Friday, December 22, 2006

Shell Life (Part 10: 29Oct-12Nov: London, UK Trip; 04-09Dec: SG Trip)

Though it wasn't my first time to London and Singapore, but it was the first time I took photo with my very own camera in these cities.

London in Winter:
It was such a wonderful weather throughout the stay in London, except the raining nights when I just came out from a musical show with my colleagues and when I was on my way back from an Italian coffee house. It was freezing cold eventhough it was just drizzling. The most challenging part was I got to share my little umbrella with my colleague (uncle is the name I call him), 'escorting' him back to his hotel before I could walk back to my hotel, haha.. thanks to his forgetful nature that I got the honor to be the 'gentle-lady' ;)

I really love the musical show that I watched in London, eventhough I had watched the same movie twice - Chicago, the movie that revolve around the society, the women, the press and and the bribery. It was an impressive act with the talented vokalists and dancers! I enjoyed it so much!

Singapore with its constant humid + hot weather
It was the festive month when I landed in Singapore - my last visit to Singapore in year 2006. It was well-decorated, charmed with festive song and shopping crowd. I was loaded with project task and can hardly find time to walk around the city - plus it was a week-day trip. However, my last night at Orchard road did provide me with a good photo opportunity. Having said Singapore is a small city, I still haven't 'printed' my footprint at every part of the city. It would be my next mission if I were given the chance to step onto this wonderful land again!

Well, thanks to my project that had provided me with the traveling opportunity. Though it was an intensive trip loaded with work-related tasks, I enjoyed my every moment!

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

Shell Life (Part 9: May,June,July, Aug 2006: Bangalore, India Trip)

Being in a complex project (yet simple application) had contributed to my enormous trip to partner's office based in Bangalore, India. Can't recall the exact traveling dates to Bangalore between May till August - my nicely kept boarding pass would be able to help me with that :)

My initial thought on business trip had been a good one - staying & relaxing in a decent hotel, finding and tasting the best local food, wandering and getting lost in a unknown city after office hour and during weekend, experiencing and learning the culture and language differences, feeling and touching the phase of intellectual and economic development; all had been well-dreamt in the Utopia of mine, until I experienced mine with my project, so-called a challenging, exciting, and dynamic IT-CRM project, supporting the delivery of the streamlined process in a B2B business world.

Working through late nights and weekends (the precious off hours & days that I could do wonder in a foreign city) had never been called for a stop by anyone in the project team, be it the working team at the bottom of the team hierarchy (like me) to the leaders at the top of our reverse triangle hierarchy, as delivery has been put as the highest priority on each of our shoulder. Knowing the root cause of having numerous late nights and weekend did not stop all the interested governing parties sending their best spokeperson to manipulate the decision to their favor, while it became the best political-playground in maneuvering the deliverables quality to the advantage of each party.

One of the worst experience was the 19-day non-stop working-marathon over 2 weekends and late nights, took place in 3 different countries, from India, to Malaysia, to Singapore and back to Malaysia. This long-run journey really pushed me to the limit - wonder what would happen if I didn't insist to have a break on my third weekend.

Work-life-balance has been my dream every since my first job as marketer in the telecommunication industry. Being in the renown oil based company would have helped in fulfilling my dream, especially when it is being 'embraced' by management. However, with a project that managed by third party contractors plus delivered by outsourcing partners had thrown me back to the reality. Nothing is more important than delivering to the need of the project, no matter how work-life-balance is being stressed at different working level.

Nonetheless, the project had broaden my view and widen my eyesight to the whole new working-politics (30:70 in ratio) world. And though I did stay in one of those expensive hotel during the stay in Bangalore - rank after London & New York, I hardly had chance to explore and enjoy the great ambience, except coming back in late night for late "supper" and to catch some sleep before the start of another crazy day. Not to mention about having a relaxing bath in the big bath-tab provided.

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Unstoppable Long-Distance-Shots... 无法抵挡的远射

It was the fascinating long-distance-shots that brought Germany to celebrate their FIFA bronze, contributed by their young midfielder, Schweinsteiger Bastian who had amazed the world while putting Portuguese Top Goalkeeper Ricardo in great pain.

The undefeatable swerving shots from middle-left of the pitch crowned Schweinsteiger the Man of the Match who had successfully injected the 'Cardiotonic' into Germany's blood, turning the match in German's favor 11 minutes after 2nd half of the match. The cheering crowd had their emotion being aroused into another level when Schweinsteiger powerful free kick lead-to an 'own-goal' by Portuguese midfielder, Petit, marking a regretful stain to Portugal defencing form. Left wing would have been Schweinsteiger lucky field when his 3rd attempt from the far-left-end of the middle pitch (the 2nd 'own-goal' was resulted from his strong free-kick from left-middle-pitch), perfectly soared toward the far-right-corner of the net, giving Ricardo no chance of safe.

Nuno Gomes' header goal from a great cross by Figo at the very last 4 minutes of the match that flew through Kahn's arms had brought the match with 2-goals margin in favor to Germany. Despite with good ball possession, the Portuguese who had made the games even in 1st half had not been capitalizing their possession and strength much, which opened up the scoring opportunity to German from distance. The selfishness in Klose who aimed for Golden Boots had cause in lost of few goalscoring opportunities when his teammates were in better place. Nonetheless, sitting at the top of the scoring chart with 5 goals in hands, Klose should be close to his dream of Golden Boots unless the French player, Henry pierce through Italian's defence wall twice.

Thursday, July 06, 2006

A Ticket to Final Awarded by Referee... 由裁判赠送的决赛权

Until now, almost 10 hours after the match, I still couldn't believe that France had advanced to Final with a debatable penalty given by the South American Referee. One forward went to the ground eyeing to goal under one defender's challenge, both fell on the penalty box concurrently, both with their legs extended for the ball and for the fall, one forward being smart enough to 'run towards' the defender and being 'tackled', one referee with his eyes 'witnessing' the moment from his angle, one foul given to the defender, one penalty awarded to the forward... and, one goal being made by one Midfielder who claimed his last World Cup this season. What a moment of 'hurrah' or 'damn' that promised the seat to 2006 World Cup Final, don't think this would impress most of the fans.

Both team played the games very well, with Portugal holding better position in ball possession and goalscoring chances. Great defence wall by French was challenged few times by Portuguese, however, with no luck on Portugal side, all the attempts ended with great sigh of disappointment. France on the other end, leveraging on their magnificent international appearance and experiences, played in their own style, with their impeccable defensing moves, dispossessing Portugal's goalscoring opportunities that could lead the games to extra time. It is undoubtful that few shot attempts by French that had nearly shaken Portuguese defensing form, had again pronounced the players scoring ability. A even game by both team, which shouldn't be destined by a penalty.

Portugal's destiny was almost defined 12-minute before to game, when their captain, their symbol - Figo, headed over with the goal, resulting from Cristiano Ronaldo's long-range-fine-free-kick. Continuous challenge was forced by Portuguese from their 2 wings and crosses as time ticked away to complete the 90min games, had only pressured French to strengthen and hold out with their defence force. No single luck was granted to this small country despite their thrilling performance at World Cup stage.

There is one thing about football match at this kick-out round - winner or loser, enjoying the good fortune as hero or leaving as villain where you could either come back to shine on the stage 4 years later, or bit the international field a big goodbye like Figo, in vain.

