Jeffrey Ning's Web

龙 Dragon

2009-03-01T00:22:00.002+08:00

Personality
Magical, shrewd, intuitive, artistic and very lucky. Alternately, can be stubborn, irritable and impulsive. Can also be rather worldly and hard to get close to. Full of vitality, self assured, bright and master of success. Somewhat proud and quick-tempered, the Dragon personality is always attractive.

The mighty and magnificent Dragon of mythical folklore never ceases to enchant or stir the imagination. The Dragon person is magnanimous and full of vitality and strength. To him life is a blaze of colors and he is constantly on the go. Egotistical, eccentric, dogmatic, whimsical or terribly demanding and unreasonable, he is still never without a band of admirers. Proud, aristocratic and very direct, the Dragon-born establishes his ideals early in life and demands the same high standards and perfection from others that he has for himself.

The powerful Dragon is difficult to contest, at times even impossible. He tends to intimidate those who dare challenge him. An angry, spurned Dragon could be like the big bad wolf at your door. He'll huff and he'll puff until he blows your house down.

In spite of his volcano of emotions, the Dragon cannot be said to be sentimental, sensitive or very romantic. He takes love and adulation for granted: they are his just due. But while he maybe stubborn, irrational and overbearing when irked, the Dragon can forgive you the moment he gets over his outbursts. And since things are supposed to work both ways, he expects your forgiveness for his errors, too.

The Dragon likes: Festivals, Control, Wealth, Comfort, Concerts, Antique and Decadence.
The Dragon dislikes: Boredom, Cold, Dullness, Hunger, Hypocrisy and Quietness.

Compatible Animals: Rat, Monkey, Rooster

Your Luck In Year 2009

Overall Forecast
You are happily accompanied by many auspicious stars beside the little disturbance caused by some danger stars. Most undertakings are successful than normal. Eminent aid is the key factor to the smooth results in your career and or career change. Dragon are really suited to make good overseas. So long as you are mindful of your words and actions, you should be doing fine. Take good care of your eyes and also that of personal hygiene. Have adequate rest too. There are many joyous news this year. Couples are affectionate and blissful. There’s possible offspring luck.

Career
You undergo an extraordinary smooth sailing luck for the year. Extremely favourable to roll out any plans, be entrepreneur, or to change jobs. There are chances to make it big overseas. Besides the congregation of lucky stars, noble stars are strong in their aid. Do not be hasty; be modest and morally disciplined. Do not get tempted by lust or get into conflict.

Love
There are impediments in the romance luck all because of interference made by vile persons. Caution against deceitful words which can cause conflicts with someone you care. Maintain this relationship carefully with affection, trust and communication. There is offspring luck. Show more care to your pregnant spouse.

Wealth
Wealth luck is superb, which is beneficial to both income and windfall luck. But do not be greedy. Business dealings are smooth. But you have to be wary of sexual traps, as it may cause you loss of wealth and reputation. Preserve your wealth if possible such as purchasing properties.

Health
It is pretty alright with regards to your health. But hectic social networking sessions cause you to overload with alcohol and cigarettes. This is harmful to your health. Take good care of your digestive systems. Have preventive measures against the flu. Build up your constitution and take a wholesome diet.

Website: www.geomancyhut.com.sg

2008-07-07T02:14:00.001+08:00

Whatever with the past has gone, the best is always yet to come. - Lucy Larcom

2008-07-07T02:02:00.001+08:00

Grow old along with me!
The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made.
May u grow to be toothless! May u live to be 100 and may the last voice u hear be mine! Luv, Blue Babe

2008-07-07T01:57:00.004+08:00

Hope your birthday gently breezes into your life all the choicest of things and all that your heart holds dear. Have a fun-filled day babe! Luv, Blue Babe

2008-07-07T01:35:00.000+08:00

Some like sunday some like monday, but i like your birthday. Happy birthday my sweetheart. Luv, Blue Babe

2008-07-07T01:10:00.001+08:00

2008-05-19T01:15:00.001+08:00

Zodiac 2008 - 龙 Dragon

2008-02-08T21:45:00.000+08:00

Personality
Magical, shrewd, intuitive, artistic and very lucky. Alternately, can be stubborn, irritable and impulsive. Can also be rather worldly and hard to get close to. Full of vitality, self assured, bright and master of success. Somewhat proud and quick-tempered, the Dragon personality is always attractive.

The mighty and magnificent Dragon of mythical folklore never ceases to enchant or stir the imagination. The Dragon person is magnanimous and full of vitality and strength. To him life is a blaze of colors and he is constantly on the go.

Egotistical, eccentric, dogmatic, whimsical or terribly demanding and unreasonable, he is still never without a band of admirers. Proud, aristocratic and very direct, the Dragon-born establishes his ideals early in life and demands the same high standards and perfection from others that he has for himself.

The powerful Dragon is difficult to contest, at times even impossible. He tends to intimidate those who dare challenge him. An angry, spurned Dragon could be like the big bad wolf at your door. He'll huff and he'll puff until he blows your house down.
In spite of his volcano of emotions, the Dragon cannot be said to be sentimental, sensitive or very romantic. He takes love and adulation for granted: they are his just due. But while he maybe stubborn, irrational and overbearing when irked, the Dragon can forgive you the moment he gets over his outbursts. And since things are supposed to work both ways, he expects your forgiveness for his errors, too.

The Dragon likes: Festivals, Control, Wealth, Comfort, Concerts, Antique and Decadence.
The Dragon dislikes: Boredom, Cold, Dullness, Hunger, Hypocrisy and Quietness.

Compatible Animals: Rat, Monkey, Rooster
Incompatible Animals: Dog, Rabbit, Ox, Dragon

Your Luck In Year 2008
Overall Forecast

Good and bad luck are an equal mix. All matters require you to stay on the defensive, rather than to be on the offensive. When there are changes, you should make detail plans, and after doing thorough contemplation on the matter, you may execute it systematically. This year you see lots of gossips surrounding yourself. Unforeseen misfortunes befall onto you, so you have to settle the matter in a low-key manner, and bury the hatchet. Also, if you have faith and diligence, this will also be a stable year for you.

Stay out of the circle of gossips, and you should mind your own business. Be pure at heart, honest and law abiding. Do not get involve in illegal activities, so as to avoid getting into lawsuits. Youngsters should stay away from bad company which will be good for your personal growth. Health, is good, just be alert of occurrence of injuries and accidents, especially when doing outdoor activities. Do not speed, drive safely.

Wealth luck fluctuates, so you should not make huge investments, and curb gambling. Proper income luck is steady, so conserve your every expenditure, so as not to sink into financial difficulties. Also, do not take up loans or be a guarantor.

Romance luck is wavering; couples have frequent disputes. Family discord should be resolved as soon as possible.

Career
Better to stay put and be on the defensive side this year. Handle every matter in a low-key manner. Do not do huge investment, especially speculative and illegal activities, else you face regrets. Regardless of whether you are in the business, political or working sector, stay away from gossips. Silence is golden. If you have thoughts of starting or expanding your business, please do a thorough and sound proposal and think thrice before proceeding.. This is a relatively level year. Those schooling should be self-disciplined and be diligent, stay away from bad company.
Do not be hasty to get things done. Wait patiently for the ripe time to strike.

