Gosh. There's so much to blog about it's not even funny. So I'm going to make it easy for everyone who reads this blog (hopefully, more than just a handful) and break it down into different posts. Yes, I'm going to be naughty and pre-date my posts - just so it's easier for me to write and for you to digest. This is just a placeholder to remind me of what I need to blog about, and to whet your appetites till all the actual posts are out.
Updates will include:
1. Trip to Bangkok
2. Random Musings
3. Computers and The Ex
4. Hanging Out @ Timbre
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Bangkok
Yup, scrambled and managed to get tickets to Bangkok and will be going with my 'big brother' and some other friends will be there at the same time. So I guess I'll blog when I get back on Sunday.
Hopefully, I will have some interesting piccys to post!
Hopefully, I will have some interesting piccys to post!
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Confessions of 300 Unmarried Men
That's the name of the play we went to see this afternoon. My friend was acting in it, and it ended its run today so I thought, why not? It should be fun, especially since I have not seen him in 'action' before, so to speak.
The play was made up of little snippets by the 5 foremost playwrights in Singapore on the theme on unmarried men and was a lovely combination of humour, satire, and some moving moments. To be sure, there were some bits that were slightly off, but on the whole, a really well put together production - one that made us laugh and in a few moments cry. (I should say at this point that I cry at most things, so that should not be too surprising for my friends reading this).
The best part of it I think is the way the playwrights had brought to life the issues of loneliness, the reasons and excuses men stay single. Laughing at the issues that have made the local news recently (e.g. single guy goes to watch crazy horse, and shock horror, finds his mom there with her old biddy friends and she gets him to go to one of those buy a bridge outfits) and the situations that are far too common - shy guy can't express himself, balding guy who has a self-esteem issue and the working class that wants to see what else is coming on the conveyor belt.
It's amazing that almost all the scenes in the play could have been a page out of my life, applied to my relationships. I definitely could relate to it all. The one that ended because he felt he wasn't good enough for me, the one that ended because he didn't want kids, the one that ended because he wanted to see what was on the other side of the hill.
Ah well. I guess I'm at the point when I can look back at them and laugh.
In any case, after the show, we met up briefly with my actor friend and I introduced him to the rest of the girls. He had to rest and prep for the next show at night, so we left for coffee at Starbucks and the girls were like, he's super cute and how come you didn't introduce him to us before? All in all we had a great time just sitting, chatting and rearranging our lives according to fantasy. The power and wonder of 4 women chatting over coffee. I think many a things were probably decided and accomplished over that simple cuppa (make mine a tea though, earl grey, black no lemon).
Quick aside: I'm typing this during my break at work. It's amazing how much faster the words flow with the portable keyboard!
Oh and did I mention that the theatre was at the new National Library? I was so thrilled at finally being in the main branch of my favourite government agency. The entire basement houses the central lending library, and has many carrels and places for us to browse and read. The ground floor was the reception and exhibition area. I didn't have time to explore the other floors, but you can bet i'll be back there to do just that! There's just something about the smell of books - be it old or new, that gives me a thrill. What's more amazing than all the books lined up there, the universes that you've yet to enter and escape to? (At least I recognise that it's a form of escapism for me).
It's just so amazing, I can't believe I haven't made the effort to go there till today. I think I will be spending more time there pretty soon!
The play was made up of little snippets by the 5 foremost playwrights in Singapore on the theme on unmarried men and was a lovely combination of humour, satire, and some moving moments. To be sure, there were some bits that were slightly off, but on the whole, a really well put together production - one that made us laugh and in a few moments cry. (I should say at this point that I cry at most things, so that should not be too surprising for my friends reading this).
The best part of it I think is the way the playwrights had brought to life the issues of loneliness, the reasons and excuses men stay single. Laughing at the issues that have made the local news recently (e.g. single guy goes to watch crazy horse, and shock horror, finds his mom there with her old biddy friends and she gets him to go to one of those buy a bridge outfits) and the situations that are far too common - shy guy can't express himself, balding guy who has a self-esteem issue and the working class that wants to see what else is coming on the conveyor belt.
It's amazing that almost all the scenes in the play could have been a page out of my life, applied to my relationships. I definitely could relate to it all. The one that ended because he felt he wasn't good enough for me, the one that ended because he didn't want kids, the one that ended because he wanted to see what was on the other side of the hill.
Ah well. I guess I'm at the point when I can look back at them and laugh.
In any case, after the show, we met up briefly with my actor friend and I introduced him to the rest of the girls. He had to rest and prep for the next show at night, so we left for coffee at Starbucks and the girls were like, he's super cute and how come you didn't introduce him to us before? All in all we had a great time just sitting, chatting and rearranging our lives according to fantasy. The power and wonder of 4 women chatting over coffee. I think many a things were probably decided and accomplished over that simple cuppa (make mine a tea though, earl grey, black no lemon).
Quick aside: I'm typing this during my break at work. It's amazing how much faster the words flow with the portable keyboard!
Oh and did I mention that the theatre was at the new National Library? I was so thrilled at finally being in the main branch of my favourite government agency. The entire basement houses the central lending library, and has many carrels and places for us to browse and read. The ground floor was the reception and exhibition area. I didn't have time to explore the other floors, but you can bet i'll be back there to do just that! There's just something about the smell of books - be it old or new, that gives me a thrill. What's more amazing than all the books lined up there, the universes that you've yet to enter and escape to? (At least I recognise that it's a form of escapism for me).
It's just so amazing, I can't believe I haven't made the effort to go there till today. I think I will be spending more time there pretty soon!
Ministry of Sound Singapore
I keep forgetting to bring my camera - hence no piccys here yet.
Finally managed to go to Ministry Of Sound (MOS) last night. I was supposed to go to Velvet with Karen but Pris smsed and said she was at MOS, so I thought, let's go there instead. Especially since with her around, one never has to queue.
Got there, the queue was all the way to the main road. We only went to one room - Studio 54 because Pris was there with another party and they were older. Studio 54 played good retro music. Soul stuff, songs from the 80s. Not quite Mambo @ Zouk but somehow cooler, cos of the amazing decor. It was so retro - they had cool funky chairs and seats. Pris and I agreed that when (IF) we got our flat together in London, we would have those in our living room.
Egg Chair
There were quite a few good lookers there, if a triffle bit young. Studio 54 had a good mix though, so I guess we will be making another trek back there to explore the other rooms and the eye candy, and of course dance the night away!
Finally managed to go to Ministry Of Sound (MOS) last night. I was supposed to go to Velvet with Karen but Pris smsed and said she was at MOS, so I thought, let's go there instead. Especially since with her around, one never has to queue.
Got there, the queue was all the way to the main road. We only went to one room - Studio 54 because Pris was there with another party and they were older. Studio 54 played good retro music. Soul stuff, songs from the 80s. Not quite Mambo @ Zouk but somehow cooler, cos of the amazing decor. It was so retro - they had cool funky chairs and seats. Pris and I agreed that when (IF) we got our flat together in London, we would have those in our living room.
There were quite a few good lookers there, if a triffle bit young. Studio 54 had a good mix though, so I guess we will be making another trek back there to explore the other rooms and the eye candy, and of course dance the night away!
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Marginal Benefits of Settling
Quick aside: I've written this post on my PDA - had the thoughts flowing through my head and although I couldn't get me to a computer to blog, I had the next best thing! Ooh, I can see I'm going to be carrying my portable keyboard for more blogging!
Now as I'm working and I see another wedding in progress, I can't help but wonder how they got together and why they got married (or in other words, whether they married for the right reasons.) One can't help but wonder really, if and/or when it will end in divorce. Cynical and jaded, but I'm feeling the weight of all my 29 years.