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

Italy Advanced to FIFA Final... 意大利夺得决赛权!!

下半场的加时赛,最后的两分钟,两个妙传,两个不同角度的进球,一位后卫,一位候补前锋,一个失守的龙门,一场拥有上亿见证人的赛事,捍卫了意大利每十二年进入世界杯决赛圈的命运。

早晨3点钟的闹钟声准时地把我叫醒,让我没有错过这场精彩的赛事。双方顽强的踢法,即攻又守,球员们都把持着标准体育精神,完成了90分钟的正场奔跑--特别是意大利队,在加时赛才更换球员。赛前被看好德国队,持着高大的体魄,强攻死守,抹杀了好几个敌队的角球,硬梆梆地阻挡了来势汹汹的意大利队。反观意大利队,身材比起德国要矮上一个人头,可在拥有超高控球、传球技术下,无惧于德国主场气氛的欺压,漂亮地制造了一个又一个的进球机会。必须强调的是,双方的守门员,并没有摸黑世界级最佳守门员的头衔,成功地拦截了好几个险球。

正时赛双方的表现已充分体现出他们杀进四强的实力。虽然意大利队在下半场的表现有所保留,其刚厚的守卫墙却让德国队无从下手,无奈地让球赛进入加时赛。意大利教练看来是吸取了阿根廷对垒德国的教训,并没有在正时赛更换任何球员,适当的观察力及战略上的揣摩,让意大利球员准确地把握时机,在进入加时赛后,把攻守技能发挥的淋漓尽致。

在加时赛进入了最后3分钟,当世人--观众(全世界哦)也好,球员也罢,都以为点球将是决定性的关键时,意大利抢回了一个被德国解救了的角球,经过了Pirlo 的妙传,由后卫球员Grosso以左脚踢出了决定性的一球,闪过了世界最佳守门员的防卫,往龙门的一角滚过进去。惊吓中的德国很快地接回了控球权,飞奔地攻向意大利的龙门,却被意大利漂亮地拦截住,超快地反攻让德国的后卫军没能反应过来,在赛前最后一秒由候补前锋--Del Piero在队友Gilardino 的反传下漂亮地又踢进偏离龙门的角球,巩固了意大利进入决赛的事实!

拥有主场优势的德国队,无法突破巴西前优秀球员比利(Pele)的预言及看好,败北后挥泪离场,无缘实现第四次夺杯的希望。继德国步入巴西的后尘,上届决赛比拼的两只球队都在八强及四强遇上各自的克星后,证实了一物克一物的说法,也确定了在球场上没有永远的赢家,只有顽强拼搏的队伍才足以生存、立足。

Sunday, July 02, 2006

FIFA Semi-Final = EURO Cup 世界杯半决赛=欧洲杯


Was so into soccer for the past few weeks - for the once-in-4-year football season. Am not so much fancy about soccer, but will allow myself to be in the fever, at least for the major one like EURO and World Cup - happen with 2 years interval (4 years for EURO, 4 years for World Cup; both interleave in between for 2 years gaps).

Chasing after each and every single match was part of my target every day since June 9, but was not able to accomplish such mission with my 'busy schedule' of work - can't live as zombie for long too... ^_< Selectively, I have to skip most of the 3 o'clock (morning, local time 9pm) matches, except when I was in India (with better time difference of 3 1/2 hours), during weekend, when good teams were playing or skipped earlier match for some rest before continue with 3am match.

Am quite disappointed when Argentina was sent back after quarter-final with Germany, the host of 2006 FIFA World Cup. With such a good skill in ball controlling, passing and juggling, I still can't accept the fact that Germany has won the match over Argentina with PSO (Penalty Shoot Out), where Argentina is (or was) really good at (and they are supposed to be the Pro!). The early substitution of their first choice players (forward & midfielder) cost them dear when Germany stroke back with 1 goal to even up the scores. Even with some 'noobie' like me who know so little about football strategies would know that this could be the most costly mistake by the Argentina coach.

I was in India during the GER-ARG match, catching my flight back to KL on the same night. Managed to watch the first 90mins games, missed the extra time 30min games (where I had used to travel to airport), continued the match with PSO at the airport, with a bunch of German supporters - feel abit lonely until I heard the same 'yes' from another whiteman when Argentine manage to score the PSO. We both pointed at each other with the word "Argentina?" coming out from our lips concurrently, both posted with great smile after knowing that we were not alone, but with big 'sigh' and 'aiks' after Germany's 4th goal that advanced them to semi-final.

Brazil, the defending champion, bit world cup a big goodbye when they were defeated, the 2nd time, by France. A curse or being jinxed, Brazilians were struggling throughout the match with French tough defense team. French had played well - have to admit that they catch up the momentum a bit slower in this World Cup, where they were not performing in the very first 2 matches. With the most 'old' (or experienced, a better word, I guess) players in team, they destroyed the hope of Brazilian of winning the sixth World Cup.

With the 2 South American teams being sent home, World Cup 2006 semi-final has now become the all-European games with France against Portugal in Munich, and Germany meeting Italy in Dortmund, on 5 & 6 July respectively (local time, 9pm). Feel like watching EURO Cup without having any team from the rest of the world playing at this stage.

Friday, June 30, 2006

Updates: 近况报告

好久没有写blog了,是懒惰还是忙碌,自己也无法分辨。忙碌是真的,但忙里偷闲总不难吧,就是想给自己找个藉口,好好地‘懒散’一下下 - 但这一下下也一下下了几个月了吧 :P

最近老是在不断地反省,为什么在这么一个讲究、在乎员工[生活-工作平衡]的公司上班,我还是无法在工作及我的生活找到平衡点呢?以为换换工作环境,就会找回享受生活的时间,让自己喘息,蓄势待发。可为什么偏偏只要有我加入的project,就得花好长的工作时间在好紧凑的期限来收拾残局呢?看来不像是工作环境的问题嘛,好像是所谓的[命水],有点邪哦。小姨告诉我说,最可怜的并不是我本身,而是跟我合作的伙伴,因为我的[命水]的关系,也把他们扯入了这个旋涡。觉得有点可悲,也有点可笑,要是真的是[命水]的话,我也得认了吧。看来不能让跟我一起合作的同事知道吧,否则有谁要跟一个[克星]一起做苦命工呢 ^_^

依照现在project进展及期限看来,短期内是没有办法有好日子过。不停地往印度飞(忘了多少次了 - 每次都忘了更新blog :P),却无缘享受整个旅程 - 太紧凑了,匆匆忙忙地,总是匆匆地来,匆匆地走 - 好想套用徐志摩在《再别康桥》中一段诗句: 悄悄(匆匆)的我走了,正如我悄悄(匆匆)的来;我挥一挥衣袖(拉一拉行李),不带走一片云彩(只带走一片空白)。唉,真是无福消受啊。早前买的相机好像也英雄无用武之地嘛。

看来得多多‘拜拜/祷告’,希望[衰]的快去,[好]的快来!祝福我吧!

Monday, April 24, 2006

What In A World...

