Mid Autumn Festival
"Traditionally, the Mid Autumn festival is the ideal time, when the moon is at its fullest and brightest, to celebrate the abundance of the summer's harvest. The traditional food of this festival is the mooncake, of which there are many different varieties." Wikipedia
Yeah, Wiki's got it right. But there's just so many varieties of mooncake available now that its simply 'moon'-boggling. There's the traditional lotus seed paste ones, Green tea flavoured, the modern chocolate truffles with champagne, updated traditional snow skin with wolfberry and the very Singaporean durian mooncake..... and more types which I don't even know what flavor it is called. Heck, if you got money to burn, you can even get mooncakes that are topped off with a thin foil of pure 99.99karat gold. How's that for extravagance eh?
Anyway, what better way to check out the vast varities of mooncake available than to check out the Takashimaya Mid-Autumn Festival? Where you can sample mooncakes from almost every reputable mooncake maker in town.
So for what has become an almost annual trip, I braved the weekend crowds and jostled with all the people for some free samples. Buy mooncakes? No need one. heehee... (yes yes.. I know. I'm very cheapo.)
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Friday, September 14, 2007
Demons of Stupidity
Warning: Potent, nonsensical, adult language ahead. The following post may only be a figment of the author's fantasy. Not suitable for senior management types. Continue reading at your own risk. Stupidity may be contagious... yes... even over the Internet.
~ Rant mode on ~
Recently, I've been pretty stressed out at work.
I'm not really stressed out because there's so much work to do (it's more fatigue than anything).
Neither am I bothered very much by a new boss coming into the office.
However, what really irks me is the fact that management sometimes does not see (or perhaps more likely they chose not to see) the problems on the ground.
And because they do not understand what is happening on the ground, they often make decisions that impact negatively on the staff morale and hence productivity.
They believe that by using the "I believe you can do it" motivational approach is enough to resolve whatever resistance/problem there may be. Worst yet is the "I don't want to hear No or cannot be done" approach.
For example, since eons ago, we've had known that we would need to work on a big event in Nov. However, it’s only recently that we were told what the big bosses wanted to do. So how many weeks do we have until that event date? A measly 2 months, in which we are expected to conceptualise and produce a whizz-bang exhibit booth. Why did it take them so long so decide on such a supposedly large and important event?
How dumbass / stupid / retarded / moronic / all-of-the-above can you get?!?
Important projects get launched late. Timelines of complicated projects get trimmed to the verge of insanity.
Can management actually become so detached from the realities of work? Do they seriously think that by applying a few inappropriate and clumsy management techniques, they can compensate for their dumbass decisions?
The plain truth is that our office is stretched – no, correction, it is those of us who can do work that are bleeding from all the arrows in our backs while the incompetent / lazy ones escape relatively unscathed, and can even get promoted! What the bleedy f*@^$#2?
And then when reviewing why projects get delayed, they try to lay the blame on us. What the bleedy f*46*&&k!?! In the first place, who the hell decided to change the policy? Who was the f&#^#$k$r that decided to keep going with the development despite the fact that we were still changing our policies, and in the end, we had to keep amending the work done. Better yet, who was it that decided that all a massively-complicated-never-been-done-before project needed was someone to work on part-time - despite feedback that we need to work on it full-time?
And when we try to claim OT for all the damn hours we put in after work, they have the blardy f&@k76 cheek to tell us to moderate our claims!? And where the hell did they find the blardy balls to tell us that we can't take long leave at the end of the year because there's so much work that needs to be done. Harlo! Who's f*@*&^ fault is that? Is that how you reward / motivate your overworked staff? I don't see the other departments in the division working so hard. Our department regularly stays behind after hours to work while the rest can cheerfully leave on the dot.
Do they seriously think that staff will just sit back and take that sort of nonsense? F*^$& you! People will (have have) started to leave. Heck, it is an employees market out there now. Why should we put up with so much stupidity for such a measly paycheck?