Love
Romance luck is not good. Couples are in dispute frequently. Cherish and improve your current relationship, where mutually being tolerant, caring and understanding are easily affected by rumours and gossips, or the intrusion of 3rd party; it is better to have it resolve earlier. When you are together with you’re your family, do not be so agitated, show more tolerance, because family discord is not good for your luck.

Wealth
Unfathomable wealth luck; very hard to predict indeed. Proper wealth luck is level while windfalls are not present. When doing up an investment proposal, consider the market situation and have a fail proof contingency plan. Do not be greedy for fast and easy cash, such that you do risky stuff, where you will eventually end up in deep trouble. When strolling outside, beware of muggers. During business networking sessions, take caution of sexual traps, where rational mind and pure heart will protect your wealth. Regardless of any circumstances, do not be a guarantors.

Health
Health can be considered to be good. However, over-indulgence in tobacco, alcohol and sex are the main factors harming your body. Be extra careful when handling sharp objects. Kid doing outdoor activities should take note of safety. When you are overseas, be careful of catching a cold.

Alternatives to Microsoft Office

2007-11-11T02:47:00.001+08:00

If you need comparison, you should refer to an updated article of Elsa Wenzel, CNET Reviews. She gives you a splendid side-by-side comparison of alternatives to Microsoft Office. In my case, I use MS Office (rated 7.8), OpenOffice (rated 6.0) and Google Docs & Spreadsheets (rated 7.3) for personal, work and academic purposes in order of merits.
...

Joined Facebook.com

2007-11-09T02:05:00.002+08:00

I have been hearing the popularity of Facebook.com from the media on its impact in social networking, marketing, web traffic, advertising, and business. It is time for me to join Facebook.com to reap its benefits and enjoy its features.
...

My SOHO is ready for use!

2007-11-03T23:03:00.001+08:00

After a long wait, Blue Babe and I can now use the SOHO room with the delivery of two customised table and two director's armchairs from a furniture shop, located in Toa Payoh. My discomfort of inadequacy has finally varnished and the SOHO set-up will enable me to remain focused on my immediate goals.

However, the merchant was unable to assemble the customised shelves in time for today's delivery and it will only be ready by next Saturday afternoon. After hearing this sudden news upon their expected delivery, Blue Babe and I were furious on the merchant's lack of notice on this circumstances. Being a first-time customer, we reserve our feedback to the merchant until next week.
...

I am matched to the Ocelot Daemon

2007-10-31T23:49:00.003+08:00

In Golden Compass, Daemon Valthera is one of 86,354 wildcat Daemons within the total Daemon population of 1,190,525. Valthera is a female Daemon, a human and Daemon pairs are typically the opposite sex. For a Dæmon of your own to take into your virtual world, complete the Dæmon personality profile.

...

Asia seeks tech career guidance

2007-10-30T01:55:00.001+08:00

Good questions indeed, Isabelle Chan! That's what I am going through at the moment and at some points of my banking career. This ZDNet Asia's article offers you an insight of your career planning and management.

I am tired of doing the same old thing. How can I get out of this dead-end job?
This technology is a dying platform. What should I focus on next?
Everyone is talking about the tremendous opportunities in (this new emerging technology), but what are the long-term prospects?
I am good at what I do in software development and have no interest in the business aspects of IT. Does this mean I can never move up the corporate ladder and improve my earnings?
If I make this career switch, I'll have to take a pay-cut. Is it worth it? What if I don't enjoy the new job and want to return to my old one but that ship has sailed?
I am ready for a career switch and prepared to take a pay-cut, but age is catching up and employers seem to prefer younger hires. What do I do?
This new job sounds interesting and it is with a well-known company, but it is a contract position. Is it worth giving up my present permanent full-time job for?
You love what you do but feel the hours getting longer. The demands of the job are intensifying and taking its toil on your family life. What can you do? Is it possible to strike a work-life balance?

Digest it and get the answers you want for a better career.
...

It's celebration time!

2007-10-28T22:37:00.000+08:00

The month of October calls for a celebratory period of love between Blue Babe and I marking our individual's pursuit of love and twosome's fulfillment of our wedding vows as well as her birthday. Locked my sight of a Compaq Presario V3000 Notebook PC (Widescreen) as her birthday gift this month, we immersed ourselves in the celebration of relationship, wedding and birthday from 14 Oct 2007 to 26 Oct 2007.

Being first-year anniversary of our marriage, we gave each other a special 1887 Braun Buffel timepiece with leather strap in elegant timeless classic design and commemorative giftbox in conjunction with their 120 years anniversary celebration. Of course, several handbags for her along with it made a perfect gift besides my usual combination of hand bouquet of flower, date, dinner, and movies.

The timepiece reflects our contemporary context in relation to the traditional anniversary gifts listed below:

1st Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Paper | Modern Gifts: Clocks

2nd Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Cotton | Modern Gifts: China

3rd Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Leather | Modern Gifts: Crystal

4th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Fruit or Flowers | Modern Gifts: Appliances

5th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Wood | Modern Gifts: Silverware

6th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Candy or Iron | Modern Gifts: Wood

7th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Wool or Copper | Modern Gifts: Desk Sets

8th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Bronze or Pottery | Modern Gifts: Linens or Lace

9th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Pottery and Willow | Modern Gifts: Leather

10th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional Gifts: Tin or Aluminum | Modern Gifts:Diamond Jewelry

Sweet and perfect celebration of all occasions.

Rendition

2007-10-28T17:46:00.000+08:00

On 27 Oct 2007, Blue Babe and I watched Rendition at The Cathay at 11:40 PM slot. It is a thriller film on controversial CIA practice of extraordinary rendition that affects Egyptian-born chemical engineer and his American wife who found him vanished in a flight from South Africa to Washington. Something to brood and reflect about extreme caution on fight against terrorism that blinded the truth and perverted humanity. Good to watch, no doubt!

Stardust

2007-10-24T23:55:00.000+08:00

A Shaw corporate movie screening that I accompanied Blue Babe to watch at Lido Cineplex and Stardust makes a great date movie to watch with your loved one. Fairy tales and romance can't go wrong as its recipe of success. Touched by by its storyline and certain part of its dialogues, I recommend everyone who embraces love to watch this movie either on a big screen in cinemas or on TV by VCD/DVD at home.

Farewell party @ Yuki Yaki

2007-10-23T23:49:00.000+08:00

Located in Marina Square, Yuki Yaki offers a Do-It-Yourself steamboat, teppanyaki & ice cream buffet claiming the only restaurant to raise the bar higher in new age dining experience. It was the venue where my colleagues bid farewell. I think it would be better for a lovey-dovey couple to blend into its ambience than us. Anyway, I didn't enjoy much due to my dietary restriction for mitigating a certain allergy.

The Brave One

2007-10-20T01:45:00.000+08:00

On 19 Oct 2007, Blue Babe and I watched The Brave One, a story of empowerment, vigilante, justice and dilemma, at GV Plaza, Plaza Singapura at 10:00 PM. A woman's life turned upside down after her fiancé was killed by a random mob attack in the park. Ought to watch it.