In the ever-changing world of now
Living through an evolution of its own
In pursuing the wide-ranging needs
Keeping oneself distance from simplicity
Earning a life with status as eternity

Slaughtering the environment as deem as it could be
Eavesdropping, coarse cursing
Extreme thoughts, obscene conduct
Mighty the eagerness, tiny the sympathy
Isolating the hearts from being communicating
Nurturing the power of materialistic
Giving the space to worship technology

Dozens of hearts are falling
Over the shadow of lavishness
Every minute if you are counting
Sinking in the swamp of egoistic

Hide away the sincerity
Enlarging the pride and priggish
Firing the minority
Eliminating the sound of liberty
Entrusting the authorities
Legitimate the act of killing

Tearless, our nature is roaring
Helpless, the prey is revenging
Exclaiming their soundless protest
Summoning the disaster and diseases
Arousing the global warming
Manipulating the evolution over the mankind
End of the day does it imply

Thus far damage only we applied
Offering goodness should we all now subscribe
Over the time will the cosmos be revived

Saturday, April 01, 2006

因为,所以。Because...

人家说幸福是要努力争取的
我努力过了吗? 没有
因为我选择等候。。。

人家说喜欢就该大声的说出来
我说过了吗?没有
因为我选择矜持。。。

人家说缘分是上天给的,机会是创造出来的
我创造过了吗? 没有
因为我选择逃避。。。

人家说世事无常,命运弄人
世事真的无常吗?是的
因为我得学会面对

人家说生命是短暂的
生命真的短暂吗?是的
因为我得学会珍惜

人家说人生好比舞台,每个人都是自己的导演
我主导过我的人生舞台了吗?不知道
因为我还在摸索生命的意义

人家说人间只是个修行道场,虚拟不实
人间真的虚幻吗?不知道
因为我还在寻找真理

因为等候,所以只能期待
因为矜持,所以才会错过
因为逃避,所以无法面对
因为无常,所以变化莫测
因为短暂,所以刻骨铭心
因为舞台,所以积极演出
因为虚幻,所以假以乱真

所以我拥抱单身,选择与寂寞为友
所以我面对命运,锻炼自己更勇敢
所以我学会知足,学着感恩每一天
所以我站在舞台,舞出更精彩人生
所以我处身红尘,继续修行悟真理

后记:
因感触而写出的小品,记一位刚过世的同事 – Karen.M,享年46岁。事情发生得突然,让我无所适从。在感慨世事无常的同时,基督同事安慰我说她已到天国界,回归主 – 是值得欣慰的事情,因为她无须在人世间受苦受难。死,或重于泰山,或轻于鹅毛,留下的亲友总是最痛苦的,失去至爱所承受的难过会否因时间的洗礼而康复呢?会否会因此更勇敢的活下去呢?

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

清明。。。Chingming Festival...

清明时节雨纷纷,
路上行人欲断魂;
借问酒家何处有,
牧童遥指杏花村。
(唐代杜牧名句)

回乡扫墓的一早,老天爷非常应景的下起了大雨。虽然没能在预定的时间内出发(下雨天特别好睡嘛~),叔叔的超驾驶技术填补了时间上的差距,让我们在9时许抵达家乡。爸妈及几位叔叔、嫂嫂也已等候多时,在把所有扫墓工具、祭拜祖先的祭品‘搬’上车子后,大家就往几公里外的坟地出发。

去年因为在外工干而没能回乡扫墓,相隔了两年的时间,坟地的改变让我无法在第一时间内找着婆婆的安葬的地方。不过,再怎么困难,大伙很快地就找到婆婆的墓碑将工具、祭品都摆放到坟边。经由当地社团的打理下,这块坟地已明显被清理过,杂草都没有了,只有干枯的野草、坟边多余的泥土等待处理。这让我们的扫墓工作变得较为轻松,相对的也更有多时间闲聊。

祭拜过程也因时代的转变,越来越现代化了。咱们的祭品都是自家人爱吃的食物、水果,而我呢,也特地从国外买了大伙爱吃的巧可力,与婆婆‘分享’ – 好东西应该一块分享嘛!从以往冥间大楼、衣服、车子,到现在较为简单的冥间银票、过路钱等,我们已大量地减少对空气的污染,同时也不全失传统特色及对祖先的尊敬,而且还简化了燃烧的过程和等待的时间。

也不知道曾几何时,祭拜后的另一‘重要’项目就是‘野餐’时间。本以为带来的巧可力会大受欢迎,可是经过太阳的曝晒下,块状的巧可力已被溶化成水状,想吃也没法吃,只得带回家冻结后再品尝。妈妈煮的红豆甜品最受爱戴,在炎热的天气喝上一口确实有点滋润解渴的功效。饱尝了妈妈还有婶婶的手艺后,大伙才收拾一切踏上归途,而爸爸及叔叔们(还有我)则准备前往另一块坟地,祭拜往生的二姑。

清明节的意义从单纯的祭拜祖先、孝敬及缅怀过世的亲人,到今天的游子回乡,亲友相聚的日子,其含义并没有因为时代的差异而褪色,反而为传统文化增添了另一摩登的色彩。其实,就算祭拜过程有多隆重多复杂,都不该是重点;最重要的是珍惜身边健在的亲友,避免[树欲静而风不止,子欲养而亲不在]的遗憾。

Click here for more photos...

清明节(资源:中国古玩网 www.lzcc.com.cn )
中国汉族的节日,又是汉族立法中的二十四个节气之一。节期在阳历4月5日前后(夏历则在三月内)。民间习惯在这一天扫墓。清明前一天(或两天)为"寒食",两个节令相距甚近,古人常将它们连结在一起,甚至不加以区分。宋代以后,扫墓成为清明节的主要活动。多数人家借出城扫墓的机会郊游,称为"踏青"。不少地区的男女老幼还在清明节或栽插柳树、或折新柳枝佩戴、或"斗百草"、"打秋千"、或放风筝。
现在的清明节已淡化了迷信色彩,升华成了一种精神范畴的文化。祭扫烈士英灵,缅怀故去的亲人,传承中华民族重亲情、讲孝道的传统美德。海外游子回归故里,寻根问祖,祭奠祖先,清明节已成为了维系民族感情的纽带。

Friday, March 17, 2006

我的MP3播放器。。。My MP3 Players...

Music has been part of my life ever since my early age where I was put under the spotlight to 'entertain' the audience with my voice. The training stages that I have gone through with singing competition lining up one after another, organized by various association, society or schools, had further cultivate my interest towards music. Which then I had requested to go through the proper music training - not vocal, but the instrument named electone or better known as 'organ'. It was only last for a short period of time which I had stopped due to the formal/ compulsory examination set by government for all Form 3 students, and had never continued since then :P

My passion towards music had never stop even my time had been occupied with studies, community services, co-curricular activities, and now job-related work and project. Have given the opportunity to learn about music composing, production when I was in university which exposed me to the process of producing a song. However, had never thought of getting a job that could continue my journey with music - have opted to be a spectator than a participant ^_^

With the advancement of technology, I could now enjoy music with no boundary - with the introduction of walkman, CD player, MD player, to MP3 players which one could carry few thousands songs conveniently anytime, anywhere. Working in a Telco company that exposed me to various types of handphones, had further ‘revealed’ me to the use of mobile phones as MP3 player.

My first 'MP3 player' was Nokia 6230 which served as my mobile and camera in the same time. Have fully utilized it with various function that it supported - my favorite one, which had proven its worth of value. Until, it quietly slipped out of my pocket and bid me a BIG goodbye :C

My next mobile - Nokia 6630 had replaced my lost 6230 with all its functionality - added with its 3G-compatible specs, until I left the Telco company to China which had discontinued me from using its 3G services. Compromising with its battery life and storage capacity (which I later found out its 'limited' compatability to external memory card in the market), I had 'survived' with its quality as a player for another few months before going for a 'real' MP3 player.

