What's in my name(s)?

GINA means...

You are deeply philosophical and thoughtful. You tend to analyze every aspect of your life. (Absolutely right!)

You are intuitive, brilliant, and quite introverted. You value your time alone. (Not sure about the brilliant part but I am definitely an introvert.)

Often times, you are grumpy with other people. You don't appreciate them trying to interfere in your affairs. (No interfering, please! I'll get grumpy when you do.)

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing. (Isn't it something good? I mean, you don't want a stone with no emotions, do you?)

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long. (You mean trying to write an hour a day just because I wanna finish my manuscript is not sticking long enough?)

You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start. (Ask my ex-editors this question and they will tell you I am the first to finish what I have started.)

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people. (I do?)

You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts. (I agree to this one 100%)

You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals. (Maybe. I have a sensitive soul.)

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. (I want to believe so.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CMATE means...

You are very open. You communicate well, and you connect with other people easily. (If written communication counts, then this fact is accurate.)

You are a naturally creative person. Ideas just flow from your mind. (Oh yes, they flow too fast for me to capture.)

A true chameleon, you are many things at different points in your life. You are very adaptable. (Accurate again. I am everything and nothing.)

You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated. (I like to believe so.)

You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want. (I don't work hard, I work smart.)

You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way! (I would do that with power! Muahaha!)

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. (A repeated statement about my name. I believe it's 100% accurate.)

You are a seeker. You often find yourself restless - and you have a lot of questions about life. (Oh yes, I am always restless and I do question life.)

You tend to travel often, to fairly random locations. You're most comfortable when you're far away from home. (I love being away from home. I love staying over at people's house.)

You are quite passionate and easily tempted. Your impulses sometimes get you into trouble. (That's what Joe Balan says.)

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. (Yes, I get along with everyone until they begin to find me irritating, that is.)

You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. (And when they are together, I am left out.)

At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together. (What should I say? That I am a responsible freak?)


Man! Looking through the answer to this online quiz is just so entertaining. Especially when this is the 14th day I am at work with nothing to do - whatsoever. It really helps time to fly faster. Of course, reading all your blogs has been great fun too. I spend the first 15 minutes checking my emails every morning, another 15 minutes to make myself a cup of coffee and settle down comfortably in my seat, and the next 2 to 3 hours reading every blog on my blogroll. Yes, it is my daily routine and I am enjoying it so far.

Now, what should I do after lunch?

Mini Bites of the day: People think they know you, you think you know you, then you realize at the end of the day that you don't even know yourself because it's a daily self discovery process.

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Hello & Goodbye

I have been leaving my home for work really early in the morning lately. Carpark is a hassle when all the parking payment machine start mushrooming from the ground in Petaling Jaya area lately. As if coping with the petrol hike is not challenging enough, free parking facilities are robbed from us with the newly implemented parking system. I hate the fact that we have to pay for something which was once free of charge. It's not helping me to stand steadily on both my feet.

That aside, the main reason I want to arrive at work as early as possible is because next Friday would be my last day here in this small little corner which I first fell in love when I stepped in for the job interview. I can't help but think that I am leaving this spot a little too fast. But life changes. I can only plan that much for the rest is in God's hands. Perhaps this little corner does not belong to me in the first place. Perhaps I am just a passerby.

I walked towards the coffee shop like I always do every morning. Ordered a bowl of noodles from my favourite stall and sat down at a nearby table outside. Like every other morning, the waiter boy, KK, placed a glass of chinese tea in front of me before I could even take a seat. He knows my regular order before I could even say a word.

"You're late today," he said. I explained that I went to the bank first to get some errands done. He nodded and walked off to serve other customers. I took out a magazine and started reading. Stopped to have my breakfast when the food was served. And resumed reading after that. Then KK walked over again.

"It's my last day today," he uttered. I couldn't hear him clearly because I didn't expect him to talk with him. Yeah, when he sees me walking at the street, he would wave and say hi. When we bump into each other on my way home, he would wave and say hi. But nothing else. We are just acknowledging one another.

"Nope, my last day is next Friday. The aunty there told you about it, issit?" I asked blurly and pointed to the lady who sells my favourite noodles. We chat a little, of course we did. I am her faithful customer. She tells me a lot of things and I do share a thing or two about myself. She must have told KK something.

"I am saying that today is my last day here. I am going back to my hometown tomorrow," he explained again. Once a while he looked at the counter to see if his boss was looking. He seemed to be expecting me to say something.

"Where's your hometown?" I asked. Strangely, a wave of sadness flowed through my heart. This guy is not handsome but he is pleasantly cute. Seeing him makes me smile all the time. He always has this childish smile playing on his lips.

"Somewhere..." his voice so slow and low, I couldn't hear a thing. Like whatever. I wonder if I could snap a photo of him because I am using him as one of the minor characters in a story. Then again, that would be totally weird to ask, wouldn't it?

I nodded when he stopped talking. He looked at me for a while and then left. Just a few steps away, he turned back and came to my table again. It was as if he has something else to say. Then deciding not to say anything, he left again.

I spent the next few minutes looking at him, absorbing the way he walks and talks and works. I thought I would miss my rich couple friends or perhaps the Ol' Man Life Radio group, but turned out, I might just miss having my morning life right here in this coffee shop. It's like family. People knowing what I want to eat and drink before I say anything, sitting at the same spot under the umbrella and letting the morning shine warms up my feet, and the occasionally companionship of a stranger who needs a seat at my table - It feels good. I just hope my new workplace would feel the same.