Sony Ericsson P1i

2007-10-20T01:17:00.000+08:00

Effective today, I am using Sony Ericsson P1i instead of Sony Ericsson K700i. It boasts the features of 3-way data input, business card scanner with 3.2 megapixel autofocus camera, view/edit Office documents, push e-mail, and open OS for third party software. With "I SE freedom to create" as its tag line, I am going to love this mobile phone.
...

World results on best looking people

2007-10-19T17:00:00.000+08:00

WAYN, a social and travel networking site, undertook an on-going poll on world's best looking people based on its subscribers. Is this accurate metric of beautiful people? At the point of writing or blogging, the result is as follow:

England
Canada
India
Australia
Italy
United States
Brazil
France
Spain
Sweden

Now we know where are the beautiful people in the world.
...

Joined Meetup.com

2007-10-19T16:36:00.000+08:00

I joined Meetup.com to organise face-to-face meetings for people with similar interests like business opportunities, networking, professional development and among others. It should complement other channels like Yahoo! Group instead of considering it as a threat of oblivion for existing collaborative tools, channels or networks.
...

Unexpected consecutive resigntions

2007-10-18T23:29:00.000+08:00

I received a SMS text message informing a joint farewell party for two colleagues on next Tuesday. Whoa, that is amazingly unexpected since we only anticipated one to resign due to anticipated emigration at the end of this year. Poached by someone previously left the company? It might be just a coincidence that the other colleague changes job to meet her career goal. Guess, more work is now expected of me.
...

Delivery of HP Pavilion desktop and free gift

2007-10-18T22:13:00.000+08:00

Around 10:00 AM today, I am a proud owner of a HP PC desktop system after hankering it over the years. Despite using PDAs and laptops all this time, I remain convinced that PC desktop system is the ultimate computing power that no one can deny its existence. In fact, I even got a free HP iPAQ 512 Voice Messenger.
...

The 5 Best Careers for a Work/Life Balance Include Teaching and Nursing

2007-10-18T01:12:00.000+08:00

The 5 Best Careers for a Work/Life Balance Include Teaching and Nursing? How real is it? Registered nurse, accountant, physical therapist/massage therapist, graphic designer, and teacher accentuate a work-life balance that no other careers can possibly provide. Subjectivity? Your guess is as good as mine due to our differences in values, interests, and lifestyle preferences.
...

Financial Perspective - AdvisoryInc - Financial Behaviour Online Survey

2007-10-13T05:51:00.000+08:00

Win yourself a The Coffee Connoisseur (TCC) voucher worth $30 each when you complete Financial Behaviour Online Survey by Financial Perspective and AdvisoryInc before 05 Nov 2007.
...

Unethical behavior in the workplace

2007-10-13T03:03:00.000+08:00

Regardless of your employment background, we cannot ignore the fact that the following issues/concerns are common at the workplace. The difference between the truth and pretense lies on the integrity of the involved individuals and how employers address them.

Workplace bullying
Workplace violence
Safety issues
Health issues
Overworking issues
Poor employee morale
Lack of training
Lack of tools
Sexual harassment
Discrimination
Wrongful termination
Favouritism
Disability feasibility
Unethical behaviour
Corporate fraud
Employee theft
Lying
Falsifying documents
Embezzlement
Poor supervision
Poor communication
Office romance
Overworked employees
Office odours

At certain extent, these concerns are adversely affecting individuals who are either seasoned on the jobs or newbies. Does joining trade union prevent all those above?
...

Multiply.com - another social networking web site!

2007-10-10T19:26:00.000+08:00

I officially joined Multiply.com, a social networking service with emphasis on sharing media, such as photos, videos and blog entries. After much consideration on a friend's invitation, I decided to do so because of its real world relationship that makes it different from the rest of the social networking web sites. We shall see if my premise is valid in due course.
...

ShowYourself Widget

2007-10-09T15:44:00.000+08:00

ShowYourself Widget allows you to create your own widget as central access to those online identities. Developed by Dustin Bachrach who has a developer blog, it is easy as ABC or 123, literally.

You take a first step by deciding who hosts the images or exploiting the advantage of a blogging service provider like WordPress. If you host the images yourself, you need to download a zipped image files.

Next, you fill up the required information to establish and link your identities to services such as Digg, Flickr, MySpace, Facebook, Friendster, LinkedIn, YouTube, Wikipedia, Skype, Gmail, and so on. Third-party web sites or blogs are catered as well.

Lastly, you generate codes to place your widget on your blog or website after configuring colour scheme of your widget. That is, you're done!

Completed tagging/labelling of blog entries

2007-10-03T22:02:00.000+08:00

At last, all entries have been tagged. Next task is to refine the tags/labels to reflect context of the respective entry. You can now read my entries in a collective filtered approach.
...

Inertia for the last two months

2007-10-02T20:25:00.000+08:00

Blogging was absent in my mind when I had severe neck pains that normally come with acute stiff neck/shoulder. Yup, mood swings occurred because of the hit-and-run pains on my back especially the shoulder blade and neck muscles. Oouuuuccccchhhh!!!!

Despite getting numerous massage treatments from different outlets and taking painkillers, the pains simply refused to subside. I would not have such episode of pains if my usual massage therapist was available. He was currently on upgrading training while recuperating from a serious back and hip injuries whilst on the job. Imagine, I endured the agonising pains from the time he started his medical leave till now.

Fortunately, I found my solace in the hands of his fellow, female therapist who is one of the company's pioneering masseuses. Coupled with Eu Yan Sang Stick-Well Herbal Medicated Plaster, short use of computers, more rest and recreation, I am fine but not 100% immune to recurrence. Thanks to Blue Babe for being there for me when I need her for a tender loving care.

On a work aspect, there goes my personal record of not consuming medical year for the year. Previously, my medical leave was zero albeit nothing comes out of it (sigh....). Now I took more than half of a dozen of it. I guess there are companies that reward individuals like me for zero medical leave as part of a comprehensive compensation plan.

Alright, everyone, I am back to blogging again. Gung ho!
...

Plato DVD to iPod Converter by Plato Global Creativity

2007-07-31T23:24:00.000+08:00

Two basic video formats you must know, namely MPEG-4 (.mp4 and .m4v) and MOV (QuickTime). The essence of video conversion is a matter of managing free codecs that can be found in many programs like Plato DVD to iPod Converter (Free), good for ripping a DVD into an MP4 file. How do you go about it? You simply hit Open, select your DVD location, hit OK, and you'll have an iPod-ready video before you know it. Voilà!

Then again, Plato Global Creativity a.k.a. Plato Software Company has other good programs as well if you notice their products listing by Download.com.
...

Channel 5 - Deal Or No Deal

2007-07-29T22:04:00.000+08:00

I should give a thought about participating in Channel 5 - Deal or No Deal after playing its online version. It shows that anyone has a potential to win SGD250,000.00. Nonetheless, I won SGD50,000.00 on my first attempt playing the game. Give it a try and we might garner enough guts to partake the real show.
...

Joined BookCrossing.com

2007-07-27T23:47:00.000+08:00

Driven by the recent news about reading shared book in public places via BookCross@SG, I decided to join BookCrossing.com as a member. Oh, BookCross@SG was launched on 03 Jul 2007.
...