My first MP3 player - Creative MuVo V200 with its 1GB storage capacity had allowed me to carry more songs while I'm mobile. Also, serving as 'thumbdrive' that enabled me to transfer files from one machine to another - which had further 'damaged' it. Leave with no choice, I had to send it back for repair. While waiting for the 'returning' of MuVo, I had got myself the 5GB Creative Zen Neeon to accompany me through the sleepless nights.

With the new MP3 player that could store more songs (in fact much, much more ^_^), I was so excited till I forgot the lesson learnt - I had again used it as thumbdrive which resulting into the same dilemma. It was sent for the necessary 'fixing'!! :( Surviving without any music for many nights, I had finally settled to its core function and try to 'minimize' the unnecessary usage, if possible :P - have been wondering, did I really learn from the lesson? ^_<

My business trip to US with my 'resourceful' colleague had finally brought my eyes to the famous US product - Apple Ipod, which I was once amazed by its branded-with-price advertisement when I was a marketer. After playing around with it, I had decided to bring the white one home - couldn't resist with its stylish outlook, not mentioning about its bigger capacity :) With 30GB in storage, I have no idea how to make FULL use of it, despite the fact that I could use it for music storage, photo storage, and video storage - not sure about using it as thumbdrive, yet, well, won't explore that usage till I am sick with the rest of the function :P, i guess (at least for this moment in time ^_<)

Thursday, March 02, 2006

我病了。。。Falling Sick

今早起身后,发觉头重重地,全身疼痛,双脚踩在地上却感觉到轻飘飘地,在万般无奈下,我只好接受一个事实-- 我的健康围墙在过去几个星期的折腾下,终于瓦解了-- 我生病了!

过往的经验告诉我,在紧张忙碌的生活节奏逝去的那一刹那,只要我有稍微的放松,我的健康状况都会亮红灯。人家说这是天生命贱,没有多少机会享受悠闲的生活,因为在休息的当儿,也不管我愿不愿意,病菌都将拿我开刀。

算算看,也好久没病成这个样子了,过去的一年里,除了一两次的伤风咳嗽外,也没试过这般的不适。或许前阵子的劳累,都在潜意识中慢慢地累积,只是我都坚强地‘挡’过了吧。好不容易挨过了,身心疲惫的迹象却在今早一一显露。是年龄的问题(打死我都不愿意承认)?还是是时候病了?老天爷或许知道,再过几个星期,我的生活节奏又将进入另一个颠覆状况。或许我该乖乖听话,好好地休息,为下一个沙场做另一个冲刺。

Tuesday, February 21, 2006

Shell Life (Part 8: 12-28Feb: Bangalore, India Trip)

After the tiring 24-hour journey from KL to Houston, haven't recovered fully from the jet lag, I was asked to get myself over to Bangalore on my 6th day in Houston. Getting myself into the tiredness, busyness had been the only thing I could recall throughout my Houston trip. And yet, another last minute trip was requested, which marked another key milestone of my Shell life, after 5 months with the company.

The whole trip from KL to Houston, Houston to Bangalore (transit through Frankfurt) reminds me of my previous job - challenging, dynamic, ever-changing, and restless working environment! Working through long hours, which left only less than 8 hours of 'resting' time in Hotel - including breakfast, dinner, shower, sleeping, I had spent almost 16 hours on the road, working (like dogs), meeting (or sometimes arguing), sleeping (when too tired, haha), eating (ofcourse I'd feel hungry) etc... Luckily I was here with the whole team, which made the trip more delightful.

On the road experience had never been a good one for me with poor traffic condition in Bangalore. The 30+km journey from hotel ended up taking an hour or plus to arrive our destination, the vendor's office which located in Electronic City. With 2 lanes road being occupied by light (motorbike, tri-motorbike, cars) and heavy vehicles (trucks, busses), animals (a herd of duck! cows, horses, donkeys, dogs), pedestrian, or whatever moving object that you could imagine, the traffic could never be a 'quiet' or 'smooth' one. Reckless drivers were all on the road, 'fighting' against each other to beat the traffic condition - or rather trying to get to their destination earlier. Our cab drivers (we rented 3 cars from travel house) who have plenty on the road experience (one being the ambulance driver before) in Bangalore were very 'competitive' with the environment where they knew lots of shortcut around the town, 'sliding' through the small gap (forming up the 3rd lane), honking & flashing throughout the journey. Luckily I am the type of person who can sleep in the car which had helped avoiding me from seeing those reckless scenes.

Never been easy for any food other than Chinese food (or rather, home-cooked food), my appetite was challenged with the variety of India food around - all with different type of spices to make the food 'look' and 'taste' good (so-called). Nevertheless, we did enjoy our in-the-room dinner (or supper, since we reached our hotel at almost 11pm, or close 12am sometimes) with special program at certain channels that would never be available in our home country. Never forget the massaging chair available in our suite (sharing with another female colleague of mine), it became one of reason why our room became the gathering spot everynight - for dinner, tv (programmes), and massaging.

Had been working through my first weekend in Bangalore, where getting the application ready by time had become our top priority inspite of Shell's 'Work Life Balance' principal. Nonetheless, our hard work and effort had been seen and recognized when we were given off for our 2nd weekend to tour around the city.

Check out the 2-day complimentary trip!

Sunday, February 19, 2006

59个爱的钥匙 59 Keys to Love Discovery

1)不要为了寂寞去恋爱,时间是个魔鬼,天长日久,如果你是个多情的人,即使不爱对方,到时候也会产生感情,到最后你怎么办?

2)不要为了负责而去结婚。要知道,不爱对方却和对方结婚是最不负责的。即使当时让对方很伤心,但是总比让他几年甚至一辈子伤心强。

3)不管多大多老,不管家人朋友怎么催,都不要随便对待婚姻,婚姻不是打牌,重新洗牌要付出巨大代价。

4)感情的事基本上没有谁对谁错,他(她)要离开你,总是你有什么地方不能令他满足,回头想想过去在一起的日子,总是美好的。当然,卑劣的感情骗子也有,他们的花言巧语完全是为了骗取对方和自己上床,这样的人还是极少数的。

5)和一个生活习惯有很多差异的人恋爱不要紧,结婚要慎重,想想你是否可以长久忍受彼此的不同。

6)有人说恋爱要找自己喜欢的人,结婚要找喜欢自己的人,都是片面的。恋人不喜欢自己有什么可恋的?老婆自己不喜欢怎么过一辈子?

7)真爱一个人,就要尽量让他开心,他开心了你就会开心,那么双方就有激情了。

8)在要求对方必须是处女的时候,想想自己是不是处男,如果是,你可以,如果不是,你凭什么?