I was having a bitch session with my best friend earlier today, and we were chatting about her relationship with her boyfriend, amongst other things.
They've been going out for a year and a half but they haven't discussed their relationship much, and nothing's been said about their future. She wants to know, and rightly so in my opinion, where they are heading, whether it's long term or not. I know it's a generalisation but why don't men ever want to talk about these things? They either avoid the question or are completely blur about it. Worse, it seems most of them are commitment phobic.
One thing from our conversation struck me. Aside from the question of having a future together, I - as best friend and devil's advocate, raised the fundamental question of whether this guy is right for her. She didn't say no, but she didn't say yes too. I think I was disturbed by her response that it was time to settle down (or just settle?) and that he was a stable guy and has his good points.
Is this what it all boils down to in the end? Mostly the fact that he's a good guy and that he can provide, and that you can overlook the flaws? I know no one's perfect but surely you'll know if you want to spend the rest of your life with the other person! Isn't anyone at least 100% sure anymore? Not even 95% sure?
I guess I'm scared of a couple of things. One is not ever finding the right someone to spend my life with. Second, that this fear will lead me to settle. If you look at it in terms of weighing the pros and cons, or even in terms of microeconomics, it's whether the marginal benefit of settling down with someone is greater than the marginal benefit of finding the right person and the opportunity cost involved. Age is a factor of opportunity cost, which is why as you get older, this opportunity cost is higher and there is greater perceived benefit in settling down.
Mathematically, most people are represented by
Marginal Benefit (Settling down) > Marginal Benefit (Finding Right Person) + Opportunity Cost in Waiting for the Right Person
I know I've blogged on this before but somehow the whole question still bothers me. I used to be so sure that I'd know, once I've found my soul mate. Now, I have my doubts.
Also, I have not been on a single date since the last disastrous one with The Bore. Everyone I meet either ends up as a friend or just doesn't cut it. Maybe I'm "old fashioned", but I honestly think that men need to do the chasing, so as to make 'em cherish and value what they work for. I wouldn't even consider going out with someone who doesn't want to ask me out (or ask for my number). Do you think that's too much to ask for?
Now as I'm working and I see another wedding in progress, I can't help but wonder how they got together and why they got married (or in other words, whether they married for the right reasons.) One can't help but wonder really, if and/or when it will end in divorce. Cynical and jaded, but I'm feeling the weight of all my 29 years.
I was having a bitch session with my best friend earlier today, and we were chatting about her relationship with her boyfriend, amongst other things.
They've been going out for a year and a half but they haven't discussed their relationship much, and nothing's been said about their future. She wants to know, and rightly so in my opinion, where they are heading, whether it's long term or not. I know it's a generalisation but why don't men ever want to talk about these things? They either avoid the question or are completely blur about it. Worse, it seems most of them are commitment phobic.
One thing from our conversation struck me. Aside from the question of having a future together, I - as best friend and devil's advocate, raised the fundamental question of whether this guy is right for her. She didn't say no, but she didn't say yes too. I think I was disturbed by her response that it was time to settle down (or just settle?) and that he was a stable guy and has his good points.
Is this what it all boils down to in the end? Mostly the fact that he's a good guy and that he can provide, and that you can overlook the flaws? I know no one's perfect but surely you'll know if you want to spend the rest of your life with the other person! Isn't anyone at least 100% sure anymore? Not even 95% sure?
I guess I'm scared of a couple of things. One is not ever finding the right someone to spend my life with. Second, that this fear will lead me to settle. If you look at it in terms of weighing the pros and cons, or even in terms of microeconomics, it's whether the marginal benefit of settling down with someone is greater than the marginal benefit of finding the right person and the opportunity cost involved. Age is a factor of opportunity cost, which is why as you get older, this opportunity cost is higher and there is greater perceived benefit in settling down.
Mathematically, most people are represented by
Marginal Benefit (Settling down) > Marginal Benefit (Finding Right Person) + Opportunity Cost in Waiting for the Right Person
I know I've blogged on this before but somehow the whole question still bothers me. I used to be so sure that I'd know, once I've found my soul mate. Now, I have my doubts.
Also, I have not been on a single date since the last disastrous one with The Bore. Everyone I meet either ends up as a friend or just doesn't cut it. Maybe I'm "old fashioned", but I honestly think that men need to do the chasing, so as to make 'em cherish and value what they work for. I wouldn't even consider going out with someone who doesn't want to ask me out (or ask for my number). Do you think that's too much to ask for?
Monday, February 13, 2006
Crazy Horse Paris, Singapore
Saturday was an action packed day! It started at 7am with 4 hours of shift work, then lunch at my grandma's, followed by 3 hours of French tuition and work. The culmination of the day (and the best part too!) was going to see my friends in the Crazy Horse Paris cabaret. There's no Singapore website yet, but here's the link to Crazy Horse in Paris.
If you didn't already know, Crazy Horse is a topless cabaret show, the first ever in Singapore. (Legally approved that is. Of course there are probably illegals but that's normal everywhere no?) I had helped Pris out with the opening night, but didn't get to see the show. When my friends heard that, they said of course, you must see it and we will get you tickets. And so we went for the last show on Saturday night (cos that's the only one I can make after work!)
Despite what others may think, the cabaret was stylish and done very well. After the first act, you forget that these girls are topless and concentrate on the amazing moves and grace that they dance with. Some of them are seriously stupendous (I do yoga, so I know how difficult some of the moves can be) but they make it look so effortless. Sadly, I can't put post any pictures (duh!) but the show was amazing.
My absolute favourite act was Champagne Taste, where the dancer pretends to be drunk and dances to the absolutely hilarious Eartha Kitt song, Champagne Taste. Other acts that I loved was the Good Girl, where the dancer shakes her toosh and tells everyone she's a good girl and the Adagio was absolutely stunning in terms of the lighting effects, choreography and the slow and ballet-esque mood. There was another one called Fly where the dancers are perched on poles that hang from the ceiling (but not touch the ground) and evokes the imagery of flying nymphs.
There were some hoots and whees from some of the guys but it's sad when the loudest applause and noise came from three single (heterosexual) girls watching the show. Naturally, it was because they were our friends, but I have to say that the audiences in Singapore are quite pathetic. My friends had complained many a times that the audience was very lukewarm and gave restrained applause. I'd also encountered that in my own work. People here are so very tame and somewhat restrained. Sadly I think that is not very encouraging for budding emerging artistes or even for promoters to bring new and interesting shows here.
Rant aside, if you haven't watched it and are in Paris, Singapore or Las Vegas, get your hands on some tickets and enjoy L'Art du Nu (The Art of The Nude)!
If you didn't already know, Crazy Horse is a topless cabaret show, the first ever in Singapore. (Legally approved that is. Of course there are probably illegals but that's normal everywhere no?) I had helped Pris out with the opening night, but didn't get to see the show. When my friends heard that, they said of course, you must see it and we will get you tickets. And so we went for the last show on Saturday night (cos that's the only one I can make after work!)
Despite what others may think, the cabaret was stylish and done very well. After the first act, you forget that these girls are topless and concentrate on the amazing moves and grace that they dance with. Some of them are seriously stupendous (I do yoga, so I know how difficult some of the moves can be) but they make it look so effortless. Sadly, I can't put post any pictures (duh!) but the show was amazing.