Number of couples splitting up at new high

2007-07-25T20:57:00.000+08:00

According to Singapore's Department of Statistics, there were 7,061 divorces and annulments in 2006 compared to 6,909 in 2005. The 20-24 age group tends to fail their marriage that might be due to, in ascending order, living apart, unreasonable behaviour, and adultery.

The fundamental causes of this sharp increase are degradation of values, unstable belief system and detachment of homophilia (relates to exclusion of sexual aspect in a relationship unlike the related term, homosexuality) not poorly planned marriage preparation courses as highlighted by National University of Singapore (NUS) sociologist Prof Paulin Straughan. So, inculcating good values and a strong belief system will cause synergistic vibe in selecting life partner in a homophilia context.
...

Bumis will regress without NEP, says Mahathir

2007-07-20T19:12:00.000+08:00

Over reliance of government's help only hastens a regression in socio-economic aspect of a nation. The existence of New Economic Policy (NEP) causes psychological damage to its recipient in refusing to be self reliance and productive. Look like they are still in the state of denials about the world around them. Otherwise, they should have progressed and achieved most of the objectives of the policy set out to accomplish in the first place.
...

Let students have $500 credit card?

2007-07-20T19:09:00.000+08:00

Definitely a NO. It is simply a way to milk student segment of an already saturated credit card market where each consumer is holding the maximum limit allowed for an individual. Apart from negative impact mentioned in my previous post, students lack the willpower to abstain from abusing the card due to its functionality in the real world. Let the students focus on their studies instead of making bad credit history with such card.
...

New ticketing agent to compete with SISTIC

2007-07-19T19:48:00.000+08:00

New competition for ticketing agents in Singapore?

Seriously, ticketing agents here are feeling the heat with recent partnership between Quebec Leisure International and Tickets.com Inc to keep them on their toes:

Take your pick!
...

Firms still shy of offering work-life balance perks

2007-07-19T16:03:00.000+08:00

Work-life balance is prevalent in banking sector? Probably in foreign banks and definitely NOT in local banks where one person is actually performing expanded responsibilities. If you are into learning the industry, this is probably fine. Otherwise, we have Ms Leong's unfortunate end to amplify the significance of work-life balance in one's life.

Having a recreation clubhouse and in-house child care centre is mediocre in measuring work-life balance. Even the club's activities in the forms of seminars, events, discounts, and so forth cannot warrant 100% staff participation due to operational requirement. How engaged employer with their employees in establishing a healthy work-life balance is critical to ensure optimal performance to create a productive organisation.

So, do you have a balance life?...

No minimum pay needed for new credit card

2007-07-19T12:57:00.000+08:00

New credit card such as CitiBank Citi Clear Card where no minimum pay needed for new credit card create varied camps of thought on how targeted card applicants manage their personal finance without destroying their credit worthiness. Despite the introduction of debit cards which saw increased youngsters' inability to manage their personal finance, the market might not able to accept the concept of the card that taints their future credit worthiness.

Besides seeing parents being dragged along to clear their children's debts, I see negative impacts such as overspending, negation of savings and prudence over materialism, and inability to keep their financial position in line. Of course, sensible individuals will know what is right and differentiate between needs and desires.
...

Embarrassing moment

2007-07-18T13:44:00.000+08:00

Set off early in the morning to collect a pair of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix from a recreational representative, who handles monthly corporate movie event, in Raffles Place starting from 8:30 AM. Actually, my colleague who successfully balloted the tickets via email was unable to attend this Saturday screening due to last-minute commitment.

I arrived way ten minutes before the stated time while back in my mind, I thought I went to the right building where the representative's office was located at 13th floor. Fate has it that I missed the said floor and I swiftly alighted at 15th floor to take the next lift down to 13th floor. On the way down, I met Blue Babe's friend, who also got the tickets, corrected me that I was in the wrong building, not just the wrong level where I intended to go. Alamak, it was an embarrassing moment indeed!

It proves the extent of my mental exhaustion causing my inability to remain alert and focused. The premises are familiar places where I often had industrial relations meetings with Human Resources Division in my past tenure as a trade union official. Darn, it was a case of fatigue, no doubt about it. Perhaps, a short trip or a long break is what I needed most soon.
...

Would stop watching TV if you can earn a million?

2007-07-18T13:40:00.000+08:00

Jeffrey Strain's article on How to Earn $1 Million by Not Watching TV is an excellent example why proper use of time and resources are crucial for successful financial freedom. I guess it is one of a number of success secrets that we should learn and apply for our own success. Knew about this article from my colleague's email forward.
...

Top 5 Worst Companies to Work For

2007-07-17T00:32:00.000+08:00

Top 5 Worst Companies to Work For by EDUGREE sees Home Depot, AOL, Best Buy, McDonald's and Verizon on this unfortunate list. It makes stand upright and wears my thinking hat for a moment about SME or MNC here. We need a local version one to see how true is this. Could not help having ready answers for this ponder though.
...

New seven wonders of the world

2007-07-11T02:26:00.000+08:00

Seven ancient wonders of the world have surpassed their limelights and new seven wonders of the world have been unveiled on 07 Jul 2007 during the Official Declaration ceremony in Lisbon, Portugal. The winners of for the new wonders are as follow:

Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico
Christ Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Great Wall of China, China
Machu Picchu, Cuzco, Peru
Petra, Jordan
The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
The Taj Mahal, Agra, India

Another source of inspiration to generate quizzes or questions from such declaration. Details are available.

AnswerTips-enabled Jeffrey Ning's Web

2007-07-11T01:01:00.000+08:00

The next second you visit Jeffrey Ning's Web, you can double-click a word to get an integrated bubble of information on the fly with AnswerTips. I love it for easy and fast answers without creating new windows/tabs or searching online engines for answers.
...

Live Earth: The Concerts for a Climate in Crisis

2007-07-07T22:37:00.000+08:00

Gaia is screaming for helps and Save Our Selves (SOS) answers that call of help through Live Earth: The Concerts for a Climate in Crisis. I am honoured to share today's moments with Live Earth 7.7.07, a 24-hour, 7-continent concert series that will unite more than 100 music artists and 2 billion people to trigger a global movement to solve the climate crisis. Live Earth is a three-year campaign that focuses on efforts to combat climate change and advocate environmentally-sustainable living. Heed the call of SOS to answer the call!
...

Gift of peace

2007-07-06T01:28:00.000+08:00

iVillage Name Finder interprets my name as a gift of peace and I concur on this enlightening result. You may want to give a search just out of curiosity.
...

Pick a book from a cab or a cafe

2007-07-04T10:58:00.000+08:00

BookCrossing.com introduced a habit that empowers strangers to pick (catch) books for reading and release them back after reading. I love the idea that National Library Board (NLB) collaborated with BookCrossing.com to give us its local version, BookCross@SG. With more than 2,000 SMRT taxis, 10 Cafe Cartel eateries and 13 Cafe Galilee outlets, this initiative will be successful. Reading completes our body, mind and soul.
...

Key to a good marriage? Share housework.