9)不要随便和别人上床,否则将来遇到一个真爱但他洁身自好有原则男人,你会后悔当年的所做所为。

10)不要因为自己长相不如对方而放弃追求的打算,长相只是一时的印象,真正决定能否结合主要取决于双方的性格。我见过的帅哥配丑女,丑女配帅哥太多了。

11)女人要学会扮靓自己,不要拿朴素来做挡箭牌,不要拿家务做借口,不懂时尚,你就不是一个完整的女人。

12)恋爱的时间能长尽量长。这最少有两点好处:一,充分,尽可能长的享受恋爱的愉悦,婚姻和恋爱的感觉是很不同的。二,两人相处时间越长,越能检验彼此是否真心,越能看出两人性格是否合得来。这样婚后的感情就会牢固得多。

13)男人不坏,女人不爱,这坏不是指心肠狠毒,自私无情什么的。而是指油嘴滑舌,花言巧语。一般的好男人以为说情话是油嘴滑舌,轻浮肉麻的表现,所以不愿去做。对别人这样说是不对,可是对自己老婆,就要油嘴滑舌一点。为什么不能做个心好嘴滑的男人呢?

14)离婚率高至少反映了好坏不同的两点:好的一点是人的观念已经趋向人性化,不再为封建思想而禁锢自己,坏的一点是对于婚姻的轻率。没想好结什么婚?

15)都说婚姻是爱情的坟墓,那是因为婚前已经往去坟墓的路上走着。就算不结婚也会在坟墓前分手。为什么不先分手就一头钻进坟墓呢?

16)只会读书的女人是一本字典,再好人们也只会在需要的时候去翻看一下,只会扮靓的女人只是一具花瓶,看久了也就那样。服饰美容是做好一个女人的必要条件,不是充要条件。你还需要多看书。这样你会发现生活更加美好。

17)平平淡淡才是真,没错,可那应该是激情过后的平淡,然后再起激情,再有平淡。激情平淡应呈波浪形交替出现。光有平淡无激情的生活有什么意思?只要你真心爱他,到死你也会有激情的。
18)你爱他么?爱就告诉他,何必把思念之苦藏在心底深处。怕样子,地位,身份不相配?别怕,爱一个人是美好的。

19)老婆和老妈掉进了河里,我先救老妈,因为是老妈给了我生命,我找不到任何理由丢下她不管。老婆如果没救上来,我可以再给她陪葬,在墓里继续我们的爱情。

20)草率地结了婚已经是错了,再也不要草率地去离婚。先试试看,真的不行再离也不迟。

21)经常听说男人味女人味,你知道男人味是一种什么味道,女人味又是一种什么味道吗?男人味就是豁达勇敢,女人味就是温柔体贴。

22)魅力是什么?魅力不是漂亮,漂亮的女人不一定能吸引我,端庄幽雅的女人我才喜欢。所以你不用担自己不够漂亮。

23)初恋都让人难忘,觉得美好。为什么?不是因为她(他)很漂亮或很帅,也不是因为得不到就是好的,而是因为人初涉爱河时心里异常纯真,绝无私心杂念,只知道倾己所有去爱对方。而以后的爱情都没有这么纯洁无瑕了。纯真是人世间最为可贵的东西。我们渴求的就是她。

24)初恋的人大多都不懂爱,所以初恋失败的多,成功的少。结婚应该找个未婚的,因为虽都喜欢原装。而恋爱,还是找个恋爱过的人才好。因为经历过恋爱的人才知道什么是爱,怎么去爱。

25)男人有钱就变坏,是的,很多男人这样,不过,一有钱就变坏的男人就算没钱,也好不到哪里去。

26)一个男人能不能给你安全感,完全不取决于他的身高,而是取决于他的心高。高大而窝囊的男人我见过不少。矮小而昂扬的男人我也见过。一个男人要心高气傲,这样才像男人。当然,前提是要有才华。

27)天长地久有没有?当然有!为什么大多数人不相信有?因为他们没有找到人生旅途中最适合自己的那一个。也就是冥冥中注定的那一个。为什么找不到?茫茫人海,人生如露,要找到最合适自己的那一个谈何容易?你或许可以在40岁时找到上天注定的那一个,可是你能等到40岁吗?在20多岁时找不到,却不得不结婚,在三四十岁时找到却不得不放弃。这就是人生的悲哀。

28)为什么生活中很少见到传说中天长地久,可歌可泣的爱情故事?因为这样的感情非常可贵,可贵的东西是那么好见到的么?金子钻石容易见到吗?

29)恋爱时感性点,过日子理性点,穿衣服性感点。

30)性感是什么?坦胸露乳么?那路边没穿衣服的女丐性感不?性感不是仅仅指衣服穿得少,而是该种性别焕发出来与另一种性别迥然不同的特质。一个衣着讲究,端庄优雅的女人我一样觉得很性感。

31)一般的男人穿西服喜欢衬衣上系条领带,束得紧紧的,我却不喜欢系领带,敞开最上的扣子,我觉得这样更性感。

32)从前失恋之时,我都会恨他,恨他为什么这么无情,听到有关他的不好的消息,我都会偷着乐,现在不了,现在即使失去他,我也会祝福他,衷心希望他能过得很好。他过得不好我会很难过。这也是喜欢和爱的一个区别。

33)和聪明的人恋爱会很快乐,因为他们幽默,会说话,但也时时存在着危机,因为这样的人很容易变心。和老实人恋会很放心,但生活却也非常得乏味。

34)女人不要太好强,有的女人自尊心过强。是别人的错她态度很强硬,是自己的错她同样态度很强硬。她总以为去求别人是下贱的表现,她是永远不会求男人的。这样的女人很令人头疼。聪明的女人会知道什么时候该坚强,什么时候该示弱。好强应该对外人,对爱的人这么好强还要不要他呵护你啊?

35)男人大多爱嫖妓,嫖妓的愉悦当然是一原因,还有一个更大的原因就是,和***相处会感觉非常的愉快,想说什么话就说什么话,想干什么就干什么,而且***会撒娇,这让男人感觉自己更像男人,那么,女人为什么不能在床上扮演一个***呢?

36)要看一个人有没有内涵,内看谈吐,外看着装。还可以看写字。谈吐可以看出一个人的学识和修养。着装可以看出一个人的品位,写字可以看出一个人的性格。

37)想知道一个人爱不爱你,就看他和你在一起有没有活力,开不开心,有就是爱,没有就是不爱。

38)有的人老是抱怨找不好人,一两次不要紧,多了就有问题了,首先你要检讨自己本身有没有问题,如果没有,那你就要审视一自己的眼光了,为什么每次坏人总被你碰到?

39)有人说男人一旦变心,九头牛也拉不回,难道女人变心,九头牛就拉得回来吗?男女之间只在生理上有差异,心理方面大同小异。

40)爱情与人品没多大关系,从前有个女同事跟我说她喜欢射雕里的杨康,不喜欢郭靖,我很惊奇,爱坏厌好?后来想想,也没什么,羁等显作父,卖国求荣是不对的。可是他对爱情却很执着,这样的人为什么不能享有爱?现实生活也有这样的例子,古惑仔也有古惑仔的爱情。

41)有人说没有面包的爱情终究会夭折。我说说这话的人不懂什么是爱情。从前恋爱我很反感别人说女方这条件好那条件好。我不管你什么出身,什么学历,什么地位,如果我爱你,你擦皮鞋甚至做***我也无所谓。大人说我幼稚,没有钱怎么过日子?我说有钱没爱过的是什么日子?和自己爱的人在一起,喝水吃腌菜我也是高兴的。

42)如果真爱一个人,就会心甘情愿为他而改变。如果一个人在你面前我行我素,置你不喜欢的行为而不顾,那么他就是不爱你。所以如果你不够关心他或是他不够关心你,那么你就不爱他或他不爱你,而不要以为是自己本来就很粗心或是相信他是一个粗心的人。遇见自己真爱的人,懦夫也会变勇敢,同理,粗心鬼也会变得细心。

