Dear Lord,
Please keep me strong. Please protect me. Please keep me away from danger, from harm, from the things that'll make me fall into sin.
Teach me to be patient. May I be slow to judge and quick to forgive.
Thank you for your everlasting love.
Amen.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Friday, September 09, 2011
7 Habits To Win In Office Politics
Office politics – a taboo word for some people. It’s a pervasive thing at the workplace. In it’s simplest form, office politics is simply about the differences between people at work; differences in opinions, conflicts of interests are often manifested as office politics. It all goes down to human communications and relationships.
There is no need to be afraid of office politics. Top performers are those who have mastered the art of winning in office politics. Below are 7 good habits to help you win at the workplace:
HABIT #1 – BE AWARE YOU HAVE A CHOICE
The most common reactions to politics at work are either fight or flight. It’s normal human reaction for survival in the wild, back in the prehistoric days when we were still hunter-gatherers. Sure, the office is a modern jungle, but it takes more than just instinctive reactions to win in office politics. Instinctive fight reactions will only cause more resistance to whatever you are trying to achieve; while instinctive flight reactions only label you as a pushover that people can easily take for granted. Neither options are appealing for healthy career growth.
Winning requires you to consciously choose your reactions to the situation. Recognize that no matter how bad the circumstances, you have a choice in choosing how you feel and react. So how do you choose? This bring us to the next point…
HABIT #2 – KNOW WHAT YOU ARE TRYING TO ACHIEVE
When conflicts happens, it’s very easy to be sucked into tunnel-vision and focus on immediate differences. That’s a self-defeating approach. Chances are you’ll only invite more resistance by focusing on differences in people’s positions or opinions.
The way to mitigate this without looking like you’re fighting to emerge as a winner in this conflict is to focus on the business objectives. In the light of what’s best for the business, discuss the pros and cons of each option. Eventually, everyone wants the business to be successful; if the business don’t win, then nobody in the organization wins. It’s much easier for one to eat the humble pie and back off when they realize the chosen approach is best for the business.
By learning to steer the discussion in this direction, you will learn to disengage from petty differences and position yourself as someone who is interested in getting things done. Your boss will also come to appreciate you as someone who is mature, strategic and can be entrusted with bigger responsibilities.
HABIT #3 – FOCUS ON YOUR CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE
At work, there are often issues which we have very little control over. It’s not uncommon to find corporate policies, client demands or boss mandates which affects your personal interests. Bitching and complaining are common responses to these events that we cannot control. But think about it, other than that short term emotional outlet, what tangible results do bitching really accomplish? In most instances, none.
Instead of feeling victimized and angry about the situation, focus on the things that you can do to influence the situation – your circle of influence. This is a very empowering technique to overcome the feeling of helplessness. It removes the victimized feeling and also allows others to see you as someone who knows how to operate within given constraints. You may not be able to change or decide on the eventual outcome, but you can walk away knowing that you have done the best within the given circumstances.
Constraints are all around in the workplace; with this approach, your boss will also come to appreciate you as someone who is understanding and positive.
HABIT #4 – DON’T TAKE SIDES
In office politics, it is possible to find yourself stuck in between two power figures who are at odds with each other. You find yourself being thrown around while they try to outwit each other and defend their own position. All at the expense of you getting the job done. You can’t get them to agree on a common decision for a project, and neither of them want to take ownership of issues; they’re too afraid they’ll get stabbed in the back for any mishaps.
In cases like this, focus on the business objectives and don’t take side with either of them – even if you like one better than the other. Place them on a common communication platform and ensure open communications among all parties so that no one can claim “I didn’t say that”.
By not taking sides, you’ll help to direct conflict resolution in an objective manner. You’ll also build trust with both parties. That’ll help to keep the engagements constructive and focus on business objectives.
HABIT #5 – DON’T GET PERSONAL
In office politics, you’ll get angry with people. It happens. There will be times when you feel the urge to give that person a piece of your mind and teach him a lesson. Don’t.
People tend to remember moments when they were humiliated or insulted. Even if you win this argument and get to feel really good about it for now, you’ll pay the price later when you need help from this person. What goes around comes around, especially at the work place.
To win in the office, you’ll want to build a network of allies which you can tap into. The last thing you want during a crisis or an opportunity is to have someone screw you up because they habour ill-intentions towards you – all because you’d enjoyed a brief moment of emotional outburst at their expense.
Another reason to hold back your temper is your career advancement. Increasingly, organizations are using 360 degree reviews to promote someone.
Even if you are a star performer, your boss will have to fight a political uphill battle if other managers or peers see you as someone who is difficult to work with. The last thing you’ll want is to make it difficult for your boss to champion you for a promotion.