In the final analysis, the simple truth is that there are simply too many demons of stupidity in my office. And there's no way in hell you can exorcise them all to hell.
So to preserve my sanity and soul, I think it is time that I consider getting out of there. Not now but after the bonus payout of course.
~ Rant mode off ~
Pardon the language. But sometimes, stupidity & frustration can drive you to do ...er... write stupid things.
Warning: Potent, nonsensical, adult language ahead. The following post may only be a figment of the author's fantasy. Not suitable for senior management types. Continue reading at your own risk. Stupidity may be contagious... yes... even over the Internet.~ Rant mode on ~
Recently, I've been pretty stressed out at work.
I'm not really stressed out because there's so much work to do (it's more fatigue than anything).
Neither am I bothered very much by a new boss coming into the office.
However, what really irks me is the fact that management sometimes does not see (or perhaps more likely they chose not to see) the problems on the ground.
And because they do not understand what is happening on the ground, they often make decisions that impact negatively on the staff morale and hence productivity.
They believe that by using the "I believe you can do it" motivational approach is enough to resolve whatever resistance/problem there may be. Worst yet is the "I don't want to hear No or cannot be done" approach.
For example, since eons ago, we've had known that we would need to work on a big event in Nov. However, it’s only recently that we were told what the big bosses wanted to do. So how many weeks do we have until that event date? A measly 2 months, in which we are expected to conceptualise and produce a whizz-bang exhibit booth. Why did it take them so long so decide on such a supposedly large and important event?
How dumbass / stupid / retarded / moronic / all-of-the-above can you get?!?
Important projects get launched late. Timelines of complicated projects get trimmed to the verge of insanity.
Can management actually become so detached from the realities of work? Do they seriously think that by applying a few inappropriate and clumsy management techniques, they can compensate for their dumbass decisions?
The plain truth is that our office is stretched – no, correction, it is those of us who can do work that are bleeding from all the arrows in our backs while the incompetent / lazy ones escape relatively unscathed, and can even get promoted! What the bleedy f*@^$#2?
And then when reviewing why projects get delayed, they try to lay the blame on us. What the bleedy f*46*&&k!?! In the first place, who the hell decided to change the policy? Who was the f&#^#$k$r that decided to keep going with the development despite the fact that we were still changing our policies, and in the end, we had to keep amending the work done. Better yet, who was it that decided that all a massively-complicated-never-been-done-before project needed was someone to work on part-time - despite feedback that we need to work on it full-time?
And when we try to claim OT for all the damn hours we put in after work, they have the blardy f&@k76 cheek to tell us to moderate our claims!? And where the hell did they find the blardy balls to tell us that we can't take long leave at the end of the year because there's so much work that needs to be done. Harlo! Who's f*@*&^ fault is that? Is that how you reward / motivate your overworked staff? I don't see the other departments in the division working so hard. Our department regularly stays behind after hours to work while the rest can cheerfully leave on the dot.
Do they seriously think that staff will just sit back and take that sort of nonsense? F*^$& you! People will (have have) started to leave. Heck, it is an employees market out there now. Why should we put up with so much stupidity for such a measly paycheck?
In the final analysis, the simple truth is that there are simply too many demons of stupidity in my office. And there's no way in hell you can exorcise them all to hell.
So to preserve my sanity and soul, I think it is time that I consider getting out of there. Not now but after the bonus payout of course.
~ Rant mode off ~
Pardon the language. But sometimes, stupidity & frustration can drive you to do ...er... write stupid things.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Ramen Ramen
What better way to de-stress from work than to go have some great food with excellent company?
Presenting the "Char Siew" Ramen with hardboiled egg from Ramen Marutama at Central.
Doesn't it just look heavenly deliciously yummy?
Too bad I was too hungry to take more pictures of the ramen but trust me, it IS good stuff.
The char siew is just perfect - the succulent meat simply melts away in your mouth. The broth is delicate balance of flavours without any hint of the corner cutting MSG. The hardboiled egg is done such that the egg yoke is still a little soft and almost a little runny. The chopped chives and spring onions provided just the right amount of fresh "crunch" to the broth.