43)彼此都有意而不说出来是爱情的最高境界。因为这个时候两人都在尽情的享受媚眼,尽情的享受目光相对时的火热心理,尽情的享受手指相碰时的心惊动魄。一旦说出来,味道会淡许多,因为两人同意以后,所有的行为都是已被许可,已有心理准备的了,到最后渐渐会变得麻木。

44)一个萝卜一个坑,说的是婚姻情况。事实上对于爱情来说,是不成立的,优秀的人,不管男女,都会是一个萝卜好几个坑。所以这个世界上天天演着悲欢离合的故事。

45)性和爱是可以分开的。性其实只是人的一种很正常的生理欲望。就和吃饭喝水一样,饿了就要吃饭,渴了就要喝水。饭我们既可以自己弄着吃,吃完洗碗洗锅放好,也可以去馆子吃,吃完嘴一抹,拍屁股走人。剩下的可以不要。所以对于性,很多人在需求时也会去外面“吃”。吃完付钱走人,不需要把对方带走。但自己做的和外面买的味道是有点不同的,到底谁好谁坏,就看各人的口味了。

46)有两种女人很可爱,一种是妈妈型的,很体贴人,很会照顾人,会把男人照顾的非常周到。和这样的女人在一起,会感觉到强烈的被爱。还有一种是妹妹型的。很胆小,很害羞,非常的依赖男人,和这样的女人在一起,会激发自己男人的个性的显现。比如打老鼠扛重物什么的。会常常想到去保护自己的小女人。还有一种女人既不知道关心体贴人,又从不向男人低头示弱,这样的女人最让男人无可奈何。

47)有外遇并非坏男人的专利,好男人一样有,所以当你遇到这样的男人时,不要一棍子打死,可以试着给一次机会,能改还是可以在一起的。几十年的感情不容易,对于男人的偶尔出轨,有时候不必看得过重。

48)吝啬是男人的大忌,就算穷也不要做出一副穷样。有人抱怨女人只爱男人的钱,其实也并不一定就是这样,有的女人喜欢男人为她花钱,有时候也是为了证实自己在男人心目中的位置,男人如果喜欢一个女人,一定愿意为她花钱的。

49)男女搭配,干活不累。因为在异性面前,男人总喜欢表现自己很男人的一面。这样也才像个男人,所以大男子主义有时候是必须有的。

50)追求爱慕的异性是很常见的说法。其实对方不喜欢你,你再怎么追也没用,对方喜欢你,根本不需要挖空心思去追。或许真有一天他被你的诚意所打动,可最终大多还是会分手的。因为爱情不是感动,你不是他心目中的理想伴侣,即使一时接受你,将来碰上他心仪的那一位,一样会离开你。当然,对于喜欢你的人,你还是需要花点心思去讨好他的,因为这样才像拍拖,才浪漫。

51)经常有人问在朋友和恋人之间叫你选择,你会选择哪一个?其实我觉得这个问题是多余的。真正懂你的朋友或恋人,他们会体谅你的行为,如果不体谅你,因此失去也不必太在意。朋友或恋人是要互相帮助的,而不是硬性迁就的。

52)都说一个成功的男人背后,常常有一个默默无闻的支持他的女人,那一个失败的男人的背后,是不是也常常有一个明明有闻的瞎捣乱的女人呢?

53)曾经沧海难为水,除却巫山不是云。可是如果我还没经沧海或是刚到沧海打了个转就回来,而且也没到过巫山就一头钻进了围城怎么办啊?

54)浪漫是什么?是送花?雨中漫步?楼前伫立不去?如果两人彼此倾心相爱,什么事都不做,静静相对都会感觉是浪漫的。否则,即使两人坐到月亮上拍拖,也是感觉不到浪漫的。

55)是否门当户对不要紧,最重要应该是兴当趣对,不然没有共同语言,即使在一起,仍然会感觉到孤独。

56)学会用理解的,欣赏的眼光去看对方,而不是以自以为是的关心去管对方。

57)幼稚的人和幼稚的人在一起没什么问题,成熟的人和成熟的人一起也没什么问题,成熟的人和幼稚的人一起问题就多了。

58)有的女人恋爱时让男友宠着自己,结婚后仍然要老公百般宠着自己,却忘记做为一个女人应该做的份内之事。这样的女人是不懂得爱情的。

59)持久的爱情源于彼此的发自内心的真爱,建立在平等的基础之上。任何只顾疯狂爱人而 不顾自己有否被爱,或是只顾享受被爱而不知真心爱人的人都不会有好的结局。

Shell Life (Part 7: 6-11Feb: Houston, US Trip)

Ever since I joined my current project, I was given the opportunity to travel to other part of the world. Houston, being my next destination after Wellington, was the first city in US I was going to visit right after my 2006 Chinese New Year break.

It was a nearly 24-hour journey from KL to Houston, with transit at Taipei and LA. Even though I have no problem sleeping and resting in the airplane (in business class ^_<), was extremely tired by the time I reached my hotel room, but was then hooked up to the broadband and start to work :( - thanks to my workaholic colleague who was traveling with me...

Stepping my feet into the land of US at LA international through immigration counter, queuing up with the rest of foreign visitors to get our visit being authorised was not a pleasant experience. With 911 incident, I guess US is now more cautious in admitting foreign visitors into their land.

Staying in the city with one of the biggest size people in the world, finishing the food on my plate may eventually become my biggest challenge. Walking in to a restaurant with people sitting and enjoying their meal might not be a good start for me. I would feel 'full' by looking at the size of the food being served. Well, at least I did enjoy my steak at one of their famous steak house, Pappas Bros, which was recommended by my colleague.

The original planned US trip till 17 Feb was then 'forced' to change due to project urgency. I was asked to travel to Bangalore, India with the rest of the build team to ensure project readiness timeline being met by end of the month. The weekend plan in Houston would have to be cancelled - no chance to do any site-seeing, shopping, and worst, no photos being taken, but another last minute business trip to my 3rd city (country) under the same project, in 2 months time.

Tuesday, January 24, 2006

井底之蛙... The Frog in The Well

A tale of happiness or felicitousness... 一个幸福之说

下载于连锁电邮,属于少数的‘有意义’文章 - 因为不想轰炸朋友的邮箱,但是觉得好东西应该跟大家分享,所以决定把它放到网站,与大家共勉之。

It's from a chain email, decided not to circulate it like what others always do, I uploaded it onto the net to share with everyone. It's a good one, simple, but meaningful.

http://tadpolecorner.multiply.com/photos/album/4

Monday, January 23, 2006

我的第一台照相机...My Sony Cybershot T7

从来没有拥有过照相机,原因很简单,因为总觉得记忆是最可靠的回忆录。加上所有需要用到照相机的场所、情况都毋须多一台凑热闹,事成之后还得用多个CD才可容纳所有相机所照出来的相片。

加入Shell后,单独出国公干的机会也跟着增加,同样的在没有同伴(的相机)的陪同下,随身携带相机成了唯一的选择 - 因为发觉用照片说故事,其实也满新鲜的 ^_< 而且也是最直接的视觉讯息。

Sony Cybershot T7有幸成为我的第一台相机,看上它是因为它的娇小,它的功能。用麻雀虽小,五脏俱全来形容,最为贴切吧!我不是个靠摄影吃饭的专业人士,更不是寻找创意镜头天才,我只会把让我感动的那一刹那装入相机里存储卡,然后与家人、朋友分享。今年的新年,是我[牛刀小试]的舞台,就让Sony Cybershot T7成为我感觉的代言人吧!

