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Something I've been following. More info here. The images on top contains a different hyperlink.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Botanical gardens in the day - A little tea party
[post has been back-dated]
We arrived at the park at 3pm, a bright sun at our backs. Only with a load and a destination in mind, do you appreciate how huge this place is. We passed by old familiar sites like Swan Lake and the Sundial Garden. We had our refreshment in Garlic Garden. We revisited Evolution Path, the first time since its official opening. Another long trek along Eco Walk and we're there!
Our visage opened up into a wide grass fields with soft grassy mounds. We picked a gentle slope under a tree and set up our picnic. There was a little hiccup as we dared not approach passer-bys for the loan of a lighter, for fear of offending them. Strange that I had never noticed it before, but have you ever seen anyone light up at a park? Finally, we struck lucky with a family having a picnic and started to brew our tea. We had ham and cheese sandwiches; plain crackers with cheese spread; fruits and some orange tea. We had a little game and had some orange tea. We ran out of orange tea and had some green tea. We ran out of water and finished our green tea...
Finally, we entertained ourselves with the swans and ended our dark at the Botanical Gardens.
We arrived at the park at 3pm, a bright sun at our backs. Only with a load and a destination in mind, do you appreciate how huge this place is. We passed by old familiar sites like Swan Lake and the Sundial Garden. We had our refreshment in Garlic Garden. We revisited Evolution Path, the first time since its official opening. Another long trek along Eco Walk and we're there!
Our visage opened up into a wide grass fields with soft grassy mounds. We picked a gentle slope under a tree and set up our picnic. There was a little hiccup as we dared not approach passer-bys for the loan of a lighter, for fear of offending them. Strange that I had never noticed it before, but have you ever seen anyone light up at a park? Finally, we struck lucky with a family having a picnic and started to brew our tea. We had ham and cheese sandwiches; plain crackers with cheese spread; fruits and some orange tea. We had a little game and had some orange tea. We ran out of orange tea and had some green tea. We ran out of water and finished our green tea...
Finally, we entertained ourselves with the swans and ended our dark at the Botanical Gardens.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Dennis housewarning
[post has been back-dated]
Upon the invitation by Dennis and Rose, we descended upon their abode like hungry locusts. The food was excellent, except for the tempura prawns (shh...). We watched Project B. We drank a little. Then Alan broke out her karaoke set and started goading us to sing. Rose even threatened to lock us all in if we don't. Despite that, our little army suffered some desertions from the ranks. Alan and Sengquan were the ones who enjoyed crooning the most. When everyone had their turn, we forced our big lady boss to sing for us, followed by Pat. He "failed", having only only obtained 40 marks and we demanded he sing again. He quite gamely launched into his punishment and sang a new song, scoring 92 points. We called it a night and thanked our kind hosts.
Upon the invitation by Dennis and Rose, we descended upon their abode like hungry locusts. The food was excellent, except for the tempura prawns (shh...). We watched Project B. We drank a little. Then Alan broke out her karaoke set and started goading us to sing. Rose even threatened to lock us all in if we don't. Despite that, our little army suffered some desertions from the ranks. Alan and Sengquan were the ones who enjoyed crooning the most. When everyone had their turn, we forced our big lady boss to sing for us, followed by Pat. He "failed", having only only obtained 40 marks and we demanded he sing again. He quite gamely launched into his punishment and sang a new song, scoring 92 points. We called it a night and thanked our kind hosts.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
An "experienced" programmer
[post has been edited]
Ah darn it!
I have to help someone with his task and it brought back memories.
"Done?"
"Ya"
"Ok, release the program and prepare the transport form"
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
"Not yet"
"Ok... Go se10. Release the lower object. Ask Big Satan to release the upper object for you"
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
"Ya"
"The upper object is not released yet! Send a mail to Big Satan. Ask him release the upper object. Do a screen capture. Print it out. Prepare the transport form. Ok?"
"Ok"
[1 hr later, I caught him staring at the screen]
"Done?"
"Ya"
"Have you done a screen capture?"
[He starts to get a screen capture]
"..."
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
"Ya"
"Have you done printed the transport form?"
[He starts to print the transport form]
"..."
"Now listen..."
[Gave him instructions on transport form procedure]
[Next day, I caught him staring at his screen]
"Done?"
[Shows me an empty form]
"Go get Big Satan's signature. Go get Rama's signature. Then pass to the custodian. Ok?"
"Ok..."
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
[Shows me a form with only Big Satan's signature]
"Go get Rama's signature"
[Leaves chair]
Ah darn it!
I have to help someone with his task and it brought back memories.
"Done?"
"Ya"
"Ok, release the program and prepare the transport form"
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
"Not yet"
"Ok... Go se10. Release the lower object. Ask Big Satan to release the upper object for you"
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
"Ya"
"The upper object is not released yet! Send a mail to Big Satan. Ask him release the upper object. Do a screen capture. Print it out. Prepare the transport form. Ok?"
"Ok"
[1 hr later, I caught him staring at the screen]
"Done?"
"Ya"
"Have you done a screen capture?"
[He starts to get a screen capture]
"..."
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
"Ya"
"Have you done printed the transport form?"
[He starts to print the transport form]
"..."
"Now listen..."
[Gave him instructions on transport form procedure]
[Next day, I caught him staring at his screen]
"Done?"
[Shows me an empty form]
"Go get Big Satan's signature. Go get Rama's signature. Then pass to the custodian. Ok?"
"Ok..."
[1 hr later, I caught him in the process of testing the program]
"Done?"
[Shows me a form with only Big Satan's signature]
"Go get Rama's signature"
[Leaves chair]
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Living in fear
In response to Prawnkid's post
I dare not say I am a brave person. But I can't stand people who cover their backsides all the time.
- I must not fear.
- Fear is the mind-killer.
- Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
- I will face my fear.
- I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
- And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
- Where the fear has gone there will be nothing.
- Only I will remain. --Litany against Fear, from Dune
I dare not say I am a brave person. But I can't stand people who cover their backsides all the time.
The actual Legend of Zelda
The actual Legend of Zelda is a legend first revealed in Zelda II: Adventure of Link.
As the legend goes, a long time ago, the king of Hyrule's son learned about the Triforce and desired it greatly. An evil wizard informed the prince that his younger sister Zelda knew of its whereabouts. The two confronted Zelda. When the princess refused to talk, the wizard forced her into a deep sleep. Overcome with power, the wizard died in the process, leaving the prince guilt-stricken for betraying his own blood. He had his sister moved to the North Castle altar and declared that every daughter born into the royal family shall be named Zelda. [1]
This explains why the name Zelda is a recurring name in every installment.
Athens trip: Money trouble!
Our calculations came up to a whooping $3900. I'm several hundred dollars short and I really hoping for some magical cash to fall from the sky. No more taxis for me.
28 Apr: Land in Athens
29 Apr: Cruise
30 Apr: Cruise
1 May: Cruise
2 May: Cruise; Arrive in Santorini
3 May: Santorini
4 May: Santorini
5 May: Leave Santorini; Return to Athens
6 May: Athens
7 May: Athens
8 May: Athens
9 May: Homeward journey
28 Apr: Land in Athens
29 Apr: Cruise
30 Apr: Cruise
1 May: Cruise
2 May: Cruise; Arrive in Santorini
3 May: Santorini
4 May: Santorini
5 May: Leave Santorini; Return to Athens
6 May: Athens
7 May: Athens
8 May: Athens
9 May: Homeward journey
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Letters from Iwo Jima
Acting is generally good but the story isn't that engaging. Felt like one long soap opera. Still, glad that I got to watch it.
Change in the air?
A quick meeting was called and we were told that the lines between the sub tracks would be blurred so that there would be more learning opportunities.
Thanks Pat, but we all know it's difficult to pull off.
Thanks Pat, but we all know it's difficult to pull off.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Discontentment
It started with BL's sms and ended with me sending a "grumble" sms to Pat.
BL messaged me in morning, fixing an appointment during lunch to set-up his Java compiler. That put me in a grumpy mood for the morning.
When I reached office, I started tackling the B.P.O.E. Shiny helped me past my obstacle so I made good progress but it's still a lot of work.
During lunch, I configured his problematic Java in 10 secs. I explained the coding to him and showed him how to use the editor. When it came to a report, I explained the methodology to him but grew tight lipped when he asked me to composed it verbally. When the hour was up, I said good-bye tersely and went back to my room.
In a increasing foul mood, I juggled my time between B.P.O.E. and new problems that just cropped up. BL called me to ask about the code. I sent a sms to voice my displeasure after we ended the call. He didn't make a reply to that and returned with more questions.
More changes to the B.P.O.E. took up even more of my time - So much for 8 lines!
At 7pm...
"Belle! I really want to bye bye <B.P.O.E.> !!"
"Oi! Cannot ah! You must give me your "present" before you go!"
"<B.P.O.E.>! <B.P.O.E.>! Cannot tahan already!"
"Ha ha, next time give you <B.P.O.E.'s sister>! Why you're the one always changing it? Let someone else do la!"
"..."
It's a code between us, which I cannot explain as there might be colleagues reading this.
Before I left, I grumbled to Pat. While journeying home, I sent 2 sms complaining about the situation. 2 hrs since I sent them, I doubt there'lll be a reply. What I want is a switch in job scope.
BL messaged me in morning, fixing an appointment during lunch to set-up his Java compiler. That put me in a grumpy mood for the morning.
When I reached office, I started tackling the B.P.O.E. Shiny helped me past my obstacle so I made good progress but it's still a lot of work.
During lunch, I configured his problematic Java in 10 secs. I explained the coding to him and showed him how to use the editor. When it came to a report, I explained the methodology to him but grew tight lipped when he asked me to composed it verbally. When the hour was up, I said good-bye tersely and went back to my room.
In a increasing foul mood, I juggled my time between B.P.O.E. and new problems that just cropped up. BL called me to ask about the code. I sent a sms to voice my displeasure after we ended the call. He didn't make a reply to that and returned with more questions.
More changes to the B.P.O.E. took up even more of my time - So much for 8 lines!
At 7pm...
"Belle! I really want to bye bye <B.P.O.E.> !!"
"Oi! Cannot ah! You must give me your "present" before you go!"
"<B.P.O.E.>! <B.P.O.E.>! Cannot tahan already!"
"Ha ha, next time give you <B.P.O.E.'s sister>! Why you're the one always changing it? Let someone else do la!"
"..."
It's a code between us, which I cannot explain as there might be colleagues reading this.
Before I left, I grumbled to Pat. While journeying home, I sent 2 sms complaining about the situation. 2 hrs since I sent them, I doubt there'lll be a reply. What I want is a switch in job scope.
The joker...
called me at 1am. Saying that his JCreator reported an error, "invalid path...". That's for having no JDK. Asked me how I should write his report? If I could help him write? Can I take half a day off tomorrow?
I guided him over the phone but refused to write a sample of his report...
Twice he asked me if I could complete the whole thing for him. I asked him to take a close look at my screenshot, see what time I sent the codes to him.
He didn't get the hint.
I guided him over the phone but refused to write a sample of his report...
Twice he asked me if I could complete the whole thing for him. I asked him to take a close look at my screenshot, see what time I sent the codes to him.
He didn't get the hint.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Programming help
Once again, I'm a bit pissed off with BL.
I rushed the program for him by Wednesday night and he is touching it now? He wanted me to go to his house for "on-site" support. I wormed out of it.
I forsee great difficulties for him. Since he asked me what compiler he should use, that means he hasn't installed it yet. I bet he also don't have Java Development Kit installed. "So many years as a student and you don't have it?", I chided him. "Aiyah, gave up already", he replied.
That is what differentiates those who can code and those who can't. Sometimes I feel guilty for letting scores of people pass their projects. So whenever I complain about poor programming standards, I have to think about my hand in it for the past 14 years.
He needs 2 hrs to download and install the monster called JDK. He needs 15 minutes to hack each password. I've done one for him, so that's 1 hr 15 min. By the time he finishes, it'll be 10pm. 2 hours to write a report while I play my DotA. Amusing...
I rushed the program for him by Wednesday night and he is touching it now? He wanted me to go to his house for "on-site" support. I wormed out of it.
I forsee great difficulties for him. Since he asked me what compiler he should use, that means he hasn't installed it yet. I bet he also don't have Java Development Kit installed. "So many years as a student and you don't have it?", I chided him. "Aiyah, gave up already", he replied.
That is what differentiates those who can code and those who can't. Sometimes I feel guilty for letting scores of people pass their projects. So whenever I complain about poor programming standards, I have to think about my hand in it for the past 14 years.
He needs 2 hrs to download and install the monster called JDK. He needs 15 minutes to hack each password. I've done one for him, so that's 1 hr 15 min. By the time he finishes, it'll be 10pm. 2 hours to write a report while I play my DotA. Amusing...