This one gets 4.5 / 5 chomps from me.
What better way to de-stress from work than to go have some great food with excellent company?
Presenting the "Char Siew" Ramen with hardboiled egg from Ramen Marutama at Central.Doesn't it just look heavenly deliciously yummy?
Too bad I was too hungry to take more pictures of the ramen but trust me, it IS good stuff.The char siew is just perfect - the succulent meat simply melts away in your mouth. The broth is delicate balance of flavours without any hint of the corner cutting MSG. The hardboiled egg is done such that the egg yoke is still a little soft and almost a little runny. The chopped chives and spring onions provided just the right amount of fresh "crunch" to the broth.
This one gets 4.5 / 5 chomps from me.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Sick
After being knocked out for 4hrs, I finally felt well enough to drag my sorry ass to the doc's just now.
Doc says my temp is quite high - 38.7 c. Blood pressure also a little high. Good thing is I've got no rashes now, otherwise it could be Dengue. &&#@^$!
Today wasn't a good day. In fact, it is the most sucky, dumbass day I've had in a long time.
Barfed out my lunch; Head feels heavy; Uncontrollable shivers; Alternating between feeling hot and cold. I think I rather feel hot - at least I can deal with that by showering. Hate feeling cold - its the kind that really creeps into the very core of you and really feels horrible. I seldom fall sick but if I do, I really fall sick. I guess my body likes to do things in a very dramatic way. Enjoy yourselves now you sicko germs. Wait till the antibiotics get you.
Office politics chose to rear its dumbass ugly head today. I'm feeling totally peeved. Being sick didn't quite help either. But at least I was subdued enough to just listen and not argue back. Maybe I should have just gone and coughed a few times on that person. Afterall, we should share the joy and germs right?
Think the last time I fell so sick was in London. Even then, it was much better compared to now because at least I had someone TLC'ing me.
As you can tell, I'm not really coherent now. That's cos I'm in my hot state, so I can come out of my cocoon of blankets. A little drugged out also from the medicine.
Bleedy hell, I think I'm starting to feel the chills again.
sigh.
After being knocked out for 4hrs, I finally felt well enough to drag my sorry ass to the doc's just now.Doc says my temp is quite high - 38.7 c. Blood pressure also a little high. Good thing is I've got no rashes now, otherwise it could be Dengue. &&#@^$!
Today wasn't a good day. In fact, it is the most sucky, dumbass day I've had in a long time.
Barfed out my lunch; Head feels heavy; Uncontrollable shivers; Alternating between feeling hot and cold. I think I rather feel hot - at least I can deal with that by showering. Hate feeling cold - its the kind that really creeps into the very core of you and really feels horrible. I seldom fall sick but if I do, I really fall sick. I guess my body likes to do things in a very dramatic way. Enjoy yourselves now you sicko germs. Wait till the antibiotics get you.
Office politics chose to rear its dumbass ugly head today. I'm feeling totally peeved. Being sick didn't quite help either. But at least I was subdued enough to just listen and not argue back. Maybe I should have just gone and coughed a few times on that person. Afterall, we should share the joy and germs right?
Think the last time I fell so sick was in London. Even then, it was much better compared to now because at least I had someone TLC'ing me.
As you can tell, I'm not really coherent now. That's cos I'm in my hot state, so I can come out of my cocoon of blankets. A little drugged out also from the medicine.
Bleedy hell, I think I'm starting to feel the chills again.
sigh.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Crabs Ahoy at Ang Mo Kio!
This place is so popular that they have not 1, but 2 queue lines! One for Reservations and one for Walk-In customers.
The place is none other than the famous Mellben Seafood Restaurant.
Friday evening, 7pm and the place is already packed with diners. After taking our orders, we still have to wait over an hour for our crabs to arrive.
Crab Bee Hoon
Pepper Crab
My favourite Chili Crab.