My absolute favourite act was Champagne Taste, where the dancer pretends to be drunk and dances to the absolutely hilarious Eartha Kitt song, Champagne Taste. Other acts that I loved was the Good Girl, where the dancer shakes her toosh and tells everyone she's a good girl and the Adagio was absolutely stunning in terms of the lighting effects, choreography and the slow and ballet-esque mood. There was another one called Fly where the dancers are perched on poles that hang from the ceiling (but not touch the ground) and evokes the imagery of flying nymphs.
There were some hoots and whees from some of the guys but it's sad when the loudest applause and noise came from three single (heterosexual) girls watching the show. Naturally, it was because they were our friends, but I have to say that the audiences in Singapore are quite pathetic. My friends had complained many a times that the audience was very lukewarm and gave restrained applause. I'd also encountered that in my own work. People here are so very tame and somewhat restrained. Sadly I think that is not very encouraging for budding emerging artistes or even for promoters to bring new and interesting shows here.
Rant aside, if you haven't watched it and are in Paris, Singapore or Las Vegas, get your hands on some tickets and enjoy L'Art du Nu (The Art of The Nude)!
Saturday, February 11, 2006
The (Job) Search Goes On...
I've been pretty lazy in this department. To date, I've been to 2 interviews but have not gotten any further. There was one job that I wanted - with Bloomberg. That would have been really really great. Sadly, they found someone with the type of experience that they wanted. Oh well. Next!
I have an interview on Monday at 7:45am with Singapore Power. Those who know me will know that that is a horrible time for me to be up and have all cylinders firing. Who in their right minds have interviews at 7:45 in the morning?!?! And do I want to work for an organisation that starts work that early?!?! Oh well. Get the job first then see. If nothing, all this interviewing will help me get better at the next interview.
Saying all that, I'm wondering if I should keep on trying to get a mundane job or stick with singing and being self employed. I'm getting discouraged in my job search as I don't feel I'm making any headway, even with the interviews. I hate the fact that I'm not getting paid much and I'm living from hand to mouth. I make enough just to get by and I have to watch what I spend (though I still go crazy eating and splurging on the odd item here and there). With my current lifestyle, it's hard to amass any savings. Unless I can come up with other revenue streams. I've thought of two or three possible ones if I fail to get a proper job:
1. Voice-overs / Voice acting. I'm already in the business of singing - this is like a step sideways and I wouldn't have to give up singing at night. I haven't got a clue where to start though!
2. Do free lance consulting. I've done it before, I just need to go out and get the work. This is not a bad way to get a full time job's income on my own time either. Perhaps I can talk to the friend that I used to work for and see if we come to an arrangement as before.
3. Concentrate on building my distribution business. Already started it, but have been lazy ass about it. (see the recurring theme here). This will take a while but it's a long term thing for me, so I think I'll do it in my own time.
Doing my typical indecisive, ask everyone's opinion and consider all options thing, expending tons of energy pursuing ALL options before settling with the first one that works. That's my style sadly. Maybe I need to change that instead.
I have an interview on Monday at 7:45am with Singapore Power. Those who know me will know that that is a horrible time for me to be up and have all cylinders firing. Who in their right minds have interviews at 7:45 in the morning?!?! And do I want to work for an organisation that starts work that early?!?! Oh well. Get the job first then see. If nothing, all this interviewing will help me get better at the next interview.
Saying all that, I'm wondering if I should keep on trying to get a mundane job or stick with singing and being self employed. I'm getting discouraged in my job search as I don't feel I'm making any headway, even with the interviews. I hate the fact that I'm not getting paid much and I'm living from hand to mouth. I make enough just to get by and I have to watch what I spend (though I still go crazy eating and splurging on the odd item here and there). With my current lifestyle, it's hard to amass any savings. Unless I can come up with other revenue streams. I've thought of two or three possible ones if I fail to get a proper job:
1. Voice-overs / Voice acting. I'm already in the business of singing - this is like a step sideways and I wouldn't have to give up singing at night. I haven't got a clue where to start though!
2. Do free lance consulting. I've done it before, I just need to go out and get the work. This is not a bad way to get a full time job's income on my own time either. Perhaps I can talk to the friend that I used to work for and see if we come to an arrangement as before.
3. Concentrate on building my distribution business. Already started it, but have been lazy ass about it. (see the recurring theme here). This will take a while but it's a long term thing for me, so I think I'll do it in my own time.
Doing my typical indecisive, ask everyone's opinion and consider all options thing, expending tons of energy pursuing ALL options before settling with the first one that works. That's my style sadly. Maybe I need to change that instead.
Saturday, February 04, 2006
Thumping Once, Thumping Twice
Knowing I had an early start this morning did not prevent me from going over to Thumper for "ONE drink" after work. Got an SMS and a call from Pris saying, we're at Thumper come for one.
As usual, one always goes up to 2 or more. We met the Crazy Horse girls there and started chatting about the show, the girls, and life in general. Axelle's gonna get me in next Saturday night to see it! Hooray!! We're also preparing to do the buffet brunch at the Bar & Billiard Room with them - free flow of pan fried foie gras... oh lordy!
It was 2am before we finally left for home. I am so sleep deprived today. We will be preparing for Thumper Part 2 - Pris's birthday party there tonight with all our friends. Oh, the carnage tonight... *evil laugh* And we can look forward to the recovery brunch!
As usual, one always goes up to 2 or more. We met the Crazy Horse girls there and started chatting about the show, the girls, and life in general. Axelle's gonna get me in next Saturday night to see it! Hooray!! We're also preparing to do the buffet brunch at the Bar & Billiard Room with them - free flow of pan fried foie gras... oh lordy!
It was 2am before we finally left for home. I am so sleep deprived today. We will be preparing for Thumper Part 2 - Pris's birthday party there tonight with all our friends. Oh, the carnage tonight... *evil laugh* And we can look forward to the recovery brunch!
Friday, February 03, 2006
Quick Note
I've been busy with Chinese New Year stuff, as well as meeting up with friends who are back or are leaving Singapore soon. I know I've neglected my blog, but I hope to remedy that soon! I'm also going to start posting pictures on my blog as they would enhance and augment what I've written. And as they say, a picture paints a thousand words!
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Hangover From Hell
Notice a similar theme cropping up...
Was out again last night with Arlene, Daniel, who came to see me sing. Danny came along soon after and the surprise show of the night was Nicole. We went to Thumper (where else, with this crowd) and had a hard time getting in. The door bitch wouldn't let us in without paying cover, and the guard wouldn't let us in the VIP room, even though I've always partied in there. Anyway, managed to call someone to get us in and we finally got the night under way.
They started plying me with Chivas, McCallan, and other whiskeys. I hate whiskey with a vengeance, and not cos they give me a hangover. I will only touch the good shit, and trust me after you've had the good stuff, you can never drink JD, Chivas, or 12 year old malt again.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(This is where I left the post to do some serious porcelain goddess worshipping)
I keep saying I'm never gonna drink whiskey / scotch again. Honestly, I didn't have that much to drink and I've done more, but the hangover was hell. I couldn't keep any food down till I had my charcoal pills. After that, life just went along merrily... with the aside over... back to the night's story!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The whole world and his brother was there at Thumper Friday night. Alan and Ed were there, and they were grilling this Japanese girl about selling underwear, schoolgirl uniforms and other sex related stuff. Sad gits. :)
As the night progressed and we got happier, I started talking very loudly, in various accents, but mainly a Scottish one (seeing as Arlene's from there, and we're drinking Scottish Malt Whiskey). I think I embarrassed myself enough in front of everyone, but they were kind enough to tell me I was charming but hilarious.
Danny got hit on by this chick Nicole had met a week ago. Now she was attempting an accent as well, but it was so inconsistent - you know it's fake. Poor Danny had to fend her off, and I don't think she was getting the hints from me and Arlene!
