habit of reading and notting down quotes...heehee...another phase la...

I found these online:

"Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage."

"You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving."

"You come to love not by finding the perfect person, but by seeing an imperfect person perfectly."

Belated piggy-day post

2008-05-14T14:32:00.009+08:00

Haha, my pig day was last month - 26 Apr, but i waited till now to post the pictures...reason..

Coz i wanna let all my frens see me in person first, before they see my photos. Why?? Coz i cut my hair...yes...short length...yes...no more curls...yes la...i 'regain' my straight look..

Now...my pictures...

Happy Birthday, Piggy!
Mummy and Piggy
Daddy and Piggy
Mummy bought me a pink tulip...haha...my fave flower :)
Family dinner...I love this restaurant, they moved place and I managed to locate the new address!! Their dishes are delicious and healthy, using chinese herbs and ingredients..yum yum :P

That day, it was a big match day too - Chelsea VS Man Utd. There was a live screening of the match at Clarke Quay. Being the ever-loyal MU fan, Dad wanted to watch and cheer for his team. But it was pig day so he could not catch the match on tv at home. In order not to disappoint him, I booked a table in front of the projector screen for him to watch the match after dinner. Accompained by Mummy, me, yummy chicken wings and drinks, Daddy was a happy man that night (a bit sad when MU lost la).
**********************************************************************************************
If you know me well enough...you will know that pig day is never celebrated in one day...haha...my celebrations and dinners will last before and after the actual pig day. Especially since I am rarely in town now, I cant wait to catch up with all my frens...heehee...

Dinner with my dears from NUS --

Back (from left): Wenjia, TingTing, Jingyuan
Jingyuan and I: she prefers my long curly locks...heehee :P
Tingting and I: Ah...a wonderful fren...heehee, we share a lot together *winkz*

Wenjia and I: Can't have any gathering without her...we are a group of 4!!

My dears were so nice..they asked me to pick the dinner place and treated me to glorious glorious food...yummy...it has been ages since I ate Sichuan food and I had my fill that night. As Wenjia is from Sichuan, we had a good feast of all the famous Sichuan food...yummy :)

More posts to follow...Melbourne trip.....

Love is a package

2008-05-06T13:17:00.003+08:00

This came to my mind one day :)

When you love someone...

You enjoy the happiness,
Also share the sadness.

You love his strong points,
But must also accept his flaws.

Love is a package, we cannot only enjoy the sweetness and forget the bitterness.
**********************************************************************************************
A quote that I like:
"Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things."
~Paul (A.D. First Century) 1 Corinthians 13:4-7~

Improvement

2008-04-28T09:19:00.002+08:00

Some close frens and family have been asking if I am alright after they read my posts :P

Thanks for everyone's concern :) I am fine now, sorry to make all of you worry. Without all of u, I would not have felt better so fast.

I am feeling better than the past few weeks, not so moody anymore. Nothing disastrous happened actually, just that I need time to adjust and adapt to the new situation and environment. Some things which I used to do in the past cannot be done now. Just a small passing phase in life :P

I was tidying my desk at home last wkend, and chanced upon the calender on which I marked down the dates I was outstationed in HCM. OMG! Since last Oct till this March, I have been spending almost 80% of my time in HCM, and less than 1 week per month in SG :P No wonder Mummy and Daddy miss me so much.

For April, I will be in SG, and the next biz trip will be 12 May. I guess this trip will be a new and different experience for me, though I am going back to the same country. The working env will be different, colleagues are new, also a new working partner in sales. Even my life after work will be different. All these take another bout of adapation... :P

Oh..I will be posting photos from Melbourne trip and bday soon, but I want to keep the pictures a 'secret' until I am back in VN, coz some ppl have not seen my new haircut and I want to see their expressions first hand when they see me in person (instead of seeing thru photos). Hahahaha~~~~

Vaccum period

2008-04-24T10:55:00.003+08:00

Recently, I am feeling nothing. Yes, nothing.

Since returning from HCM..

2008-04-21T22:41:00.001+08:00

Life is different since 1 Apr... I am back in SG, away from VN, not working (for now).

To note the differences:
1. The air is cleaner and fresher, no more honkings of motorcycles. I also can understand the language ppl speak (in English or Chinese), no more incomprehensible signboards, I am able to order (independently) what i want to eat from the menu.
2. I am with my family and frens, able to call them out for lunches/dinners any time. No longer need to think what i do during wkends, no need to wait for ppl to ask me out, no need to worry when i take taxis.
3. I must get used to a different momentum and way of living. Not as carefree as before, not able to go out as and when i want, not able to go in and out when i like.
4. No more chatting on phone or sms with him. Not able to see him when I want, not able to talk a lot with him coz its just hard to chat over the phone with the limited time we have. Feelings must be kept until we meet again, kisses can only be given to our phones.

I guess this is the withdrawal period after being outstation for some time. A change in env, change in social groups and most impt, a change in lifestyle.

I need more time to get used. But by the time i am used to this, I will have to go back to HCM again...sigh...my life will reverse again :P

Updates

2008-04-07T10:37:00.003+08:00

Just came back from HCM last Tuesday, and am undergoing a transition in work, environment, everything....the only factor unchanged is my family :) Still so supportive and caring, and I am beginning to really enjoy and savour the warmth at home.

Work was not too smooth sailing some weeks ago, certain changes made me consider moving on. Finally, I have an offer and decided to give it a try. Same job scope, same country (VN). Just a different company and different colleagues. No more comfort zone, no one to really look after me, I have to learn to be more independent and survive in a foreign country with an incomprehensible language.

Personal relationship is not that fantastic. Some things are better to let go, my brain said so. But i wanna hold on to it, hold on to something so dear and close to me, my heart told me. Everyday is a struggle between my brain and heart.

Was I strong and independent in the past? Did i portray an infalliable image and make everyone think that I can make swift decisions and be firm? Maybe it is just a facade, coz only now, then I know how weak I am.Strong in work, weak in love > this is the real me. A close fren used to tell me, "Its ok. Because you are still a woman." Can it be explained like this?

Questions running through my mind...pictures of the future appearing in my mind...let me think carefully..