Getting myself a camera had never come across my mind before. I always count on my 'amazing' memories to capture the moments, which will be then translated into interesting stories by my mouth. Or rather, most of the time, an extra camera would not make any difference since there were already so many. I was lucky to have lots of friends who like to play around with camera and sometimes I even received more than 1 photo CDs after an event.

With Shell being my current career pitstop, my traveling opportunities have increased humungously. And often, I would have to travel by myself. With no camera freak friends as companion, I was 'forced' to carry a camera with me. Well, no doubt that stories with photos will paint a better picture.

Sony Cybershot T7, has then become the choice of mine, due to its stylish appearance and size, and ofcourse not forgetting its well-marketed 'user-friendly' functionality (especially for a new user like me). It's basically equipped with the so-called latest technology & specs that further enforce its innovative presentation. Well, with me, being a non-professional photographer + a non-creative frame seeker, I would settle with memory card that could store the touching moments that inspire me, and add value later for story-telling with my friends and family. This 2006 Chinese New Year will surely be the best 'rehearsal stage' for my camera. And I'm very sure that my Sony Cybershot T7 won't let me down ^_<

Tuesday, January 17, 2006

执着。。。Adamant

执着,在于选择
选择一个想要的生活方式
执着于一份感情、一份工作
金钱、事情、观点、外表
精神物质,挥之不去的枷锁
增加了每个人的烦恼、困惑

烦恼着如何经营一个美满的爱情;
困惑着为何老板还是不满意;
烦恼着家人的饮食起居;
困惑着事业的起伏不一;

金钱 - 为何不够用
事情 - 为何不称心
观点 - 为何不一致
外表 - 为何不标致

执着,会把事情复杂化
活着,应该是简单的。
少了份执着,知足自在地生活或许会更轻松吧!

莫非定律 Possibilities...

你可曾有過這樣的經驗?不帶傘時,偏偏下雨;帶了傘時,偏不下雨!
在門外,電話鈴猛響;進了門,就不響了!
這樣的事兒總是無可奈何,但在我們日常生活中卻是常有!

[莫非定律] 講的正是你我的尴尬,點的正是你我共同的弱點,騷的正是你我共同的癢處!

★莫非定律
一、別試圖教豬唱歌,這樣不但不會有結果,還會惹豬不高興!
二、別跟傻瓜吵架,不然旁人會搞不清楚,到底誰是傻瓜!
三、不要以为自已很重要,因为沒有你,太陽明天還是一樣從東方升上來!

●開宗明義
莫非定律;凡事只要有可能出錯,那就一定會出錯。
莫非哲學;笑一笑,明天未必比今天好。
莫非準則;東西越好,越不中用。

●開始
好的開始,未必就有好結果。
壞的開始,結果往往會更糟。

●人
若幫助了一個急需用錢的朋友,他一定會記得你 ─ (在他下次急需用錢的時候。)

●領導人
愚人居高位,正如一個人置身山頂,他會小看每個人。每個人也會小看他。

●智愚之間
有能力的──讓他做。
沒能力的──教他做。
做不來的──管理他。

●愛情
你愛上的人,總以为你愛上他是因为;他使你想起你的老情人。
最後硬著頭皮寄出的情書;寄達對方的時間有多長,反悔的時間就有多長。

●早到與晚到
你早到了,會議卻取消。
你準時到,卻還要等。
遲到,就是遲了。

●品質保證
一種产品保證60天不會故障,等於保證第61天一定就會壞掉

●東西
東西久久都派不上用場,就可以丟掉。東西一丟掉,往往就必須要用它。

●尋找失物
你丟掉東西時,最先去找的地方,往往也是可能找到的最後一個地方。
你往往會找到不是你正想找的東西。

●精彩
你出去買爆米花的時候,銀幕上偏偏就出現了精彩鏡頭。

●排隊
另一排總是動的比較快。
你換到另一排,你原來站的那一排,就開始動的比較快了。
你站的越久,越有可能是站錯了排。

●失事報導
失事的地點越遠,傷亡的人數就得越多,否則寫不成一則故事。

●携伴出遊
你携伴出遊,越不想讓人看見,越會遇見熟人。

●相對論
一分鐘有多長?這要看你是蹲在廁所裡面,還是等在廁所外面。

●撥錯電話號碼
撥錯電話號碼時,總不會打不通。

●結局
有個恐怖的結局,總好過恐怖綿綿無绝期。

Source: From unknown email chain... ^_^

Thursday, January 12, 2006

2005年的圣诞节 Christmas in 2005...

自工作以来,每一年的圣诞节节都在KL与叔叔的一家人渡过(看来,已变成我叔叔的女儿了:P)。在大学求学的那几年也是选择跟朋友一起倒数。2005年则属于比较别有意义的一次,大伙都回到老家庆祝,但不是倒数圣诞,而是为公公庆祝大寿。

由于风俗或基于一些华人礼仪(或更贴切地被形容为'pantang'),一直以来都没有为家里的长辈庆生。也不知道曾几何时,大伙会突然间异口同声地说想庆祝。其实,庆生只是个名词,最重要的是大伙有机会好好地聚一聚。毕竟除了华人新年以外,一年当中也没见几次面。

这次的聚会,感觉多了些,感触也多了点。因为我在所有的叔叔婶婶姑姑的身上看到了岁月的痕迹。也许从没仔细地观察(因为每年的新年我都得帮忙洗碗﹑招待客人的饮食 - 因为公公家就是我的家呵, 哈!^_< 自小公公就跟我们一块住,我也算是被他带大的吧!) ,现在不仅感觉到岁月不饶人,也感慨血浓于水,无论大家再怎么聚少离多,最终还是会济济一堂,笑谈当年!当然话题自然还是会围绕在孩子们的学业上,些许的比较还是属于良性的竞争吧! 2005年的圣诞节少了圣诞树的陪伴,少了倒数的疯狂,却多了份温馨。。。 http://tadpolecorner.multiply.com/photos/album/3

Shell Life (part 6: US Visa Application)

Woke up very early this morning to get myself ready for US Visa application. Heard that it would be difficult & tricky if you are born with 'terrorist' look :) Was told that different people will end up with different treatment and Visa validity dates. Just to make sure everything goes well, I have got all the necessary documents ready together with the very important application form.

Reached US Embassy at around 7 o'clock in the morning with my scheduled appointment at 7.40am. There were already early birds queuing up (I wonder what time they arrived, thought I might be the earliest :P), waiting to get the visitor pass to enter the big steel gate. Guess there are people who are really 'kiasu' that even they were one of the first to go to the gate counter for the pass, yet can't get any pass from the gatekeeper due to their late online appointment. Was lucky enough to book the earliest spot and managed to get the pass in.