Somehow, I got dragged off to Velvet at 3am, but when we got there, the place was starting to empty out. I protested, and found another drink placed in my hands. Trying to escape from the cadre of the guys who dragged me there was fairly difficult, until they chucked us out of the place. I was going to get into a cab, when one of the guys got in with me. I thought he was going to be gallant and see me make it home safe, but he had other ideas. He tried getting me to go to his place, claiming that I was too drunk to make it home. I decided arguing was pointless and got the cab to drive to his place, and after that told the cabbie to make a run for my home! :) Sadly, I had to pay for the extra mileage but oh well. Better that than actually having to fend off any other advances.
Now that the story's told, I'm off to get stuff done for Chinese New Year and move on with Plan B.
Was out again last night with Arlene, Daniel, who came to see me sing. Danny came along soon after and the surprise show of the night was Nicole. We went to Thumper (where else, with this crowd) and had a hard time getting in. The door bitch wouldn't let us in without paying cover, and the guard wouldn't let us in the VIP room, even though I've always partied in there. Anyway, managed to call someone to get us in and we finally got the night under way.
They started plying me with Chivas, McCallan, and other whiskeys. I hate whiskey with a vengeance, and not cos they give me a hangover. I will only touch the good shit, and trust me after you've had the good stuff, you can never drink JD, Chivas, or 12 year old malt again.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(This is where I left the post to do some serious porcelain goddess worshipping)
I keep saying I'm never gonna drink whiskey / scotch again. Honestly, I didn't have that much to drink and I've done more, but the hangover was hell. I couldn't keep any food down till I had my charcoal pills. After that, life just went along merrily... with the aside over... back to the night's story!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The whole world and his brother was there at Thumper Friday night. Alan and Ed were there, and they were grilling this Japanese girl about selling underwear, schoolgirl uniforms and other sex related stuff. Sad gits. :)
As the night progressed and we got happier, I started talking very loudly, in various accents, but mainly a Scottish one (seeing as Arlene's from there, and we're drinking Scottish Malt Whiskey). I think I embarrassed myself enough in front of everyone, but they were kind enough to tell me I was charming but hilarious.
Danny got hit on by this chick Nicole had met a week ago. Now she was attempting an accent as well, but it was so inconsistent - you know it's fake. Poor Danny had to fend her off, and I don't think she was getting the hints from me and Arlene!
Somehow, I got dragged off to Velvet at 3am, but when we got there, the place was starting to empty out. I protested, and found another drink placed in my hands. Trying to escape from the cadre of the guys who dragged me there was fairly difficult, until they chucked us out of the place. I was going to get into a cab, when one of the guys got in with me. I thought he was going to be gallant and see me make it home safe, but he had other ideas. He tried getting me to go to his place, claiming that I was too drunk to make it home. I decided arguing was pointless and got the cab to drive to his place, and after that told the cabbie to make a run for my home! :) Sadly, I had to pay for the extra mileage but oh well. Better that than actually having to fend off any other advances.
Now that the story's told, I'm off to get stuff done for Chinese New Year and move on with Plan B.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Champagne Hangover
Funny thing about champagne - it doesn't matter how much or how little I have, it always gives me a headache and the runs the next day.
I was going to call it an early night last night after work (the coffee lounge was empty, I felt silly singing to no one). Then SMSes from Arlene and Daniel saying, we're at Thumper, come on over. So I thought, what the heck. One drink, then I'm outta there.
As usual, I'm having too good a time, and meeting new people to leave after one drink. I met two girls from the Crazy Horse cabaret, and I got on really well with Axelle, the french girl. I'd used my very rusty French on her as well, and amazingly was able to converse fairly well. Not fluent, but it wasn't bad either. In any case, we'd swapped numbers and agreed to meet up during the days to hang out and do stuff.
I am rather astounded at the fact that in the past few months of mad partying, I've managed to swap more numbers with girls than I have with guys. What does that say about the state of guys here?
Anyway, January is the month of homecoming! My friends are all coming back to Singapore for a visit - I'm really excited, and can't wait to see them again! Ian's back in town already for 3 weeks - the poor bugger can't deal with the winter in UK. Jac will be back for a few days late Jan, and Liying, my bestest friend in Toronto, will be back for 2 months during Chinese New Year (CNY) with baby Jacob! Hooray!
Guess I'll have to cut the parties (my liver's thanking all of you) and spend quality time with my friends!!!
I was going to call it an early night last night after work (the coffee lounge was empty, I felt silly singing to no one). Then SMSes from Arlene and Daniel saying, we're at Thumper, come on over. So I thought, what the heck. One drink, then I'm outta there.
As usual, I'm having too good a time, and meeting new people to leave after one drink. I met two girls from the Crazy Horse cabaret, and I got on really well with Axelle, the french girl. I'd used my very rusty French on her as well, and amazingly was able to converse fairly well. Not fluent, but it wasn't bad either. In any case, we'd swapped numbers and agreed to meet up during the days to hang out and do stuff.
I am rather astounded at the fact that in the past few months of mad partying, I've managed to swap more numbers with girls than I have with guys. What does that say about the state of guys here?
Anyway, January is the month of homecoming! My friends are all coming back to Singapore for a visit - I'm really excited, and can't wait to see them again! Ian's back in town already for 3 weeks - the poor bugger can't deal with the winter in UK. Jac will be back for a few days late Jan, and Liying, my bestest friend in Toronto, will be back for 2 months during Chinese New Year (CNY) with baby Jacob! Hooray!
Guess I'll have to cut the parties (my liver's thanking all of you) and spend quality time with my friends!!!
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
New Year Party
I had to work New Year's Eve, and I wasn't a happy camper, but I accepted that as the lot of a "lounge singer" as my friends call me nowadays. I had called around to see where I could head to after work, but apparently all my friends were lightweights and had left or were leaving by the time I called (it was only 1am, by the way!!!)
Anyway, I decided that (1) since we hadn't gotten together for our traditional Christmas / New Year's party and (2) I had tons of wine and booze left over, I would host a New Year Party at mine on my day off (2nd Jan).
I've just come off that party and I had a great time. I've hoarded a few bottles of wine but never had the chance to open them until tonight. Finally, I got to drink them. Nothing like friends and good company to enjoy the good wines that I got.
The shocker is that one of my good friends had broken up with her boyfriend on New Year's Eve. I thought they were happy, she thought they were happy, but apparently he didn't. I'm simply amazed and just a little flabbergasted. I thought they would be issuing wedding invitations in 2006, but apparently this was not to be!!! It just brings me back to my ex and thinking about our relationship, if you can call it that at all. I guess it just brings home the fact that you can't trust what you see, and that nothing really is for the long haul. Call me cynical, but that's how I feel after all my experiences.
Anyway... I realise that it's 2006 and that I haven't really made any New Year's Resolutions...
Here's a few that I really hope to make come true this year:
1. Get a job that pays well so that I can save money and move to Canada / US / London (which ever country will have me)
2. Get out of Singapore
3. Ski
4. Meet new people and maybe meet The One
5. Write original songs and get a recording contract.
I'll leave you to figure out which ones are real and which ones are fantasy... So if you're reading this... I've tagged you - what are YOUR top 5 resolutions for the year?
Anyway, I decided that (1) since we hadn't gotten together for our traditional Christmas / New Year's party and (2) I had tons of wine and booze left over, I would host a New Year Party at mine on my day off (2nd Jan).
I've just come off that party and I had a great time. I've hoarded a few bottles of wine but never had the chance to open them until tonight. Finally, I got to drink them. Nothing like friends and good company to enjoy the good wines that I got.