2007-07-02T21:34:00.000+08:00

Originally I got to read this article on Yahoo! News where it has expired for public viewing. A marriage and parenting survey done by Pew Research Center shows the importance of an egalitarian partnership where sharing housework is one such act.
...

Smoking ban in entertainment outlets

2007-07-01T23:13:00.000+08:00

We just have to manage our life expectation in relation to our stages of life to mitigate the effect of the price hike since we do not have a choice other than to embrace it in our best stride. Personally, the most important event is smoking ban in entertainment outlets that begins today as part of a progressive smoking ban. Although a complete ban at one go is greatly appreciated to save hassle of lack of enforcement, this will make do to achieve a complete smoking ban in Singapore.

Mr Brown nailed the people's sentiment this month

2007-07-01T23:09:00.000+08:00

Guess Mr Brown's NGUM is pretty close interpretation of this month's latest happening. We see transport fare, postage rate, NETS transaction fee, cable TV subscription, household item price, Goods & Services Tax (GST) and among others are going up in tandem for more than one reason. Yet, salary/compensation package and contribution rate of employer in Central Provident Fund are regressive in nature despite robust economic situation.

Change of job scope

2007-06-29T23:56:00.000+08:00

At work, a major change of job scope that will affect me greatly in dividing time for work time and personal time. Apprehensive? Maybe a little bit. Strangely, I embraced the change with enthusiasm. Tough? If I survived tonnes of workload due to corporate merger and staff centralisation in my past work assignment, I guess this could be my litmus test of my career or goodbye to my personal time.

Nay, it is a matter of time management. It would not work if there is lack of proper allocation of responsibilities and a complete staff training. I emphasize on the latter because it covers technical skills and knowledge, soft skills, equipment, systems, policies, and procedures that either make or break a new staff or existing staff learning new job scope.

Transformers (2007), cartoon turned realistic

2007-06-28T23:00:00.000+08:00

I am looking forward to watching Transformers by next week (I hope, with my fingers crossed) and you can expect to win yourself a movie hamper if you choose which side you are on and justify who you want to be by 19 Jul 2007. Jay Garmon's blog post on Transformers definitely resonate my desire to watch the movie.

Introducing Imagini - Discover your VisualDNA

2007-06-27T23:15:00.000+08:00

Imagini is a novel way of communicating using images instead of the conventional written or spoken words compared to the rest of social networking websites. With features like integrating Plaxo to add friends to Imagini Friends, its prospect of a successful social web site like Friendster.com looks omnipotently a true success story.

While you are exploring Imagini, drop by their blog started in March 2007 to understand its current beta growth and eventually a full-fledge web site comparable to the veterans like Friendster.com, and MySpace. I learnt about Imagini via email from a female colleague.

Now here is my VisualDNA talking about mood, fun, habits and love in visual form.

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Results for Term 1 2007

2007-06-26T11:14:00.000+08:00

I have passed IT353 Information Management and IT357 Electronic Commerce modules in Term 1 2007. I learnt about my results from Exams Department's email broadcast dated 22 Jun 2007. Naturally, it serves as my motivating boost to continue with the programme after the major hiccup and my hectic work.

No longer living in Hougang

2007-06-24T23:04:00.000+08:00

With just a maximum-loaded truck driven by Anuar, a muscular neighbour from Blue Babe's neighbourhood, I shifted all my stuff in a single trip from Hougang to Sengkang, Singapore. This would be impossible without assistance from Anuar and my family members. The timing was just right to enjoy home-cooked dinner by Blue Babe afterward.

Turn-on of Gas Supply

2007-06-24T01:15:00.000+08:00

As planned for 23 Jun 2007, the first person to arrive for that day was a CityGas officer to turn on my gas supply service. He even shared know-how of gas maintenance and safety check for leakage. That is, three ways to detect gas leakage in a premises are by smell/scent, soap/detergent bubbles, and water pressure level. He also emphasized the need to wipe and clean our cooker hood once or twice a month to avoid problems with our cooker hob.

On his personal observation of family planning, he pointed out the importance of allowing nature to take its course on having babies. Of course, there were evidence of planned parenthood among couples he met in his course of work and his own circle of family and friends that resulted in zero presence of children despite natural attempts.
...

Home sweet home!

2007-06-23T23:54:00.000+08:00

Today was the day Blue Babe and I officially moved in to our love nest at Coris 2. With selected auspicious timing, we performed a moving-in ritual despite a chaotic situation in our home. We enjoy our first simple meal prepared by my Blue Babe :) to symbolise everlasting prosperity and wealth.
...

D-Day for moving to new home!

2007-06-23T11:26:00.000+08:00

Today, I planned ahead for delivery of furnishings and one CityGas turn-on service request by express. The latter was unavoidable due to our overlook of CityGas's requirement of four working-day notice to turn on a gas service.
...

Stiff neck again!

2007-06-22T22:55:00.000+08:00

My neck and shoulders were acting up again with pulled muscles and pains after knocking off on 19 Jun 2007 to have dinner with Blue Babe at Toa Payoh Entertainment Centre. Since then, it got worst till I sought a lengthy back-and-shoulder massage, hoping that it would alleviate my pains and relax my muscles in Toa Payoh on 20 Jun 2007 afternoon.

The next day, I made a decision to consult my usual company's doctor in Hougang but a relief doctor was sitting in my regular doctor's behalf. He subsequently maintained my previous prescription of Anarex, a muscle relaxant containing Paracetamol BP and Orphenadine Citrate, and cough syrup to get rid of my persistent cough. The former medicine comes with a warning of no joint consumption with Panadol. Hopefully I can recover in time for my relocation this Saturday afternoon.

Three days in a row downed with a stiff neck and muscle pull at the shoulder blade muscles were really waste of time and leave. Let just pray that I get better soon.
...

Four-day leave to prepare my move-in to new place

2007-06-20T22:43:00.000+08:00

I have four-day leaves not forgetting the weekends to prepare my move-in and complete my IS352 module assignment with its deadline looming on 25 Jun 2007. Even though I am optimistic about my original intention to complete my assignment, I doubt myself on realising it, seeing my unpacked stuff in my existing place. Oh boy, I am going to have a terrible headache.
...

Happy anniversary, my dearest Blue Babe!

2007-06-19T23:47:00.000+08:00

Despite your justified request to cut down my expenses, I cannot fathom the idea of not giving you a gift or in lieu. So, I promise you to give you something that would not exceed my overall budget when I celebrate our monthly anniversaries.

For this month, I got you a 16-cm tall friend with spectacles from Germany to cheer you up and keep you company when you work overtime, in addition to celebrating our anniversary. Oh, he is cute too!! Hope you like his fur colour, that is grey. Okay, take a look at his photo and here was my message to you:

Happy Anniversary, my dearest Blue Babe!

I got something to keep you company and remind you to go home early, preferably on the dot. Hmm, love does not begin and end the way we seem to think it does. Love is a battle, love is a war; love is a growing up.
...

1.5-day medical leaves awarded by my company's panel doctor

2007-06-14T14:22:00.000+08:00

For the first time, my company's panel doctor in Toa Payoh awarded me 1.5-day medical leaves for stiff neck, slight fever, and flu during my lunch break on 13 Jun 2007. Simply unproductive because the prescribed medicine normally knocks you off to sleep and rest. Oh, gosh! I do not think my stiff neck is going to get better any sooner though.
...