Sunday, March 11, 2007
SAF Fantasy
Ever played Final Fantasy?
Or have you served in the army?
Then this video is for you.
http://sgcafe.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=56964&d=116030327
Or have you served in the army?
Then this video is for you.
http://sgcafe.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=56964&d=116030327
Friday, March 09, 2007
Genius or fool?
[This post has been edited]
Not a genius... the buggy program(at work) is not fixed. So much for 8 lines of code. =\
Not a genius... the buggy program(at work) is not fixed. So much for 8 lines of code. =\
Thursday, March 08, 2007
300
[This post has been edited]
Nice.
But feeling unjust for the other 700, here is an excerpt.
After two days of battle a local resident named Ephialtes betrayed the Greeks, revealing a mountain path that led behind the Greek lines. Dismissing the rest of the army, King Leonidas stayed behind with 300 Spartans and 700 Thespian volunteers. Though they knew it meant their own deaths, they held their position and secured the retreat of the other Greek forces.
Nice.But feeling unjust for the other 700, here is an excerpt.
After two days of battle a local resident named Ephialtes betrayed the Greeks, revealing a mountain path that led behind the Greek lines. Dismissing the rest of the army, King Leonidas stayed behind with 300 Spartans and 700 Thespian volunteers. Though they knew it meant their own deaths, they held their position and secured the retreat of the other Greek forces.
Programming...
1. Cannot tahan the project oredi. It's easy but I went into it quite reluctantly. Having the onset of flu now from sleep deprivation - half from games, half from project. Would be nice to report sick tomorrow.
2. I persuaded the nice lady from our client to split a bug report into 2 tickets as I knew them to be difficult issues. The toll of the previous 2 nights made me waste the morning away.
When I was myself once again, I outsourced the 2nd part to our little boy boy - Kevin. While explaining the cause to him, I came up with a simpler solution. It doesn't treat the real bugs but it'll work, so who cares? I know I wasn't in the mood.
Once done, I left Kevin to his own resources and studied the first part. Surprise. 8 lines of codes later, the Buggiest program on Earth has one less issue.
So now it appears I over-estimated the difficulty. Or did I improve that much? Never mind. The extra days would be good for our junior to learn his ropes.
2. I persuaded the nice lady from our client to split a bug report into 2 tickets as I knew them to be difficult issues. The toll of the previous 2 nights made me waste the morning away.
When I was myself once again, I outsourced the 2nd part to our little boy boy - Kevin. While explaining the cause to him, I came up with a simpler solution. It doesn't treat the real bugs but it'll work, so who cares? I know I wasn't in the mood.
Once done, I left Kevin to his own resources and studied the first part. Surprise. 8 lines of codes later, the Buggiest program on Earth has one less issue.
So now it appears I over-estimated the difficulty. Or did I improve that much? Never mind. The extra days would be good for our junior to learn his ropes.
Frequency of Earthquakes Worldwide
| Descriptor | Magnitude | Annual average |
|---|---|---|
| Great | 8 or higher | 11 |
| Major | 7–7.9 | 172 |
| Strong | 6–6.9 | 1342 |
| Moderate | 5–5.9 | 1,3192 |
| Light | 4–4.9 | c. 13,000 |
| Minor | 3–3.9 | c. 130,000 |
| Very minor | 2–2.9 | c. 1,300,000 |
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0197837.html
Monday, March 05, 2007
Hacking help needed
I am dumped with a school project again.
Was given a java program with 6 encrypted passwords. I am to deduce the answers. However, I cannot justify them with "guessing" aka "brute force method". Question paper said to modify the program as I wish and use a variety of search techniques.
I suspect this is a "use-brain" assignment rather than a programming one.
Any help would be appreciated. thanks.
Was given a java program with 6 encrypted passwords. I am to deduce the answers. However, I cannot justify them with "guessing" aka "brute force method". Question paper said to modify the program as I wish and use a variety of search techniques.
I suspect this is a "use-brain" assignment rather than a programming one.
Any help would be appreciated. thanks.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Act, act
I wanted to go to a friend's house in a short time so I waited outside the polyclinic's taxi stand. Well, perhaps it isn't an official taxi stand as there was no sign. That probably explained why people were constantly stealing our cabs ahead of us. Finally, the malay family in front of me got a cab and I tried to call for one. The lady behind me grew impatient and opened her umbrella, spinning it as though in play. Then she went towards the bus stop and stood there in a position to steal mine. My cab came and didn't bothered to stop for her.
;)
;)
Friday, March 02, 2007
Quit your job...
Once a year, a nation dreams.
The very next day, resignation sets in.
But just for tonite, enjoy it.
The very next day, resignation sets in.
But just for tonite, enjoy it.
Transformers the (original) movie
Guess what I heard while spinning for soft toys in Genting?
You Got The Touch - Stan Bush, as played in Optimus Prime's entrance
At the age of 19, I happened to catch a replay of Transformers on TV3 and was surprised at the great song tracks inside a "mere" cartoon movie.
My personal favourite is Dare - also by Stan Bush
fyi: The events in the video for "Dare" occurred before the events in "Optimus Prime's arrival". It was Hot Rod's alertness that gave the Autobots ample warning before Prime came and saved the day.
You Got The Touch - Stan Bush, as played in Optimus Prime's entrance
At the age of 19, I happened to catch a replay of Transformers on TV3 and was surprised at the great song tracks inside a "mere" cartoon movie.
My personal favourite is Dare - also by Stan Bush
fyi: The events in the video for "Dare" occurred before the events in "Optimus Prime's arrival". It was Hot Rod's alertness that gave the Autobots ample warning before Prime came and saved the day.
Double O
My very first visit there.
It was a sent off for Cynthia and I joint them after their dinner. To make a long story short...
1. The gals enjoyed themselves.
2. I was tasked to look after a little drunk cat. (Clue: she won a lot of little friends recently)
3. Everyone got pretty drunk. I was the most sober.
4. There was some blatant matchmaking attempts.
Best wishes...
Lastly, if this message reaches the right eyes, "Next time if you know we were lying through our teeth to send you home in a cab, please do!"
It was a sent off for Cynthia and I joint them after their dinner. To make a long story short...
1. The gals enjoyed themselves.
2. I was tasked to look after a little drunk cat. (Clue: she won a lot of little friends recently)
3. Everyone got pretty drunk. I was the most sober.
4. There was some blatant matchmaking attempts.
Best wishes...
Lastly, if this message reaches the right eyes, "Next time if you know we were lying through our teeth to send you home in a cab, please do!"
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Indisposed
[Joran is my gaming nick, as mentioned]
--in the midst of DotA
Mom: Want to eat dinner?
[Joran dies...]
Joran: Mother! Not now!
Mom: You don't eat, I'll be keeping!
Joran: Then keep!
Mom: Can't you pause?
Joran: Noooo!
Mom: You don't eat, I'll be keeping!
Dad: Want to eat dinner?
Joran: ...
Dad: About to keep dinner.
Joran: Then keep!
Dad: Want to eat dinner?
[Joran dies...]
Joran: ...
Argh...
Like break-ups, lies would work better.
Joran: No, I have eaten.
But then, I'm a bit dumb.
--in the midst of DotA
Mom: Want to eat dinner?
[Joran dies...]
Joran: Mother! Not now!
Mom: You don't eat, I'll be keeping!
Joran: Then keep!
Mom: Can't you pause?
Joran: Noooo!
Mom: You don't eat, I'll be keeping!
Dad: Want to eat dinner?
Joran: ...
Dad: About to keep dinner.
Joran: Then keep!
Dad: Want to eat dinner?
[Joran dies...]
Joran: ...
Argh...
Like break-ups, lies would work better.
Joran: No, I have eaten.
But then, I'm a bit dumb.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
A short trip: theme park
1. Took a spinning plane thing
2. Small roller coaster. "Ahhhhhh!!!", went JW. "Don't be stupid. We haven't went down yet", Jingying replied.
3. Flying roller coaster. JW and Kelvin chickened out, citing age as a reason.
4. Pirates ship.
5. Big roller coaster. "Can I chicken out?", JW quested. "No!", was the girls' replies. Kelvin chickened out. Luckily, the plunging feeling was negated by too much spiraling of the tracks.
6. Dinosaur Land. Zzzz
7. Big Drop. JW was rather eager at this point. Jingying started shivering, "I don't think I can take it". "Yes, you can", said the gals. "I'll buy you Milo", JW offered. "No, no, let me out!", Jingying said. "Well, yes you can if you want", JW offered and got a glare from Kaifen.
From having only rode a small roller coaster, in one day I suddenly graduated to the scary rides. After discovering that only the first plunge is the deadliest, I was more willing to try out the other rides. That doesn't mean I don't feel apprehensive at the top of the Big Drop!
2. Small roller coaster. "Ahhhhhh!!!", went JW. "Don't be stupid. We haven't went down yet", Jingying replied.
3. Flying roller coaster. JW and Kelvin chickened out, citing age as a reason.
4. Pirates ship.
5. Big roller coaster. "Can I chicken out?", JW quested. "No!", was the girls' replies. Kelvin chickened out. Luckily, the plunging feeling was negated by too much spiraling of the tracks.
6. Dinosaur Land. Zzzz
7. Big Drop. JW was rather eager at this point. Jingying started shivering, "I don't think I can take it". "Yes, you can", said the gals. "I'll buy you Milo", JW offered. "No, no, let me out!", Jingying said. "Well, yes you can if you want", JW offered and got a glare from Kaifen.
From having only rode a small roller coaster, in one day I suddenly graduated to the scary rides. After discovering that only the first plunge is the deadliest, I was more willing to try out the other rides. That doesn't mean I don't feel apprehensive at the top of the Big Drop!
A short trip: events
[Day 1]
4.30am: We exchanged the cold enclosure of our bus for the chill air of Genting highlands. The glitz was impressive and the directions were good. We spent our time drinking beverages at the nearest Coffee Bean.
5.30am: We checked in our bags and headed for the casino.
6.30am: I was bored with the place. What? How come it is only 6.30??
7.00am: Went exploring the place with Kaifen.
7.30am: Recalled by the others to the outdoor theme park.
8.15am: Weeee
11.30am: On top of the "Big Drop". Oh shit, why am I here?...
12pm: zzzz
2.10pm: RM$15.50 double mushroom cheeseburger. This isn't cheap...
2.45pm: Arcade with the girls.
3.00pm: Madness starts. Kaifen exhibits her skill with the joystick. Little friend #1.
3.15pm: Kaifen showed us why she is queen. Little friend #2.
3.45pm: Discovered the roulette wheel. Little friend #3 (Medium).
3.55pm: I won little friend #4 (Medium) with my own credits, gifted it to Kaifen.
4.05pm: Using her credits, I won little friend #5 (Large). Headache starts.
4.45pm: Kaifen and JW met up with Angie with 7 little friends.
5.00pm: Jingying met up with us and in her words, "nearly fainted at the sight of the soft toys".
5.30pm: Took the cable car at sky gate with Tommy, Jingying, Kaifen and Angie.
7.30pm: Arranged movie.
8.30pm-sms: dinner
10.15pm: movie-Protege
[Day 2]
12am: Walked to lookout point
2.00am: head back to room
8.30am: mac breakfast
9.30am: monorail
10.00am: Kaifen stressed me with more madness as I was "lucky" at the wheel. So did Jingying. Final tally, 4 prizes out of 11 spins.
11.15am: Looked for the others at the sky gate
12pm: Nonsense back at hotel room
2pm: Checkout. Lunch at Bk
3pm: Bye bye Genting.
4.30am: We exchanged the cold enclosure of our bus for the chill air of Genting highlands. The glitz was impressive and the directions were good. We spent our time drinking beverages at the nearest Coffee Bean.
5.30am: We checked in our bags and headed for the casino.
6.30am: I was bored with the place. What? How come it is only 6.30??
7.00am: Went exploring the place with Kaifen.
7.30am: Recalled by the others to the outdoor theme park.
8.15am: Weeee
11.30am: On top of the "Big Drop". Oh shit, why am I here?...
12pm: zzzz
2.10pm: RM$15.50 double mushroom cheeseburger. This isn't cheap...
2.45pm: Arcade with the girls.
3.00pm: Madness starts. Kaifen exhibits her skill with the joystick. Little friend #1.
3.15pm: Kaifen showed us why she is queen. Little friend #2.
3.45pm: Discovered the roulette wheel. Little friend #3 (Medium).
3.55pm: I won little friend #4 (Medium) with my own credits, gifted it to Kaifen.
4.05pm: Using her credits, I won little friend #5 (Large). Headache starts.
4.45pm: Kaifen and JW met up with Angie with 7 little friends.
5.00pm: Jingying met up with us and in her words, "nearly fainted at the sight of the soft toys".
5.30pm: Took the cable car at sky gate with Tommy, Jingying, Kaifen and Angie.