The shocker is that one of my good friends had broken up with her boyfriend on New Year's Eve. I thought they were happy, she thought they were happy, but apparently he didn't. I'm simply amazed and just a little flabbergasted. I thought they would be issuing wedding invitations in 2006, but apparently this was not to be!!! It just brings me back to my ex and thinking about our relationship, if you can call it that at all. I guess it just brings home the fact that you can't trust what you see, and that nothing really is for the long haul. Call me cynical, but that's how I feel after all my experiences.
Anyway... I realise that it's 2006 and that I haven't really made any New Year's Resolutions...
Here's a few that I really hope to make come true this year:
1. Get a job that pays well so that I can save money and move to Canada / US / London (which ever country will have me)
2. Get out of Singapore
3. Ski
4. Meet new people and maybe meet The One
5. Write original songs and get a recording contract.
I'll leave you to figure out which ones are real and which ones are fantasy... So if you're reading this... I've tagged you - what are YOUR top 5 resolutions for the year?
Thursday, December 29, 2005
Tires Fired
I was driving to work at my usual autobahn speeds cos I was late. I'm driving down the exit ramp pretty fast when i heard a "pop" sound and the car suddenly skidded. I was good enough to pull out of it and luckily the cars around me were none too close. At that point, I had a pretty good idea that something had happened to my tires but I was too late for work and wasn't in a position to find out.
Drove all the way to work and chucked it to the valet. During my break, they came in to tell me that my rear tire was punctured. At my next break, I went to inspect it and lo and behold, the damned tire was as flat as a pancake. Fantastic.
Thank god for my AAS (Automobile Association) membership - I called the 24 hour roadside assistance service and the guy came at the end of my shift and spent 30 sweaty minutes changing the tires. I can't imagine me doing that in my work getup. Picture a girl in a cocktail dress, wrestling with the car jack and wrench... mind boggling eh? Anyway, I was expecting to have to pay through my nose for the service, but what do you know, it was free! Woo! I knew paying for membership would come in handy one day.
This little incident was amazingly draining even if I didn't do any physical labour. That I will have to go repair the tire and change it back tomorrow is too much to think about. But that's another day's adventure!
Drove all the way to work and chucked it to the valet. During my break, they came in to tell me that my rear tire was punctured. At my next break, I went to inspect it and lo and behold, the damned tire was as flat as a pancake. Fantastic.
Thank god for my AAS (Automobile Association) membership - I called the 24 hour roadside assistance service and the guy came at the end of my shift and spent 30 sweaty minutes changing the tires. I can't imagine me doing that in my work getup. Picture a girl in a cocktail dress, wrestling with the car jack and wrench... mind boggling eh? Anyway, I was expecting to have to pay through my nose for the service, but what do you know, it was free! Woo! I knew paying for membership would come in handy one day.
This little incident was amazingly draining even if I didn't do any physical labour. That I will have to go repair the tire and change it back tomorrow is too much to think about. But that's another day's adventure!
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Timbre & Monty Python
Had a lovely day off on Monday. Didn't have the car so I took public transport to meet my friend in town for shopping and dinner. A (bitchy) observation that I made on the train and walking around on Orchard Road (main shopping stretch) - there was no eye candy at all; in fact they would not even come up to the average status. Maybe they were all home sleeping off their Christmas excesses...
In any case, met up with my best friend and we proceeded to window shop and look for post Christmas bargains. This is the perfect time to shop cos we will just be in time for Chinese New Year. :)
Eventually went over to Timbre for dinner and drinks, and to catch UBlues. They're a local band, but have kinda been disbanded, because one of the band members had to go back to Australia to retain his PR status. I do know them, so I thought I'd head down to say hi. And Singapore being the small place that it is, my brother actually knows one of the other band member.
It was great. P and I sat there, doing our usual "stoning" before the rest of the party came (Arlene, S, and Daniel). We were so bored, I ran over to Cheers to buy a pack of cards and we started playing Chor Dai Di. Switched to Gin Rummy and I got my ass kicked, cos I hadn't played in a while.
Anyway... the other local musicians started turning up and I reconnected with this guy who used to play at the bar and is currently living in Taiwan / Hong Kong doing music production. We went out for another drink after, and he invited me back to his to watch Monty Python. I'm thinking... woah. It's 2am, I don't think you're really inviting me back to watch DVDs. In any case, I said that we could watch it the next day (cos I am a Monty Python fan - blame it on my British education).
Next day looms, I go to work, nothing from this guy but at 11:30pm as I'm finishing my last set, he sends me an SMS to say he's been waiting for me... Because I'm such a sucker (and also cos I did say we would watch it the next day) I went over and caught 2 episodes. Made sure nothing happened, and drove home at 3am. *sigh* I gotta start exercising my NOs.
That's all that's exciting in my life at the moment. I'm waiting for my invite to the next party!!!
In any case, met up with my best friend and we proceeded to window shop and look for post Christmas bargains. This is the perfect time to shop cos we will just be in time for Chinese New Year. :)
Eventually went over to Timbre for dinner and drinks, and to catch UBlues. They're a local band, but have kinda been disbanded, because one of the band members had to go back to Australia to retain his PR status. I do know them, so I thought I'd head down to say hi. And Singapore being the small place that it is, my brother actually knows one of the other band member.
It was great. P and I sat there, doing our usual "stoning" before the rest of the party came (Arlene, S, and Daniel). We were so bored, I ran over to Cheers to buy a pack of cards and we started playing Chor Dai Di. Switched to Gin Rummy and I got my ass kicked, cos I hadn't played in a while.
Anyway... the other local musicians started turning up and I reconnected with this guy who used to play at the bar and is currently living in Taiwan / Hong Kong doing music production. We went out for another drink after, and he invited me back to his to watch Monty Python. I'm thinking... woah. It's 2am, I don't think you're really inviting me back to watch DVDs. In any case, I said that we could watch it the next day (cos I am a Monty Python fan - blame it on my British education).
Next day looms, I go to work, nothing from this guy but at 11:30pm as I'm finishing my last set, he sends me an SMS to say he's been waiting for me... Because I'm such a sucker (and also cos I did say we would watch it the next day) I went over and caught 2 episodes. Made sure nothing happened, and drove home at 3am. *sigh* I gotta start exercising my NOs.
That's all that's exciting in my life at the moment. I'm waiting for my invite to the next party!!!
Monday, December 26, 2005
Partying and Work Makes Me A Tired Girl!!!
Let's see... I've been out practically every night since Wednesday.
Wednesday 21 Dec: Mambo @ Zouk
Crazy ass crowd - I guess it's the pre-Christmas insanity. We could hardly move, it was so packed. Wasn't up to much, so we bailed early after drinking a few rounds.
Friday 23 Dec: Thumper
As we walked inside to get a drink - we saw two guys starting to push each other around, with their friends holding them back. 2 seconds later, we watched in shock as one of the guys broke free and threw a punch right in the other guy's face. It was so crowded, there could have been a stampede. We were trying to get out of the way, but what does the crowd do? Stand there and watch. Idiots. Anyway, we made it into the VIP room, and got our drinks there.
The Crazy Horse dancers arrived shortly after, and it was hilarious watching the guys trying to chat them up. They were dancing on the poles and boy, can they move. I wanna be able to pole dance like that! It was amazing.
We met a new girl, Arlene, who's a complete laugh. We chatted to her at first just to hear the lovely Scottish accent (which we've missed). Amazingly, for a model, she actually has two nickels to rub between her ears, and we got on so well, we exchanged numbers and promised to hang out soon!