时间使人忘记爱情 -- 张小娴

2008-02-28T16:54:00.001+08:00

一个女孩子来信说，她看了《雪地里的蜗牛奄列》之后，不明白书里这两句：

“爱情使人忘记时间，时间也使人忘记爱情。”

当你爱上一个人，你会忘记时间存在。你可以每天二十四小时跟他一起。你不介意花十四小时乘飞机从香港到美国跟他见一面，然后又匆匆赶回来。为了跟他见面，你会把重要会议延期，把重要的工作放在一旁。你们约会之后，还可以拿着电话筒聊到天亮。

爱情使人忘记时间流逝。你会忘记自己的年纪。六十岁的人也会以为自己只有十八岁。你会许下一生一世的承诺，忘记时间会改变一切。

然而，时间流逝，也会使人忘记爱情曾经存在。两个人一起的日子久了，爱情一点一滴的消逝。他忘记了这些年来他多么爱你，他忘记了你们曾经多么快乐，也忘记了你们一起经历了许多事情。忘记了，所以他爱上了别人。

当时间过去，我们忘记了我们曾经义无反顾地爱过一个人，忘记了他的温柔。忘记了他为我做的一切。我对他再没有感觉，我不再爱他了。为什么会这样？原来我们的爱情败给了岁月。

首先是爱情使你忘记时间，然后是时间使你忘记爱情。

读后感：告诉我，我要怎么忘记你？

某年某天某地 -- 张小娴

2008-02-28T16:37:00.003+08:00

女孩说，她和她喜欢的人现在不能一起，她希望某年某天。他们可以在某地重新开始。

真的可以吗？

我们说某年某天某地的时候，总是怀抱着一个希望，同时也有点绝望，如果现在可以，何须等到某年某天？

某年某天是什么时候，谁又知道？有时候，时间对了，地点却不对；地点对了，时间却不对；时间和地点都对了，心情却不对。

现在不自由，她只能寄望某年某天在某地跟他再开始。也许，当他自由了。她却不自由；当她自由了，又轮到他不自由。当他和她都自由了，他们却在两个不同的地方，没有遇上。地点对了，他和她都自由，可是，那时他们都变了。

他们不是说过“某年某天某地”的吗？原来那是绝望时候的一星火光。我爱你，我深深相信我们的缘分未尽，某年某天某地，我们会再遇，你要好好的生活……我们含泪道别，努力活下去，迎接重逢的一刻。

可惜，所有的重逢，都是想像比现实美丽的。

期待重逢的两个人，已经各自爱上另一个人。直到某年某天，他们在某地相遇，才想起某年某天，他们曾经有一个约定。

读后感：我可以相信我们之间的约定吗？你要我相信你，要有信仰，你说只有这样，我们才可以一路走下去，勇敢的面对将来。可是等待是一种煎熬，现在不能在一起，必须约定在未来，这是一种绝望。也许，某年某天某地，我们真的会相遇，在那时，我们的感觉还会那么强烈吗？

CNY 2008 ~ Part 1

2008-02-16T19:38:00.008+08:00

I went back to SG for 2 weeks, during CNY period. Heehee, to enjoy the warmth and love, enjoy being with family and frens. As I am away for long periods now, they shower more love and care on me (thank you!) and try to make time to go out with me too!! Ahh....I m truly blessed :)

Papa and Mama knew my cravings for dim sum and treated me to a sumptous meal at Wan Hao....where the best dim sum (to me and family) are served..yum yum...i was looking forward to the treat even before i arrived in SG!!

At Marriott Hotel's lobby
The daily dim sum display (a norm at Wan Hao)
Tantalizing dessert
Papa and Mama

I also met up with Liwen, my dearest fren + sister, for dinner and chit-chat, also to pre-celebrate her bday. We are long time frens since Sec 1 and I must say that our frenship is still going strong (and stronger) after so many years... Happy Birthday, Kuah ^_^

On CNY's eve, we went for our usual family lunch at a restaurant, followed by a movie and some shopping. Then we will go to Granny's house for the highly-anticipated reunion dinner :)

La Mian! Xiao Long Bao!!! Here i come!!

Me and Geraldine at Granny's place for reunion dinner
Mama enjoying her dinner Geralding and Edwin
Granny (left) and Uncle, Aunt during dinner

On first day of CNY, we will go to the temple in the morning to pray and ask for blessings. This year, we were lucky and manged to se the lion dance. Heehee... hope that this year will be a properous and lucky year!

Flowers @ the temple

2nd day of CNY, we went to A-Ma's house and meet my aunts and cousins. After that, we will go out for family dinner and other activities.

(From left) Rainbow, me, Starry, Mummy

Me and Mummy at Copthorne Orchid Hotel lobby

Family dinner + Liwen (our VIP)

Overall, I had an enjoyable and happy CNY. After being away for 1 month in HCM, I fully appreciate and treasure every min of family time together.

Will post more on Sentosa Flower Fair in my next post :)

Cold Hanoi..wet weather...a warm heart :)

2008-02-02T16:03:00.000+08:00

After spending a beautiful weekend in Nha Trang, where the beaches are white and sandy, waves are strong and the sea is blue and clear...I went to Hanoi for work (16 Jan ~ 20 Jan 08) and of coz, some leisure.

This trip is for my boss, my consulting engineer, myself and Kiet (my vn colleague). We are going there to meet the owner and architect for a residential project. As we will finish work on Fri, i suggested that I stay till Sunday as I could meet up with some Hanoi frens over there, who are in wtp and wwtp too. Kiet also stayed over the wkend, as I needed a 'local guide'.

Before going to Hanoi, I was quite apprehensive as what to see and do there, what is the city like, how are the people like etc... friends told me that I would love Hanoi, as the weather is cool (more of cold), the buildings are French-style colonial houses, the air is better and fresher etc.

When I arrived in Hanoi, I was greeted by a gush of cool wind, and I love it! I have always prefer cool weather to hot weather, haha ^_^ The roads are not as congested as HCM, there are lesser motorbikes, more cars, more lakes (water bodies), more trees, less dust.. I start to note the differences between HCM and Hanoi.

Me and the pretty flowers :) Coz of cold weather, the flowers bloom beautifully!

Me and Kiet. We decided to take a picture together, sitting on the grass (its wet).
Background: 1-pillar Pagoda
A close snapshot of the pagoda
More flowers!!
Hoan Kiem Lake -- misty and foggy due to the cold weather...brrr...
An impromptu photo...I was admiring the flowers and Kiet snapped the photo from behind.
Ah....another picture taken on the steps in front of the museum
One of my fave pic

The best one!! Took this while waiting for lunch. Background is Ho Tay (West Lake)

A temple along Ho Tay

This looks like the old school classroom...heehee..actually cannot take picture, but we still took!