Dunkin' Donuts is back?!?

2007-06-12T22:33:00.000+08:00

According to takeuaway a.k.a. The GoldenKing Writer of TheLocalKing, Dunkin' Donuts is back in the local F&B scene as an e-commerce entity. I can't help but to notice a difference between actual Dunkin' Donuts and a student playing agent in delivering Dunkin' Donuts.

Although the student projects an entrepreneurial spirit whilst in navigating scholastic life, he outrightly copied Dunkin' Donuts' banner design and navigation. This constitutes a breach of Dunkin' Donuts' intellectual property rights if he does so without their permission. Another offence committed by him is using a Singapore-registered personal domain under per.sg to conduct his business rather than for personal use. As far I as I know, registering a .sg domain entails a in-depth scrutiny by the relevant local authority.

Do you think this is a loophole or do-it-but-do-not-get-caught mentality?
...

Blog Award Generator

2007-06-12T01:05:00.000+08:00

Blog Award Generator is a superb award-o-matic generator to smoother your ego since no award has been given in your honour. How about that? Cool? It depends on your perspective and perception of having fun and being serious about recognition. It can be something that you have been waiting to use on your blog or web site.
...

Our home is ours!!!

2007-06-10T23:20:00.000+08:00

I-Bridge Builder Pte Ltd waived our final retainer fee to compensate their subcontractors' damages during the course of their renovation work after a joint inspection today to complete a hand-over process. Carpentry was the last outstanding issue and his men will get it remedied by 16 Jun 2007.

Afterward, Blue Babe, mother-in-law and I cleaned the premises with whatever resources we have at the that point of time. Impressively, we managed to get it done with our bodies reeking with sweat and taunting pains in our joints and muscles. I guess next week would be another session of cleaning up as well.
...

Hunting season is on!

2007-06-09T23:51:00.000+08:00

Blue Babe and I basically went hunting today for our home office furniture and one additional chair to our living room area from Funan Digitalife Mall to IMM. It took us a whole day just for this activities with just two breaks, namely my ice-cream for Blue Babe at Swensen's, Funan Digitalife Mall and Japanese dinner at Ichiban Sushi, IMM. Ironically, we did not manage to find any suitable with an exception of V.Hive Singapore that we need to consider first before finalising a purchase.
...

HDB's hand over

2007-06-07T23:04:00.000+08:00

Once HDB's contractor completed the installation of the bedroom doors and related touch ups being the outstanding defect issues, our appointed interior design will subject themselves to liability of damages. As this hand over was overseen by Blue Babe in the morning, I believe HDB has done their part on a goodwill basis despite their contractors' lousy project management skills. Comparatively to the shocking disappointment, HDB almost share a similar fate on how well they handle unforeseen circumstances.
...

Tagging my entries

2007-06-04T23:32:00.000+08:00

For the past few days, I have been tagging past postings with labels to facilitate categorisation of my posts for easier searching, grouping similar topics or themes and showing continuity and relevance to my life as a whole. It will take me some times to complete the process. Bear with me and you shall have a better idea of my postings here.

We did it!

2007-06-03T23:44:00.000+08:00

In the late afternoon of the day, Robert and I, each with a different objective, went to Suntec Singapore. He bought the books he saw yesterday at the book fair while I bought a flash drive ~~for~~ at the computer show.
...

World Book Fair 2007

2007-06-02T23:51:00.000+08:00

After our fascination with The PC Show 2007 around 9:00 PM, we zoomed in to World Book Fair 2007 at Level 4, Hall 401-404 where I would become limbo or in paralysis. The fair incorporates 22 World Chinese Book Fair, World English Book Fair and World Electronic Book Fair and runs concurrently as The PC Show 2007 except it ends at 10:00 PM.

Anyway, we went separate direction with Robert wading toward 22 World Chinese Book Fair while Blue Babe and I were hawking books and stuff that interest us in the fair. He found a few good books that he will want to buy but not now. Guess, Robert and I share a same wavelength to treat our presence here as another reconnaissance for good bargains.

One stone kills two birds tomorrow?
...

Attending The PC Show 2007

2007-06-02T23:41:00.000+08:00

Robert, Blue Babe and I took a Comfort taxi ride to Suntec Singapore to attend the show to gather pricing reconnaissance. It was necessary before committing to the intent to purchase on the last day of the show with anticipation of probable huge discounts by the exhibitors there. I admit there were lots of stuff having its price slashed dramatically by promoters and it bothered me that I have no interest in them except for one item - flash drives. We shall see if I am going to buy it or not.
...

It is time for contractors' showdown!

2007-06-02T23:35:00.000+08:00

Today was really a good day to take a good rest yet I need to entertain and monitor rectification work by three HDB contractor's workers and two external contractors from 9:00 AM onwards.

The first HDB contractor's worker of the day was tasked to reinstall my three bedroom doors and remedy any issues encountered. Next, HDB contractor's worker fixed the cracked parquet skirting by using silicone gel and miscellaneous remedial actions on the premises.

Blue Babe came down to join me for lunch at a nearby food court while waiting for the remaining contractors between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to resolve air-con trunking, faulty electrical point and switch, and change of lighting bulbs. We took a seat near our block's lift lobby area while opening and reading our mails.

Then, HDB contractor's worker in charge of electricity came to fix a faulty electrical point and switch along the passageway area after numerous attempts and a power trip. Subsequently, our external air-con contractor came down to explain and remedy cracked lining of sealer for the pipe trunking besides Bedroom 3. He offered an explanation to the room's missing door stopper and this does not help at all when William refused to share the responsibility of the loss.

Finally, our lighting supplier's worker came to change the lighting bulbs that was not installed based on our specification at the point of purchase due to their omission. He even shared with us his insight on certain things after hearing about our predicament.
...

Double up on your reading pleasure

2007-06-01T23:09:00.000+08:00

Under the National Library Board's Drop Everything and Read (D.E.A.R) promotion between 26 May 2007 and 08 Jul 2007, basic and premium members can now borrow eight and 16 items respectively. Cool! Just nice for me to do my course assignment.
...

The PC Show 2007

2007-05-31T15:53:00.000+08:00

Starting today, the four-day show will be held at Level 6, Hall 601-3 of Suntec Singapore between 12:00 PM and 9:00 PM. The PC Show 2007 promises great bargains, offers, products and services and helps you to buy big tickets like SGD5,000-00 plus hi-definition plasma TV before Goods & Services Tax (GST) of 7% kicks in effectively on 01 Jul 2007. Would you allow this to motivate and influence your purchase decision?

For me, I learnt that such event is also a technological dumping venue for soon-to-be-obsolete products. Based on this premise, the hike in GST does not affect my rational decision to make a purchase.
...

Interesting promotion from Pizza Hut Singapore

2007-05-31T15:41:00.000+08:00

Interested to contribute ideas and enjoy pizza at the same time? Sign up as member of Pizza Hut Singapore online community to enjoy free California Fitness VIP pass and 1 free Hawaiian pan pizza. For details, you just have to visit their site.
...