The night goes on, and a group of really crass girls walked in and sat at our table. We politely told them off and they moved over. One of them was this crazy ass girl who insisted on stripping her shorts and exchanging it with one of our friends. Nasty!!! (We really didn't need to see what underwear he was wearing *hyuk hyuk*).
A tray of Sex On The Beach appeared which we then proceeded to down. Thankfully I didn't have the car and so could do the drinks without having to watch my intake. All in all, it was a great night out!
Saturday 24 Dec: Work and House Party
Sadly, I had to stay and do Christmas Eve at work, getting pple into the mood, singing Christmas carols, etc. Stupidest thing was they wanted us to do a countdown to Christmas. That's practically unheard of!!! Was pretty tired and was going to go home to sleep, cos I had to work the next day, but Arlene talked me into going to a house party off Holland Road.
The party was filled with models and the usual party people who want to get into the model's pants. The guys had really hot bods, but after a while, you kinda get inured to it. Aside from the fact that they're really really young (from 18 to 22 I guess). Wonder if they possess any brains between their ears. I shouldn't be so catty, but they're so immature!!!
Had a few slimy guys try to chat me up and get it on with me. One proclaimed that he had yellow fever, as if I would go for him immediately! Another one tried to claim a snog, saying it's Christmas and all. Yeech. He didn't even have any mistletoe as a prop. If he were cute, I might think about it. But nah. Slimy.
Sunday 25 Dec: Work work and work
Yes... I had to work in the afternoon, singing for Christmas brunch at the hotel (which of course, pple didn't bother listening to, they were busy stuffing their faces!). Then again at night at the usual time. I was so tired from the night before. Honestly, I'm never doing it again in the afternoon, not unless they pay me shiteloads. Got my 2nd tip from a guest - another Jap this time and he gave us $100. Woo. The only consolation to a hard 2 days work. Couldn't hack any more partying, I went home and finally got some rest.
Wednesday 21 Dec: Mambo @ Zouk
Crazy ass crowd - I guess it's the pre-Christmas insanity. We could hardly move, it was so packed. Wasn't up to much, so we bailed early after drinking a few rounds.
Friday 23 Dec: Thumper
As we walked inside to get a drink - we saw two guys starting to push each other around, with their friends holding them back. 2 seconds later, we watched in shock as one of the guys broke free and threw a punch right in the other guy's face. It was so crowded, there could have been a stampede. We were trying to get out of the way, but what does the crowd do? Stand there and watch. Idiots. Anyway, we made it into the VIP room, and got our drinks there.
The Crazy Horse dancers arrived shortly after, and it was hilarious watching the guys trying to chat them up. They were dancing on the poles and boy, can they move. I wanna be able to pole dance like that! It was amazing.
We met a new girl, Arlene, who's a complete laugh. We chatted to her at first just to hear the lovely Scottish accent (which we've missed). Amazingly, for a model, she actually has two nickels to rub between her ears, and we got on so well, we exchanged numbers and promised to hang out soon!
The night goes on, and a group of really crass girls walked in and sat at our table. We politely told them off and they moved over. One of them was this crazy ass girl who insisted on stripping her shorts and exchanging it with one of our friends. Nasty!!! (We really didn't need to see what underwear he was wearing *hyuk hyuk*).
A tray of Sex On The Beach appeared which we then proceeded to down. Thankfully I didn't have the car and so could do the drinks without having to watch my intake. All in all, it was a great night out!
Saturday 24 Dec: Work and House Party
Sadly, I had to stay and do Christmas Eve at work, getting pple into the mood, singing Christmas carols, etc. Stupidest thing was they wanted us to do a countdown to Christmas. That's practically unheard of!!! Was pretty tired and was going to go home to sleep, cos I had to work the next day, but Arlene talked me into going to a house party off Holland Road.
The party was filled with models and the usual party people who want to get into the model's pants. The guys had really hot bods, but after a while, you kinda get inured to it. Aside from the fact that they're really really young (from 18 to 22 I guess). Wonder if they possess any brains between their ears. I shouldn't be so catty, but they're so immature!!!
Had a few slimy guys try to chat me up and get it on with me. One proclaimed that he had yellow fever, as if I would go for him immediately! Another one tried to claim a snog, saying it's Christmas and all. Yeech. He didn't even have any mistletoe as a prop. If he were cute, I might think about it. But nah. Slimy.
Sunday 25 Dec: Work work and work
Yes... I had to work in the afternoon, singing for Christmas brunch at the hotel (which of course, pple didn't bother listening to, they were busy stuffing their faces!). Then again at night at the usual time. I was so tired from the night before. Honestly, I'm never doing it again in the afternoon, not unless they pay me shiteloads. Got my 2nd tip from a guest - another Jap this time and he gave us $100. Woo. The only consolation to a hard 2 days work. Couldn't hack any more partying, I went home and finally got some rest.
Saturday, December 17, 2005
Marriage and morality are grey
I was just chatting to a friend from the US. He's been dating this girl for the past few months and recently found out that a good friend of his (who's married) had been sleeping with her, prior to her going out with my friend.
Chatting with him, I realised that these issues that used to be black and white are now slightly grey to me. My own code is that I won't sleep with or have an affair with a married man. But morality is not an absolute - it depends on the social mores of the era and the society in question. And who am I to judge other people when I don't know what their story is or if there are extenuating circumstances?
I see and hear about so many different marriages that are 'unconventional'. For example, both spouses have affairs and actually know the other parties, but stay together for the kids. There's even a family whose husband has fathered other kids outside the marriage and the wife is actually okay with it. I don't know if divorce would be better (would the kids be warped in such a household?) but if it works for them, that's great.
So then, what constitutes morality? Or I guess my question really is more, where does one draw the line? It's a slippery slope once you've crossed a boundary. Say previously you would not think of even going out with a guy who's with someone else. But then, you think about it and say, well, they're not married, and it's his choice, so why not? Then you end up sleeping with him. If it's okay to sleep with someone even though they have a girlfriend / boyfriend, then what's to stop you from sleeping with married people (oh, their marriage is not working anyway)?
With the erosion of one boundary, it's so easy to rationalise and erode another. It's like starting with stealing $10 from a friend, then you easily do it again, increase the amount, and eventually rob a bank. Where do you stop? And what constitutes extenuating circumstances? I stole the $10 because I needed it to feed my starving family is okay, but I stole $10 because it was fun, or because I needed a drug fix is not?
While we may have our own set of principles or morals, these morals can eventually be broken down, subverted and even perverted. There may be circumstances or other factors that need to be taken into account too. But I think the main point is that we have to be aware of this slippery slope and hold on to some principle or ethics or surely we will be lost, with no compass or baseline to assess ourselves.
Chatting with him, I realised that these issues that used to be black and white are now slightly grey to me. My own code is that I won't sleep with or have an affair with a married man. But morality is not an absolute - it depends on the social mores of the era and the society in question. And who am I to judge other people when I don't know what their story is or if there are extenuating circumstances?
I see and hear about so many different marriages that are 'unconventional'. For example, both spouses have affairs and actually know the other parties, but stay together for the kids. There's even a family whose husband has fathered other kids outside the marriage and the wife is actually okay with it. I don't know if divorce would be better (would the kids be warped in such a household?) but if it works for them, that's great.
So then, what constitutes morality? Or I guess my question really is more, where does one draw the line? It's a slippery slope once you've crossed a boundary. Say previously you would not think of even going out with a guy who's with someone else. But then, you think about it and say, well, they're not married, and it's his choice, so why not? Then you end up sleeping with him. If it's okay to sleep with someone even though they have a girlfriend / boyfriend, then what's to stop you from sleeping with married people (oh, their marriage is not working anyway)?