Background: Ho Tay (West Lake). From certain angles, it realy resembles West Lake in Hangzhou

My FAVOURITE picture! I look so much younger in this picture :)

CONCLUSION: I prefer Hanoi :)

Beautiful Nha Trang, wonderful wkend, splendid mood

2008-01-09T18:25:00.000+08:00

Yr 2008 started off bright and sunny for me! During my first wkend in VN, I went to Nha Trang beach with my colleagues, who went there for meeting and work. Haha, decided to tag along since they hired a van to drive there and I might be able to get some biz over there (they are meeting water co for annual meeting).

After work and a lot (yes, and i mean a lot!!) of drinking and entertaining, I managed to do some sightseeing on the last day, before we come back to HCM.

This is the old old pagoda in Nha Trang..it was a sunny day so the pictures turned out to be very nice (ample light and sun). Of coz, the 'photographer' is good too :)

In front of the pagodas

I love to take pic with flowers!

My FAVE pic! He took it for me suddenly when i turned ard and it captured a natural pose of me.

Another of my favourite! Heehee :P

A bird eye's view of Nha Trang from the top of the pagoda

We stop by another beach to have lunch and some pictures

The view we see as we eat our lunch

In short, Nha Trang is really beautiful, with nice beach and sea. Its very different from HCMC. Hmmm... coupled with great company, the trip is really fufilling!

Next trip...to Hanoi for work...will post soon :)

一部分的完整 -- 张小娴

2007-12-31T14:11:00.000+08:00

爱一个人的时候，你总是希望把自己完整地交给他。毫无保留地爱他。毫无保留地付出。他是你唯一的。如果你的生命里缺少了他，就是不完整的生命。只是，世上没有一段爱情是完整的。你从别人手上把他抢回来，你们终于可以厮守终生了，你以为你们经历了最惊天动地的爱情，没有人可以把你们分开。多年之后，他爱上了另一个女人。你仍然深深地爱着他，他也曾经深深地爱过你。心甘情愿为你抛弃一切，但你们之间还是出现第三者，你们的爱情不再完整。你问他：“我们是不是不再完整？” 他垂头无语，他和另一个女人又何尝完整？他永远不会和她结合。二十一世纪了，我们对爱情的完整也许应该有一个新的见解——不要祈求永远完整，只要有一部分完整就好了。在互相鼓励的那一部分，你们是完整的。在共同奋斗的那一部分，你们是完整的。在毫无保留地付出的时候，你们是完整的。有一部分完整，足以抵销一部分的遗憾。

不要再问天长地久还是曾经拥有 -- 张小娴

2007-12-31T14:04:00.001+08:00

另一篇：

有人问：“你喜欢天长地久，还是曾经拥有？” 问这一类问题，已经太落伍，实在没心机回答，爱情怎能这样分界？也许，每一个人在另一个人的生命里，都有一种作用。作用完了，功德圆满，也就分手。他只是她生命里的一个过客、一块跳板，却影响了她一辈子，这算是曾经拥有，还是天长地久？她在他最失意的时候出现，他本来已经放弃一切，因为遇上她，他变得积极进取。不再自怜。他从幽谷里走出来，变成一个光芒四射的人。然后，因为许多原因，她要离开了，她知道，她在他生命里的作用已经完了，即使她走了，他也不会倒下来。所谓缘尽，也就是她在他生命里扮演的角色是时候消失了。她本来是一个很简单的女人，以为爱情就是人生的全部，整天憧憬着跟自己心爱的男人结婚、生孩子，过着幸福的生活，直到遇上他，她才知道自己可以不平凡。爱情原来不是人生的全部，她不再憧憬结婚和生孩子，她对幸福的生活有了新的见解。一天，他要离开她了，虽然伤感，但是他留给她的养份，将会滋润她一辈子。不要再问天长地久还是曾经拥有？凡是美好的东西总是以不同形式地久天长，功德圆满。当天分手的时候，你很伤心，今天回首，你才醒觉，他离开，因为他的作用已经完了。人生何处无离别？最重要是你们各自在对方的生命里起过一些什么作用。

总胜过从未碰头 -- 张小娴

2007-12-31T13:54:00.000+08:00

最近我很喜欢张小娴的散文，读起来就觉得感觉很强，很深。这是其中一篇散文：

二十五岁的M与男朋友相恋八年，他们一起经历了许多快乐和不快乐的日子。那年，
他考不上大学，她一直在旁边支持他。第二年，他终于考上大学了，他们的感情更加巩
固。大学毕业之后，他们各自在两个不同的行业工作，问题就来了。
每次见面，他都跟她谈工作的事，仿佛工作就是一切。他不再跟她说亲昵话。不再
吻她和拥抱她。他们从来没有性关系，他希望她在婚前是完美的。他是这么好的一个男
人，可是，现在他坦白的告诉她，他对她的感觉已经变得很弱，他不想再拖着她。他不
想为了责任而跟她结婚。他要找的人不是她。她哭了起来，他也哭了。大家都舍不得分
开。她仍然爱他，希望他回头。只是，他已经没有那种感觉。
她的房间里全是这八年来他送给她的东西。他仍然关心她，但他不再爱她。她问，
怎样可以令他对她再有爱的感觉？
你和我都知道，爱的感觉一旦消失了，几乎是无法挽回的。相爱也是一种电波，这
两种电波的信号曾经是很强的，今天，电波变弱了，对方拒绝接收，你的发射网再强也
是徒然的。
两个曾经相爱的人，成长的路不同，那么，唯一的结局就是各自走自己的路。每个
人的路都不同，有幸和遇，无缘则分手。曾经相遇，总胜过从未碰头。

2007 - an ever-changing year > Part 2

2007-12-31T09:28:00.000+08:00

To conclude my postings for 2007, I decided to dedicate it to my life in Vietnam - Ho Chi Minh City.

As i joined my new company in Oct 2007, i was posted to VN and explore the market there for WWTP and WTP. It was a totally new experience and lifestyle for me. Before, i have been hearing from people about their lives and feelings when they were outstationed for weeks, and even months. I was envious as it is a new insight and feeling, yet i was also apprehensive as I wondered if I could truly accept and blend into a different env and culture. Moreover, to me, VN is not a very developed country and my impression of it was vague and blurry.

As i packed my luggage for the 1st trip to VN, I felt worried, anxious, sad and yet there was a tinge of happiness as I can try to live independently in a foreign country. I remembered telling Daddy that I was sad and did not want to go to VN for a straight 2 wks. He told me "If it is time for you to fly, then you must fly!" So off I went, with my luggage and a nervous heart...