Back to KK, he avoided my eyes whenever he happened to look my way. I was not sure if I should say something or anything to him. It felt like I just found out a friend is dying and today is the final goodbye. In another way, it is. He just said that today would be his last day at work. I won't be seeing him the moment I leave the table. So I sat a little longer this morning.

I asked myself if he likes me. Not that I really care if he does or not. It's just weird that he chose to tell me that we won't be seeing each other again. I am just a customer, he is just the waiter boy. There's no need to inform me. Then again, it's only polite to do so. I can imagine myself walking in one morning and not seeing him there or having my cup of tea served before I could sit myself down. I would be asking a hundred question what has happened to him then. The weird thing is, I have never thought of telling him that I would be leaving here soon. It never run across my mind.

I contemplated if I should leave my name card for him. Not like I am expecting him to call me or anything but who knows, if he needs help or anything, at least he has someone to call. He doesn't look like he has any family or friends. Then again, who am I kidding... Just how helpful can I be?

And so, as he walked into the store room to get something, I quietly stood up and left. It felt bad inside that I was leaving without a proper goodbye but was it necessary? What was I to say? I left no name card and just walked out. When I turned back to look, he just stepped out of the store room and stared at my empty chair.

Goodbye with waiter boy was weird and left me feeling sad. I could not imagine goodbye with my new rich couple friends or the Ol' Man Life Radio group. They are the ones whom I actually talk with in the mornings. I would miss the rich women suggesting I meet their rich sons to be friends. I would miss listening to them talking about life as if they have lived 1000 years and there are more to come. I would miss my morning life.

Today striked me really hard that Hello and Goodbye come hand in hand. They would never walk into my life separately, but always as one. If there is Hello, there would be Goodbye. Just like when I first said Hello to my church Cell Group, it was a year later that I have to say Goodbye though I thought the farewell part would never come.

So remember folks, if there is Hello, there is Goodbye. For every person we meet, we would have to part with one day. For every heart we fall in love with, we would still have to part ways when death do us apart. Just as you say Hello to me when you read my blog, one day when I am gone and this blog is dead, you would have to say your goodbye too. My advice for today is be prepare for a Goodbye with every Hello. That's the best we could do.

Caption: Here's a video specially for all you SP CG members who have not given up on me yet.

Mini Bites of the day: When you meet someone, you can fall in love and give them your heart but remember that one day, you would have to part.

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First manuscript is the hardest

I am in love... with romance storytelling. Been watching a couple of fantastic Japanese and Korean love movies which were absolutely amazing, I am left with nothing but a drive to write some great ones of my own. To start off, I have found the courage to scrap off the manuscript which I have been working on for three months now because changes are required. From the comments which I have received from my faithful reviewers, the manuscript is a good start but definitely not good enough to engage readers to want to buy. They would probably read it if they don't have to pay for it. And that's not what I want as a writer. I want people to desire to own the story, to go to the bookstore and purchase one even after they have read the entire story in the library. I want my novel to be in their favourite list.

Having the courage to scrap off your hard work and start again is not an easy task but it is essential to make sure that what you produce is your best, not your good. A good writer has to have the courage to delete what is good and come out with the best. It has always been a hard thing for me to do so but I am going to do it. I am going to make sure my first novel debut is of top quality because it's my first impression to readers. And I want to make sure I get it just right.

Personally, I think it is a good proposal and if u can, please try to make it a 'funny and gila2" style book. I am sure our young readers will enjoy it.

This is what Aina Emir has to say about the novel which I am working on currently. Just in case you guys don't know who she is, Aina Emir is a renowned author for various local Malay novels. Her writings are loved by many and she has many fans. I sent in a novel proposal to the publisher and was surprised to hear from them so soon. I am truly encouraged to march on. I really hope to accomplish this manuscript by the end of this year.

Mini Bites of the day: The first step is always the hardest; The subsequents would be as easy as ABC.

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And so the week begins...

The To-Do List last week was a total failure. I managed to complete only 80% of all that was required of me. So this week, I am putting up another one because I really have to get things done before mom comes home. When she does, I probably can't do any of the things I want to do. So here goes this week's list...

Updated on 3 August 2008, 11am in the morning.

1. Organize the wardrobe.
2. Get rid of the computer.
3. Install printer and scanner software to laptop.
4. Complete corporate profile for client's website.
5. Get the laundry done.
6. Wash toilet.
7. Create Memory Verse presentation for church. (CANCELLED)
8. Write another two chapters of my Malay novel.
9. Structure the backbone of a new manuscript.
10. Sweep and mop the floor twice a week.
11. Re-arrange the books into the proper shelves.
12. Clean the pile of junk basket at the corner of the room.
13. Design front cover for my novel.
14. Complete a proposal for publisher.
15. Prepare for my first short film screening at school.
16. Throw out the 15 years old Canon printer.
17. Start working on the new English title inspired by my colleague, Ede.
18. Make sure the copy for a mooncake brochure is completed.
19. Collect money from some of my clients who owe me for ages long.
20. Work on my website - Cybermate's Dungeon.
21. Re-structure the current Malay novel I am working on. Apparently, it needs more comedy touches.
22. Spend even more time with my grandma. I had a great time with her last week over dinners.
23. Go jogging at least twice this week.
24. Re-arrange the files on my laptop. (it's kinda messed up, dunno why)
25. Clean up the house again during the weekends so that when mom comes back next week, she wouldn't complain.