What are the best 100 Web 2.0 sites and services? We don't know. But you do.

2007-05-31T15:19:00.000+08:00

A good poll to complete and learn things that you are unaware or unheard: What are the best 100 Web 2.0 sites and services? We don't know. But you do.

...

Good gentleman on the bus

2007-05-28T23:18:00.000+08:00

On my way to work today, I encountered a good gentleman in his thirties or forties on a double-deck SBS Transit bus service no. 72 to Yio Chu Kang bus interchange. Since the LCD display of the bus seat sensor indicates the availability of 12 seats, the guy was following me up to the upper deck and to our awe we saw all seats were fully taken up. We went astern and got stuck standing on the staircase with me on the boundary between the upper deck and a few steps on top of the staircase.

After a stop or two, one male commuter was going to alight on the next bus stop. Naturally, the guy and I proceeded to the upper deck to allow him to alight. In sequential manner, the guy did not grab the vacated seat despite standing in front of me and open space for him to just occupy the seat. Surprisingly, he acknowledged my priority for the vacated seat and went down to lower deck.

To me, that is a good gentleman who treat people with consideration, respect, honesty, and understanding. Thank you for making my day!
...

Final paint touch up

2007-05-27T23:12:00.000+08:00

Today was final paint touch up for the whole premises despite unresolved renovation issues. In turn, the final payment will be withheld till rectification is completed to our satisfaction while I am contemplating some actions with regard to the whole renovation. Gosh, there goes my precious weekend!

As a consolation, Blue Babe and I had an opportunity to meet up with a good painter who knows his stuff to produce an excellent painting work. Anticipating a need of his service, we got his contact numbers.
...

A corporate movie event for Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End

2007-05-26T23:37:00.000+08:00

After inspecting our home renovation for some time since morning, we took a MRT NEL-line ride to VivoCity for Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End at 7:00 PM show time at Hall 11, Golden Village. Arriving earlier and extra time to waste, we grabbed a bite at Toast Box.

Blue Babe gave their nasi lemak a try plus Set Menu 2 while I tackled their special mee siam and a cup of coffee. Mmm, glad to say that their nasi lemak was good. The coffee and mee siam here were rather mediocre compared to their AMK Hub outlet. Blue Babe highlighted that their Capital Square outlet fares even worst than this outlet. Eventually, we were fifteen minutes late due to our last-minute shopping at Lee Hwa Jewellery for Blue Babe's necklace chain.

Blue Babe chided that the movie makes no sense at all. Errr, kind of think of it I have to partially agree with her because any one misses the first two of Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy would not be able to correlate the events mentioned in the movie. As usual, the first movie is always the best to watch.
...

What a disappointment!!!

2007-05-26T23:32:00.000+08:00

Blue Babe and I went to check our home in the morning as William had requested for final payment in fulfilment of our renovation agreement. It seems my worries over the renovation were not entirely paranoia when the unimaginable scene occurred under my nose. What we saw is not an outcome of professional and quality work that we initially expected.

Ironically, I received a comment from Vincent asking about the workmanship of I-Bridge Builder Pte Ltd (a.k.a. I-Bridge Design Pte Ltd) on 23 May 2007. Obviously, I would not be recommending to him or anyone else. I guess they do not put themselves in our shoes as owners who appreciate our home to be home sweet home. Nay, they just want the money. A case of pragmatism or greed over what is right? Who do not want a trouble, hassle free renovation?
...

The Great Singapore Sale 2007

2007-05-25T23:13:00.000+08:00

Here comes The Great Singapore Sale, beginning from 25 May 2007 to 22 Jul 2007, to entice you to shop till you drop during the shopping marathon. You will definitely be handling or juggling offers, rewards, and bargains by retailers, banks, and shops.
...

My weird theory

2007-05-24T01:38:00.000+08:00

Blue Babe found my theory below to be interesting:

Organisation is a very weird entity that requires impact players yet creates obstacles to dampen work atmosphere. When employees aim to be value-added to the organisation's existence, they are penalised for their initiatives and aspiration to strive for higher productivity.

Ooooh, I felt so honoured, indeed!
...

Continous changes on the site

2007-05-21T03:33:00.000+08:00

In the last few days, I have been testing and experimenting with certain web application and widgets to see how effective they are on the site for permanent implementation. Although I have removed some of them and even use another form of representation for the original ones, you see continuous effort on my part to make the site flavoured in my style.
...

Non-renewal of Straits Times and Sunday Times

2007-05-19T23:50:00.000+08:00

Although my subscription ended on 05 May 2o07, Singapore Press Holding accorded me a complimentary two-week subscription of Straits Times and Sunday Times till 18 May 2007 when I made an enquiry about it on 08 May 2007. I was rather amazed and baffled by their act of goodwill. As such, I will definitely subscribe again after moving to my new home in Jun 2007.
...

Blue Babe lost her Sony Ericsson K800i!

2007-05-17T03:36:00.000+08:00

I was like, "Huh?!?" when Blue Babe told me the news. My Blue Babe lost her mobile phone in a Comfort taxi driven by a Malay man, aged mid-to late 30s, in the afternoon before 5:00 PM on 16 May 2007. This loss has caused frustration and grievance to both of us because the mobile phone is part of our love story or life. It feels as though a piece of our flesh has been torn and eaten by a ruthless vulture.

It contains memories of our love and appreciation of each other in the form of SMS messages, photos and short videos. It is disheartening to realise that those memories will forever be unrecoverable. Darn, hope of getting it back is definitely no where on the horizon. :(
...

Textbook received for IS352 module

2007-05-16T23:06:00.000+08:00

I received my textbook entitled Object-Oriented Systems Analysis and Design Using XML, 3rd Edition (2006), by Simon Bennett, Steve McRobb and Ray Farmer via courier service provider, Deltec International Courier Pte Ltd. It was an unexpected early delivery as I was originally informed of its three-week delivery due to the nature of my registration. I should thank PurpleTrain.com Pte Ltd's Student Helpdesk staff for their efficiency.
...

Variable bonus equates to performance rating

2007-05-15T00:03:00.000+08:00

The dreaded truth about one's performance at work is known at the stroke of midnight. It saddens me that it isn't reflective of my productivity and only verifies my presumption of my situation. I guess there will be other "casualties" similar to my predicament and the tragic reminder.

Education, examination, experience, and ethics (4E) are the ingredients of a career that I am considering for some times now. Its calling for my 100% involvement since 1998 makes me thrilled first yet shivered to answer that eventual call despite passing the first hurdle last April. I need to come to a critical decision .... even Blue Babe is nudging (or rather nagging) about my plan. I must resolve my internal conflicts before deciding.
...

SBS Transit drivers on strike?

2007-05-14T23:37:00.000+08:00

Could it be drivers of SBS Transit are having a strike or creating industrial slow-down action? If it is a case of maintaining schedule as highlighted in their company's questions and answers regarding their drivers' slow driving, I would be satisfied considering its rationale of the action. However, you tend to notice that the drivers are not meeting their scheduled timing for pick ups especially when you follow a strict routine of timing to board any particular bus service for work.