I recalled that my first wk in VN was the hardest to bear. I could not get used to the (polluted) air, (noisy) honkings, (many many) motorcycles, (dusty) roads, (lack of) trees, (limited) sunlight in my room, (not pink) bedroom...etc etc. One good thing: I love the food there, as they have plenty of veggies, less fried and oily food. I felt healthier and of coz, slimming was not a problem at all :P

However, I was lucky and blessed to have friendly and easy-to-get-along colleagues who took good care of me. In particular, I got to know her:

Truc!! (AKA my Nanny) - a wonderful and lovely fren who simply clicks with me, on food, books, interest etc... heehee :P

At a cafe with Truc (who took this pic for me). I enjoyed most Sats with her, as we would go for breakie, girls' talk, shopping and plenty of walking!

Some pictures I took (@ city centre):

As i stayed in HCMC longer, I began to appreciate the finer things there, and able to accept and blend into the env. The lifestyle and pace are different as compared to Sg, as people generally do not really rush and walk fast. They take life at a slower pace, and will stop to appreciate, for eg they will go to cafes (or coffeeshops in local lingo) for a cuppa and chat with friends. After work will be dinner with frens, coffee and then home. During wkends, there will be parties (yes, they party for various occasions) and gatherings. There will be plenty of food and drinks to go around and around.

Until now, I have been in HCMC (to and fro) for a total of 6 weeks and each trip brings new meaning, fresh feeling and different happenings.

**Through this busy period, I also found the person who can share joy and sadness with me, who can understand my feelings and thoughts. After so many years, I think i am able to love again and open my heart to enjoy the romantic feeling. Heehee, a bit childish, but yes, i think I am in love. However this time, the experience is different, as I do not yearn for constant attention and sweet whisperings all day. No more throwing of tempers, incessant demands, continuous whinning and complaining. I think i have grown up, or to put it in another way, the happenings over the past 2 years have forced me to mature faster. Neither he nor me can foresee what will happen in the (near) future, but I am definitely enjoying and savouring every moment ^_^

2007 - an ever-changing year > Part 1

2007-12-21T11:02:00.000+08:00

Was reading thru blogs this morning, Elaine Jie Jie, frens, family.... they were blogging about the end of 2007, and to welcome 2008. I was inspired by their entries, esp Jie's, which really warmed my heart and moved me. Yes, the main theme here is love. Love from family and friends, which really makes the festive season an enjoyable and unforgettable one.

Thinking back of the past year, I have really grown a lot. Looking back at the pictures taken from CNY, Melbourne trip, Philippine biz trip, all the relaxing island trips with Mom until now, VN trip. My life in 2007 can be summarized in a series of pictures....

CNY 2007

Welcoming PIG year at home

At Grandma's place, together with Starry. All 3 of us a PIGGIES. Haha :)

At the flower fair @ Sentosa during CNY. I love this picture, coz of the color contrast :P

Me and my brother

Melbourne Trip with Granny, Dad and cousins

Toasting with my cousins @ Red Emperor, Melbourne

Outside Crown Towers, Melbourne

Philippines Biz Trip -- my 1st biz trip and 1st time away from home alone

The park near my house in the Philippines

Me and my colleagues in the Philippines, Mila and Jeanette

Wkend getaway with Mummy -- Bintan Island

At Bintan Agro Resort. A wkend getaway with Mama.

Mama in front of the swimming pool

Having lunch in a restaurant by the sea

Genting Trip with Granny

Clouds, mountains and the fog...winding roads up to Genting Highlands

The amusement park @ Genting

My beloved Granny

A short trip to Batam with Mummy

Me and Mummy on the ferry

I love this picture!!

Tea-time by the pool

At the sand playground for kids

After my Batam trip, I started on my new job - Sales and Marketing Engineer. It is a fun and ever-changing job, and I had my first longest outstation post in Vietnam - HCMC. Shall post abt it in a another entry :)

Journey

2007-12-05T08:48:00.000+08:00

Have thought about this for quite some time, and I have decided to record down the happenings recently and there after...this could be an unforgettable and bittersweet episode of my life...

In the beginning, we would ask each other, "Why I like you? How come I like you? How can it be???" Hmmm..after some brainstorming together, we realized that there is really no answer, no start, no beginning point. The chemistry is there, the feeling is there. We can talk, talk about anything, talk about everything. Feelings were shared, sorrow was halved and happiness was doubled. Maybe it all started from a song "I'd never fall in love again"....yet the contrary happened.

As the days passed, we began to understand more and care more. My working hours are never regular, sometimes i dont even have time for rest, much less than for talking. On some days, i would be rushing to so many places and when i can settle down, i need to write reports and emails. Similarly, his job is also very busy and hectic, sometimes late into the night. But we share a common understanding, sometimes an sms or a short phone call is enough. Other times, we would just sit together quietly and enjoy some songs. Maybe I have really grown up, I know that love and care do not equate to constant companionship. Physcially apart, but mentally together :)

When we are far apart, and do not see each other everyday, it is difficult. But we still keep in contact thru sms, calls and skype. There is still this chemistry and feeling that i cannot avoid, cannot forget. I thought i would forget when the distance is big, when we are apart, and when we do not see each other. Aha! Quite the opposite.

How long will this feeling last? I am really keen to know... :)

Emotions

2007-12-02T13:40:00.001+08:00

Recently, a lot of things are running thru' my mind. I am feeling a lot, feeling very deep and feeling very true. This feeling had left me for several years, and it all came back to me some time ago again. Just that this time, i feel more stable, more secured and more mature.

Some thoughts...

To love someone means...
to give that person space to breathe and do what he wants. Each of us has our own individual life, work and friends. Try not to bind him down, and control his time or life.

To love someone means...
to understand and care for him. Not just thru saying, but also thru action and support.

To love someone means...
not to be too demanding. Time spent together must be treasured, but time spent apart must be respected too.

To love someone means...
to let him go. If he comes back to me, it means we have the destiny and shall be together.

世上最伟大的爱就是放手。只有真正体会过的人才会了解，只有真正痛过的人才会明白。

Heaven Knows -- by Rick Price

2007-12-02T13:27:00.000+08:00

I love this song, especially recently:

She's always on my mind
From the time I wake up,
Till I close my eyes.
She's everywhere I go
She's all I know.

And though she's so far away,
It just keeps getting stronger everyday
And even now she's gone
I'm still holding on
So tell me, where do I start
'Coz it's breakin' my heart
Don't wanna let her go

Maybe my love will come back someday
Only heaven knows
And maybe our hearts will find a way
But only heaven knows
And all I can do is hope & pray
'Coz heaven knows.