Green Lines: Last week's to-do items.
Purple Lines: This week's to do items.

By the way, someone emailed this interesting photo to me this morning.

Caption: Marzipan Babies. These are made with marzipan (a type of cake icing). Really unbelievable! Every detail is amazing, and they look VERY real. Who would have the heart to take even just a small bite?

Mini Bites of the day: Just when you thought that something is impossible, God would open His way to make everything possible for you.

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July Feast Day

*slowly inhale and exhale*

This feels good. Tiring but definitely good. My day started as early as 6.30am this morning and it has just ended around 10.30pm as I plopped down in front of my laptop after a nice cold shower. My body is aching and my limbs are exhausted but I am satisfied. Because I have just cleaned up my entire room, got rid of the dust and mites, chucked out six big garbage bags of the past, and collected a pile of hair and dust-strings. Yuck! I hated them so much. Bye bye, dust-strings!!

After eight good hours of cleaning the house and my room, my stomach started to growl while I was in shower just now. And I thought perhaps I should reward myself with some good food tomorrow. Should I have cheesy pasta or KFC? Then I remembered that I haven't posted food photos for Feast Day for a few months now. Even when my mobile phone is functionable again, I totally forgotten about the photos. So here's for this month's Feast Day.

P/s: Someone once commented that I should put the photos bigger cause they cannot see what exactly is the dish. Is this big enough? Heh!

Mini Bites of the day: Not all ordinary things are boring if only we try to find the fun in them.

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The Perfect Picture

Every day may be a routine, but there is definitely something that makes each day different. If you are a housewife, sending and picking children up from schools is normal but if you pause to look hard enough you would realize that every day is different. You park at the third house instead of the first and end up talking to a parent - that is different. Same goes to those who are working and studying. My daily routine is the same but each day feels different for me because of the things people do and say. And today proves how different every day could be to every one of us.

I stopped at the waiting area near the guard house at church after the wedding event and waited for my uncle to pick me up for class. It was 1pm in the afternoon. My eyes screened through the crowd; No one in specific whom I could identify with... hold on, isn't that JL? She was standing next to the guard talking about something. Since we parted ways, I've never taken the initiative to say hello when we (do) bump into each other in church. It wasn't neccessary. I only greet people I know. She was a stranger, still is and would always be a stranger.

She did not notice me and I heard myself exhale with relief. The last time she tried to act normal in the midst of talking with my family while I was around, I totally detested it. She made me seemed like the rude one, the evil one, the devil. I didn't need that now. I just wanted to be alone. I just want to attend my final filmmaking class at 2pm, go home and change for the night wedding dinner at 6pm, and end my day with perhaps a glass of red wine. No such luck. She did it once again today!

"Gina! So great see you. Where have you been?" a lady I knew years ago shouted out loudly as she walked towards me. Instantly JL turned to look my way. I saw her reaction at the corner of my eyes but didn't bother to respond to it. Instead I focused on the lady.

"Just been to another galaxy in the outerspace and back," I joked. The lady laughed and waved goodbye. Damn! My eyes can't be focusing on the empty road, it would look totally weird. Besides, I could see JL waving at me at the corner of my eyes. Reluctantly I turned to look at her and forced a smile. She was definitely thrilled that I acknowledged her. Double damn! I can't believe I just made her smile again. It's not fair. Because she could never make me smile again.

She walked over to me all smiles while I rooted myself on the ground which I was standing on. No way I was going to be happy to meet her. I can force a smile each time my family is around while she talks to them but don't expect me to smile when it's just two of us. Just two of us - I thought that would never happen again but it was happening now.

"So how are you doing? Heard you are switching jobs again," she started. I vowed not to mention anything to my dad in the future. He has been reporting everything about me to JL and it irritates me that she gets to know everything about me when I don't want her to.

"Like usual," I replied shortly, clearly not in the mood to talk. I prayed hard that my uncle would just appear right now and drive me off. I didn't want to have to talk with her. I didn't want to be seen standing next to her. I didn't want to have anything to do with her. Please, someone saves me!

"Not so good to keep job hopping," her motherly voice took over. "How is everything else?"

You mean what I did to forget about you or how was life since you died in my life? - I almost wanted to shout out loud. A security guard came running to us and I silently breathed 'Thank God!' They talked in front of me and I found out that JL left her car keys in the car, locking herself out. Haha! Serves her right! I simply laughed out loud.

"Don't laugh at me. It's not funny," she warned and pointed her finger in front of my face. She used to do that all the time.

"It's funny. It's typical you. Locking yourself out everywhere, leaving things here and there... HAHA!" I laughed even louder. This time she whacked me hard on the back like she used to do before. Man! I sure hope no one was spying on us from behind the pillars. They would probably be rejoicing or scratching their heads puzzled.

"It's not funny! I have so many things to do and I have to lock my keys in the car," she blabbered on while the security guard went off to look for something.

"Busy woman getting married, of course you are busy. No reason not to laugh though," I purposely laughed even louder. Instead of getting annoyed, she actually seemed pleased that I was laughing at her. The smile so wide across her face reminded me of how much she used to love me. I quickly brushed it away.

The security guard came back again with some tools to open the car door. Imagine hijacking your own car, I can't believe it was happening. I just grinned at the thought as she walked away with the security guard. Suddenly she paused at the road side and looked me. Her eyes begging me to continue connecting with her. Her body shifting from left to right, unsure if she should head towards her car or stay and talk with me.

