Our Rights to Fresh Air

I'm not sure how many non-smokers there are out there who shared the same exasperating experience like me - having to bear the smell of 2nd-hand smoke @ public places & unfortunately, at my own home at certain times.

I grew up in a family with 3 smokers - my grandpa, my dad & my uncle. I'm used to the smell of smoke since young & @ that time, there wasn't much awareness raised on smoking-related diseases.

There I was, about 5-6 year old, curious to try how it taste like, or rather how it feels. So I asked my grandpa if I could give it a try. Being the garang man, my grandpa of course felt that his grandaughter should try it. So I picked up the cigarette & tried a puff...Gosh! How on earth would people like such a horrible thing???

Thank goodness that was the end of it. At time I thought - adults are weird. They like beer that taste bitter & they like cigarettes that choked the lungs & tasted terrible.

Ever since the awareness on smoking-related diseases had increased, somehow, I became 'allergic' to cigarette smoke, in fact, I'm quite anti-smokers...especially the less socially conscious ones. If they have their right to smoke in public places, I think I should have the right for fresh air too.

I shun smokers. Sometimes it can be real obvious. I would walk quickly pass the person smoking in front of me whilst walking & holding my breath. Sometimes, I would fan myself so as not to smell the smoke. My real taboo - people who smoke in lifts. Imagine the smell that will linger for hours...I usually would make give a stern comment to those who smoke in the lift when I caught them red-handed. There was once I actually stepped out as the guy who holds a lighted cigarette walked into the lift. I'm not sure if he's embarrassed but I hope he did. It happened a few times with different fellas & sometimes I did not allow them to step into the lift. Don't they know it's illegal & can get FINED? I told myself to get the camera ready next time.

Well, my hubby is worried that I may get bashed up one day. Fortunately, smoking is now banned at bus shelters, air-con places & even pubs now. Otherwise I may have offended more people.

Whenever I saw a parent or an adult smoking away whilst holding on to a child, I can't help but to pity the poor one having to take in the 2nd hand smoke, which may have long term undesirable effects on his/her health.

I can never understand the reasons given by smokers for picking up smoking. It's cool? Perhaps some people might feel that having yellow teeth & a smoke breath is cool. Yeah, so cool that I would walk away from the person when he/she comes near. Can stay slim? Well, if you think staying slim is better than staying in bed for the rest of your life when cancer strikes, well it's a choice. "Aiya cancer can strike on anyone mah". Well, just like buying system 7, the chances are higher for smokers.

Pressure? Ya, you get 'relief' for a while & when the effect wears down, you still face the stress & it's double stress this time as Mr Nicotine has a say over your mind & body now. Peer pressure? Why can't it happen the other way where non-smokers pressure you into quitting? I'm not a believer of social smoking as well. I don't think I'd be an outcast if I'm the only one in the group who don't smoke. If my friends isolate me because of that, I suppose they aren't real friends then. Hmmm....maybe I should try the habit of picking my teeth & chat with my friends after I finish a meal & see if the rest would follow.

Well, if you've really no choice because of certain reasons that you can't quit or don't wana quit (like my grandpa who landed up in the hospital after trying to quit smoking after having smoked all his life. So instead of quit completely, he cut down on the numbers), then you could perhaps practice some sensitivity & civic consciousness by lighting your rod of life at less crowded areas. We will definitely appreciate that gesture & I won't disturb you for sure.

The best is of course, to quit while you're still young. Don't think it's "cool" when your body gives out the natural 'perfume' -cigarette smoke smell. Oh yeah, that kind of smell might keep the potential guy or gal miles away from you.

Bring Your Kids to Work Day

My hubby's co. had dedicated a 'Bring Your Kids to Work' Day which happened last Friday. Well, due to confidentially issues, I wouldn't mention the co.'s name thou I thought it should be made known since it's a meaningful activitiy.
Not every kid is lucky to visit his/her parent's co. & having fun there too.

Oh well, if you know my hubby, you would know which co. that is. But I could still pose the photos. Er...don't bother to squint at the photos, the co.'s identity is protected ;) The 1st photo is showing the kids watching a performance in one of the conference room.

The kids went on a short tour around Daddy's/Mummy's office followed by a treasure hunt in the office as well! Cool...



I thought more co. should dedicate a day to invite the kids to visit their Daddy & Mummy's workplace. Not to get them prepared for work in the future or to paint the picture that a workplace can be 'fun', I hope. But more to make them see for themselves what their parents' office is like, what they do etc. since most kids at one stage or another will ask questions like 'Where is Daddy/Mummy going?' & 'Why do you have to work' & 'Can you stay at home to be with me & not go to work?'. I hope they will learn & understand that they toys that they have, the place they stay, the food that they eat or even the 'aunties' that they have come from the the effort put in by their Daddy & Mummy at work & it is not easy for Daddy & Mummy to provide all these things too.