My friends keep telling me
That if you really love her,
You've gotta set her free
And if she returns in time
I'll know she's mine

But tell me, where do I start
'Coz it's breakin' my heart
Don't wanna let her go

Maybe my love will come back someday
Only heaven knows
And maybe our hearts will find a way
But only heaven knows
And all I can do is hope & pray
'Coz heaven knows
Why I live in despair
'Coz wide awake or dreamin',
I know she's never there
And all the time I act so brave,
I'm shakin' inside
Why does it hurt me so?

Heaven knows... heaven knows.

Love

2007-11-30T09:54:00.000+08:00

Love
Starts with a smile,
Grows with a kiss,
Ends with a tear.

Patience

2007-09-17T08:55:00.000+08:00

Am reading a book by Anchee Min - "Empress Orchid". It is a fiction story based on the true story of China's last Empress.

In Chapter 7, it was said the Orchid was chosen to be the 4th wife of the Emperor's and started to live in the Palace. Every morning when she woke up, she would need to go through the whole procedure of washing, getting dressed, eat and then wait....spent the days waiting and waiting. Even though she is dressed magnificantly and well-groomed, she would see no one but herself (and the maids). The wait for her husband is a long and never-ending one.

As i was reading it at my desk, i could almost feel her boredom and impatience. I am also sitting and dwindling my days away. Only after 530pm, then i feel my life stirring and coming into action. I pray for 5th Oct to come soon...patience....

Next posting

2007-08-21T08:49:00.000+08:00

Its final. After some weeks of negotiation and discussion, I am ready to move on to another job.

The new job will put me in sales and marketing, to open and develop markets in Singapore and Vietnam. Heehee, really looking forward to the new job, as it will bring a new breath of life into my monotonous rhythm. Career advancing opportunities will be more and travel opportunities will increase too. Ppl who are always outstation will ask why am i so keen to be outstation? Well, maybe coz i dun like to be confined to a small space and do the same thing day-in day-out. I enjoy the travel as it would allow me to meet more ppl.

That being said....i have 2 months of notice....grrr...

Expiry date

2007-07-26T10:30:00.000+08:00

Everyone has an expiry date.

Ppl around me are expiring simultaneously now. This is due to various reasons: shelf price remains the same, sick of the same flavour everyday, poor manufacturing procedure, environment-induced factors that hasten expiry...etc.

I wonder whether expiry date can be influenced...perhaps it might expedite mine too...

Kekeke... talking in riddles, but i am sure some ppl who read this can understand me :P

Jack of all trades, Master of none

2007-07-12T11:07:00.000+08:00

This statement is so apt. I really ought to call myself Jack.

From process design, to procurement, filing, documentations, contract negotiations, comparisons, purchase requirements, piping, valves, instrumentations, civil, electrical, mechanical. U name it, and most prob i have done it. I know the surface of everything, but none of the details below.

Y'day, someone asked me:" So what have u learnt over the past yr?" Wah..i was stunned. What have i learnt? I counted all the items, then he asked me, "So tell me more about instrumentations." And then i was stunned again. Huh....i know nuts abt it, except the indiv names and purposes. How to install and operate? Hmmm....

I think its my fault. I did not take the pro-active action of asking and requesting for more training and guidance. Hence, i shall think of a way to put it right.

Flu and Potter

2007-07-11T10:34:00.000+08:00

I woke up last Sat morning with a horrible sore throat and a dreadful nose, which just keep getting blocked. I know i am down with a flu...again!!! Before I worked, i had flu once a yr (or maybe even once every 2 yrs); now that i work, i have flu twice (or thrice) a yr. I hate it! My immune system is getting worse :(

What has Potter got to do with flu then?

Hmmm....coz i finished Harry Potter book 6 during my recuperation at home!!! Woah~~~finally, after a yr...when Book 7 is gonna be released soon...I have finally finished Book 6. One good pt is: I can straightaway continue with Book 7 and not forget contents of Book 6. Also looking forward to Movie Part 5.

Harry Harry......i am crazy about Potter for now ^_^

Random pics part 2

2007-07-04T23:12:00.001+08:00

I just love posting pics recently. Some pics were not posted on time when i returned from holi. Hence...tada~~~ here they are!!

Melbourne 2007

I was in Melbourne during the warm up to the Grand Prix 2007. A Ferrari exhibition was set up at Crown Towers, and a total of 7 Ferraris (of different models, different eras) were on displayed. Everyday, it attracted hundreds (my rough estimation, maybe more) of ppl to come and take pics. All at once, we saw Ferraris from different eras and I must say, I was impressed by the designs. Tried to take a few pics (some not so successful).

Not so clear, but we still can see that its a Ferrari :P

One of the clearer pics that I managed to take.

Family dinner (not so complete though) @ Melbourne.

Hokkaido 2006

Me and pink flowers :)

The vast greenland behind me. There isn't a single tall building in sight, only mountains and grass... a rare sight in Sg.

I love taking pics of trees. During Summer-Autumn, trees are of amazing shades of red, brown, orange, yellow...Japan is a wonderful place to visit during this season :P

pingjing

2007-07-04T09:28:00.000+08:00

快乐

2007-07-03T09:28:00.000+08:00

今早，同事问我：“你每天都很开心，每天见你都笑嘻嘻的！”

其实，我也有不快乐的时候，只是以我的性格，我很快便会忘记了。人生并没有大不了的事，没有事情是十分严重或不能解决的。有时候，人们会为了一些鸡毛蒜皮的事而吵架，为了一句话而争吵。对我而言，这是无谓的，因为还有更多更重要的事情等着我们去处理，更值得我们关注。

人生难免会有不如意的事，没有人的一生是一帆风顺的，所以我们必须学着去面对困难，想办法解决。坚强是在不断的磨练下，培养出来的。人是需要经过磨练，才会成长的；我们不能永远在受保护的环境里生活，也不能一直依赖父母保护我们。

朋友们，如果你们今天不如意，不要紧，因为还有明天！当你明天一觉睡醒时，又是新的一天，是新的开始。前一天，所有不开心的事都应该被忘记！

人应该活在当下 :)

Random pics ^_^

2007-06-30T17:14:00.000+08:00

I was in the mood for some random posting last wkend :)

My fave piggy at Sentosa Flower Fair during CNY 2007. See how smug this piggy looks!

Mama and Papa

Pretty pretty!

Edwin's graduation from Singapore Poly.