"I'll walk you to your car," my lips uttered though my heart disagreed. I was just being the gentle(wo)man I have always been when I was with her. I would walk her to places, carry her things, settle her schedule, handle the small tasks- treat her like a princess. Thinking about it now made me feel foolish.

Her eyes lit up as I took the first few steps towards her. As we walked to her car, I realised nothing could wipe away the smirk on her face. She must be really enjoying it and I hated it when she thinks I still care. So I took out my camera and upon reaching her car, snap a photo of the key laying on the driver's seat through the window.

"I'm sure my blog readers would be interested to know the foolish one who locks her car keys in her car. I shall offer them free lunch date with... you for every accurate guess," I tried to irritate her again. Backfired. She thought I was trying to be playful with her. Her eyes sparkled and she seemed even more delighted. It made me more upset inside. I shouldn't have talked to her at all in the first place. What has gotten into me?!

A couple of her friends saw us and waved. If I have a spade with me, I would have dug a hole in the ground and bury myself. This scene was just so wrong. It shouldn't have been this way. We haven't spoken for two years and I want to keep it at that. Why is it changing now?

Just then my uncle drove up next to us. I exhaled deeply with relief. Finally, I could get away with this whole situation (which shouldn't have happened at the first place). Surprisingly, before I left, I managed to finish my act by saying, "'Bye! See you in your wedding..." and her lips broke into a smile so wide, I swore I have never seen her smile as blissful as that before.

I kicked myself mentally for saying the wrong words. She must be super happy to think that I have finally agreed to attend her wedding. Except that I would not. Of course I have imagined being at her wedding, standing by her side as her babygurl and smile and be merry of her marriage (while we were still close to one another), but now all I can see is her wedding without me there. It's the perfect picture. I wouldn't want to ruin it.

Mini Bites of the day: Being nice to others even when we don't really like them is a blessing in disguise.

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Tagged: Quirky Me

Every tag game has its rules. These are the ones I have to post before I can start the game.

• Link to the person who tagged me.
• Mention the rules.
• Tell six quirky yet boring, unspectacular details about myself.
• Tag 6 other bloggers by linking to them.
• Go to each person’s blog and leave a comment that lets them know they’ve been tagged.
  

And I have Alice to link to since she tagged me in yet another interesting meme. You guys should check out her answers for this meme as it proves her quirkiness in every day life. I wonder if I am as quirky as her.



#1 Driving Serenity. While most Malaysians are fed up driving on the streets because of the constant traffic jam and heavy traffic, I actually love driving because it calms me down. To be in control behind the wheel is a serene feeling that I could not find anywhere else. Whenever I am all stressed up, I drive because it makes me happier and helps me to focus better. Mind you, I don't speed. I have high discipline in keeping to the speed limit on the highways. It's not the thrills that I am seeking for; it's the power to be in control.

#2 High Heels & Stilettos. I don't hate them. In fact, I think they make a woman looks gorgeous and sexy. But I am not all out for them. I prefer my shoes and sneakers and slippers. It's more comfortable. Maybe it's because I have feet the size of nine/ten. Not threat easy to find heels for my elephant feet, you know. I'm afraid I might fall and break my ankle too if the heels are too high. So scrap the heels and stilettos, I don't mind black stylish sport shoes with my pants suit.

#3 Writer Nutso. I don't have to elaborate more on this as the effect is plastered all over my blog. I put away at least an hour a day to focus solely on writing my manuscripts. It could be a novel I am working on, short stories, movie scripts or anything. Even when I don't feel like writing or suffering a writer's block, I still force myself to write an hour a day. Boring, I know. But it is the only way to actually have something written and not just talk about it all day long.

#4 Bookworm Nevertheless. My mom finds it hard to read even 10 pages a year while my dad only read biblical books, which takes him more than three months to finish one. My sister reads as fast as I do. I may pick up a book and discover that I hate reading it but still forces myself to finish to the last page. Is that quirky or boring? I don't know. I just hate starting on something and not ending it. And yes, I read at least one book a week (or at least I try to).

#5 Graphic Design is Everything. Come on, who isn't in love with good looking graphic and images! I am in love with everything about graphic design and layout. The irritating part is I love them to be perfectly aligned and structured. A perfectionist is precisely who I am when it comes to designing. My second cup of coffee: Graphic Design. Challenge me to design something for you and I would.

#6 Fast Worker. I have never come to understand why Malaysians are so slow when it comes to work. A job that can be done in two days, they take two weeks to complete. A task that takes only an hour to accomplish requires one week from them. Maybe that's why I have more time to observe and disturb my colleagues than they have. I work fast and I love it. The feeling of producitivity brimming to the edge of the cup drives me to perform better and stretch myself longer.

I feel boring just writing about my quirky self. Perhaps I am a boring reserved writer. Perhaps I am too proper and systematic to have some fun. Or perhaps the perfectionist me just isn't doing others justice. Should I really care?

Now, let's find out who is as quirky as I am; Better, who is even more quirky that I am. Tagging Felicia, CurryEgg, CC, Samantha Lau, Simple Alex and Ariel.

Mini Bites of the day: Understanding yourself is as important as having others understanding you.

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Headhunted, Now What?