With the erosion of one boundary, it's so easy to rationalise and erode another. It's like starting with stealing $10 from a friend, then you easily do it again, increase the amount, and eventually rob a bank. Where do you stop? And what constitutes extenuating circumstances? I stole the $10 because I needed it to feed my starving family is okay, but I stole $10 because it was fun, or because I needed a drug fix is not?
While we may have our own set of principles or morals, these morals can eventually be broken down, subverted and even perverted. There may be circumstances or other factors that need to be taken into account too. But I think the main point is that we have to be aware of this slippery slope and hold on to some principle or ethics or surely we will be lost, with no compass or baseline to assess ourselves.
And The Oscar Goes To...
Me!!!
I'd like to thank my hairdresser, my make up artiste and of course, all my friends out there...
(If you're wondering if I've lost my marbles, read the post on All Men Are Bastards)
I'd prepped well for dinner - made an appointment for a haircut and got my LBD (little black dress) from the dry cleaners and put on my war paint.
I got there and they were sitting next to each other, though not touching or holding hands. I honestly couldn't tell if they're at the just dating phase or going out phase. In any case, I'm sure they didn't want an awkward situation so they probably avoided any show of affection.
I was my usual self - sunny, chirpy and without a care in the world. As if nothing had ever happened. I'd told myself that I would be civil and talk to them if the talked to me. And I did talk to her. He didn't say a word. In fact, he still couldn't look me in the eye. I wonder why. Hah.
The funny thing though, is that she is just like me, personality wise. (and not to sound bitchy, not as cute). Stating that we're very different people as a reason to break up is then extremely lame. I can't help but wonder if she's a replacement cos he can't have me, or if he's just attracted to our types of personalities. Saying that, I don't even know if they are going out or not, or just 'dating'. Somehow if it's the former, I find it a lot harder to swallow.
My therapy for this week is to look myself in the mirror and repeat 10 times "I'm better off without him cos I deserve better than that!" (or similar variation). If I tell myself that long enough, I will finally believe it!
I'd like to thank my hairdresser, my make up artiste and of course, all my friends out there...
(If you're wondering if I've lost my marbles, read the post on All Men Are Bastards)
I'd prepped well for dinner - made an appointment for a haircut and got my LBD (little black dress) from the dry cleaners and put on my war paint.
I got there and they were sitting next to each other, though not touching or holding hands. I honestly couldn't tell if they're at the just dating phase or going out phase. In any case, I'm sure they didn't want an awkward situation so they probably avoided any show of affection.
I was my usual self - sunny, chirpy and without a care in the world. As if nothing had ever happened. I'd told myself that I would be civil and talk to them if the talked to me. And I did talk to her. He didn't say a word. In fact, he still couldn't look me in the eye. I wonder why. Hah.
The funny thing though, is that she is just like me, personality wise. (and not to sound bitchy, not as cute). Stating that we're very different people as a reason to break up is then extremely lame. I can't help but wonder if she's a replacement cos he can't have me, or if he's just attracted to our types of personalities. Saying that, I don't even know if they are going out or not, or just 'dating'. Somehow if it's the former, I find it a lot harder to swallow.
My therapy for this week is to look myself in the mirror and repeat 10 times "I'm better off without him cos I deserve better than that!" (or similar variation). If I tell myself that long enough, I will finally believe it!
Monday, December 12, 2005
Rude Recruitment Agent
I got woken up this morning by Paul from Horizon Management Services (SG). I'd sent in my CV for a Comp & Ben Manager position and they were calling me up to chat. Here's the conversation; I'm amazed that this guy even *has* any clients!!!
Me : (sleepy) Hullo?
Paul : Hi, is this a convenient time to talk?
Me : (sleepy but making myself think) Sure
Paul : I see you're applying for the C&B job, can you tell me how many years of experience you've had in that field?
Me : As many years as I have been consulting
Paul : So that's 4 years
Me : Yes
Paul : So what's your last drawn salary?
Me : I'm sorry, I don't think that's relevant to our conversation right now
Paul : My client needs to know what your last drawn salary is
Me : Well, that's still not necessary right now. If your client wants, I'm sure he can find out
Paul : Obviously you're not giving me enough information, fine, thanks, bye. *he hangs up*
Honestly, I have never seen such rude or unprofessional behaviour for someone in the mid level recruitment industry!
1. My last drawn salary is MY own business. Salary is based on the job size, as well as prior qualifications. And should not be a percentage of your previous drawn salary.
2. Even if he didn't want to pursue this any further, he could have been more polite about it. Obviously he has no people skills whatsoever and I'll be amazed if he places anyone. Unless they're desperate.
One company blacklisted in my book.
Me : (sleepy) Hullo?
Paul : Hi, is this a convenient time to talk?
Me : (sleepy but making myself think) Sure
Paul : I see you're applying for the C&B job, can you tell me how many years of experience you've had in that field?
Me : As many years as I have been consulting
Paul : So that's 4 years
Me : Yes
Paul : So what's your last drawn salary?
Me : I'm sorry, I don't think that's relevant to our conversation right now
Paul : My client needs to know what your last drawn salary is
Me : Well, that's still not necessary right now. If your client wants, I'm sure he can find out
Paul : Obviously you're not giving me enough information, fine, thanks, bye. *he hangs up*
Honestly, I have never seen such rude or unprofessional behaviour for someone in the mid level recruitment industry!
1. My last drawn salary is MY own business. Salary is based on the job size, as well as prior qualifications. And should not be a percentage of your previous drawn salary.
2. Even if he didn't want to pursue this any further, he could have been more polite about it. Obviously he has no people skills whatsoever and I'll be amazed if he places anyone. Unless they're desperate.
One company blacklisted in my book.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Another Night Of Insomnia
I guess I should not have had the cup of teh tarik (tea) at midnight.
It was another night of tossing and turning in bed till sunlight poured in. I tried everything in my arsenal - erotic literature, Cocteau Twins lullaby CD (Milk & Kisses), reading dull history books, even running through my entire collection of Emily Dickinson poems. Sadly nothing worked. Instead, my mind started spouting these weird words that evolved itself into a poem / song of sorts. I guess it decided that it might as well be put to good use since it's functioning.
This is what I came up with at 5 this morning:
What is this malady
I cannot seem to shake
Searching for a remedy
But I still want the cake
What madness, what insanity
That drives me to these depths
My mind splits to infinity
And runs on different tracks
Time is shirking its duty
It just won't let me heal
Cos the wounds just keep reopening
Like scabs I have to peel
I hold on to Despair
As it were a life line
Giving Loneliness a friend
In this souless husk of mine
I revel in this lowness
My mind and body craven
Seeking crumbs of comfort
Reaching for any haven
Devoid of hope I trudge along
Not knowing what propels me on
Perhaps it's just blind faith
That takes me past another dawn
While I'm at it, I love these lines by Emily Dickinson:
Parting is all we know of heaven
And all we need of hell
It was another night of tossing and turning in bed till sunlight poured in. I tried everything in my arsenal - erotic literature, Cocteau Twins lullaby CD (Milk & Kisses), reading dull history books, even running through my entire collection of Emily Dickinson poems. Sadly nothing worked. Instead, my mind started spouting these weird words that evolved itself into a poem / song of sorts. I guess it decided that it might as well be put to good use since it's functioning.