Heehee, I am so proud of him :)

My own commencement in 2006 :D

Me and Papa

Me and Mama. Both Papa and Mama graduated with honours - Excellent Parents' Cert!

How big is ur sky?

2007-06-21T11:30:00.001+08:00

Today, a fren discussed some things with me, which left me in deep thoughts.

When I haven work, and just started working, i was blur and do not know where to head. No direction, no contacts, no idea of what is happening in the working place. A yr has passed, and I m clearer now, i know what is in store for me, i know how things work and I know wat to ask during interviews. Because i know what i want.

An analogy
It does not matter which factory makes the skirt u r wearing. It matters whether you still wanna wear the skirt.

(i thot of this myself :P)

I have also been in this dilemma myself, feeling stuck and trapped. Dunno what to expect in future, what is there for me to hold on to. Or whether i will be able to see a bigger piece of the sky, and widen my circle. I am sure i do not want to stay in this position forever, because the sky is simply not enough for me.

Another fren told me, "When u r in a different position, you will see things at different levels." I can say, i m seeing things at a low level now. Its true, when u r at a lower ground, what u see is always secluded and blocked. When u climb to a higher ground, the surroundings may be the same, but ur view is different.

So to my fren (war fren), decide and don't look back. I support u in ur decision!!!

...

2007-06-21T11:30:00.000+08:00

Midweek

2007-06-13T10:20:00.000+08:00

(I decided that this posting shall be in PINK.)

Geee..time passes faster and faster :P Its already Wed in the blink of an eye *blink blink*

I am looking forward to this wkend, coz i'm gonna spend a leisure wkend on Bintan with Mommy. Hmmm...its nice to spend a quiet and lazy wkend with Mom...sad that Dad can't join us though.

Gave up to book ourselves to Taiwan, as the airfare and accomodation is ex....very uneconomical to go there just to shop. So we decided to have a change and go to an island to laze away...

We book ourselves a 3D2N stay at Bintan Argo (check out the place at http://www.bintanagro.com/front/index.php) with a half day tour and spa session. Woah~~ i love spa :D Wahahaha!!

Let me pass thru this wk quickly and easily, then i can escape to the island for a retreat!!

PS: Haven got any news from ______ yet...how long more to wait???

Mini water crisis @ home

2007-06-11T08:58:00.000+08:00

We had a water crisis yesterday.. water pipe at master bathroom, burst and in order to stop water from gushing out (w/o the tap to control and stop), we had to turn off the main water supply (which is outside of our house). The problem is, once the main tap is turned off, the water supply to the whole house is cut off, i.e. we cannot use water!!! no water!!!

Problems we faced (counting only some):
1. No water for washing
2. No water for flushing
3. No water for bathing
.
.
.
And the list goes on....

We had to out buckets near the broken pipe, turn on the main line and quickly collect water in the pails. Then turn off the mains and use water from the pails. Well, as we had 'limited' water, we had to think of how to use it efficiently.

Usually, when we can just turn on the taps and water runs freely, we will not try to save/control water usage. How many of us will use tumbler when brushing our teeth? How many of us will wash our faces using a basin of water, instead of free running water from the tap? And how many of us will really use the wate from washing clothes to flush the toilet? Heeheee...i did all these from yesterday till today. Bo bian...save water!

This mini crisis made me realized deeply (i'd realized a bit before) that water is precious and we really should not waste water. Instead, we must think of ways to utilize water to the maximum and reuse it whenever we can. Working in the water industry also deepen my belief in conserving water. Sg has limited water supply and if everyone can help to reuse/recycle water, we would not face a water shortage problem in the near future. Else...one day...we might really have to ration water and imagine...... bathing with only 2 pails of water, no water to flush, no water to wash....

Luckily, the plumber is coming today. Haha :)

A chance

2007-06-07T11:13:00.001+08:00

Mom once said, "In everyone's life, there is bound to be at least 1 chance for the person to make a breakthrough."

I really believe in this statement now.

I was asked to attend the IWA Conference @ Swissotel 2 days ago. BTW, this conference is jointly organized by PUB and IWA, co-sponsored by CH2M, B&v, ITT. It invited research ppl from all over the world to share their research findings in the 3-day conference. The topics this time are mainly on NOM removal and MBRs. I was keen to attend but the pricey fees stopped me in my tracks, and left me 'drooling' over the seminars. Boss called me in on Monday and asked me if i am free and could i help to man our exhibition booth there on Tues. I almost jumped up in delight, as Tues' session has its focus on MBRs, recent developments and ways to reduce fouling > this is the session which i m MOST KEEN to attend. Hence, he gladly sent me there and i took time in between to attend the talks.

By afternoon, I was preparing to handover to a colleague as i had to rush to the hotel and host guests from China. I was to bring them ard for a walk before joining my boss for dinner with them. Then....Lady Luck smiled on me...

Someone from somewhere (identity to be kept in secret until further confirmation) walked up to me and started to talk to me about ww treatment and my work. He asked if i knew his co and i eagerly told him it was where i wanted to be but they only accept referrals from prof and walk-in applications normally are not being considered first-hand. He was 'shocked' and informed me that over the past months, they have been recruiting ppl by placing ads in papers, then he called his VP to talk to me. The chance came...they are offering scholarships in M.Eng, and a secured job upon graduation. My heart skipped a beat as not long ago, i was having a headache over where to find the finance/chance to do M.Eng. I calmly told them i m interested and VP told me to send him my CV for application....wow~~~~~ :D

I can't believe my luck. I guessed i must have laughed out loudly, even in sleep, that night... hehz.... :)

A dream come true

2007-05-08T08:58:00.000+08:00

I realized one of my dreams again....I booked myself a ticket to watch The Phantom of the Opera. Haha :) After almost 2 mths of performance, i finally got a ticket. Couldn't watch it earlier coz i arent sure of my schedule. Since i do not need to fly next wk, i just logon and bought a ticket to watch it. Hahaha :P Life is good.

Up to date, i have watched a number of performances: Miss Saigon, Forbidden City: The Portrait of an Empress...up to date, my fave was Forbidden City. I was so impressed that i watched it for 2 consecutive yrs. Kit Chan's melodious and powerful vocals captivated me and my senses.

Hope Phantom of the Opera would be another fantastic performance! :)

2007-05-07T11:41:00.000+08:00

Have been back in SG for 1 week liao, simply love home and the smell of my bed. Hmmm.... being away for some time makes me miss and love my home more. Hahaha :P

Had bouts of post-bday celebrations since I was back, lotsa presents and dinners with my loved ones and these made me feel really blessed and fortunate.