And so, I was being headhunted. Big deal! Why? Because it was absolutely not the way my current boss has put it. He said, “It’s very easy to be headhunted these days because there are websites such as JobStreet, JobsDB, etc. If you have your resume posted up there, you would get headhunted in no time. So you shouldn’t be too happy with yourself for being headhunted.” Oh yea… except that I forget to tell him that I have rejected the many calls I got from those kind of headhunting procedures and this time, I got a call straight from the horse’s mouth. My senior in my previous workplace recommended me. How about that, boss?! Should I be smiling now?

I might be stepping on people’s toes today (maybe not) with the topic ‘Headhunted, now what?’. Doubt you guys would find an article similar to this because when I googled the word ‘headhunted’, all that came out were links to ‘Tips on how to be headhunted’. Just how desperate employees are these days about being headhunted? Does it make you smile wider when it happens to you? Does your ego level shoot rocket high? Would you be doing somersaults and jumping around telling people, “Woohooo! I got headhunted!” ?

Because I didn’t and I wouldn’t. And it irritates mom that I could just tell the headhunter on the spot through the phone that I am not interested after listening to half of his proposal. Sometimes they would call again to persuade me, sometimes they don’t. In rare times when they catch me on a bad office mood day, then I might actually listen to a word or two and be tempted for that split moment. But all in all, trust me, being headhunted does more harm than blessing. Because you tend to look back and wonder, “What would have happened have I not received that call from the headhunter?”

Some people are ignorant; They don’t ask the What Ifs. They focus on short term such as ‘I need the extra money cause petrol price has increased’ or ‘They pay me higher so I am joining them. After all, same job scope and workload. Why not?’. I have a friend who has switched jobs seven times over a period of two years for only one reason: The higher pay they offer, the more secure I feel. Screw the environment or colleagues or future because we are in Malaysia. What difference does it make to be an Account Executive and Account Manager? They are just titles but salary counts.

There are some truths in that but how many times can you hop in your entire career life? Till you have served in every company in the country? What’s next then?

Back to the current junction which I am standing at right now. I was headhunted and recommended by my senior to work in a national corporation. And this time, I am interested because there are limitless career growth opportunities with good pay and I am hired to do something which I am in love with – Graphic Design, Copywriting and Branding. It could never be more ideal considering that I am always contemplating on which area I should focus on. Now I can focus on all and be content. The questions that were bugging me before I made my decision – Would I be comfortable working in a big corporation where office politic is unavoidable? Would I be happy?

Through experience, here are a few pointers I would like to share with all of you (just in case you got headhunted and could not decide what is best for yourself):

Listen not to the headhunter. Listen to the company that would be hiring you.
Afterall, at the end of the day, it’s between you and the organization that would be hiring you. The headhunter can promise a hundred and one things but the person who decides is the company itself. Meet up with the HR people, find out more about the organization and its culture, check out the working environment and then ask yourself, “Do I see myself here in 5 years’ time?”

Lay out the Versus List.
I call it the Versus List; you can call it whatever you like. Compare your current job and the new offer. Don’t just look at the salary they are offering you. Compare the working environment, culture, colleagues, distance, surroundings, job scope, employment benefits, happiness (very important), etc. May the best one wins!

Decide on Money or Passion.
Most headhunters would offer you a higher pay so that you would be tempted to jump the boat. But it can also mean they expect more from you when you work with them. Sometimes, they offer you a job that is totally different from the one you are having now. So what goes? A higher pay and doing something totally new? Or keep your old job because it is where you passion lies? Bear in mind that living expenses is increasing daily.

Find out what lies ahead in your current job.
Switching jobs is a tough decision to be made, trust me. I even did something that everyone called me foolish in order to make the right decision. I approached my current boss and tell him about my new job offer – not to boast but to at least know what he has in store for me before I start comparing and make a decision. It’s only fair for everyone and it makes comparing so much easier. You don’t want to get back to the decision process when your boss counter offer upon your resignation.

Don’t let them change you.
If headhunters are interested in you, they wouldn’t ask you to be someone else in order to hire you. If they tell you to change the way you present yourself, then you are not the person they are looking for. So be careful of that. Always be yourself when you are being approached. Let them love you for who you are because that is who they are hiring. If you put on a mask and they like that mask, both parties are in for a rough ride when you go on board.

Talk to people but don’t let them get to you.
Everyone has something to say when you go to them for advice or opinions. Five out of ten of them will tell you what is best in the situation (but for them, and not for you). So digest all the opinions and advice you get but don’t let them get to you. Use them as reference and not theories because different individuals want different things. It’s your job on the plate, not theirs. So listen to your heart.

Think long term.
Don’t let money blind you. Think long term because this is your career which we are talking about. Screw it up once and you would have to start from scratch again. Think about where you want to go and how would you get there. Would the job you undertake bring you one step closer to the destination of your dreams?

Talking about dreams, the new job which I would be embarking on would lead me astray from my dreams but I took it up anyway because (for reality’s sake) I still have to make sure I earn enough to live before I could run after my dreams, don’t I? Right now I have to jog towards my dreams and not run after them but that does not mean that I have given up. I am only taking a longer road to success. And that is also part of my decision making process.

For those of you who asked me how do I get headhunted, the answer is (like my boss says) through job hunting websites – which I don’t consider as being headhunted. I am truly headhunted when a senior recommends me or when someone calls me up because they admire my skills, personality and all I am. Only people who want to hire you for who you are should be on your consideration list. Otherwise, forget about the whole thing. It’s not worth your time and thinking brain juice. You are worthy just being who you are.