7.30pm: Arranged movie.
8.30pm-sms: dinner
10.15pm: movie-Protege
[Day 2]
12am: Walked to lookout point
2.00am: head back to room
8.30am: mac breakfast
9.30am: monorail
10.00am: Kaifen stressed me with more madness as I was "lucky" at the wheel. So did Jingying. Final tally, 4 prizes out of 11 spins.
11.15am: Looked for the others at the sky gate
12pm: Nonsense back at hotel room
2pm: Checkout. Lunch at Bk
3pm: Bye bye Genting.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Evil Buggy Program
...is driving all of us nuts. For me, I am sadly all too familiar with it and have reached the stage where I can work on it and talk to Gaga at the same time.
I need a switch in job scope...
I need a switch in job scope...
The fountain
Forget the poor ratings. I don't think people get it. Neither do I. But that doesn't change the fact that I like it.
http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808422624/info
http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1808422624/info
Friday, February 16, 2007
The last work day before the new lunar year
[this post has been backdated]
As a nice gesture, our big bosses paid for a buffet lunch from their own pockets, after learning that we were planning to have a feast "outside". Despite our disappointment at being kept in, everyone was getting excited about the food. At 12.05, bosses were still at their desks. Mdm Foo and Kaifen were trying to nudge us to start but no one moved. Desiree had started peeking into the dishes and I responded by taking up the first plate.
"Kieran not back yet. Aren't you going to wait for him?"
"I don't care...", I replied and the eating began.
Of special note (to shame) are people like Dennis, who cut the queue not just once but twice, before some of us even had our first serving!
Kieran returned with vegetarian curry and 3 boxes of yu(2) sheng(1). So that solved a mystery.
Big Satan queued up, much to everyone's surprise.
There are about 60-70 of us so the queue is pretty long. JW (myself) being the first, only had to queue for his second helping.
As we have staff who are on a vegetarian diet, we transferred its one pack of salmon to from one of the yu sheng to the one in the middle. I called Sonika in to experience this weird local "social event". The other Indian staff had stayed away and were not in, so she was the only person in the room who cannot take meat. Mdm Foo, Sonika, myself and some unnamed faces were at the "vegetarian" yu shen corner. The others had crowded around the "meat".
At the crack of the gun, everyone started tossing the salad. Somehow, a war broke out among the participants in the middle and they started flinging the yu sheng at each other. When the armistice was called, 2/3 of the plate was gone and salmon now decorated the table and floors. The pity was compounded as 2 packs worth of fish was in there! Those girls! On the other hand, some of the bio-weapons went into Kaifen's top, so a guy must have been involved too...
After the expensive food fight, we returned to our assignments half-heartedly. We knew full well at our colleagues at the HQ can get off at 3pm. We knew that our client had gone off to the outside world to have their celebration and released after that. We also knew that most of our target customers were on half-day. I replaced my messaging client with this message, "If you are looking for my soul, it is somewhere else".
At 2 plus, Big Satan swept by and told Sarah to disseminate the message, "Those who got nothing to do can go home at 3 but pass their names to me". Nobody in Saturn room moved and I dramatically shouted, "Entrapment!...".
When the news spread to the production room, Sonika had to say, "I got nothing to do" - fn1.
With our guileless lady sticking out her neck, the exodus began.
fn1 - There was a time when I said that without fears...
Meanwhile in Saturn room, productivity was not very high. A large group went to a time wasting ceremony where they bathed two metallic objects on wheels with soap and water. At 3pm, we broke out the refreshments. Probably due to something in the water, two of them gained the colour of a cooked lobster. I shared my drinks with hk and the natural goodness from its plants origins started to promote sleep in us. Finally, we couldn't take it any more. hk and I ended our charade and said our goodbyes.
As a nice gesture, our big bosses paid for a buffet lunch from their own pockets, after learning that we were planning to have a feast "outside". Despite our disappointment at being kept in, everyone was getting excited about the food. At 12.05, bosses were still at their desks. Mdm Foo and Kaifen were trying to nudge us to start but no one moved. Desiree had started peeking into the dishes and I responded by taking up the first plate.
"Kieran not back yet. Aren't you going to wait for him?"
"I don't care...", I replied and the eating began.
Of special note (to shame) are people like Dennis, who cut the queue not just once but twice, before some of us even had our first serving!
Kieran returned with vegetarian curry and 3 boxes of yu(2) sheng(1). So that solved a mystery.
Big Satan queued up, much to everyone's surprise.
There are about 60-70 of us so the queue is pretty long. JW (myself) being the first, only had to queue for his second helping.
As we have staff who are on a vegetarian diet, we transferred its one pack of salmon to from one of the yu sheng to the one in the middle. I called Sonika in to experience this weird local "social event". The other Indian staff had stayed away and were not in, so she was the only person in the room who cannot take meat. Mdm Foo, Sonika, myself and some unnamed faces were at the "vegetarian" yu shen corner. The others had crowded around the "meat".
At the crack of the gun, everyone started tossing the salad. Somehow, a war broke out among the participants in the middle and they started flinging the yu sheng at each other. When the armistice was called, 2/3 of the plate was gone and salmon now decorated the table and floors. The pity was compounded as 2 packs worth of fish was in there! Those girls! On the other hand, some of the bio-weapons went into Kaifen's top, so a guy must have been involved too...
After the expensive food fight, we returned to our assignments half-heartedly. We knew full well at our colleagues at the HQ can get off at 3pm. We knew that our client had gone off to the outside world to have their celebration and released after that. We also knew that most of our target customers were on half-day. I replaced my messaging client with this message, "If you are looking for my soul, it is somewhere else".
At 2 plus, Big Satan swept by and told Sarah to disseminate the message, "Those who got nothing to do can go home at 3 but pass their names to me". Nobody in Saturn room moved and I dramatically shouted, "Entrapment!...".
When the news spread to the production room, Sonika had to say, "I got nothing to do" - fn1.
With our guileless lady sticking out her neck, the exodus began.
fn1 - There was a time when I said that without fears...
Meanwhile in Saturn room, productivity was not very high. A large group went to a time wasting ceremony where they bathed two metallic objects on wheels with soap and water. At 3pm, we broke out the refreshments. Probably due to something in the water, two of them gained the colour of a cooked lobster. I shared my drinks with hk and the natural goodness from its plants origins started to promote sleep in us. Finally, we couldn't take it any more. hk and I ended our charade and said our goodbyes.
A reunion with an ex-colleague
We were walking home when I spotted a familiar face. He was pretty cheeky about remembering my name and the ex-colleague I had sat next to, while I was trying to place him. He's BK from Impact. Nice, pleasant, gentlemen look.
When he said that he is in my company, I couldn't believe it. I then ridiculed him for making such a foolish decision. My next tirade was against the "unfriendliness" of Mars room, who didn't introduce their new hires to us - Saturn room.
Today, we welcome two new hires to Saturn room. Raj and Melissa, whom we introduced to *everyone*. -.-
When he said that he is in my company, I couldn't believe it. I then ridiculed him for making such a foolish decision. My next tirade was against the "unfriendliness" of Mars room, who didn't introduce their new hires to us - Saturn room.
Today, we welcome two new hires to Saturn room. Raj and Melissa, whom we introduced to *everyone*. -.-
Thursday, February 15, 2007
An interview by our future colleague
GL (not her real name) was tasked by her boss to find out why that stupid program had so many bugs reported during the recent live test. Having patched it more times than most, she asked me to give an analysis.
Jo: I don't know what to tell you. So just listen can already, no need write.
[Mentally prepare points]
Jo: Well firstly, the program is huge. So people are afraid to change anything beyond what they know... Hey, stop writing! Just out of Uni, got student sickness, is it?
[She sat on her hands and looked mildly sheepish]
GL: I'm like this in Uni...
Jo: They go for the safe path. For example, the tabs "Basic data 1" and "Basic data 2" can be called 3 times in the background, each updating a different thing. People use the method which they know is safe. Which is to open the program and dump their information in, not caring if there's another portion that has a similar function.
Jo: Second is the size of the program.
GL: How huge?
Jo: Well, there's 50 odd notifications types, from Y0 to ZZ. I estimate about 60 files.
GL: Files?
Jo: Ya, programs, source-codes. Stop writing!
GL: Don't worry, I won't quote you.
Jo: ...
Jo: Thirdly, the documentation is in a poor state. They promised but did not deliver. They delivered these features but did not document it. They implemented these features but they don't work... Stop writing...
For the rest of the "session", I showed her the size of the program. I related to her the use of includes by comparing it to C. I gave her examples of common errors reported. Finally, armed with her notes, she was contented. Wonder what good it'll do.
[The above post contains some inaccuracies due to the process of condensation and a need for drama.]
Jo: I don't know what to tell you. So just listen can already, no need write.
[Mentally prepare points]
Jo: Well firstly, the program is huge. So people are afraid to change anything beyond what they know... Hey, stop writing! Just out of Uni, got student sickness, is it?
[She sat on her hands and looked mildly sheepish]
GL: I'm like this in Uni...
Jo: They go for the safe path. For example, the tabs "Basic data 1" and "Basic data 2" can be called 3 times in the background, each updating a different thing. People use the method which they know is safe. Which is to open the program and dump their information in, not caring if there's another portion that has a similar function.
Jo: Second is the size of the program.
GL: How huge?
Jo: Well, there's 50 odd notifications types, from Y0 to ZZ. I estimate about 60 files.
GL: Files?
Jo: Ya, programs, source-codes. Stop writing!
GL: Don't worry, I won't quote you.
Jo: ...
Jo: Thirdly, the documentation is in a poor state. They promised but did not deliver. They delivered these features but did not document it. They implemented these features but they don't work... Stop writing...
For the rest of the "session", I showed her the size of the program. I related to her the use of includes by comparing it to C. I gave her examples of common errors reported. Finally, armed with her notes, she was contented. Wonder what good it'll do.
[The above post contains some inaccuracies due to the process of condensation and a need for drama.]
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Return to office
I haven't had the chance to fill my mug when distress calls started coming in from my juniors. The culprit? That stupid buggy program.
Having no tasks, I moved around as a busybody.
"Have you done your program?", hk asked.
"Program?..."
"Yeah, the one I gave you this morning"
-.-
So Day 2 came and I alternated between my new program change and helping my juniors. Huikoon had done a nice job of usurping my position of being a mentor. A bit jealous of it, yet at the same time thankful for it.
Having no tasks, I moved around as a busybody.
"Have you done your program?", hk asked.
"Program?..."
"Yeah, the one I gave you this morning"
-.-
So Day 2 came and I alternated between my new program change and helping my juniors. Huikoon had done a nice job of usurping my position of being a mentor. A bit jealous of it, yet at the same time thankful for it.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Thursday assface
I just can't seem to post from YouTube these days. If anyone can guide me, please do.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tM1WzRzEZ5U
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tM1WzRzEZ5U
Athens trip
I want go...
Parthenon at here. Use your mouse's scroll button to zoom in and out.
Temple of Olympian Zeus with a 3D reconstruction of her surroundings and a 3d internal tour
Parthenon at here. Use your mouse's scroll button to zoom in and out.
Temple of Olympian Zeus with a 3D reconstruction of her surroundings and a 3d internal tour
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Leaders
[army talk. Ladies, you have been warned.]
Two things have been stirring thoughts in me on this subject.
1. I am currently reading the English version of "Romance of 3 kingdoms". In those days, they *lead* troops at the head of the army. They embody the hearts and souls of the men. If he refuses to run, the men will take heart. If he charges, the men will rally. If he flees, the ranks will break. If he dies, the day is lost.
They were leaders.
2. During the filling of the sandbags, some of the men were upset that their immediate superior was not helping out. According to them, he had blocked their queries with, "You expect me to do?". We were taking a break when this feeling of discontent peaked. They started making their dissatisfaction known by raising their voices, rallying everyone to quit working. The sergeant became aware that he was targeted and tried to get us to resume. However, no one heeded him. I took a look around the group. Even the "pleasant" ones were not budging, waiting for someone to make a move. Finally, he gave up and started dragging off 2 sandbags. The group watched him. "Just 2 bags", our ringleader said. "Let's see if he carries on". The corporals started to join in.
That is our place. The corporals provide some semblance of order by deferring to the sergeants while the lance corporals give us our voice.
Would you trust you life with legends like Hannibal Barca(Carthage), Gaius Julius Caesar(Rome), Zhuge Liang(Han-Su) and Napoleon Bonaparte(France)? They who won battles with very little losses via their tactical brilliance.
Or would you rather serve under Horatio Nelson(Britain) and Richard D. Winters(USA) who braved bullets with their men? They who gambled the outcome with their lives.
Two things have been stirring thoughts in me on this subject.