Its inaccurate timing of arrival affects my punctuality at work for my breakfast. I normally have 20 minutes to enjoy a good healthy breakfast before I start work. Now, it reduces to ten minutes instead. Perhaps, I should feedback to the company if it gets worst day after day.

Next level in Yahoo! Answers

2007-05-13T23:50:00.000+08:00

Since my last post, I am now Level 3 (1,000-2,499 points) with 15 questions, 60 answers, 30 comments, 100 stars to award, unlimited rating to give, and 60 votes to cast. With 31% for best answer over 190 questions, I am loving it!
...

Spider-Man 3 in Digital

2007-05-12T23:19:00.000+08:00

Blue Babe and I watched Spider-Man 3 in digital at The Cathay Cineplex, The Cathay at 5:40 PM show time after inspecting our home renovation earlier in the day.

Needless to say, the movie was superb and one of the best as it addresses ethic issues you encountered in work and life over matters like job security and revenge of one's loved one caused by death. We just to need to reach deep down in our heart to choose the right choice and way.

Personally, there were touching moments in the movie that really caused you to rethink about your life values and priorities. We should love our spouse, family, and friends more than anything else. A definite must-see movie in a cinema!!!

Nevertheless I consider Spider-Man 2 as the best of the Spider-Man trilogy.

Pain around neck and shoulder region

2007-05-11T22:28:00.000+08:00

I just could not bear the pain in the region of my neck and shoulder that I left the office early to seek massage treatment at Kohong Health Products & Foot-Reflexology Centre, 520 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh, #01-53 Singapore 310520 near Toa Payoh MRT station. From 2o-minute session extended to 40 minutes, the cost of the single session of treatment was rather exorbitant compared to its competitors in the market. However, the technique used was enlightening and unique to give you the aaahhh satisfaction of relief.

I tend to believe that I will sleep like a little cute baby tonight because of the massage treatment. No harm having extra rest to energise ourself, do we?

SurveyMonkey.com

2007-05-10T23:51:00.000+08:00

As of date, I joined SurveyMonkey for its empowerment in creating professional online surveys in an efficient and effective manner with great simplicity and ease. Soon, you will see several surveys under Surveys section of this site. Look up for them and be among the 100 respondents to my surveys on various topics like marriage, dating, relationship, career trend, current affairs and so forth.
...

Seventh Annual Weblog Awards

2007-05-09T23:36:00.000+08:00

In blogosphere, Seventh Annual Weblog Awards is seen as the highest accolade a blogger can achieve if one is lucky enough to secure votes of zillions of Internet users who read blogs. There are 30 categories below that you can compete in.

Weblog of the Year
Lifetime Achievement
Best New Weblog
Best Web Application for Weblogs
Best Photography of a Weblog
Best Craft Weblog
Best Food Weblog
Best Sports Weblog
Best Weblog About Music
Best Entertainment Weblog
Best Weblog About Politics
Best Web Development Weblog
Best Computers or Technology Weblog
Best Topical Weblog
Best GLBT Weblog
Best Teen Weblog
Most Humorous Weblog
Best Writing of a Weblog
Best Group Weblog
Best Community Weblog
Best-Designed Weblog
Best-Kept Secret Weblog
Best Australian or New Zealand Weblog
Best Asian Weblog
Best African or Middle Eastern Weblog
Best European Weblog
Best British or Irish Weblog
Best Latin American Weblog
Best Canadian Weblog
Best American Weblog

...

7 Levels of Delegation

2007-05-08T01:15:00.000+08:00

John McKee highlighted seven levels of delegation in considering each member of your team as individual to boost your effectiveness with your team members.

"Wait and be told, or do exactly what I say"
"Look into this and tell me what you come up with"
"Give me your recommendation, and other options with the pro's and con's of each. I'll let you know if you can go ahead."
"Decide and let me know your decision. But wait for my go ahead."
"Decide and let me know your decision. Go ahead unless I say stop."
"Decide and take action, but let me know what you did."
"Decide and take action. You don't need to check with me."

The most empowered delegation is number 7.
...

IS352 Advanced Systems Development module begins

2007-05-07T23:55:00.000+08:00

IS352 Advanced Systems Development module is one of the two core modules of my degree programme. It is a critical module that will influence the other core module, making it definitely must score and pass well. It calls for time management and intensive reading on the subject on hands. No slacking is allowed here!
...

Getting along with your boss and colleagues

2007-05-05T12:48:00.000+08:00

As of date, you can find the useful links to a great resource of getting along with your boss and colleagues for a pleasant, productive work place.

Does Gossip Have a Place at Work
The Five (Difficult) People You Meet at Work
Things You Can Do to Annoy Your Coworkers
Too Much Information
Toward a More Civil Work Place
Why and How to Say No to Your Boss
Work Place Bullying
Handling a Boss Who Has Turned on You
Refusing to Do Your Boss's Personal Work

...

Rest in peace, Ms May Leong Bai Yen!

2007-05-05T12:42:00.000+08:00

Is this what we call commitment and loyalty? It is ironic that her death reminds me of my own situation except Ms Leong's irrational perception of work ethics. Mmmm, Blue Babe seems to share similar traits in terms of how we truly work our asses off even we believe in "work smart, not work hard" slogan. In the end, we still work hard and smart concurrently in our course of work. Just plain dumb for employer's exploitation?

Whatever you call it, this is a personal work ethics that I believe and uphold. However, there should be a clear boundary between work and personal time. Undefined line of boundary of these two aspects in one's life spells peril.

See also:
AsiaOne Digital
Time is Life~Time is Life
...

CNET Broadband Performance Test

2007-05-04T00:46:00.000+08:00

The Broadband Performance Test checks the bandwidth of your Internet connection and provides you with precise, detailed results about your connection performance. Not only it is a free and easy test to complete, you stand a chance to win one of four Sony Ericsson K800i by replying to the survey questions before taking the test. Classified me as Communicator, the test shows StarHub's MaxOnline Ultimate plan as the right broadband connection plan to stick around in near future.
...

Third job anniversary

2007-05-03T22:13:00.000+08:00

Today marks my third working anniversary in my current work place. In fact, I almost forgotten about it. I have seen the ups and downs over the years yet I see lack of efforts in producing stronger teams to achieve higher productivity. Nevertheless, I have gained specialist skill sets, knowledge of chargeback resolution of Visa/MasterCard credit/debit/ATM, and unexpected advancement at the cost of my unfavourable academic pursuit.

Earlier on during lunch break, I was thinking about how to celebrate this anniversary with my colleagues on the eventual day without realising that it was today. Well, it was an extremely busy today with tonnes of unprocessed cases. Obviously, my previous temp staff honoured me the title "Super Processor" for a reason.
...

Yahoo! Answers

2007-04-30T23:45:00.000+08:00

Recently, I got myself hooked with Yahoo! Answers where you ask, answer and solve questions. Despite joining in Jun 2006 at Level 1, I was passive in accessing to and participating in Yahoo! Answers until more than a week ago. It seems I prefer to answer questions posted on Singapore Yahoo! Answers than posting questions to global or local Yahoo! Answers. On 23 Apr 2007, I gained Level 2 with unlimited ratings, 40 votes, 10 questions, 40 answers and 20 comments per day. The next step is Level 3.
...