Remember to always put yourself first. You are the one making the decision. You are the one deciding what is best for yourself. You are the one who knows what satisfies you the most. So decide for yourself and don’t let others decide for you. You owe it to yourself!

Mini Bites of the day: It’s not selfish to put yourself first before others because a happy you means a happy them.

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Discover Your Home

Home, as defined by Dictionary.com, is the place in which one's domestic affections are centered. It could be a house, apartment, or other shelter that is the usual residence of a person, family, or household. It also means that HOME is the place where we spend most of our time in; to rest and relax, to do the things we love, to cook and eat, to spend time with our loved ones. Yet, do we know our home as well as we should?

When my family was abroad on a holiday last week, I found myself discovering so much more about my home. Heating the pan up to fry bacons for breakfast, I spent the next few minutes locating the cooking oil which mom has diligently hid in the oven. In it, I also found soy sauce, pepper powder, salt, sugar and seasoning powder. Why would anyone keep anything in the oven? Beats me!

If you were to ask me where do I keep my clothes, I would tell you that the pants are on the left rack while the skirts are on the right with shirts smacked right in the middle of the entire wardrobe; T-shirts and casual wears can be found all over my room on the floor, in the book shelves, next to my pillow, etc. But please don't ask me where the toilet paper is or where mom keeps the extra toothpaste because every time I thought I know where these things are, I never found them.

That is exactly what happens when we begin to rely on others to handle our household (in this case, my family's household). Things that we do not use as often as the toothbrush sitting on the sink in the toilet, we wouldn't even realize if the items are being removed and placed in another space until we need it. I hunted high and low looking for that toilet paper last night because it wasn't in the pile of things in the storeroom (like it normally is) and found three rolls hanging at the back door of the toilet. Have I not seen those five times a day when I use the toilet? I have no freaking idea. A call to mom cleared the air: She needed the place in the storeroom for something else so toilet papers are kept behind the door since.... last year! I felt foolish all of a sudden.

When furniture are re-arranged at home, we notice it instantly the moment we walk through the door. Or when our bedroom door turned from forest green to a shade of boring brown, we acknowledge the change. And sometimes we make a big fuss out of it. But do we notice it when someone changed our favourite photo frame hanging next to the television? Or perhaps someone broke a special glass gift sitting on the shelf but didn't inform us of their fault because they do not have the courage to tell us? We'll probably discover the missing items a few months down the road. Making a fuss then would have lost its impact.

Ah yes, there are things which we take for granted at home. The more we think we know our home, the more we don't. Unless you are living alone, of course! But if you are like me (still living under the same roof as your parents) then I suggest we take time off and study our home. Open that cabinet you haven't touched for months and see what's new inside of it. Think of an item and look for it. Chances are a longer time is required till the item is being discovered.

Help yourself to know your home better. Spend more time exploring the roof you are living under. And while you are at it, I shall go looking for the engine oil I need to service my car with. I hope it is not in the refrigetrator (hah!).

Mini Bites of the day: Never take for granted the little things in life that shapes the lifestyle you are living.

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Sick at work

One week of unpaid leaves plus two days at work and I still have nothing to do as a copywriter. Things are going really slow in the office. I wonder if it is the slow season in the advertising industry or is it just my agency that is having it slow. Either reason, I am slowly falling apart due to an idle mind and a restless soul. I can’t even think of what website to browse but simply stare at the nice black desktop on the screen. In short, I am fidgeting in restlessness and simply can’t wait till it’s time to go home. Did I mention that I would fall sick if my mind is idle for too long? Yeah, I feel nausea right now and it’s sickening.

*burp*

Excuse me! Lunch is still swimming in my stomach.

*burp burp*

I think I better go hop around in the office. Catch you guys later… I have some thought provoking issues to write about this week so stay tuned ya!

Mini Bites of the day: Working is like exercising; if you are idle for too long, you’ll start to fall sick.

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Learn to Fly

When you feel the dream is over
Feel the world is on your shoulders
And you lost the strength to carry on
Even though the walls may crumble
And you find you always stumble through
Remember never to surrender to the dark
Cuz if you turn another page
You will see thats not the way
The story has to end

And if you need to find a way back
Feel youre on the wrong track
Give it time, youll learn to fly
Tomorrow is a new day
And you will find your own way
Youll be stronger with each day that you cry
Then youll learn to fly

In your head, so many questions
The truth is your possession
The answer lies within your heart (within your heart)
You will see the doors are open
If you only dare to hope
And you will find a way to fight
The fears that kept you down
Cuz if you turn another page
You will see thats not the way
The story has to end

And if you need to find a way back
Feel youre on the wrong track
Give it time, youll learn to fly
Tomorrow is a new day
And you will find your own way
Youll be stronger with each day that you cry
Then youll learn to fly

Looking at your situation
Theres so much that you can do
Nows the time to make your stand
This is just an observation
In the end its up to you
The futures in your hands

And if you need to find a way back
Feel youre on the wrong track
Give it time, youll learn to fly
Tomorrow is a new day
And you will find your own way
Youll be stronger with each day that you cry
Then youll learn to fly

Give it time
Then youll learn to fly

Dedicated to Angeline and Michelle Tai. Whatever it is, don't ever give up on your dreams because they are the core of who you are inside.

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To-Do List of the Week

Last updated on 24 July 2008, 1am.