1. I am currently reading the English version of "Romance of 3 kingdoms". In those days, they *lead* troops at the head of the army. They embody the hearts and souls of the men. If he refuses to run, the men will take heart. If he charges, the men will rally. If he flees, the ranks will break. If he dies, the day is lost.
They were leaders.
2. During the filling of the sandbags, some of the men were upset that their immediate superior was not helping out. According to them, he had blocked their queries with, "You expect me to do?". We were taking a break when this feeling of discontent peaked. They started making their dissatisfaction known by raising their voices, rallying everyone to quit working. The sergeant became aware that he was targeted and tried to get us to resume. However, no one heeded him. I took a look around the group. Even the "pleasant" ones were not budging, waiting for someone to make a move. Finally, he gave up and started dragging off 2 sandbags. The group watched him. "Just 2 bags", our ringleader said. "Let's see if he carries on". The corporals started to join in.
That is our place. The corporals provide some semblance of order by deferring to the sergeants while the lance corporals give us our voice.
Would you trust you life with legends like Hannibal Barca(Carthage), Gaius Julius Caesar(Rome), Zhuge Liang(Han-Su) and Napoleon Bonaparte(France)? They who won battles with very little losses via their tactical brilliance.
Or would you rather serve under Horatio Nelson(Britain) and Richard D. Winters(USA) who braved bullets with their men? They who gambled the outcome with their lives.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Furore
[Due to sensitivity, this post might be deleted in 5 days]
Someone in my office posted this as his out-of-office message
"I am currently fulfilling my obligation as a NSMen and will return to earn my pay on the @@th of @@@. For xxx matters, please email..."
Boss wanted it changed immediately and obtained the password to the account.
Almost everyone thought, "It's not right; It's not proper; Not good la".
One little kitty replied giddily that she had once done the same thing.
The protagonist was amused but felt a bit sad at the reactions.
What's your take?
Someone in my office posted this as his out-of-office message
"I am currently fulfilling my obligation as a NSMen and will return to earn my pay on the @@th of @@@. For xxx matters, please email..."
Boss wanted it changed immediately and obtained the password to the account.
Almost everyone thought, "It's not right; It's not proper; Not good la".
One little kitty replied giddily that she had once done the same thing.
The protagonist was amused but felt a bit sad at the reactions.
What's your take?
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Return to old company: Day 2
My brain is turning to mush
My appetite has jumped 3 fold
I can fall asleep in under 1 minute
How fast my "skills" returned to me...
My appetite has jumped 3 fold
I can fall asleep in under 1 minute
How fast my "skills" returned to me...
Monday, January 29, 2007
If you have 1000 Euros to burn...
http://www.outnext.com/on/2007/01/the_silolona.html
Btw, if you have 2000 Euros to burn, please bring me along!!
Btw, if you have 2000 Euros to burn, please bring me along!!
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Dreaming on a full bladder
Dreams as they go don't make sense. I just thought that it's amusing to log them and read at a future date. Readers might want to skip this entry.
[Dream]
I was playing Settlers and I simply couldn't get my resources. Mdm Foo(n0) remarked, "You'll be getting a surprise later". "What??" "You'll be getting a surprise later", she repeated. "Why couldn't you just tell me?", I pressed.
My bank account got additional money and I was puzzled. Was it refunds? A bonus or a mistake?
I had a full bladder so I went to the toilet in my house(n1). Soon later, the ceiling started leaking water. I stayed well clear of the milky coloured liquid.
I was joined by Kelvin(n2). The toilet faded away, no longer one being one, became the room with the leaky ceiling. One part of the wall opened up to a room(n3) that was central to the house, all walls knocked down and with the sky for a roof. "It's weird to have a courtyard in the middle of the house", I said. We stood there admiring the grass strewn room for a while.
We went to the balcony to enjoy the view. A rain had started up. I was joined by two camp mates, one of them being Morgan(n4).
The house fell away. The CO's jeep came towards us. "Why are you all here?", he demanded. "We came for the toilet", we said. "Then why are you all wet?", he asked. "Because the rain started after we came", we replied.
We scattered and make ourselves scarce from our CO. The toilet faded into a wooden shack. I went to the mini bus to look for the working clothes I had left there. Someone "diam"-ed the company and I had to stop a while. My working pants was gone and together with it, my wallet. "Maybe you should try looking in the rover", suggested Kelvin. "Rover?", I questioned myself in my head. Nevertheless, I went over and found both items there. The wallet however, was laid open and the contents were thrown across the car park, laid out as though in a trail.
Fuming, I started picking up my items when someone sounded the horn at me. It was Gnel(n5) in an open white Porsche(n6). "Get in", she said and opened the left door for me. She then shifted to the driver seat on the right. "You very cute leh", I commented as I got in. "Can you be more mature?", she scolded. "Sorry..."
Kelvin popped up from no where and handed me a note. "This is sort of an apology from him", he said. In red ink, the note said, "This is in revenge for how you treated Jiaxiang(n7) in camp. You gave Xueyi(n8) twice the amount of rice". I laughed, "Yah, the girls were eating too little so I gave them twice the amount". I felt a little betrayed by the mysterious thief. Kelvin was laughing himself silly. "In the excitement, he blogged about it and betrayed himself", he explained. It was Jiaxiang(n9)...
[/Dream]
n0 - colleague
n1 - recurring dream house
n2 - colleague
n3 - part of recurring dream house
n4 - camp mate
n5 - colleague
n6 - I know nuts about cars. I just "knew" it was a Porsche in the dream
n7 - mistake in dream. He should be Xue(2) jing(4)
n8 - mistake in dream. She should be Xue(3) ling(2)
n9 - Xue(2) jing(4)
[Dream]
I was playing Settlers and I simply couldn't get my resources. Mdm Foo(n0) remarked, "You'll be getting a surprise later". "What??" "You'll be getting a surprise later", she repeated. "Why couldn't you just tell me?", I pressed.
My bank account got additional money and I was puzzled. Was it refunds? A bonus or a mistake?
I had a full bladder so I went to the toilet in my house(n1). Soon later, the ceiling started leaking water. I stayed well clear of the milky coloured liquid.
I was joined by Kelvin(n2). The toilet faded away, no longer one being one, became the room with the leaky ceiling. One part of the wall opened up to a room(n3) that was central to the house, all walls knocked down and with the sky for a roof. "It's weird to have a courtyard in the middle of the house", I said. We stood there admiring the grass strewn room for a while.
We went to the balcony to enjoy the view. A rain had started up. I was joined by two camp mates, one of them being Morgan(n4).
The house fell away. The CO's jeep came towards us. "Why are you all here?", he demanded. "We came for the toilet", we said. "Then why are you all wet?", he asked. "Because the rain started after we came", we replied.
We scattered and make ourselves scarce from our CO. The toilet faded into a wooden shack. I went to the mini bus to look for the working clothes I had left there. Someone "diam"-ed the company and I had to stop a while. My working pants was gone and together with it, my wallet. "Maybe you should try looking in the rover", suggested Kelvin. "Rover?", I questioned myself in my head. Nevertheless, I went over and found both items there. The wallet however, was laid open and the contents were thrown across the car park, laid out as though in a trail.
Fuming, I started picking up my items when someone sounded the horn at me. It was Gnel(n5) in an open white Porsche(n6). "Get in", she said and opened the left door for me. She then shifted to the driver seat on the right. "You very cute leh", I commented as I got in. "Can you be more mature?", she scolded. "Sorry..."
Kelvin popped up from no where and handed me a note. "This is sort of an apology from him", he said. In red ink, the note said, "This is in revenge for how you treated Jiaxiang(n7) in camp. You gave Xueyi(n8) twice the amount of rice". I laughed, "Yah, the girls were eating too little so I gave them twice the amount". I felt a little betrayed by the mysterious thief. Kelvin was laughing himself silly. "In the excitement, he blogged about it and betrayed himself", he explained. It was Jiaxiang(n9)...
[/Dream]
n0 - colleague
n1 - recurring dream house
n2 - colleague
n3 - part of recurring dream house
n4 - camp mate
n5 - colleague
n6 - I know nuts about cars. I just "knew" it was a Porsche in the dream
n7 - mistake in dream. He should be Xue(2) jing(4)
n8 - mistake in dream. She should be Xue(3) ling(2)
n9 - Xue(2) jing(4)
Friday, January 26, 2007
Improvement?
A young lady was only late by 15 minutes yesterday! Wow =)
Last night, I took a train bound for home from Simei. We have not gone far when it stopped. I was oblivious to it as I was reading. Minutes later, the driver/pilot informed us that there was a technical fault. We would be dropped off and Tanah Merah and to take the next train.
When we arrived, a west bound train was waiting for us. I am impressed!
Last night, I took a train bound for home from Simei. We have not gone far when it stopped. I was oblivious to it as I was reading. Minutes later, the driver/pilot informed us that there was a technical fault. We would be dropped off and Tanah Merah and to take the next train.
When we arrived, a west bound train was waiting for us. I am impressed!
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Short trip
It doesn't consume any leave...
I checked my finances...
I didn't want to delay my IPT completion date...
I checked my mood...
Ok! I'm set! One short trip coming up! =)
I checked my finances...
I didn't want to delay my IPT completion date...
I checked my mood...
Ok! I'm set! One short trip coming up! =)
Monday, January 22, 2007
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Guys' night out
[This post has been backdated]
First was a meeting with Gaga and Roger for a discussion on our Mediterranean trip. We had this over a nice dinner at Fisherman's Wharf. I had fish and chips for $6.50, good value and of a better quality than Fins'. This was washed down with a drink at Starbucks. After some thought, we dropped everything and settled for Athens. I then left for Dragonfly.
I caught my colleagues before they got in. The dance floor was packed and we had some trouble navigating around. Tommy ordered a jug for Long Island Tea for himself and helped me to get a mug of beer. "Yummy", I thought to myself, eyeing his drink. "Maybe I could get a jug myself!". We located the guys and just observed the crowd. "I can hold my liquor well", said Tommy when he was queried on his choice of drink". "Ok...", I thought. To our left was a large group of well heeled people, who made exaggerated pointing, singing and dancing along with the music. I thought they were rather posers. By the time the live band started, all dancing stopped and attention turned to the stage. The dancers looked good, the singing was fine but they should have stayed clear of chinese songs - they aren't very good in that area. Tommy was drunk at this point but I wasn't aware of it. The guys didn't like the music so we fled. We were then joined by Kelvin, who was super late. We chased Tommy home and we continued our hunt for the next spot. We called it off at 2.30am.
First was a meeting with Gaga and Roger for a discussion on our Mediterranean trip. We had this over a nice dinner at Fisherman's Wharf. I had fish and chips for $6.50, good value and of a better quality than Fins'. This was washed down with a drink at Starbucks. After some thought, we dropped everything and settled for Athens. I then left for Dragonfly.
I caught my colleagues before they got in. The dance floor was packed and we had some trouble navigating around. Tommy ordered a jug for Long Island Tea for himself and helped me to get a mug of beer. "Yummy", I thought to myself, eyeing his drink. "Maybe I could get a jug myself!". We located the guys and just observed the crowd. "I can hold my liquor well", said Tommy when he was queried on his choice of drink". "Ok...", I thought. To our left was a large group of well heeled people, who made exaggerated pointing, singing and dancing along with the music. I thought they were rather posers. By the time the live band started, all dancing stopped and attention turned to the stage. The dancers looked good, the singing was fine but they should have stayed clear of chinese songs - they aren't very good in that area. Tommy was drunk at this point but I wasn't aware of it. The guys didn't like the music so we fled. We were then joined by Kelvin, who was super late. We chased Tommy home and we continued our hunt for the next spot. We called it off at 2.30am.
The Road Not Taken
Hee... once again stealing from Cat Lady.
I first came across this in a site dedicated to Roger Zelazny, mentioned his an interview on his story "Crossroads". I attributed it to him since then. Tonight, I know better.
The Road Not Taken
Poem lyrics of The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveller, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I
I took the one less travelled by,
And that has made all the difference.
I first came across this in a site dedicated to Roger Zelazny, mentioned his an interview on his story "Crossroads". I attributed it to him since then. Tonight, I know better.
The Road Not Taken
Poem lyrics of The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveller, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I
I took the one less travelled by,
And that has made all the difference.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Transformers the (new) movie
Finally, I succumbed to my curiosity and did a search.
To my disappointment, this movie will be a reboot :_|
However, Stan Bush, who did "Dare" and "You got the touch" will likely continue his great work in this movie. We would also have the old voice of Optimus Prime.
Now. If only they can get Leonard Nimoy to voice Megatron...
To my disappointment, this movie will be a reboot :_|
However, Stan Bush, who did "Dare" and "You got the touch" will likely continue his great work in this movie. We would also have the old voice of Optimus Prime.
Now. If only they can get Leonard Nimoy to voice Megatron...
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Arrival of Bryant
Hi and welcome to little Bryant (1 day old).