Note the rich gravy thick with egg. Hmmm....Heehee.. hungry yet?
Friday, August 24, 2007
Photos of great taste
I may not be able to cook as well as the rat but I certainly know how to eat like one. heehee...Today's dinner was at Ma Maison over at Bugis Junction. This is a restaurant that serves western cuisine but it's been prepared japanese style.
Dinner consisting of Clam chowder soup, cold Japanese soba salad and Pasta Carbonara (ala Ma Maison style).
The Clam Chowder was quite ok according to my friend. I didn't try it because I don't really like clam chowder. But it seemed rather nice... visually at least. The portion was rather generous and it was served in a very 'atas' looking soup bowl with a sprinkling of basil leaves.
Next came the cold Japanese soba salad. This was actually very nicely done. You could taste the freshness of the noodles, and when it was mixed with the mayonnaise on the side, it was simply wonderfully tasty. The crisp salty seaweed flakes set off really well with the fresh cabbage and tomatoes. The ham strips were not just fat but nicely lean.There was a little bit of a disappointment when halfway through eating, we found a piece of what seemed like a small chip of porcelain in the salad. We called the waiter over and they quickly apologized and replaced the salad. So I guess no harm done. Kudos to the restaurant.
Now we come to the main course - the Pasta Carbonara ala Ma Maison style. I was kinda expecting my carbonara to be stewing in a rich creamy-eggy sauce. But this particular pasta was not done that way. It was a dry sort of carbonara. It turned out to be quite tasty although it didn't really look or taste much like a conventional carbonara. The table had a pepper grinder which had the most aromatic and finely grounded black pepper I've had so far. And this went very well with the pasta.All in all, a very satisfying meal in a nice cosy environment. I think I'll be going back there again for dinner soon. The bill was quite reasonable too. Next time, I think I'll try the hamburger steak. If the window display is anything to go by, it should be just as good. hmmmm..
4 out of 5 Chomps.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
My new Objects of Desire
Two new, extremely drool-worthy DSLR bodies have been just released by Nikon.
Sheesh.. when am I going to be able to get my hands on one of these babies?
Nikon D3
The latest Professional grade DSLR from Nikon.
- First ever Nikon DSLR with a Full-Frame (36 x 24 mm) sensor (coined FX format)
- 12.1 megapixel full-frame sensor (8.45µm pixel pitch)
- ISO 200 - 6400 (with boost up to ISO 25,600)
- Super fast operation (power-up 12 ms, shutter lag 41 ms, black-out 74 ms)
- New Kevlar / carbon fibre composite shutter with 300,000 exposure durability
- New Multi-CAM3500FX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)
- Auto-focus tracking by color (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)
- Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning) now available (fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings)
- Scene Recognition System (uses AE sensor, AF sensor)
- Nine frames per second continuous with auto-focus tracking
- Eleven frames per second continuous without auto-focus tracking
- Ten / eleven frames per second continuous in DX-crop mode (AF / no-AF)
Nikon D300
The new semi-professional DSLR
- 12.3 megapixel DX format CMOS sensor
- Self-cleaning sensor unit (low-pass filter vibration)
- ISO 200 - 3200 (6400 with boost)
- Super fast operation (power-up 13 ms, shutter lag 45 ms, black-out 100 ms)
- Shutter life 150,000 exposures
- New Multi-CAM3500DX Auto Focus sensor (51-point, 15 cross-type, more vertical coverage)
- Auto-focus tracking by color (using information from 1005-pixel AE sensor)
- Auto-focus calibration (fine-tuning) now available (fixed body or up to 20 separate lens settings)
- Scene Recognition System (uses AE sensor, AF sensor)
- Picture Control image parameter presets (replace Color Modes I, II and III)
Monday, August 20, 2007
Happy Birthday Cheekboo!
Dear Cheekyboo,
Happy Birthday!
I hope you've had a great time at your birthday party! I wish I could be there too, joining in the fun. Your Mom is a pretty good party planner.