To be honest, prior to the event, my hubby already anticipated that there will be 'aunties' coming as well besides the kids. I'm not against 'aunties' but I thought it should be a true blue 'Bring your kids to work day'...only kids...if bringing back the kid may be an issue, well isn't it good that the parents can knock off on time, bring their kids back home & perhaps talk about what the kids think about their office, what they did, what have they learnt or noticed etc. during the journey back? You might be surprise at what they say :)

National Day Parade 2007 Afterthought

Smart soldiers marching, crowds cheering, F-16 figher jets roaring followed by impressive entry by Falcons & Apache, thrilling aerial aerobatics at the Sheares Bridge by the commandos, enchanting performances & mesmerizing ethereal images projected on the water screen with an awesome firework display as the finale had made this year's NDP a sepctacular & memorable experience.

Actually I find the performance using the water screen somewhat similar to the 'Songs of the Sea'at Sentosa which uses pyrotechnics, water jets, lasers, computer imaging & bursts of fire. But of course the NDP's version is definitely more stunning & dramatic.

I personally also liked the part where they feature the parade commander Lieutenant Colonel (NS) See Tow Pak Onn together with his family. Thought that was a nice soft touch to it.

Indeed, according to a poll conducted by MediaCorp Media Research on 466 Singaporeans (local & overseas), 'Singapore is a place where my family and friends are' tops the list for local S'poreans while 'Singapore is a place where my roots are, no matter which part of the world I'm in' tops the list for overseas S'poreans. It is interesting to note that(though it may not be a surprise to us) 87% of local S'poreans feel that 'staying out of trouble' (obeying laws, paying taxes, doing well in school etc) is important...more important celebrating national day, actively supporting S'p & actively promoting change.

I used to love watching NDP & even to the extent of at attention when the national song is played on TV. Gradually, I've come to a stage where I can miss watching NDP or catch it at a re-telecast. But this year's performance plus new insights of the national event had made me look at it differently. Thanks to my ex-boss.

I used to wonder why would the govt want to spend to much money & resources on a 'performance'? The money could have been better spent on other areas like helping the needy. Especially the amount spent on the fireworks...it's like literally 'burning money'.

But hey, after speaking to my good old ex-boss, who used to work in the armed forces til he retired, I realised the significance of it. First it was for National Education. It's a time for the nation to celebrate together, to also remind ourselves how far we've come since our independence. It's a good time to stir up the patriotism within us. We feel proud watching our armed forces, the advanced equipment we have, the precise coordination & execution of the event (the amount of work & stress the organising committee & the staff had to go through is no joke). So kudos to the organising committee who had done a great fantastic job! Not forgetting the others who had also put in their utmost effort in putting up a good show.

Yes, a good show also for our potential enemies who might harbour ill-intentions. By showcasing our armed forces & equipment, plus the flawless execution of the whole event, we are telling them that we are capable, we are ready & we are not an easy target.

When I asked my hubby whether he felt it was a waste of time during his army days when he had to be involved in the NDP. It was a 'yes' which I believed most of you guys who were involved in the past in one way or another would have felt the same. Perhaps instead of just commanding the soldiers to carry out their duties, it might be good to give them some background, the purpose of having this Parade & the role they play. Seeing it from this perspective, made me appreciate the event more as well as the efforts put in by everyone. Yes, it can get quite political but it's necessary.



Speaking of 'burning money', I remember MM Lee made an interesting comment at an interview with Today where he made a light-hearted reference to Singaporeans' fascination to fireworks which goes like this "(you get) a few minutes of joy. I say, 'Why do we burn these? We could (use the money) to put up a community centre.' ...But this is what they want. So, all right, 'poof' you burn it up...You go with the times."

Well, the efforts paid off.

Happy National Day

Happy National Day!

Didn't manage to get the NDP tix to watch the show tonite so guess I can enjoy it from the comfort of my home. A pity my hubby's office doesn't face the stage. Let's see if I'll have better luck next year to see if I can get a chance to be part of the parade...very deprived lah, have never been involved in the NDP...apparently SJC is involved this year leh...born too early...

Have take a short clip on the chinooks at Marina Foodcourt. It was taken during one of the rehearsals in July. Chinooks

Seems that there are many discounts offered by shopping malls today. So wear your national colours out & get soaked in the mood :)

Hard Sell Tactics by Beauty Salons

Have you ever wished that you could have a relaxing facial/ spa without any sales pitch by the therapist or the sales staff?

I believe we have met hard sell sales person in one way or another. As much as I respect their profession & understand their position, I think hard sell should never be the tactic if you want sustainable business. Too bad not many people understand this, especially so for the beauty salons.