This is followed by a lunch with my ex-colleagues then back to the dreary world of Ulu Ulu place.
This is followed by a lunch with my ex-colleagues then back to the dreary world of Ulu Ulu place.
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Pan's labyrinth
I just watched it and liked it.
"Cat lady, go watch it. I believe it's your kind of fantasy".
Director filmography
* Pan's Labyrinth (El Laberinto del Fauno) (2006)
* The Devil's Backbone (El Espinazo del Diablo) (2001)
* Mimic (1997)
"Cat lady, go watch it. I believe it's your kind of fantasy".
Director filmography
* Pan's Labyrinth (El Laberinto del Fauno) (2006)
* The Devil's Backbone (El Espinazo del Diablo) (2001)
* Mimic (1997)
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
MC day
Felt the onset coming so took "preventive" medical leave, hee.
For entertainment, I played Railroads and was rewarded with cycling dreams of congested rail switch ways, argh!
I have nothing serious. Just a sore throat, possible cold and a lot of "heat".
For entertainment, I played Railroads and was rewarded with cycling dreams of congested rail switch ways, argh!
I have nothing serious. Just a sore throat, possible cold and a lot of "heat".
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
What's the big deal with Settlers - the board game?
1. It is currently one of the hottest selling board game I know
2. It gave Settlers' Cafe, her name
3. It can be played with one hand, if need be
4. It is one of the few games where you trade with people who stole from you
5. All in my group has liked it so far
2. It gave Settlers' Cafe, her name
3. It can be played with one hand, if need be
4. It is one of the few games where you trade with people who stole from you
5. All in my group has liked it so far
Monday, January 08, 2007
UFO revealed?
Turns out that people from my little kampong wasn't the ones who noticed the phenomenon yesterday.
The "comet" apparently cut a swath from North to South, with reports saying that it changes between red, green and blue colours.
The Met station could not confirm it and suggested that it could be a satellite and the colours were caught off the sun.
One with a tail?
The "comet" apparently cut a swath from North to South, with reports saying that it changes between red, green and blue colours.
The Met station could not confirm it and suggested that it could be a satellite and the colours were caught off the sun.
One with a tail?
Sunday, January 07, 2007
My first UFO
As I was walking home today, a comet with a green-blue light came out of hiding from behind a tall HDB flat and caught my attention.
At first I thought it was really such an object and thanked my luck. I also briefly considered the possibility that it could a firecracker. But the object did not lose altitude and continued its south-westerly course silently. Its colours changed chaotically between green and blue and its tail was about 10 times its length. It was flying at a height above the clouds and at brief moments was obscured. It went out of sight as quickly as it came, leaving onlookers mildly stunned.
What have I just witnessed? A comet? A meteor? An experimental stealth plane? A missile? A remote controlled kite? Unless it comes out in the papers tomorrow, I would never know.
At first I thought it was really such an object and thanked my luck. I also briefly considered the possibility that it could a firecracker. But the object did not lose altitude and continued its south-westerly course silently. Its colours changed chaotically between green and blue and its tail was about 10 times its length. It was flying at a height above the clouds and at brief moments was obscured. It went out of sight as quickly as it came, leaving onlookers mildly stunned.
What have I just witnessed? A comet? A meteor? An experimental stealth plane? A missile? A remote controlled kite? Unless it comes out in the papers tomorrow, I would never know.
Friday, January 05, 2007
"The Cage"
Thirteen years before James T. Kirk takes command of the U.S.S. Enterprise, Captain Christopher Pike and his starship crew receive a distress signal from the planet Talos IV and beam down to investigate. Tracking the beacon, the landing party discovers crash survivors from a missing scientific expedition; among the survivors is a beautiful human female, Vina...
-Star Trek: The Original Series
"The Cage" is an indoor soccer venue located near Kallang stadium. Our group from Mars and Saturn went there yesterday. I estimate the arena to be 6m x 15m. Our spectators were LaLa, Huiying, Cecila, Lihong and Serena.
At kick off, everyone went for the ball - Brazilian style. We lost our wind barely 5 min into play. By the 15th minute, the first to bow out for substitution was our team lead - Big Satan. I longed for my chance as fresh legs were brought into this fierce 5 x 5 match. By the fourth substitution, I took up the role of Goal keeper and gave a perfectly abysmal showing. I had a decent save, got a nice bruise on the joint of my little finger and let in 3 goals. When Debugger arrived, I was glad for the chance to escape.
I chatted with the girls and tried to be invisible as people swapped in and out. Think I smoked out for about 45 min before I played for the final 30 min. The team compositions have changed but Eric and Kelvin remained my opponents. A pattern has already set in and our side had 2 good strikers that did all the work while the rest of tried to act the part.
Today, Eric and Big Satan came in complaining about aches. I had a nice collection of bruises to show. Pat wanted to make it a monthly event. The next booking was set to be on 15th Jan.
I think I need some armour pieces...
-Star Trek: The Original Series
"The Cage" is an indoor soccer venue located near Kallang stadium. Our group from Mars and Saturn went there yesterday. I estimate the arena to be 6m x 15m. Our spectators were LaLa, Huiying, Cecila, Lihong and Serena.
At kick off, everyone went for the ball - Brazilian style. We lost our wind barely 5 min into play. By the 15th minute, the first to bow out for substitution was our team lead - Big Satan. I longed for my chance as fresh legs were brought into this fierce 5 x 5 match. By the fourth substitution, I took up the role of Goal keeper and gave a perfectly abysmal showing. I had a decent save, got a nice bruise on the joint of my little finger and let in 3 goals. When Debugger arrived, I was glad for the chance to escape.
I chatted with the girls and tried to be invisible as people swapped in and out. Think I smoked out for about 45 min before I played for the final 30 min. The team compositions have changed but Eric and Kelvin remained my opponents. A pattern has already set in and our side had 2 good strikers that did all the work while the rest of tried to act the part.
Today, Eric and Big Satan came in complaining about aches. I had a nice collection of bruises to show. Pat wanted to make it a monthly event. The next booking was set to be on 15th Jan.
I think I need some armour pieces...
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
2007 first post
I bet everyone have a "first post", so here it goes.
Last year was the most complain-some year I had on work. I gave up a cosy position and stepped out into a world where I had to fend for myself. The pay difference isn't such a big deal, only an additional $50/mth. I do wonder if I made the right choice as my old employer would have given me the chance to learn configuration if I had stayed on. In the outside world, NOBODY wants to give you a chance. "You got no experience", they say. "I am willing to learn! I am willing to take a pay-cut!", I offered to cold stone faces. But if a secure job is what I am looking for, then this is the right move.
In gaming, my money found new outlets. Arcade centres collected $100 in MarioKart Racing alone. The Pirates! game cost me about $130 in cards and accessories. PC games purchases fell to $100 (Purchase of Cheryl's copy does not count) - the lowest ever since the age of 22.
The outdoor yearning got a bit of satisfaction last year with night cycling, snorkelling, hiking, water rafting and sneaking past dogs. I don't think I wish to conquer my fear of jellies, it can stay, thank you.
Luck wise I have been pretty fine. No handphone losses, no serious heartbreaks, little backstabbing... Only piece of back luck was the sprain, which I must be the slowest healing person on record.
2007.. the continuing story
Last year was the most complain-some year I had on work. I gave up a cosy position and stepped out into a world where I had to fend for myself. The pay difference isn't such a big deal, only an additional $50/mth. I do wonder if I made the right choice as my old employer would have given me the chance to learn configuration if I had stayed on. In the outside world, NOBODY wants to give you a chance. "You got no experience", they say. "I am willing to learn! I am willing to take a pay-cut!", I offered to cold stone faces. But if a secure job is what I am looking for, then this is the right move.
In gaming, my money found new outlets. Arcade centres collected $100 in MarioKart Racing alone. The Pirates! game cost me about $130 in cards and accessories. PC games purchases fell to $100 (Purchase of Cheryl's copy does not count) - the lowest ever since the age of 22.
The outdoor yearning got a bit of satisfaction last year with night cycling, snorkelling, hiking, water rafting and sneaking past dogs. I don't think I wish to conquer my fear of jellies, it can stay, thank you.
Luck wise I have been pretty fine. No handphone losses, no serious heartbreaks, little backstabbing... Only piece of back luck was the sprain, which I must be the slowest healing person on record.
2007.. the continuing story
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Some maintenance
Some unhappy posts have been deleted. No more postings about it in future if I can help it...
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Recovery of item
Before my ORD, I lost my helmet.
Acting on advice, I searched my juniors' room, found it, felt a little betrayed at the identity and took it back in the presence of others.
He asked if I took his helmet and I showed him the mark I made. My name had been crossed out and replaced with his. He said sorry and explained that he lost his and he was in a hurry to mount duty.
Today, I spotted two lost items of mine.
Acting on advice, I searched my juniors' room, found it, felt a little betrayed at the identity and took it back in the presence of others.
He asked if I took his helmet and I showed him the mark I made. My name had been crossed out and replaced with his. He said sorry and explained that he lost his and he was in a hurry to mount duty.
Today, I spotted two lost items of mine.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Xmas dream
Dreams as they go don't make sense. I just thought that it's amusing to log them and read at a future date. Readers might want to skip this entry.
[continued dream]
-setting
2 group of young women were standing close but apart. Group A had an arrogant leader, surrounded by 5 cronies. Group B had a plain looking gal on crutches, with 3 friends. Only 3 of them talked, let's called them Tarragon, Mate Best and Lucid Ride. Lucid Ride had unequal bones(??) and recently fitted herself with prosthetic limbs so that she would be able to look and appear normal. This has been what Tarragon had tormented her for most of their relationship.
-act1:
Lucid Ride: But I want to be your best maid!
Tarragon: Well, I already have Mate Best here [smirks]
Mate Best: Yeah, I'll be a good best maid.
Lucid Ride: All you had to do was that to say that I'm your "sister", then my gown would be $300 cheaper
Tarragon: Well, then I won't do that
Lucid Ride: I'll get the gown [exits, her friends giving silent support]
Tarragon: Are you sure you can walk on that? [cronies laughed]
-act2:
We(??) are in a car. felt like my mother was driving, with brother and Lucid Ride in the car. somehow we were watching "zhen qing" - a Hong Kong serial, with the car windows acting as screens. They appeared to be filming in Singapore then one scene shifted to some place very familiar. A low single storey building with thatched roof. Trees and a circuitous path inside the compound. A long row of 2 storey classroom. A tall 3 storey building which was not accurate but yet I do recognise it. Followed by another 2 storey building. A large pond and a Chinese style building as a backdrop. More trees... "What the hell?...", I exclaimed in surprise., "When was this taken??". Lucid Ride replied, "Maybe they took the footage long ago and superimposed it as a background for their filming". I was stunned. Such dedication, filming a scenery that you might use in the far future. I closed an eye and used a finger to test for the blue screen effect, it was true. "But the canteen was not 3 stories tall!", I complained. "It was", replied my brother. I didn't believe it but watched in silence as the characters walked in a scene that had vanished. Our car drove by the quiet streets of Cassia Crescent, without any of the low houses. A silent dark field as our companion.
-act3
Lucid Ride and me were in a hotel room. She was upset that Tarragon did not want to acknowledge that she's one of her "sisters" so that she could get a discount off her gown. "I can sponsor you, $300", I offered. "Thanks, but I won't accept that". "Then you can pay me in instalments. 2 months, 10 cents per day", I said (apparently my dream self did not pass his Mathematics...). No reply. Brother was smoking on the bed. "Hey careful", I exclaimed, brushing away the ash. I turned back to her, "Come on, $300 only". "Don't be disgusting", she snapped.
[/continued dream]
"Continued dream" means that I have dreamt this character before. However, I wasn't inside the story then.
[Inaccuracies]
We don't have a car anymore. Much less one with futuristic features.
You can't test for the blue screen effect the way I did.
Cassia Crescent is now built up.
My brother doesn't smoke.
[Blog update]
Note that there's a "label" below this post? This is a new feature to sub categorise our posts. So click on Dreams and.. you can guess what happens =D
[continued dream]
-setting
2 group of young women were standing close but apart. Group A had an arrogant leader, surrounded by 5 cronies. Group B had a plain looking gal on crutches, with 3 friends. Only 3 of them talked, let's called them Tarragon, Mate Best and Lucid Ride. Lucid Ride had unequal bones(??) and recently fitted herself with prosthetic limbs so that she would be able to look and appear normal. This has been what Tarragon had tormented her for most of their relationship.
-act1:
Lucid Ride: But I want to be your best maid!
Tarragon: Well, I already have Mate Best here [smirks]
Mate Best: Yeah, I'll be a good best maid.