1. Organize the wardrobe.
2. Get rid of the computer.
3. Install printer and scanner software to laptop.
4. Complete corporate profile for client's website.
5. Get the laundry done.
6. Wash toilet.
7. Create Memory Verse presentation for church.
8. Write another two chapters of my Malay novel.
9. Structure the backbone of a new manuscript.
10. Sweep and mop the floor twice a week.
11. Re-arrange the books into the proper shelves.
12. Clean the pile of junk basket at the corner of the room.
13. Design front cover for my novel.
14. Complete a proposal for publisher.
15. Prepare for my first short film screening at school.

And people keep telling me that my life is not busy. Dang!

Mini Bites of the day: Having lots to do is normal as long as you take it one step at a time.

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Adios, sista!

So ya, it dawned on me the moment I heard the news weeks ago about my sister's decision to take up the study offer from NUS (Singapore) that I would be a star again, and not a sotong. It's a family joke. I (used to) share a queen-sized bed with my sister on which she took on the right side while I sleep on the left. It has always been squeezy and small, I practically have to sleep like a sotong (squid) - straight and static. Guess I don't have to do that now since I have the entire bed to myself. Time to be a star!

And a (happy) star I hope to be without the companion of my dear sister. She has been beside me the past 19 years, I am unsure how life would be without her around for the next 10 years down the road. Would I grieve? Nah, she is not dead - just not around. I figure I'll get used to it. Not having her around for three months when she was gone for National Service was already a sign that I could get used to not having her around (to bug me).

Time to start a new chapter of life, dear sister. And just as you write the new chapter in your life, I would write mine. Forget about the corrupted computer at home, I am junking it. New life doesn't come with the past, you gotta remember that. I'll probably set up our room again, thinking of getting rid of the huge computer table cause I don't need one since I would be on my laptop all the time. Yeadah yeadah yeadah...

I always think that new environment allows us to begin anew in life, to step into another chapter and climb higher. Since you already have a new setup in the campus to begin a new chapter, I would have to create a new setup for myself to start mine. What with a new chapter in my career path, lifestyle and persona coming my way... right?

Anyhow, have fun colouring this new chapter of your life. It is going to be so much fun for you cause mom is not around to pester you. Would she double pester me now that you are not around? I hope not. I am an adult now. I want to have control of my life... like paint the walls in my room if I want to, draw a mural, leave my jeans on the floor, scatter designer toys and items, etc. Ah yes, I think I shall begin my collection of designer/vinyl toys next month - just the thing I need to look forward to the future.

Here are the photos I took of the campus while you were busy watching mom checking in for you. Pretty neat actually. Just a small room to yourself to do anything you want to do - sounds like freedom to me. Enjoy it while you can. And make your tertiary study journey an awesome one! Remember to find a boyfriend too, haha!

P/s: I don't care if I am not an university student. It's no biggie for me. I am happy being the writer I have always wanted to be. So go and be the university graduate you want to be!

Mini Bites of the day: For every handshake will end with a handwave because nothing is forever. Life changes.

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Flashback: Hajime Farewell

One day before we left for Singapore, my cousin KC decided to bring my sister out on a lunch date. My brother and I tagged along because good food don't come all the time. The last time I heard, Hajime serves really great taste Japanese food. And they were right. The meal was splendid! And here's what I have to say!

Caption: Everybody together now... Am I in the frame? I think so. Ah, you are stepping on my feet, brother. *nudge nudge* Okay, you can snap the photo now and I mean RIGHT NOW!

Caption: Why are we standing in front of the entrance again? Oh ya.. they just opened and no one else is around. That's why...

Caption: Is this cement wall? Wait, it looks a little too grey to be cheerful. So what's with the colourful bits of paper sticking on the restaurant's name?

Caption: So romantic the ambience and interior. I wish my boyfriend would bring me here one day, that's if the right one come along. Where are you Mr. Right? Hurry come along and bring me to Hajime!!

Caption: Look at those sushi on the bar!! Are we having those?? Are we? I hope we are because they look darn tasty.

Caption: No matter what I do I cannot make my sister smile as happy as this. I guess Japanese food does the trick. Eat up, sista!


Caption: Gosh, are those cold noodles? You mean we are eating the noodles cold? Why is it served on ice? Erm, Gina, can I not eat those? It looks like Ais Kacang Pasta...


Caption: Like whatever, bro. I am digging in and so is everyone else at the table because the food is simply irresistable!!!


Caption: Oh come on, I am trying to eat here. Can you stop the camwhoring act? I look like a pig when I eat.


Caption: What a unique way of presenting... (what do you call it again)... Chawan Mushi. Mmmm... it's so soft and smooth and easy.

Caption: Can I have more Chawan Mushi after this photo? It tastes better than the one mom cooks at home. And there is gingko inside... good for my brain.


Caption: Everyone's favourite - Avocado Maki (or something like that). It tastes really unique with a blend of all taste and texture. Can we order another plate?


Caption: Wasabi ice cream, green tea ice cream and black sesame ice cream. I love Black Sesame the most. Wasabi was just too... killing?


Caption: Make sure it is the Ladies before you enter, ladies! It's really confusing to decide which washroom is for the ladies and gents.


Caption: Gents has the blue scarf over it... so please do enter the wrong washroom because the last time someone did, we heard people screaming.... with laughters!

Mini Bites of the day: Life means something when you begin to think it means nothing.

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Flashback: Girls Night Out

Last night was great. Meeting up with the girls and having a chill night out was probably what I needed after a long week in Singapore. I have written a review on the movie The Dark Knight so do check it out. Meanwhile, I'll leave you guys with the beautiful photos, courtesy of Elise.