This is what I came up with at 5 this morning:
What is this malady
I cannot seem to shake
Searching for a remedy
But I still want the cake
What madness, what insanity
That drives me to these depths
My mind splits to infinity
And runs on different tracks
Time is shirking its duty
It just won't let me heal
Cos the wounds just keep reopening
Like scabs I have to peel
I hold on to Despair
As it were a life line
Giving Loneliness a friend
In this souless husk of mine
I revel in this lowness
My mind and body craven
Seeking crumbs of comfort
Reaching for any haven
Devoid of hope I trudge along
Not knowing what propels me on
Perhaps it's just blind faith
That takes me past another dawn
While I'm at it, I love these lines by Emily Dickinson:
Parting is all we know of heaven
And all we need of hell
Friday, December 09, 2005
All Men Are Bastards
I know I know, it's a generalisation and sure there are nice ones out there, but for today (or rather last night), I'm of the opinion that men are bastards.
Bastard No 1: The Ex Boyfriend
I was supposed to go to a mutual friend's birthday do last Friday - and of course the ex was invited too. I was all prepared to go and suddenly, I got a call from the birthday girl's boyfriend saying I had a choice to not come as the Ex had apparently brought a date. And not only that, I knew this person. She had recently started working part time for the ex's company (as do I), and we had chatted about common interests and I had even opened up to her about the break up and all.
Now I know why she was acting so strangely the week before when we were doing an exhibition together. I also know why he was there, helping out more than usual at the exhibition. I feel like such a fool.
He's not allowed to start seeing someone before me! I know that sounds silly, but that's how I feel. Now I also have to wonder if he had broken up with me so that he could see this other person without any guilt. And if he had already been seeing her or was interested in her before we even broke up.
Whatever it is, he's still a bastard for making me doubt myself, the relationship, and most of all my judgement about people (not the best in most cases, I'm can be a little too trusting and naive at times).
I've tried to deal with it in the past week by calling friends, going out, even to the point of getting too drunk and getting naked with a friend (no, nothing happened, thank god!). The sad thing is that somewhere, somehow, I still love him. Despite all the logic, rationale and facts.
What can I do? What I have done I suppose. Present a cheerful face to the world, present a strong front, pretend I'm happier than ever.
We're supposed to have a company first year anniversary dinner for all the part timers next Thursday. I confided to my other friend who lives in Hong Kong and she says that I should go to the dinner, and act as if nothing had happened between me and him and to act like I'm really happy being single. Based on this advice, I had consented to going. If I have to sit through any displays of affection I will probably cry. I'm going to regret going, but what the hell. I have one week to prepare. I'll be a contender for next year's Oscars by the end of the night.
Bastard No 2: The Father
Yes. I'm bitching about my dad online because I have no where else to bitch. He's been a bastard to my mom, cheating on her for years and then finally deciding that he's met his soul mate and left us all for her.
That's all fine and good, if he's happy and all. But the fact is that he's making the rest of us very unhappy. To get my mom to agree to a separation, he promised a lot of things. Namely that he would whittle down the debt that he had incurred in the matrimonial account, and to rebuild the house (because we have many problems such as leaking roofs, termites, bad electrical wiring). It's been 2 years since the separation and none of that has happened. Worse, he's dipped further into the account.
I call him up as my mom's upset at him for not spending time on the house plans, and ask him to spend time with us and see it from her point of view. He then proceeds to yell at me, telling me his "Woe Is Me" story, about how hard he has to slog and how we are taking every penny from him.
I was this close to telling him to stick it.
I hung up on him cos I couldn't deal with it (I had to go to work). I'd heard the story a million times before and I didn't need a bloody repeat. Plus if I had said anything, it would have been pretty ugly. And whatever it is, I think one of us needs to be a 'good cop' in the routine. After all, he's my dad, and he needs to have some pride. But I've had it up to here with his nonsense. I've run out of sympathy for him and his so called plight.
Ultimately, it was his choice. He chose to cheat, he chose to incur debts to give gifts to his mistresses and girlfriends, while his wife tried to save and not spend so much. His choice to go off with someone else, to work for a different company, to try for different challenges. His choice to promise things so that he would get a separation. So why are we paying for his mistakes?
Of course, the situation could be worse. But when I look at my friend's parents and see some semblance of normality, and when I see how their fathers are still there for them, I wish it were the same with mine. Instead, it's more like my brother and I being the adults in this 4 person tragi-comedy and my parents the little kids tussling.
Bastard No 1: The Ex Boyfriend
I was supposed to go to a mutual friend's birthday do last Friday - and of course the ex was invited too. I was all prepared to go and suddenly, I got a call from the birthday girl's boyfriend saying I had a choice to not come as the Ex had apparently brought a date. And not only that, I knew this person. She had recently started working part time for the ex's company (as do I), and we had chatted about common interests and I had even opened up to her about the break up and all.
Now I know why she was acting so strangely the week before when we were doing an exhibition together. I also know why he was there, helping out more than usual at the exhibition. I feel like such a fool.
He's not allowed to start seeing someone before me! I know that sounds silly, but that's how I feel. Now I also have to wonder if he had broken up with me so that he could see this other person without any guilt. And if he had already been seeing her or was interested in her before we even broke up.
Whatever it is, he's still a bastard for making me doubt myself, the relationship, and most of all my judgement about people (not the best in most cases, I'm can be a little too trusting and naive at times).
I've tried to deal with it in the past week by calling friends, going out, even to the point of getting too drunk and getting naked with a friend (no, nothing happened, thank god!). The sad thing is that somewhere, somehow, I still love him. Despite all the logic, rationale and facts.
What can I do? What I have done I suppose. Present a cheerful face to the world, present a strong front, pretend I'm happier than ever.
We're supposed to have a company first year anniversary dinner for all the part timers next Thursday. I confided to my other friend who lives in Hong Kong and she says that I should go to the dinner, and act as if nothing had happened between me and him and to act like I'm really happy being single. Based on this advice, I had consented to going. If I have to sit through any displays of affection I will probably cry. I'm going to regret going, but what the hell. I have one week to prepare. I'll be a contender for next year's Oscars by the end of the night.
Bastard No 2: The Father
Yes. I'm bitching about my dad online because I have no where else to bitch. He's been a bastard to my mom, cheating on her for years and then finally deciding that he's met his soul mate and left us all for her.
That's all fine and good, if he's happy and all. But the fact is that he's making the rest of us very unhappy. To get my mom to agree to a separation, he promised a lot of things. Namely that he would whittle down the debt that he had incurred in the matrimonial account, and to rebuild the house (because we have many problems such as leaking roofs, termites, bad electrical wiring). It's been 2 years since the separation and none of that has happened. Worse, he's dipped further into the account.
I call him up as my mom's upset at him for not spending time on the house plans, and ask him to spend time with us and see it from her point of view. He then proceeds to yell at me, telling me his "Woe Is Me" story, about how hard he has to slog and how we are taking every penny from him.
I was this close to telling him to stick it.
I hung up on him cos I couldn't deal with it (I had to go to work). I'd heard the story a million times before and I didn't need a bloody repeat. Plus if I had said anything, it would have been pretty ugly. And whatever it is, I think one of us needs to be a 'good cop' in the routine. After all, he's my dad, and he needs to have some pride. But I've had it up to here with his nonsense. I've run out of sympathy for him and his so called plight.
Ultimately, it was his choice. He chose to cheat, he chose to incur debts to give gifts to his mistresses and girlfriends, while his wife tried to save and not spend so much. His choice to go off with someone else, to work for a different company, to try for different challenges. His choice to promise things so that he would get a separation. So why are we paying for his mistakes?
Of course, the situation could be worse. But when I look at my friend's parents and see some semblance of normality, and when I see how their fathers are still there for them, I wish it were the same with mine. Instead, it's more like my brother and I being the adults in this 4 person tragi-comedy and my parents the little kids tussling.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)