Had my fair share of hard sales at various beauty salons. My ex-colleague who has been to various salons can strongly vouch for that. I'm actually an easily persuaded person & I'm open to buy new products or services. In fact, even if the product is damn good, I won't buy it if the sales person sucks in his/her attitude.

There's nothing wrong for these people to promote their products/services. But if it comes to a point where the sales person becomes pushy & emphasizing that the offer is only valid for the day & will not be extended (sometimes even to the extent of making comments on how BAD your skin condition is), then I suppose it's an offer than CAN be missed. When it comes to promotion, their definition of TODAY is actually EVERYDAY.

I admit I'm so conditioned into saying 'No' to people who approach me on the streets or shuff some 'free samples'. I'm skeptical because of previous bad experiences & my husband always reminded me not to talk to strangers as I simply love to talk ;p So today as I was going to NTUC to buy my toothbrush, a lady came up to me to pass me a pamphlet & said something about 'free sample'. Of course my immediate reaction is to say 'No' without her finishing her sentence. After that I was a little apologetic for my rudeness. It's their job afterall & I should have rejected nicely. Anyway, I thought to myself if I were approached again, I would listen to what she had to say.

Well, I was approached by another sales person on my way back & thought I might as well take the pamphlet this time before I go off. Then she went on to tell me there's a free sample & there's no obligation to it. Well, might as well since I'm free to hear what she's gotta say.

Went in, listened to her describing about the uses of the free sample, the products/services & I made some enquiries also about the products ingredients, country of production (in case it's made in Cxxxx). Then she went on to try to persuade me to buy the $28 voucher for a trial facial. "Promotion is only valid for today. If you don't purchase this voucher, you won't get this good rate anymore," she said. Told her politely that I just had my facial & I still have an existing facial package & so would not want to commit anything. She went on & on obviously trying to sell that voucher. Gave her some excuses as I just want to leave the place. Seeing that she refused to budge, I just walked out. If she had another customer in the shop, this won't look good.

To be honest, if she hadn't pushed me, I would have given it a try after I've finished my existing facial package. She had lost a potential customer. Much more than the voucher worth $28.

I'm no sales guru & I just come from the customer's point of view. If I feel uncomfortable about being pressurized into something, then I don't think I will get any sales if I were to use this tactic on my customers in turn.

So ladies, if you are easily persuaded & soft-hearted like me, it's better to say 'No' first than to listen on.

National Day

Since National Day is around the corner, thought of sharing this short skit which I had written for the school's National Day Competition in 1994. Wow, that's 13 years ago! It has a special meaning for me cos it was the effort of the entire class. Time was precious as we were preparing for our O Level. I think we have our English teacher, Mrs Lau, to thank as she was very supportive. Well, plus a teacher whom we don't quite like, & made a comment that actually made our class even more united.

Ok, let's see how much I can remember. It's a string of Singapore national songs that made up the entire story. Ready?
Gotta use your imagination since there's no video clip of it.

Scene opens with Sang Nila Utama & his crew on a boat.

(Dayong Sampan Tune)
Sang & Crew : Dayong sampan, dayong, dayong sampan. Sang Nila Utama
went hunting, & saw Singapura...

The crew reached the island and saw an animal which gave a roar before it disappeared into the jungle.

Sang: What's that animal?
Crew: I think it's a Singa
Deliberating
Sang: Then we shall call this island 'Singapura'!

A group of immigrants came and started to build their homeland.

(One People, One Nation, One Singapore Tune)
Immigrants: We build a nation with our hands, the toil of people
from a dozen lands. Strangers when we first began, now we're Singaporeans, let's reach out for Singapore, join our hands forevermore!

World war II
A group of Japanese soldiers came & there was massive shooting...many people were injured or dead.

(We are Singapore Tune)
Injured people: There was a time when people said that Singapore
won't make it, but we did. There was a time, when troubles seem so much for us to take, but we did. We build a nation, strong and free. Reaching out together, for peace and harmony...

(Harmony Tune from the Little Mermaid)
Everyone: In harmony, harmony. You're you, I'm me, together we can
live in harmony(X2)

A group of PAP came in shouting "Support Mr LKY! Support Mr LKY!"

(Stand Up for Singapore)
PAP: Stand up for Singapore, do the best you can. Reach out for
your fellow man, you've got to make a stand. Recognise you can play your part, let it come right from your heart. Be prepared to give a little more (a little more)
Stand up, stand up for Singapore! (X2)

(Five Stars Arising Tune)
Everyone: There's a new flag arising, out of the stormy sea,
crimson as the blood of all mankind, yet white and pure and free. Reach out for the flag above, savour freddom, truth and love. There's a new flag arising. Happy and proud are we.

A group of Chinese workers came out to sing & dance.