The trip to Manila changed my perception about a number of things:

1. The people there are really warm and friendly, they would greet you at every instance (calling "Sir", "Maam", "Miss"..) and can banter at a smooth flow. Wow!
2. There is a security guard at every 10 steps I take. Even shopping malls and hotels and banks have security checks and guards at all entrances. I was surprised that there is even a security guard when i walked into Starbucks/Coffee Bean for a drink.
3. The food there is of international variety and I am spoilt for choice every meal time. Jap, Korean, Western, Chines, Viet...you name it and most prob they have it. Mind you, the standard is above avg and some are really tasty. I fell in love with Krispy Kreme there!!
4. Mango. Abundant supply of mangoes...in every form and dish. Mango juice, mango shake .. (read my previous post for a comprehensive list).
5. How fortunate SG kids are! On the road in Manila, whenever we stopped at a traffic light, childrens/kids would come up to your car and beg for money. I know that they r most prob controlled by a syndicate, but i felt really sorry for them and sometimes i would ask my driver to pass them a few pesos. Awwww....how lucky we are...so sheltered and well taken care of.
6. Weather is mild here. Ya....the weather in Philippines is scorching hot!! Temp can go as high as 36degC and even in the evenings, it still hover ard 29 - 32 degC. Scary and its so dry too, not a drop of rain or a light breeze...grrr....

Wonder when my next posting is....

2nd wk in Manila

2007-04-23T14:02:00.000+08:00

Hmmm...my 2nd wk here, will be home this Fri evening. Have enjoyed my stay here so far, and ppl are commenting on how fast I can adapt to life here. yup, actually i dont pick and fuss so much, only for accomodation. It must be nice, comfy, bright, clean and spacious. Food wise, i eat anything that is clean and edible.

ITs very interesting to eat here in Manila, they have a wide variety of food, lets not talk about local food like laksa, mee siam la. But Jap, Korean, Western, Italian etc, there are a lot and plenty to choose from. And in malls, you will find pushcarts selling juices, snacks etc. One thing in particular: they use MANGO for every single food item. Mango juice, mango shake, mango salad, mango-california maki, mango pancake, mango crepe, fresh mango, mango ice kachang, mango as garnish, mango as....blah blah...and the list goes on..,mango for everything. Wah...after almost a wk, i have a phobia for mango...everything is mango and its extremely SWEET :)

There are also many shopping malls ard the area I stay: SM Megamall, The Podium, St. Francis etc...wow...I will blog abt it in a later mail, to be accompanied with pictures :P

Till then....bye bye frens :) We shall meet soon.

Hot and sunny Manila

2007-04-18T16:02:00.000+08:00

I touched down in Manila y'day afternoon, immediately i could feel the difference. It was DIFFERENT. The airport is not new, though not tattered, and the baggage system isnt fast, though not too slow, the weather is hot and dry and dusty, though not unliveable. I guess I'm (Singaporeans) are too 'pampered' at home.

We are so used to living in a clean and neat env, where everything works in order, with trains and buses connecting us to every part of the city, and fully air-con. I guess we are too accustomed to the life at home. Hence I must say I still haven fully adjusted to Manila.

Its not a bad city la, just different from SG. The food is also different, i miss local fare at home, or maybe i haven seek out the better food here yet. Tonight i must make sure i go and source out food, i haven been eating much since y'day lunch.

I will post my pics once i find a chance to take. for now, just to let everyone knows: I have arrived safely in Manila, but i miss home.

Guilty yet thankful

2007-04-13T11:48:00.000+08:00

Recent wks have been a whirlwind for me. My schedule is hectic and kinda punishing.

I will wake at 7am, change, make up and leave home at 745am. Breakie with parents then at 815am, I rush into office. The whole day will be busy, either i am working on long-time problems or trying to resolve new problems that occur. 12noon is lunch time and I get an hr to breathe normally. 1pm start work and I will go all the way till 7plus-8pm. No break, just an occasional snack on apples or cereal. By the time I leave office, its usually 7plus and I will step into house after 8pm. On some rare occasions, i will leave before 630pm and go for a brisk walk to exercise, thats the time when i get to see the evening sun.

When I bath and eat, it will be almost 9pm. Then i will either do more reading or i ll decide to indulge myself n watch tv prog. Conversations with Daddy and Mommy are usually short and concise, and they will patiently listen to my grouses (if any) or we will discuss hows their day. To be frank, usually we talk in front of the tv, and I would be fast asleep by the count of ten > which means they dont usually get much out of me.

I am really guilty, like I have not been spending enough time with them. No more luxury time with Mom, she has to do grocery alone, eat lunches alone. No more shopping with her, unless its public holi. No more late night watching soccer with Daddy, unless I can yank myself out of bed. Sigh... I feel so bad...I am neglecting them. But they are so supportive, they do not blame me and still encourage me to work harder and not worry abt them :(

Life is really very short, what are my priorties in life? Career? Money? Family? I'll put up both my arms and legs to say: FAMILY! I treasure every min i spend with them, every word i say to them. In the past, when time was abundant, I would not feel the need/urge to talk to them, I find it very normal to spend time together; and sometimes, i even feel 'irritated' at the amt of time we 'stick' tgt. Now that time is a luxury, i really treasure every min, like its the most precious thing in the world. Money cannot buy me family time and work will not give me the fufilment that family time gives.

I often ask myself: if i sacrifice family time for work now; one day, when anything happens and they are not with me, can i still embrace my work and be happy?

當靈魂那根弦被撥動　文◎張小嫻

2007-04-12T16:09:00.000+08:00

I like this post, copied from 6park.com:

當一根小提琴的琴弦被撥動時，會引起同一房間裏所有弦樂器的共振，即使這個振動微弱到肉耳根本聽不見，但是，最敏感的人都能感受到這種共振。當靈魂那根弦被撥動了，身體和愛也會共振……
●我和你的共振有時候，你說不出為甚麼喜歡一個人。他長得並不特別好看，他並不完美。然而，他把你完完全全吸引住了，因為他有靈魂。

只有靈魂能觸動靈魂。

有些人，也許出身大富之家，也許在世界一流大學畢業，也許儀表不凡，也許有一個光明燦爛的前途，也許擁有以上所有的優點，可是，你感受不到他的靈魂，他只有一個耀目的軀殼。