Lucid Ride: All you had to do was that to say that I'm your "sister", then my gown would be $300 cheaper
Tarragon: Well, then I won't do that
Lucid Ride: I'll get the gown [exits, her friends giving silent support]
Tarragon: Are you sure you can walk on that? [cronies laughed]
-act2:
We(??) are in a car. felt like my mother was driving, with brother and Lucid Ride in the car. somehow we were watching "zhen qing" - a Hong Kong serial, with the car windows acting as screens. They appeared to be filming in Singapore then one scene shifted to some place very familiar. A low single storey building with thatched roof. Trees and a circuitous path inside the compound. A long row of 2 storey classroom. A tall 3 storey building which was not accurate but yet I do recognise it. Followed by another 2 storey building. A large pond and a Chinese style building as a backdrop. More trees... "What the hell?...", I exclaimed in surprise., "When was this taken??". Lucid Ride replied, "Maybe they took the footage long ago and superimposed it as a background for their filming". I was stunned. Such dedication, filming a scenery that you might use in the far future. I closed an eye and used a finger to test for the blue screen effect, it was true. "But the canteen was not 3 stories tall!", I complained. "It was", replied my brother. I didn't believe it but watched in silence as the characters walked in a scene that had vanished. Our car drove by the quiet streets of Cassia Crescent, without any of the low houses. A silent dark field as our companion.
-act3
Lucid Ride and me were in a hotel room. She was upset that Tarragon did not want to acknowledge that she's one of her "sisters" so that she could get a discount off her gown. "I can sponsor you, $300", I offered. "Thanks, but I won't accept that". "Then you can pay me in instalments. 2 months, 10 cents per day", I said (apparently my dream self did not pass his Mathematics...). No reply. Brother was smoking on the bed. "Hey careful", I exclaimed, brushing away the ash. I turned back to her, "Come on, $300 only". "Don't be disgusting", she snapped.
[/continued dream]
"Continued dream" means that I have dreamt this character before. However, I wasn't inside the story then.
[Inaccuracies]
We don't have a car anymore. Much less one with futuristic features.
You can't test for the blue screen effect the way I did.
Cassia Crescent is now built up.
My brother doesn't smoke.
[Blog update]
Note that there's a "label" below this post? This is a new feature to sub categorise our posts. So click on Dreams and.. you can guess what happens =D
Sunday, December 24, 2006
New Blogger 2/2
[This post has been edited]
Ah, new look.
Blogger has merged with Google to deliver us a better service. I picked the same template so you wouldn't really see any difference.
There's two new things:
1. The archives on the right are now expandable and more accessible.
2. There's a photo at the bottom of the blog, breaking my trend of anonymity.
There's simply too many clues to my identity so I guess there's no point hiding anymore.
Ah, new look.
Blogger has merged with Google to deliver us a better service. I picked the same template so you wouldn't really see any difference.
There's two new things:
1. The archives on the right are now expandable and more accessible.
2. There's a photo at the bottom of the blog, breaking my trend of anonymity.
There's simply too many clues to my identity so I guess there's no point hiding anymore.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Ethanol and Me
[Backdated to 17 Dec 2006]
I woke up with a little hangover so I did a bit of research.
Hangovers are multi-causal. Ethanol has a dehydrating effect (such substances are known as diuretics), which causes headaches, dry mouth, and lethargy. Dehydration causes the brain to shrink away from the skull slightly.[3]
Wow, doesn't that sound scary?
Alcohol is a laxative.
Boy, I hate this.
Subject may become sleepy
Am I the only person in the world who has trouble sleeping after drinking??
I woke up with a little hangover so I did a bit of research.
Hangovers are multi-causal. Ethanol has a dehydrating effect (such substances are known as diuretics), which causes headaches, dry mouth, and lethargy. Dehydration causes the brain to shrink away from the skull slightly.[3]
Wow, doesn't that sound scary?
Alcohol is a laxative.
Boy, I hate this.
Subject may become sleepy
Am I the only person in the world who has trouble sleeping after drinking??
Sunday, December 10, 2006
How F.O.O.F turned out to be
1. No two perspectives. The Jap p.o.v. will be told in the companion film "Letters of Iwo Jima".
2. Very little fighting scenes, only about 10% of the film.
3. Makes you feel for their grief and guilt.
4. More authentic than some "realistic" fiction war movie that everyone has watched.
Quite nice, not for the causal movie fan. I would like to watch "Letters of Iwo Jima" when it's screen.
-1 working day
2. Very little fighting scenes, only about 10% of the film.
3. Makes you feel for their grief and guilt.
4. More authentic than some "realistic" fiction war movie that everyone has watched.
Quite nice, not for the causal movie fan. I would like to watch "Letters of Iwo Jima" when it's screen.
-1 working day
A sport that our country did well despite little funding
For the last 10 years, the president of our country's netball team lamented had that while they consistently get good results, they do not receive the same fundings and attention such as soccer, which gave disappointments year after year.
In today's papers, an unassuming article said that they have won the four nations cup.
"..turn the tables on Papua New Guinea", was the subject.
"..host captured netball's inaugural Four Nations Cup", was the only hint they won.
Who was the host? Us? Does that mean we won the cup? Why can't the writer just say so? So by reading that we won another country is supposed to tell us we won a cup??
Congratulations.
-1 working day
In today's papers, an unassuming article said that they have won the four nations cup.
"..turn the tables on Papua New Guinea", was the subject.
"..host captured netball's inaugural Four Nations Cup", was the only hint they won.
Who was the host? Us? Does that mean we won the cup? Why can't the writer just say so? So by reading that we won another country is supposed to tell us we won a cup??
Congratulations.
-1 working day
Why I would want to watch F.O.O.F
1. cos it stands for Flags of our fathers
2. cos of my Y gene, also known as the stupid gene
3. cause I'm drawn by what seems to promise as an impartial view of the event
4. fulfills my quota of war movies. Alexander was a disappointment
-1 working day
2. cos of my Y gene, also known as the stupid gene
3. cause I'm drawn by what seems to promise as an impartial view of the event
4. fulfills my quota of war movies. Alexander was a disappointment
-1 working day
Friday, December 08, 2006
First week without RT
Ah... So relaxing. I can go out as I like. I can OT when I feel like it. Don't you love working? =p
To prevent complaints about me *always* complaining about work. I've labelled the sections with a description of the topic.
[Work: Overloaded]
Actually, I'm quite stressed. Take away Pat, who's on a trip. Take away Kelvin, who's on reservist. Take away Hui Koon, as she's doing authorisation stuffs. Guess who's left in my sub-track? Kena-ed chased by boss and Dennis but I refrained from complaining I'm overloaded - I'm sure boss will start counting my working hours...
But seriously, can't anyone see that I have a problem? It's really simple. Run the solution manager, put in my name and study the tasks. Hey! JW got some jobs that took him months. Hey look, these new tasks aren't even touched yet!
[Work: Outsourcing]
I've not yet started two tasks which have exceeded their deadlines. Dennis forced me to promise completion dates, which I thought was sort of unrealistic. Well, whatever it takes to pass this day. Boss tried to lighten my load but I'm not highly optimistic about my helper. I spent an hour to teach him how to create the test scenario. I even debugged the program in front of him and give him 3 possible approaches. It's something I could have done myself in 30 min but he spent the next 3 hours getting himself lost.
Don't get me wrong. I'm willing to let him learn at his pace. I need him because getting things tested, signed and transported can take anywhere from 2-7 days. I fully expect Dennis to be after me again.
[Personal: Handphone Loss]
Thank you, Roadster, for sending me a sms when you thought that I had lost my phone. No, it's not me, it's Gaga. You can read his entry on his blog (not listed here).
[Personal: Ankle]
I posted the timing for my laps. It's 99% ok. I'm taking a rest and will start my IPT in Jan.
[Personal: Job hunt]
Er... In case anyone missed the news, I renewed my contract.
-1 working day
To prevent complaints about me *always* complaining about work. I've labelled the sections with a description of the topic.
[Work: Overloaded]
Actually, I'm quite stressed. Take away Pat, who's on a trip. Take away Kelvin, who's on reservist. Take away Hui Koon, as she's doing authorisation stuffs. Guess who's left in my sub-track? Kena-ed chased by boss and Dennis but I refrained from complaining I'm overloaded - I'm sure boss will start counting my working hours...
But seriously, can't anyone see that I have a problem? It's really simple. Run the solution manager, put in my name and study the tasks. Hey! JW got some jobs that took him months. Hey look, these new tasks aren't even touched yet!
[Work: Outsourcing]
I've not yet started two tasks which have exceeded their deadlines. Dennis forced me to promise completion dates, which I thought was sort of unrealistic. Well, whatever it takes to pass this day. Boss tried to lighten my load but I'm not highly optimistic about my helper. I spent an hour to teach him how to create the test scenario. I even debugged the program in front of him and give him 3 possible approaches. It's something I could have done myself in 30 min but he spent the next 3 hours getting himself lost.
Don't get me wrong. I'm willing to let him learn at his pace. I need him because getting things tested, signed and transported can take anywhere from 2-7 days. I fully expect Dennis to be after me again.
[Personal: Handphone Loss]
Thank you, Roadster, for sending me a sms when you thought that I had lost my phone. No, it's not me, it's Gaga. You can read his entry on his blog (not listed here).
[Personal: Ankle]
I posted the timing for my laps. It's 99% ok. I'm taking a rest and will start my IPT in Jan.
[Personal: Job hunt]
Er... In case anyone missed the news, I renewed my contract.
-1 working day
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Exploding phones
Don't you wish you had rigged your phone before it was lost?
Don't you wish you could do it?
Why are my countrymen so cheap?
What happened to moral values?
Even among friends, the belief that you could keep what you find is prevalent. If I share my story (of returning lost items), I won't find praise.
My tally of lost items
===============
Phone1 - Taken together with my bag at the depository section while I was taking a water ride. It was triple-ly painful as the bag was a gift and the loss was no fault of mine.
Phone2 - Left on the table at a wedding. When I discovered my mistake, I ran back up but it was too late.
Wallet1 - Left on the bus. Returned to the police with all cash intact but the farecard was gone. I did not point this out to the police.
Wallet2 - Left on an arcade machine. Recovered by a member of the public in a toilet. All the cash was gone.
Wallet3 - Left in my unlocked locker in my bunk. After I made a police report, it appeared under my pillow.
Watch1 - left on table as we were having turnout drills. I was quite upset as we were supposed to comrades - who shouldn't steal from each other! I did not report this. After this loss, I no longer carry a watch.
What I found
=========
Wallet(i) - Same arcade as where I had lost my wallet. My classmate lost hers this time. A kid whom I was on friendly terms alerted me to where the thieves were hiding. We tracked them down and sorry to say it but we intimidated them (threatened to call their school, not physical violence) to return the wallet by the next day as the mastermind had fled the scene.
Wallet(ii) - Found on the floor at the reception area ofNgee Ann City
Phone(i) - Found on the sofa outside our classrooms. Went into the other class and asked for the owner. Luckily, he turned out to be the true owner as I had forgotten to authenticate him. (He called me back by the number I had given his mother).
Phone(ii) - Found on back of taxi with GaGa. Taxi driver took us to where he dropped off his last passenger and we returned it.
[Conclusion]
No one steals the wallet itself. So build a phone that looks and functions like a wallet. And in the event that it does get kept, it would blow up when the secret cipher is not keyed in daily, costing the thief some fingers.
-4 days
Don't you wish you could do it?
Why are my countrymen so cheap?
What happened to moral values?
Even among friends, the belief that you could keep what you find is prevalent. If I share my story (of returning lost items), I won't find praise.
My tally of lost items
===============
Phone1 - Taken together with my bag at the depository section while I was taking a water ride. It was triple-ly painful as the bag was a gift and the loss was no fault of mine.
Phone2 - Left on the table at a wedding. When I discovered my mistake, I ran back up but it was too late.
Wallet1 - Left on the bus. Returned to the police with all cash intact but the farecard was gone. I did not point this out to the police.
Wallet2 - Left on an arcade machine. Recovered by a member of the public in a toilet. All the cash was gone.
Wallet3 - Left in my unlocked locker in my bunk. After I made a police report, it appeared under my pillow.
Watch1 - left on table as we were having turnout drills. I was quite upset as we were supposed to comrades - who shouldn't steal from each other! I did not report this. After this loss, I no longer carry a watch.
What I found
=========
Wallet(i) - Same arcade as where I had lost my wallet. My classmate lost hers this time. A kid whom I was on friendly terms alerted me to where the thieves were hiding. We tracked them down and sorry to say it but we intimidated them (threatened to call their school, not physical violence) to return the wallet by the next day as the mastermind had fled the scene.
Wallet(ii) - Found on the floor at the reception area of
Phone(i) - Found on the sofa outside our classrooms. Went into the other class and asked for the owner. Luckily, he turned out to be the true owner as I had forgotten to authenticate him. (He called me back by the number I had given his mother).
Phone(ii) - Found on back of taxi with GaGa. Taxi driver took us to where he dropped off his last passenger and we returned it.