(快乐工人 Tune)
Chinese Workers: 你可不要，小看了我， 再大的事我都能做。但我从来，空话不
说，不去做梦， 只努力去做。我们是快快乐乐的工人，轻轻松松 过一生。今天的工作一定今天做，明天会有收获!

A group of Malay wokers came out to sing & dance.

(Chan Mali Chan Tune)
Malay Workers: Di mana dia anak kambing saya? Anak kambing saya
yang makan daun talas Di mana dia buah hati saya? Buah hati saya bagai telur dikupas
Chan mali chan, chan mali chan, Chan mali chan, ketipung payung (2X)

A group of Indian wokers came out to sing & dance.
Indian Workers: Engal nadal singal nadal endrum valeveh. Pongrum
invan tankum nadal polindal valeveh. (X 2) Kalvi kelvi kanindal nadal sirindal valeveh. Nalal pungul nayandal purum nalal valeveh.*
(lyrics according to own dictation as I can't the exact lyrics online)

Everyone comes together & sing the finale.
(Ch 8's TV Tune, Own Lyrics)

It's an island full of people on the shore,
sunny island with skyscrapers this is our Singapore.
United the people stand and never fall.
Striving forward, progress towards, our spirits fly and soar.

Do you hear the lions roar? The sound of great achievements
that we've made through all these years & we're still aiming for more.
There's another new day born, with hopes and aspirations
for the better of the future, let us raise our voices sing Singapore
We're a nation strong & free forever, ever more......Singapore!

~~~~~~~~~~The End~~~~~~~~~~~~

I prefer the older versions of the Singapore songs...the tunes sink in & it's easy to hum. for the modern ones, I think Kit Chan's 'Home' is the best. Simple yet meaningful & heart-warming lyrics :`)

If you like Singapore songs just like me, you can download them at Sing Singapore.

Sat's Gathering - Dempsey Road

Had a tiring yet interesting Sat. Met my ex-colleagues for dinner at Din Tai Feng. Finally had a chance to makan there cos the queue seems to be forever long & I'm the type who won't queue too long for food...partly because I also take a long time to makan :)

Food is good, perhaps partly because of the company...it's been a long time since I've eaten with a group with a tablefull of food. Never appreciate that during the days when I ate zhi char with my grandparents and my uncle's family for dinner. Prefer to sit in front of the TV.

After makan, the 7 of us squeezed into a BM wanting to head to Hilton for dessert. But we changed our destination when my hubby suggested a new happening place - Dempsey Road, which is just off Holland Road & outside the Orchard Road area. It's easy to reach there but without a car, you need to walk right in.

The place had changed a lot since the last time I came where my hubby & I were scouting for teak furniture. It used to be known for its antique, teak furniture shops and carpet dealers. Now it has transformed into a cosy wine-and-dine destination.

The place was dimly lit & fortunately as Donna had been there recently (which had some grumbles coming from the passengers in the car as she should have updated them of this new happening place earlier), we ventured further in. So exciting....it became darker as we went further in...Imagine the 'Wahs' in the car as we saw the fountain & the good-looking shops. As quoted from Chong, it had a 'sua teng' feel (mountaintop & secluded)haha ;D Perhaps it was too dark, we also witness an accident where a driver had bumped into a parked car. Quite a bad bang...

We explored the place & some had collected name cards for future reservation needs. A pity that I wasn't equipped with a camera that can take good night shots. But we'll be there again soon as it has been choped as the next place to meet for our gathering :)

We had ice-creams & cakes at Ben & Jerry's. Oh must try the hot fudge mud cake umm.... ;d``then we spent a whole hour there 'fantasizing' an advernture & get all excited. Well come to think of it, perhaps we are too stressed with work (or no work) that we had funny ideas and actually went to execute it...the ending wasn't what we had expected or was it? But everyone ended up tired and some, like my hubby, came down with a fever due to the late night. Think it's time for us to live the 'Cinderella's Life' from now.

It was a funny, tiring, bo liao, exciting, wow-ing nite. I suppose I'd appreciate this experience in 10-20 years' time when we reminise the crazy stuff we do. But then I'm already enjoying it now - with the clips I've taken on my mobile phone hehehe ;>

Logic9 & Sudoku

As I was reading up on Tan Kin Lian's website on his advice on invesments and insurance, happen to chance upon this website where it teaches you how to play Logic9 which is similar to Sudoku. I don't really play Sudoku when it became popular as I thought there's no mathematical formula involved & you just place the numbers 'by chance'...But ever since I've learnt the technique from Tips on playing Logic9 am hooked on to it now.

It's a good mind stimulation game & you can play it anywhere. Never too late to start liking this game. Try it: Logic9

WARNING: It can get very very addictive. I actually tried to solve 2 puzzles before I go to bed.