另一些人，相信自己非常有內涵。他充分掌握潮流資訊，知道現在最流行的掌上電腦、數碼相機、名車，甚至最流行的球鞋。他知道甚麼是好東西，隨時可以唸出一串現代最有名的畫家、建築師、室內設計師和家具設計師的名字。可是，他不過是個資料蒐集員，沒有靈魂。

靈魂是一個可能性、一種智慧。它也可以很簡單：就是兩個人的契合。

為甚麼你覺得甲有靈魂而乙沒有？因為甲的靈魂能與你的靈魂共振。

當一根小提琴的琴弦被撥動時，會引起同一房間裏所有弦樂器的共振，即使這個振動微弱到肉耳根本聽不見，但是，最敏感的人都能感受到這種共振。當靈魂那根弦被撥動了，身體和愛也會共振。

我們愛上的，是一個能撥動我們靈魂那根弦線的人。這種感覺太奧妙了，很難去解釋，以至我們只能說：『他有一種屬於靈魂的東西。』

有一天，當你不再愛眼前人，也許是因為，靈魂那根弦已經斷了。

●喜歡和不喜歡
朋友約一位女士吃飯。那位女士應約赴會，剛坐下來，便先旨聲明：『你不是我的類型，所以，不要打我主意。』朋友愣了一下。他並沒有打算追求這位女士，他只是覺得她是個聊天的好對象。可是，人家這樣說，假如他說：『我不是想追求你！』那便似乎欠缺了男士風度。他惟有微笑表示明白。

『先旨聲明』也是一種態度，免得對方會誤會或日後大家尷尬。然而，這得要對自己非常有信心才可以。否則，碰到一位沒風度的男士，他說：『我對你根本沒意思！』那便很尷尬了。

我不是那種有信心『先旨聲明』的人。不喜歡一個人，我不會赴他的約，答應赴約，便是對他有好感。當然了，這種好感不一定發展成愛情，它也可以是友情。

不喜歡的人，無謂給他機會。事實上，一句話也嫌多。做人還是簡單一點好，我的一切，都可以分成喜歡和不喜歡：喜歡和不喜歡的人，喜歡和不喜歡的書，喜歡和不喜歡的地方，喜歡和不喜歡的食物，喜歡和不喜歡做的事，沒有模稜兩可。

一旦喜歡一個人，我會對他特別包容。不喜歡的，我會很挑剔。

喜歡的食物，我可以連續吃幾年才換口味。喜歡的書，我會一看再看。喜歡做的事，我可以不計代價。幸好，我喜歡的東西不多，喜歡的人更少。

●結婚的時差
台灣作家張國立的新書《亞當和那根他媽的肋骨》裏，有兩則廁所笑話：
老婆和情人的差別有多少？
差十五公斤。
老公和情人間的差別又有多大？
差四十五分鐘。

大部分的笑話，都離不開性和婚姻。女人婚後不一定會發胖，男人婚後，卻通常會疏懶一點。曾經有醫學報告指出，在床上心臟病發的男性，很大比例是在情婦床上病發的，只有少數是在自家的床上。至於理由，就不用說得太明白了。

朋友在唸一個兩年制的心理輔導碩士課程，他是班上年紀最大的一個，有一次，上課的時候，一位女同學說，有一個問題，她反覆思考了十年，那就是婚姻。這時候，我的朋友笑呵呵地說：『這個問題，我思考了三十年。』

他經歷了兩次失敗的婚姻，卻仍然相信婚姻。那位比他年輕許多的女同學，未婚，不相信婚姻。是否應該結婚，是許多人婚前和婚後都在思考的問題。

曾經跟一個女孩子聊天，十多年來，她交過兩個男朋友。跟第一個一起的時候，他很想結婚，她的事業如日中天，而且還有夢想要去完成。結果，他跟別人結婚了。現在，她很想結婚，她身邊的男人正在為事業奮鬥，一點也不想結婚。

當你很想很想的時候，不一定會遇到一個同樣很想很想的人。當你不想不想的時候，卻遇到一個很想很想的人。愛情和婚姻有時就像飛越了半個地球，難免會出現時差。

.......

2007-04-11T14:34:00.000+08:00

Again I dunno wat to put for the title...haha :P

Finished more things this week, need to clear work before jetting off and settling down in a new env for work. Really looking forward to it, but also hesitant at the same time, coz I need to be solid abt my facts and technical details in order to have meetings with others. Grrr...boss is reminding me how well-versed i must be in my tech specs, so i wont be caught offguard there. Looks like i cannot always be an apprentice and rely on my boss, gonna learn to stand on my own :P
_____________________________________________________________________

Some things do not happen every day. Some things happen once and when you wish for it to occur again, it never will. On the contrary, some unexpected things can happen and you will be caught offguard.

A chance came by and I decided to go for it, telling myself that it may be the last and final time. Alas it slipped by again. Once again... for the nth time already.

Never mind, I know what are my priorities now. I know some things cannot be forced upon, cannot be expected to happen, cannot dwell too much. Fate and destiny are pre-arranged, we simply cannot make things happen the way we want them to.

Its time to let go. Time to embrace my career and dreams. At least its the only thing within my control and will give me returns.

Outstation

2007-04-09T11:15:00.000+08:00

My first overseas posting/assignment is confirmed:
Depart > 17/4/07, AM
Return > 27/4/07, PM

This implies:
1. 1st time to be away for 11 solids days, to be independent
2. 1st time having a hotel room to myself
3. 1st time in Philippines
4. 1st time to have no Daddy and Mommy's fussing for 11 days
5. 1st time spending my pig-day (bday) away from home

Grrrr...... :P

A phrase

2007-04-05T14:54:00.000+08:00

Read this from 6park.com, and I like it instantly:

喜欢就是淡淡的爱,爱就是深深的喜欢

Wonderful Thurs, Good Fri

2007-04-05T14:45:00.000+08:00

Its Thurs finally...holiday tmr :)

No ticket to Manila next wk, until Thurs, coz its Holy Week in the city and the flights are all full, except Biz Class (which i do not have the luxury of traveling on). Travel plans may be delayed, which i hope not coz it will go into my bday wk and I might have to spend 'pig day' alone in Manila....grrr... *showing black pig face* but wat to do....

Its a quiet Thurs, coz its Holy Week in Manila, which means my Client and fellow-workers there are on holiday, hence i have little or no emails. Spending my whole day reading Metcalf book again, revising and digesting wastewater treatment processes. Hmmm... i love wastewater treatment (WWT), esp on biological and membrane. I even have time to read and calculate some egs to refresh my memory. Hmmm..its a good thurs, i wish every day could be like today...hahah :)