I'm sure you got lots of presents too. Remember to thank all the nice uncles and aunties for the presents. And also to thank your Mom for throwing you such a wonderful party.
I'm sorry that I haven't sent you any presents but I'll have a little surprise for you in October.
Anyway be a good little girl and don't be too naughty eh.
Hugs,
Uncle JH
Isn't it great to be a three year old?
Dear Cheekyboo,Happy Birthday!
I hope you've had a great time at your birthday party! I wish I could be there too, joining in the fun. Your Mom is a pretty good party planner.
I'm sure you got lots of presents too. Remember to thank all the nice uncles and aunties for the presents. And also to thank your Mom for throwing you such a wonderful party.
I'm sorry that I haven't sent you any presents but I'll have a little surprise for you in October.
Anyway be a good little girl and don't be too naughty eh.
Hugs,
Uncle JH
Isn't it great to be a three year old?
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Cubicle City
Brand new office, new furniture but same job and same pay. Somethings change but others still remain the same.
Anyway, here are some pictures of my little cubicle at work. It's all spanking brand new and looks pretty 'atas' (read high class) huh. But the white table top is hell to keep clean.
I've also got a niffy little chiller set up under the table but I forgot to take a picture of that. It's a really cool, orange door, mini fridge with a whooping 6 can capacity. I use it to store my stash of coke and wet wipes. I'll try to put up a picture of it later.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Soulmate
Natasha Bedingfield
Youtube Link
Incompatible, it don’t matter though
‘cos someone’s bound to hear my cry
Speak out if you do
you’re not easy to find
Is it possible Mr. Loveable
is already in my life?
right in front of me
or maybe you’re in disguise
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
Here we are again, circles never end
how do I find the perfect fit
there’s enough for everyone
but I’m still waiting in line
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
If there’s a soulmate for everyone
Most relationships seem so transitory
They’re all good but not the permanent one
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
If there’s a soulmate for everyone
Natasha Bedingfield
Youtube Link
Incompatible, it don’t matter though
‘cos someone’s bound to hear my cry
Speak out if you do
you’re not easy to find
Is it possible Mr. Loveable
is already in my life?
right in front of me
or maybe you’re in disguise
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
Here we are again, circles never end
how do I find the perfect fit
there’s enough for everyone
but I’m still waiting in line
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
If there’s a soulmate for everyone
Most relationships seem so transitory
They’re all good but not the permanent one
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
Who doesn’t long for someone to hold
who knows how to love you without being told
somebody tell me why I’m on my own
if there’s a soulmate for everyone
If there’s a soulmate for everyone
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
10 ways to entertain young children for $1 or less (without the TV)
I know it's never easy to keep hyper-active, 2-3 YOs entertained for long periods of time. I remembered the time when little Cheekyboo had me running around Borders playing Hide & Seek. I was tired out just trying to dodge around the shelves hiding from her. Ahh.. the endless energy of youth.
So when i saw this article, I thought that it would be quite helpful for Saggies.
Saggies, this is for you.
I know it's never easy to keep hyper-active, 2-3 YOs entertained for long periods of time. I remembered the time when little Cheekyboo had me running around Borders playing Hide & Seek. I was tired out just trying to dodge around the shelves hiding from her. Ahh.. the endless energy of youth.So when i saw this article, I thought that it would be quite helpful for Saggies.
Saggies, this is for you.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Happy Birthday Saggies!
Instead of counting candles,Or tallying the years,
Contemplate your blessings,
As your birthday nears.
Consider special people
Who love you, and who care,
And others who’ve enriched your life
Just by being there.
Think about the memories
Passing years can never mar,
Experiences great and small
That have made you who you are.
Another year is a happy gift,
So cut your cake, and say,
"Instead of counting birthdays,
I count blessings every day!"
Contemplate your blessings,
As your birthday nears.
Consider special people
Who love you, and who care,
And others who’ve enriched your life
Just by being there.
Think about the memories
Passing years can never mar,
Experiences great and small
That have made you who you are.