Mini Bites of the day: Life is all about the simplest things that make you happy.

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Hitting Singapore Cinemas

Hey guys!

I am heading to the cinemas of Singapore to watch THE DARK KNIGHT, courtesy of Elise who won premier tickets for the movie. I wonder if the cinemas here are any different from those back in Kuala Lumpur. If anything, I supposed they should be much more comfortable compared to those seats we have in Malaysia.

I am kinda excited now thinking about meeting my blogger friends. Not sure if it would be awkward, comfortable or just plain fun. Guess I'll know when I meet them tonight. Will let you guys know when I get back. Meanwhile, enjoy the videos below.





Mini Bites of the day: Life is all about taking one step at a time and striving the mile as we walk.

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Journaling from Singapore

Heyo folks!!

I am having a slow quiet morning today with my cousins in school, my uncle out at work, my aunt out for exercise and the maid out to run some errands. So it's just a quiet house with my family and the dog, Tyler. And I am loving it!

A short update on my trip here... I left home on Sunday morning and had a long trip down to Johor Bahru, the nearest state to Singapore. Spent the entire hours reading my way down in the car. Am re-reading a Malay novel just to keep in tact with the language as I am still working on my Malay novel. I think my Malay has kinda disorientated because I haven't been speaking much of it lately. Would really love to keep myself updated with the language.

And we spent one night in JB with my uncle's family. My cousin, Daryl, sure is a hyperactive four years old because he seems to have all the energy in the world to keep running and playing and chasing and talking nonstop. I felt tired just entertaining him for the night. My uncle brought us for a scrumptious dinner and an even more lips-smacking good Bak Kut Teh before we left for the island on Monday morning.

After packing everything - half of my sister's life - into the small little car, we were off to Singapore in time for lunch. Spent my first afternoon in Singapore shopping for formal wear. It's so hard to find clothes that fit in Malaysia because everyone there is as tiny as ever. Sometimes I look at what they sell in the stores back at home, it's fit for a 5 years old kid... not me. Hehehe!

It's so much easier to find sizes that fit me here because clothes are meant for tourists as well. I've gotten myself three pairs of pants and a moderate brown top. It's Mega Sales time down here too so shopping becomes quite affordable, but not too affordable. You really have to know where to go and how to choose.

Watched 27 Dresses on the portable TV my uncle has. It's really cool. Every time I come here I watch a movie or two on the mini gadget. The screen is superb clear, you can see James Bond's face on the screen even when he is in action. And the surround sound is superb. I like the individuality that comes with it, as in, I get to watch the movie on my own anywhere anytime. I wonder when I can afford one of these.

My schedule for the next few days includes dinner with my cousins, special date with blogger friends (Ariel and Elise), visiting grandma and grandpa, sending dear sister into her hostel, checking out the PSP prices here, get my MP3 (Mr Bean) fixed and... just relax (I guess). Oh well, catch up with you guys soon... Miss ya!

Mini Bites of the day: Life is about living, love is about loving, and fun is about enjoying.

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Arrived Safely

And so I have finally arrived in the Lion's Den (oops, I mean Singapore). Partially thinking what on earth am I doing here when I could be back in KL working and earning some money; partially knowing that this is one needed break before my soul gives way and I collapse into multi starbursts. I guess I should really lean back and enjoy the time I have to myself (with my family and relatives around me).

Anyway, will keep my posts short while I am abroad. Not like it is a traveling trip that anticipates lots of adventure telling; I am just in Singapore for a short lazy break. Just lazing around, meeting some new friends, shopping for some new clothes for next month and spending lots of time reading & writing. Catch up with you guys when I get back... can't really write lots with my cousin around me. Haha!

Mini Bites of the day: Take a break when you need one, otherwise your soul would break you.

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On the road

Leaving in a couple of minutes' time. Catch up when I get connected to the cyberspace again ya... ADIOS!

Mini Bites of the day: Explore and see the world while you can because God bless you with eyes to see, not to be blinded by temptations of the earth.

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Next Stop: Lion's Den

I mean... the small island down south: Singapore. Every time someone mentions this country's name, all I see are big majesty lions in my head - some sort like Aslan in the Chronicles of Narnia. Weird.

Anyway, I am finally going down south to visit my favourite relatives (mom's side of the family). They are a whole bunch of hippy, trendy and fun people. Check out the photos below.

See the lady in red with glasses next to me in the bottom photo? She used to be my favourite aunt until she turned into a spiritual freak. She is still fun to be with except that I don't get to spend much time with her since she fell deeply in love with Jesus. I think I liked her because she used to think that everything I said was smart. Now, everything I say is not spiritual enough to be consumed. Sigh!

Anyway, that is beside the point. I am also going to visit my grandparents whom I have not met for two years since I started working as a full timer. And also my cousins and other relatives. I just hope that they have time to catch up with me as I would only be there for a couple of days. Singaporeans are busy people, you know.

I am also meeting up with my blogger friends!! Nope, it's not like me to meet strangers I know online. But they are not strangers, aren't they? Just the same, you guys are not strangers to me. You guys are my online blogging friends. I think I am going to miss you guys a lot while I am there. Just praying hard that I get to connect to the Internet daily to blog from the island.

Alright now... logging off. I have so much to do before I leave tomorrow. Take care, folks!

Mini Bites of the day: Like a long highway, life has its rest house for you to refresh and rejuvenate yourself. Take it slow.

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