[Conclusion]
No one steals the wallet itself. So build a phone that looks and functions like a wallet. And in the event that it does get kept, it would blow up when the secret cipher is not keyed in daily, costing the thief some fingers.
-4 days
Welcome back, JW
9am: Renewed my contract
11am: Checked email, "XX, YY, please extend JW's email validity date.
Checked intranet access, invalid.
4pm: Checked email, "Your email expiriy date has been extended"
Checked intranet access, success.
If this doesn't prove who took away my access, I don't know what will.
-4 days
11am: Checked email, "XX, YY, please extend JW's email validity date.
Checked intranet access, invalid.
4pm: Checked email, "Your email expiriy date has been extended"
Checked intranet access, success.
If this doesn't prove who took away my access, I don't know what will.
-4 days
Service charge strikes again
14 Nov, I deposited $300, balance is now >$500
30 Nov, they charged me $2...
grrr...
-4 days
30 Nov, they charged me $2...
grrr...
-4 days
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Service expectations and behaviour of Singaporeans
[These are my personal opinions and are not based on any official studies. Readers are advised to apply their own judgment on the accuracy of the below statements.]
What Singaporean customers want
1. bend or kneel to their eye level when taking your orders
2. smile and include sir/madam in every sentence
3. no waiting time
4. preferential treatment if they are rich
5. preferential treatment if they buy big items
6. glasses must be always filled
How Singaporean customers act
1. don't respond to greetings
2. gets angry at delays
3. lashes out at fellow staff who happened to be so unfortunately positioned
I should know, as I was once on the receiving end of a scolding
4. act superior when they happened to be rich people
5. think they have a right to leave without paying if they are not attended to
6. leave glasses full of water behind
-6 days
What Singaporean customers want
1. bend or kneel to their eye level when taking your orders
2. smile and include sir/madam in every sentence
3. no waiting time
4. preferential treatment if they are rich
5. preferential treatment if they buy big items
6. glasses must be always filled
How Singaporean customers act
1. don't respond to greetings
2. gets angry at delays
3. lashes out at fellow staff who happened to be so unfortunately positioned
I should know, as I was once on the receiving end of a scolding
4. act superior when they happened to be rich people
5. think they have a right to leave without paying if they are not attended to
6. leave glasses full of water behind
-6 days
Bryan's bday celebrations: No plans survive first contact with the enemy
[Plan A, part 1] Go Sentosa.
[Plan A, part 2] Foot massage for Bryan, watch him squirm and scream.
[Plan A, part 2] Dinner.
[Plan A, part 2] Iguana!
[Reality1] "Oops", said Bryan. "I forgot I got jap class"
[Plan B, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watch him squirm and scream.
[Plan B, part 2] Dinner.
[Plan B, part 3] Kill Bryan with drinks at Iguana.
[Reality2] Foot reflexology hurts me more than it affected him. What was I thinking??
[Reality3] Dinner plans changed. Iguana booking cancelled :_|
[Plan C, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watched JW squirm.
[Plan C, part 2] Dinner at HarbourFront.
[Plan C, part 3] Kill Bryan with drinks at Iguana.
[Reality4] After dinner plans involve karaoke.
[Plan D, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watched JW squirm.
[Plan D, part 2] Dinner without hopes of ice frozen strawberry margarita.
[Plan D, part 3] Karaoke.
[Plan D, part 4] Maybe we could still go Iguana.
[Reality5] Decided to call it a day.
[Plan E, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watched JW squirm.
[Plan E, part 2] Dinner without hopes of ice frozen strawberry margarita.
[Plan E, part 3] Karaoke.
[Plan E, part 4] :_|
-6 days
[Plan A, part 2] Foot massage for Bryan, watch him squirm and scream.
[Plan A, part 2] Dinner.
[Plan A, part 2] Iguana!
[Reality1] "Oops", said Bryan. "I forgot I got jap class"
[Plan B, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watch him squirm and scream.
[Plan B, part 2] Dinner.
[Plan B, part 3] Kill Bryan with drinks at Iguana.
[Reality2] Foot reflexology hurts me more than it affected him. What was I thinking??
[Reality3] Dinner plans changed. Iguana booking cancelled :_|
[Plan C, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watched JW squirm.
[Plan C, part 2] Dinner at HarbourFront.
[Plan C, part 3] Kill Bryan with drinks at Iguana.
[Reality4] After dinner plans involve karaoke.
[Plan D, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watched JW squirm.
[Plan D, part 2] Dinner without hopes of ice frozen strawberry margarita.
[Plan D, part 3] Karaoke.
[Plan D, part 4] Maybe we could still go Iguana.
[Reality5] Decided to call it a day.
[Plan E, part 1] Foot massage for Bryan, watched JW squirm.
[Plan E, part 2] Dinner without hopes of ice frozen strawberry margarita.
[Plan E, part 3] Karaoke.
[Plan E, part 4] :_|
-6 days
Thursday, November 30, 2006
IPPT test 3
up means improve, down means drop in performance
Shuttle run : down by .1 sec
Sit up : up by 1 count
Stand broad jump: down by 19 cm...
Pull-ups: no variance
2.4 km run : up by 40 sec
-7 days
Shuttle run : down by .1 sec
Sit up : up by 1 count
Stand broad jump: down by 19 cm...
Pull-ups: no variance
2.4 km run : up by 40 sec
-7 days
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Time extension
[background]
Last wed: My immediate supervisor(aka team lead) called me up for a performance review; I went for an interview
Last thu: His boss grabbed me to talk about pay, asked when I can give an answer, I said next wed.
Today I sent this out to my small boss(aka team lead)
"Dear boss, fyi only. I will continue to sell my soul for the next few months to 2 years"
Btw, it appears that our OA dept grants access to the first level of login into the intranet. To access the applications(like Leave status), HR controls the access. So my OA access is valid but HR has removed my access...
-1 session, 8 days
Last wed: My immediate supervisor(aka team lead) called me up for a performance review; I went for an interview
Last thu: His boss grabbed me to talk about pay, asked when I can give an answer, I said next wed.
Today I sent this out to my small boss(aka team lead)
"Dear boss, fyi only. I will continue to sell my soul for the next few months to 2 years"
Btw, it appears that our OA dept grants access to the first level of login into the intranet. To access the applications(like Leave status), HR controls the access. So my OA access is valid but HR has removed my access...
-1 session, 8 days
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
A day after restoring my account
While checking my leave balance, I got this.
"user ID does not exist"
Huh?
-1 session, 9 days
"user ID does not exist"
Huh?
-1 session, 9 days
Monday, November 27, 2006
No longer an illegal
5 months ago, my email account and my OA ID were deleted from my company's network as they supposedly thought that my contract only lasts 6 months. I didn't discover this until the Novation project but when I did, I didn't really care.
Why?
My email account was constantly flooded with emails that does not concern me. Some demanded action from me that I have no part in. Some lost their stuffs and broadcasted to the whole company. Then there were many sales and activities and the main office. Firstly, it made me feel that, as a on-site support employee, I'm a second citizen. Secondly, it's SPAM! As a colleague once watched in horror, I periodically log in and delete everything...
I sort of enjoyed this status as an "illegal". I couldn't update anything by myself and Desiree had to help me. I guess she was a bit annoyed but she's a very nice lady =)
This status ended today. I got 20 warnings to update my time sheet (I don't work at the HQ, so I don't have to); 10 warnings to update my passwords; 20 notices of seminars at the HQ; Queries why I missed them; Some file attachments for me to follow up; I probably have a car that has its alarm triggered off; I might be the owner of some lost keys...
O Joy.
-2 sessions, 12 days
Why?
My email account was constantly flooded with emails that does not concern me. Some demanded action from me that I have no part in. Some lost their stuffs and broadcasted to the whole company. Then there were many sales and activities and the main office. Firstly, it made me feel that, as a on-site support employee, I'm a second citizen. Secondly, it's SPAM! As a colleague once watched in horror, I periodically log in and delete everything...
I sort of enjoyed this status as an "illegal". I couldn't update anything by myself and Desiree had to help me. I guess she was a bit annoyed but she's a very nice lady =)
This status ended today. I got 20 warnings to update my time sheet (I don't work at the HQ, so I don't have to); 10 warnings to update my passwords; 20 notices of seminars at the HQ; Queries why I missed them; Some file attachments for me to follow up; I probably have a car that has its alarm triggered off; I might be the owner of some lost keys...
O Joy.
-2 sessions, 12 days
Sunday, November 26, 2006
A little lazy update
It was a busy week and it will continue to be busy.
I've 2 more RT sessions and just 2 weeks away from my end of contract =)
This Saturday, we will be returning to Sentosa.
For my friends involved, the date is noted in my Yahoo Calender, accessible from my blog.
-2 sessions, 13 days
I've 2 more RT sessions and just 2 weeks away from my end of contract =)
This Saturday, we will be returning to Sentosa.
For my friends involved, the date is noted in my Yahoo Calender, accessible from my blog.
-2 sessions, 13 days
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Apprasial follow up
[happened one day after appraisal by immediate supervisor. Got hauled up by his boss for money matters]
"..I heard that you were helpful in guiding our new staff and you got an interesting method in teaching them"
Hmmm?
"You would teach them halfway and then don't tell them the answer. This is a good way of teaching them"
??!!
"So it's like JW got a different but interesting way of teaching people. I think that's a good thing."
That's so not me but better keep my mouth shut...
-
"..I heard that you were helpful in guiding our new staff and you got an interesting method in teaching them"
Hmmm?
"You would teach them halfway and then don't tell them the answer. This is a good way of teaching them"
??!!
"So it's like JW got a different but interesting way of teaching people. I think that's a good thing."
That's so not me but better keep my mouth shut...
-
Thursday, November 23, 2006
The downs in this job
I'm currently considering a renewal of my contract. This is amusing as I've complained long about the job. Here are the highlights.
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2005/12/your-fault-his-fault.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/01/dreams-and-work.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/03/law-of-nature.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/05/thanks.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/05/sigh.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/06/fizzled-out_06.html deleted
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/06/gathering-heat-and-decision.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/07/irritation-and-satisfaction.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/09/another-career-flip-flop.html
-3 sessions, 13 days
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2005/12/your-fault-his-fault.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/01/dreams-and-work.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/03/law-of-nature.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/05/thanks.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/05/sigh.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/06/fizzled-out_06.html deleted
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/06/gathering-heat-and-decision.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/07/irritation-and-satisfaction.html
http://jwqh.blogspot.com/2006/09/another-career-flip-flop.html
-3 sessions, 13 days
RT performance
Ok.. I got 4 crappy pull-ups now. Just need another non standard one and I'll pass my static stations.
Today we had interval training. It's basically running for a good timing, then rest 3 min between each run.
Lap 1, 1:40 min
Lap 2, 1:20 min
Lap 3, 1:50 min (note the tire punctured after lap 2...)
Lap 4, 2:00 min
Lap 5, 1:40 min
The aftermath of this plus the kind action of lactic acid means I'll feel some pains in the knee and calf muscles tomorrow. Bzzt.
-3 sessions, 13 days
Today we had interval training. It's basically running for a good timing, then rest 3 min between each run.
Lap 1, 1:40 min
Lap 2, 1:20 min
Lap 3, 1:50 min (note the tire punctured after lap 2...)
Lap 4, 2:00 min
Lap 5, 1:40 min
The aftermath of this plus the kind action of lactic acid means I'll feel some pains in the knee and calf muscles tomorrow. Bzzt.
-3 sessions, 13 days
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Crossing paths
[backdated]
The first surprise was recognising the security guard. He was at my old company and now he was stationed here. He can't seem to place me and his eyes went to my bag.
After the interview, I sat down to wait for TimidGal to meet me for a chat. Martin walked by and caught sight of me. "What you doing here?", he asked. Ah, what a coincidence. I want to ask him that question too. Has my old department finally been outsourced? "We're here for a course. Lie noi they all also here". Naturally, I was excited to meet up with them. They were seated at the cateria, chatting over their drinks. I simply sat down beside them and managed to surprise them. When I told them I was there for an interview, ex small boss shook her head and said, "This place not so good". Haha... Is she going to object to every place I go to? "Look at our XXX and YYY, they worked a while and they left", she continued. "But compare this company and my current one. Which is better?, I posed.
TimidGal soon called me and I joined her. We chatted for quite a while and when I left, the security guard finally seemed to recall me and smiled. What a small world!
-4 sessions, 14 days
The first surprise was recognising the security guard. He was at my old company and now he was stationed here. He can't seem to place me and his eyes went to my bag.