Another year is a happy gift,
So cut your cake, and say,
"Instead of counting birthdays,
I count blessings every day!"
Even though we are not there to celebrate with you, nevertheless, we hope you'll have a great time over there on the other side of the of the world.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Tai-Qi Master vs Flying Dragon Daggers
First, read these:-
The allegedly 'original' but censored email that was sent out.
Clubsnap 'Kopitiam' Forum Thread
MINDEF takes PM Lee's son to task for contravening orders
CNA, 12 July 2007 2348 hrs
PM's son's army gaffe
Tomorrow, Bulletin of Singapore Bloggers
Then listen to this:-
Swordsman
the mrbrown show
Enjoy!
:D
First, read these:-
The allegedly 'original' but censored email that was sent out.
Clubsnap 'Kopitiam' Forum Thread
MINDEF takes PM Lee's son to task for contravening orders
CNA, 12 July 2007 2348 hrs
PM's son's army gaffe
Tomorrow, Bulletin of Singapore Bloggers
Then listen to this:-
Swordsman
the mrbrown show
Enjoy!
:D
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Welcome to the World
Introducing SL's latest addition to her family, Baby X (because they haven't decided on a name for her yet.)
I went to see them today, and I was quite lucky because not long after I arrived, she woke up and demanded to be fed. So SL very expertly prepped a bottle and started to feed her.
And don't ask me who she resembles because I'm quite hopeless at that. To me, they seem to all look the same at that age but SL thinks she takes after her Dad.
Anyway, congratulations to SL & family on the arrival on their new daughter.
And good luck with the coming sleepless nights. heehee..
Introducing SL's latest addition to her family, Baby X (because they haven't decided on a name for her yet.)I went to see them today, and I was quite lucky because not long after I arrived, she woke up and demanded to be fed. So SL very expertly prepped a bottle and started to feed her.
And don't ask me who she resembles because I'm quite hopeless at that. To me, they seem to all look the same at that age but SL thinks she takes after her Dad.
Anyway, congratulations to SL & family on the arrival on their new daughter.
And good luck with the coming sleepless nights. heehee..
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Ratatouille
(rat-a-too-ee)
When it comes to cartoon-movies, I'm quite the sucker for those inspirational, loser-makes-good, witty and funny cartoons.
And this one contains several things that I particularly love - travel (ahh... Paree), food and comedy.
"Dream Big & Prepare for an adventure that really cooks!"
Heehee... I can't wait to see Ratatouille.
(rat-a-too-ee)
When it comes to cartoon-movies, I'm quite the sucker for those inspirational, loser-makes-good, witty and funny cartoons.And this one contains several things that I particularly love - travel (ahh... Paree), food and comedy.
"Dream Big & Prepare for an adventure that really cooks!"
Heehee... I can't wait to see Ratatouille.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Back to Work
After almost 30 days of reservist, my longest call-up so far, it's back to the daily grind today for me.
Of course I'm not going to pretend that I'm all that enthused about going back to work but I do miss using my brain cells to actually think about stuff; and I missed the cool air-con environment too. heehee...
However, that doesn't mean that my in-camp was a piece of cake; it's just that the stress is more demanding physically than mentally.
Oh, and in case you were wondering if I managed to lose any weight, well, the sad answer is no. But at least I've started running again (my knee and ankle are fine..woohoo!) and I've promised myself to go to the gym at least once a week for starters.
After almost 30 days of reservist, my longest call-up so far, it's back to the daily grind today for me.Of course I'm not going to pretend that I'm all that enthused about going back to work but I do miss using my brain cells to actually think about stuff; and I missed the cool air-con environment too. heehee...
However, that doesn't mean that my in-camp was a piece of cake; it's just that the stress is more demanding physically than mentally.
Oh, and in case you were wondering if I managed to lose any weight, well, the sad answer is no. But at least I've started running again (my knee and ankle are fine..woohoo!) and I've promised myself to go to the gym at least once a week for starters.
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