Few stages to go through before I was interviewed. Firstly, full scan was done before entering the building. Then, another manual check by the guard in the building. Getting yourself a number then will determine when is your interview slot. With James Bond's number (007), I was interviewed by one of the officer and went through the shortest interview I even done. Benefited from Shell's renowned name, I was informed my VISA could be collected at the day after :)

Well, I didn't really go through the 'painful' process as told by some of my friends. It was a pleasant one for me, am so grateful with it! Now, I can see my next stop - Houston, US waiving the warm hand to welcome me~

Wednesday, January 11, 2006

Shell Life (part 5: D&I Week: 28Nov - 02Dec2005

Shell as a company that stress a lot on respect on diversity often come out with different campaign to reinforce their care. I had the opportunity to participate in the last D&I (Diversity & Inclusiveness) week in 2005 before I started my project. As usual, being the supportive colleague, I took part in two of the events - Win, Lose or Draw Games and Team performance competition.

Team up with 3 other grads, we 'proudly' represent our department even though we know very well that most of us can't draw. With the team spirit that we have, and the enthusiasm that posses by young people, we managed to win ourselves the 3rd place! It was out of our expectation, especially with the 'have fun' attitude that we had earlier. Great work team, let's try our luck + teamwork again next year! Gear up now~

The team performance, a 10 minutes cultural performance that should carry the message 'diversity & inclusiveness' was the most exciting performance I ever had. Everything came in rush, and with that few hours of practice (over few day's lunches), we were performing on the stage, enjoying the cheers from the crowd. With the support from our colleagues, we finally won ourselves the Friday's vouchers as 1st runner up. With that I have spent my very first Friday's lunch in 2006 at Friday, the restaurant at One Utama Shopping complex. (Never mention that the last Friday in 2005, I had my lunch at One Utama as well, with me never been to One Utama throughout my stay in KL these few years! Amazing facts huh.. ^_<) Click at the link below to share the fun!

http://tadpolecorner.multiply.com/photos/album/2

Monday, January 09, 2006

Time for New Mobile again ^_<

Was told that I changed my handphone quite frequently - did I anyway? I have been holding on to my current mobile for... almost a year (not really a year, but almost, 10 months, does that consider a year :P) haha... Anyway, playing around with mobile phones has been a passion for me, ever since my first job with Maxis, the leading mobile operator in Malaysia.

Have been surviving without a mobile phone through out my university life, until I was named as 'dinosaur' - an analogy that I always use when I was a student "Out of 10 people in MMU (Multimedia University), there will be only one without handphone, and that would be me :)". And I was holding on to my principal till the day I left my university - if you wanna look for me, let me know earlier; if I am reachable, means I'm free to entertain you. Else, I could be busy at lecture, or having fun, please DO NOT DISTURB, ha!

Left with no choice when I graduated, was asked to hold a mobile phone for the ease of my 'potential' employer to call me for interview. At that point of time, I have got myself the 'hottest' phone - Nokia 3310. Not very trendy, yet equipped with all the basic function (note: the basic function at that point in time is obviously different from now :P)

My 'fate' with mobile phone has changed after joining Maxis. Being the leading operator in town, we are accountable to deliver 'innovative' products to our customers and since then, I have built my passion toward the brand, and its supportive tool - the mobile phones. I have changed my mobile phone 4 months later - Nokia 6610, amongst the newest phone with 6100 3 years ago, had become my choice. Functionality has become my prior concern, with the outlook come later (hence didn't go with 6100 which looks much better). I was pretty satisfied with the phone until the launch of MMS where camera phones have become the hot topic of the town (or rather, we, the marketers making it 'hot').

Nokia 6230, my favorite phone, introduced by a friend of mine, who is also a handphone freak. I bought it when it is still hot at it's bench, ofcourse with the 'hottest' price too (you know how fast the phone depreciate in value, right...) I was happy with its function - camera, mp3, video, outlook, style, size, everything, name it if you can... until, it 'quietly' slipped out from my pocket when I was at Pudu! Which I realised much later that... I LOST MY PHONE!! Knowing Malaysian well, there will be 0% to get my mobile back, I cried with no tears... (but bleeding inside my heart)

Just so that I'm in par with the latest technology, I got myself the 1st generation of 3G phone by Nokia - 6630. It was considered part of the gift I got for my farewell (a RM500 handphone voucher*). It was my first regret where I learnt my lesson - never buy anything which is considered as 'first generation'.

(Note*: Maxis used to give away gift during their annual dinner, handphone voucher was the favorite one)

With much regret of the expensive 3G phone, I finally answer to my heart that always wanted a clamshell phone (or more often known as flip phone). A Samsung SGH-E600C was chosen due to it's comparative price, function, and outlook. And this is the first phone that marked the end of my 'Nokia journey' with mobile phones. Was comfortable with Nokia phones previously due to its 'user friendly' function. Which for long, I know that the 'user friendly' is just the term used by marketers ;) You will eventually get used to the phones that you bought, nothing to do with the brand.

And now... even I have lesser phone calls, and very seldom I'll play around with my phones, I am still very 'alert' with the new function and technology coming up by the telcos. And because of that, I still wish to have a phone that could support the necessary functions. Time to think and to consider which phone to buy now... what do you think? ^_<

Shell Life (part 4: Driving to work...)

Driving in town has not been a topic to me ever since I started my working life in KL 3 years ago. I was working at KLCC, so convenience that I could easily travel with the Mercedes' drivers that will pick passengers frequently with their well-known transport, BUS lah~ No interchange, and almost every single bus will drop me right in front of KLCC (and also the place I stay). Obviously, traveling in KL will give you no runaway path from being stuck in traffic jam, but guess what, I could still sleep for the whole journey (even though I was standing, pro ler...), observing at others frustrated drivers under us (bus is higher than normal cars) without having any worries, and oftenly, the 'pro' bus driver will send me to the office right in time. I bet you know how's the driving skill of our bus driver in KL ;) The only thing that brought up my alert was the squeezy crowd inside the bus - always beware of pickpocket or any wacky hands!

Anyway, with Shell being my new employer, I have to bid goodbye to my previous 'busing' experience and say hello to the unpleasant 'driving' culture in city. Nobody likes the traffic in KL, given the choices, noone would choose to stuck in the jam for hours - for whatever reasons, raining, peak hours, accident, police block, etc. You just can't predict the traffic, for some reasons, it will be congested. What more with now, the monsoon season which brings raindrop everyday - especially during off-office hours!

Let say, per day, my time spent on the road is approximated at 2 hours per day - depending on the traffic. Per week, 10 hours; Per year, 21.7 days - excluding weekend or any public holidays that I travel home using the North-South highway (you know what I mean -_-). It could go up to 1 month or more! Can't imagine? My entire year with 12 months has been 'quietly' reduced to 11 month, and nothing I could do about it... Heard that government has dumped billions to 'improve' our road system, 'enhance' the public transport route, and guess what... we still lost the precious time worth 1 month on the road! Talking about plan your journey? How early you could get up and bit the traffic - as early as 6 or 7 something with all the schoolgoers?

The only thing that I could pray right now is that I don't have to drive to work everyday - work from home, may be. Do you know any alternative that could help to save my time, my energy on the road?

Monday, January 02, 2006

闷。闲 Boring...

从未想过我有一天也会无所事事地待在办公室里,不知该做什么。想起之前的工作,从早忙到晚都没时间好好地坐下喘息,与现在的情况形成很大的对比。有点难以适从,却有种‘享受’的感觉。不知道我会不会因此被宠坏,也不知道会不会因此头脑变得迟钝,更不知道会不会因此变得懒散,只知道我只想好好地宠爱自己,让自己好好地享受人生,那怕是那一下下也好,谁知道好日子会不会过得特别快呢!你说呢?