After the interview, I sat down to wait for TimidGal to meet me for a chat. Martin walked by and caught sight of me. "What you doing here?", he asked. Ah, what a coincidence. I want to ask him that question too. Has my old department finally been outsourced? "We're here for a course. Lie noi they all also here". Naturally, I was excited to meet up with them. They were seated at the cateria, chatting over their drinks. I simply sat down beside them and managed to surprise them. When I told them I was there for an interview, ex small boss shook her head and said, "This place not so good". Haha... Is she going to object to every place I go to? "Look at our XXX and YYY, they worked a while and they left", she continued. "But compare this company and my current one. Which is better?, I posed.
TimidGal soon called me and I joined her. We chatted for quite a while and when I left, the security guard finally seemed to recall me and smiled. What a small world!
-4 sessions, 14 days
A performance appraisal
"..come to work wise, I think you are a very good worker. We would like to keep you. In fact, I believe you should be going to an interview this afternoon right?"
"Er.. ya"
"No need to hide la. Take afternoon off, no reason, very obvious"
"Got people ask I go loh"
"It's ok. I've nothing against people going for interviews. In fact I think it's a good..."
-4 sessions, 14 days
"Er.. ya"
"No need to hide la. Take afternoon off, no reason, very obvious"
"Got people ask I go loh"
"It's ok. I've nothing against people going for interviews. In fact I think it's a good..."
-4 sessions, 14 days
Monday, November 20, 2006
Dinner and Dance
[backdated]
It was pretty enjoyable. The door gift was a small bottle of red wine and a wine glass. The dinner was better than the last company dinner I had. The DJ was funny without being lame.
The girls in our outfit went out to dress themselves and I think they had fun. Overall, it was a pretty enjoyable night
It was pretty enjoyable. The door gift was a small bottle of red wine and a wine glass. The dinner was better than the last company dinner I had. The DJ was funny without being lame.
The girls in our outfit went out to dress themselves and I think they had fun. Overall, it was a pretty enjoyable night
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Counting down the days
Time passed quickly recently due to too much work and too little time. Coupled with my GuiXT training and my RT sessions, I don't have the energy, time or inclination to do overtime. It's weird cause I'm sort of stressed but I'm not putting in too much time to resolve it.
Never mind that, two dates are coming close and I'm very much looking forward to it.
At the office, another of my lunch kaki is leaving us. Good luck :_|
And to my two colleagues who will be on long absence, have fun!
-5H2U
Never mind that, two dates are coming close and I'm very much looking forward to it.
At the office, another of my lunch kaki is leaving us. Good luck :_|
And to my two colleagues who will be on long absence, have fun!
-5H2U
Thursday, November 16, 2006
IPPT test 2
up means improve, down means drop in performance
Shuttle run : down by .1 sec
Sit up : down by 2 counts
Stand broad jump: no variance
Pull-ups : up by 2 counts
2.4 km run : up by 12 sec
-3H3U
Shuttle run : down by .1 sec
Sit up : down by 2 counts
Stand broad jump: no variance
Pull-ups : up by 2 counts
2.4 km run : up by 12 sec
-3H3U
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
A little update
Lazy to blog and don't want to make it another complaint.
[work] stressed!
[rt: pull ups] improving
[rt: standing broad jump] grrr...
[dota] playing, haha
[talk to cousin] er....
[ankle] after RT ba.
[money] when's payday?
[books] Chronicles of Narnia next?
-1H2U
[work] stressed!
[rt: pull ups] improving
[rt: standing broad jump] grrr...
[dota] playing, haha
[talk to cousin] er....
[ankle] after RT ba.
[money] when's payday?
[books] Chronicles of Narnia next?
-1H2U
Monday, November 13, 2006
DotA noob
Purple, deny the creeps!
What's deny?
Oh, what a noob! Don't you know what deny is?
Nope.
From then on, they kept picking on my play and calling me a noob, even when I played pretty fine!
Here it is, the mysterious deny - for my DotA playing friends.
-2H3U
What's deny?
Oh, what a noob! Don't you know what deny is?
Nope.
From then on, they kept picking on my play and calling me a noob, even when I played pretty fine!
Here it is, the mysterious deny - for my DotA playing friends.
-2H3U
Forums: Pregnant worker gets sacked for no reason
article here
Disgusting! She was 6 months pregnant. Just one month shy of 7 months and she would have been protected by the employment act!
-1H2U
Disgusting! She was 6 months pregnant. Just one month shy of 7 months and she would have been protected by the employment act!
-1H2U
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Guidance?
"JW (not my real name), Junhan listens to you. You must tell him to concentrate on his studies and not play so many games"
I started laughing.
"Remember ah! Must tell him!", my aunt charged me.
The scions of my father's father are not a studious lot. The male grandchildren share a passion for games. Me, ranking 3rd in the line of succession, loves it. At least I have my craving for reading material to split my time. My little cousins literally wallow in computer games.
I was discussing DotA with them when my aunt came over. "Remember ah! Must talk to him!". I started laughing again. Yes it's rude in a way but not if you know what I know. It was I who passed them their first Gameboy emulator. Irked them by beating them at Little Fighter 2. Passed them GunBound while getting their modem up. If Aunt knows, I would have an earful...
When I got home, my mother asked me, "Did wu(3) sheng(3) ask you to talk to Junhan? Must tell him to study hard". Ok, ok... It's a multi-pronged attack. I'll pick a time of my choosing. But how could I? Grandparents and elder cousins are meant to spoil the young ones...
wu(3) sheng(3) - [Chinese form of addressing]
1. wu(3) - five or fifth.
2. sheng(3) - Wife of father's brother - who is relatively younger than your father.
combined: Wife of my father's brother - who ranks fifth in seniority.
-2H2U
I started laughing.
"Remember ah! Must tell him!", my aunt charged me.
The scions of my father's father are not a studious lot. The male grandchildren share a passion for games. Me, ranking 3rd in the line of succession, loves it. At least I have my craving for reading material to split my time. My little cousins literally wallow in computer games.
I was discussing DotA with them when my aunt came over. "Remember ah! Must talk to him!". I started laughing again. Yes it's rude in a way but not if you know what I know. It was I who passed them their first Gameboy emulator. Irked them by beating them at Little Fighter 2. Passed them GunBound while getting their modem up. If Aunt knows, I would have an earful...
When I got home, my mother asked me, "Did wu(3) sheng(3) ask you to talk to Junhan? Must tell him to study hard". Ok, ok... It's a multi-pronged attack. I'll pick a time of my choosing. But how could I? Grandparents and elder cousins are meant to spoil the young ones...
wu(3) sheng(3) - [Chinese form of addressing]
1. wu(3) - five or fifth.
2. sheng(3) - Wife of father's brother - who is relatively younger than your father.
combined: Wife of my father's brother - who ranks fifth in seniority.
-2H2U
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Kan Cheong Spider
Translation: A Spider that is in a panic or a hurry
Anyone ever wondered how such a phrase came about? I uttered the popular local phrase when I saw a scene in the carpark. A driver, apparently excited that another car is going to exit its slot, reversed and passed that parked car a second time, cutting off its exit once again. The driver of the parked car got annoyed and blew the horn and the driver seeking the slot suddenly realised that he needs to move to let the car out first...
Now why can't this apply to train commuters?...
-3H2U
Anyone ever wondered how such a phrase came about? I uttered the popular local phrase when I saw a scene in the carpark. A driver, apparently excited that another car is going to exit its slot, reversed and passed that parked car a second time, cutting off its exit once again. The driver of the parked car got annoyed and blew the horn and the driver seeking the slot suddenly realised that he needs to move to let the car out first...
Now why can't this apply to train commuters?...
-3H2U
Friday, November 10, 2006
The Yishun Wall
3 rows thick, this wall is formidable. It's one of the reasons I want to get off one stop early and take the shortcut.
No, I didn't knock into anyone today. An old couple was shoving their grandson into the best position to block the train doors, not prime material for crash dummies. Behind them were another 2 rows of targets shielded from my petty revenge. What is it about people boarding the train at this stop? There are no free seats, what are they rushing for? Let us out first!
-2H3U
No, I didn't knock into anyone today. An old couple was shoving their grandson into the best position to block the train doors, not prime material for crash dummies. Behind them were another 2 rows of targets shielded from my petty revenge. What is it about people boarding the train at this stop? There are no free seats, what are they rushing for? Let us out first!
-2H3U
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Overload
It's my turn now. Tasks came tumbling out of the mailbox. Did I say I could divorce dissatisfaction with my work? Doesn't work so well on stress...
I'm doing weights again. My preferred method for training my pull-ups. It's improving in stamina but not in strength. Standing broad jump is 230cm, a far cry from my old score. I tried to better it but got a sore belly for my efforts. Ow.
-2H2U
I'm doing weights again. My preferred method for training my pull-ups. It's improving in stamina but not in strength. Standing broad jump is 230cm, a far cry from my old score. I tried to better it but got a sore belly for my efforts. Ow.
-2H2U
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Cat and mouse
Last week, I was taking a shortcut to attend my IPPT (Individual Physical Proficiency Test). This is a service road so I was not trespassing any private properties. With my nose in a book, I started on the path.
Out came a bitch (she-dog) who ran out from the overgrown grasses and stood herself in front of me, barking and snarling. That didn't sound good so I tried to hush her while retreating. I unslung my bag to ready it as a weapon. An answering bark from my 4 o'clock position got me worried. To my 2 o'clock, 2 dogs appeared. I positioned myself such that I faced the two dogs closest to me. The newly arrived male dog took over the task of threatening me. I continued my retreat and when I judged myself out of their territory, I turned and walked. They barked at my back but did not pursue.
That got me late for my test! The shortcut is an all or nothing. If I don't take it, retracing my route and taking the long way would cost 4x as much time. Kind of irritated. I had to take a cab.
For the next RT session, I tempted my fate. I would check the adjoining grass fields before I step onto the road. My book would be kept away to prepare for fight or flight. I was relieved when an Indian worker walked past. I encountered a dog but I was halfway along the road so I was in Man's territory. The dog didn't challenge me.
Today, I did so again. I was apprehensive as I suspected they claim the surrounding lands at night. The grass field was clear, I stepped onto the road. With my eyes on the overgrown grasses to my left, I passed the first farm. A lorry passed me and went into it. A dog started barking, which sort of sounded familiar. Knowing that she's domesticated would help my next attempt...
-3H1U
Release
My fellow mates during my army stint had a lousy vocation. We could be rotated continuously through day and night for a period of 3 weeks. We got so tired that we would fall asleep once we touched a chair, even as we eat.
Yet as we raked up an amazing sleep debt, we found the reserves to horse around. VCD, PlayStation, Nintendo. Sleep got worse but morale went up.
Moral of the story: Play hard =p
To draw a parallel, we are numbed by things we had to endure. Our voices are tiny, willing ears wanting. Jealous mouths would report that we talk during office hours. They made their disapprovals known to our bosses when we left on time. Our friends were few and our enemies unknown.
Talking? Perhaps we were grumbling about the latest reduction in access rights?
We breeched security? Hey, what's that? An unmarked thumb drive hanging by your neck? Nice PDA too.
I'm irresponsible? For helping you out of goodwill?
This post got out of hand; I wanted to say that our rowdiness is a reflection of our stress level.
-3H3U
Monday, November 06, 2006
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Medical info
Thank you Anastasia for your info on ligament injuries.
Here's something for a colleague of mine.
[http://www.stressdoc.com/four_stages_burnbout.htm]
"Burnout is the gradual process by which a person, in response to prolonged stress and physical, mental and emotional strain, detaches from work and other meaningful relationships. The result is lowered productivity, cynicism, confusion...a feeling of being drained, having nothing more to give."
[http://www.helpguide.org/mental/burnout_signs_symptoms.htm]
What is the difference between stress and burnout?
Burnout is not simply excessive stress. Rather, it is a complex human reaction to ongoing stress, and it relates to feeling that your inner resources are inadequate for managing the tasks and situations presented to you. The signs and symptoms of burnout are similar to those of stress, but burnout includes an emotional exhaustion and an increasingly negative attitude toward your work and, perhaps, your life. For a clear definition of stress, see Helpguide's Signs and Symptoms of Stress.
-3H2U
Here's something for a colleague of mine.
[http://www.stressdoc.com/four_stages_burnbout.htm]
"Burnout is the gradual process by which a person, in response to prolonged stress and physical, mental and emotional strain, detaches from work and other meaningful relationships. The result is lowered productivity, cynicism, confusion...a feeling of being drained, having nothing more to give."
[http://www.helpguide.org/mental/burnout_signs_symptoms.htm]
What is the difference between stress and burnout?
Burnout is not simply excessive stress. Rather, it is a complex human reaction to ongoing stress, and it relates to feeling that your inner resources are inadequate for managing the tasks and situations presented to you. The signs and symptoms of burnout are similar to those of stress, but burnout includes an emotional exhaustion and an increasingly negative attitude toward your work and, perhaps, your life. For a clear definition of stress, see Helpguide's Signs and Symptoms of Stress.
-3H2U
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