HABIT #6 – SEEK TO UNDERSTAND, BEFORE BEING UNDERSTOOD
The reason people feel unjustified is because they felt misunderstood. Instinctively, we are more interested in getting the others to understand us than to understand them first. Top people managers and business leaders have learned to suppress this urge.
Surprisingly, seeking to understand is a very disarming technique. Once the other party feels that you understand where he/she is coming from, they will feel less defensive and be open to understand you in return. This sets the stage for open communications to arrive at a solution that both parties can accept. Trying to arrive at a solution without first having this understanding is very difficult – there’s little trust and too much second-guessing.
HABIT #7 – THINK WIN-WIN
As mentioned upfront, political conflicts happen because of conflicting interests. Perhaps due to our schooling, we are taught that to win, someone else needs to lose. Conversely, we are afraid to let someone else win, because it implies losing for us.
In business and work, that doesn’t have to be the case.
Learn to think in terms of “how can we both win out of this situation?” This requires that you first understand the other party’s perspective and what’s in it for him. Next, understand what’s in it for you. Strive to seek out a resolution that is acceptable and beneficial to both parties. Doing this will ensure that everyone truly commit to the agree resolution and not pay only lip-service to it.
People simply don’t like to lose. You may get away with win-lose tactics once or twice, but very soon, you’ll find yourself without allies in the workplace. Thinking win-win is an enduring strategy that builds allies and help you win in the long term.
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/management/7-habits-to-win-in-office-politics.html
By Lawrence Check
There is no need to be afraid of office politics. Top performers are those who have mastered the art of winning in office politics. Below are 7 good habits to help you win at the workplace:
HABIT #1 – BE AWARE YOU HAVE A CHOICE
The most common reactions to politics at work are either fight or flight. It’s normal human reaction for survival in the wild, back in the prehistoric days when we were still hunter-gatherers. Sure, the office is a modern jungle, but it takes more than just instinctive reactions to win in office politics. Instinctive fight reactions will only cause more resistance to whatever you are trying to achieve; while instinctive flight reactions only label you as a pushover that people can easily take for granted. Neither options are appealing for healthy career growth.
Winning requires you to consciously choose your reactions to the situation. Recognize that no matter how bad the circumstances, you have a choice in choosing how you feel and react. So how do you choose? This bring us to the next point…
HABIT #2 – KNOW WHAT YOU ARE TRYING TO ACHIEVE
When conflicts happens, it’s very easy to be sucked into tunnel-vision and focus on immediate differences. That’s a self-defeating approach. Chances are you’ll only invite more resistance by focusing on differences in people’s positions or opinions.
The way to mitigate this without looking like you’re fighting to emerge as a winner in this conflict is to focus on the business objectives. In the light of what’s best for the business, discuss the pros and cons of each option. Eventually, everyone wants the business to be successful; if the business don’t win, then nobody in the organization wins. It’s much easier for one to eat the humble pie and back off when they realize the chosen approach is best for the business.
By learning to steer the discussion in this direction, you will learn to disengage from petty differences and position yourself as someone who is interested in getting things done. Your boss will also come to appreciate you as someone who is mature, strategic and can be entrusted with bigger responsibilities.
HABIT #3 – FOCUS ON YOUR CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE
At work, there are often issues which we have very little control over. It’s not uncommon to find corporate policies, client demands or boss mandates which affects your personal interests. Bitching and complaining are common responses to these events that we cannot control. But think about it, other than that short term emotional outlet, what tangible results do bitching really accomplish? In most instances, none.
Instead of feeling victimized and angry about the situation, focus on the things that you can do to influence the situation – your circle of influence. This is a very empowering technique to overcome the feeling of helplessness. It removes the victimized feeling and also allows others to see you as someone who knows how to operate within given constraints. You may not be able to change or decide on the eventual outcome, but you can walk away knowing that you have done the best within the given circumstances.
Constraints are all around in the workplace; with this approach, your boss will also come to appreciate you as someone who is understanding and positive.
HABIT #4 – DON’T TAKE SIDES
In office politics, it is possible to find yourself stuck in between two power figures who are at odds with each other. You find yourself being thrown around while they try to outwit each other and defend their own position. All at the expense of you getting the job done. You can’t get them to agree on a common decision for a project, and neither of them want to take ownership of issues; they’re too afraid they’ll get stabbed in the back for any mishaps.
In cases like this, focus on the business objectives and don’t take side with either of them – even if you like one better than the other. Place them on a common communication platform and ensure open communications among all parties so that no one can claim “I didn’t say that”.
By not taking sides, you’ll help to direct conflict resolution in an objective manner. You’ll also build trust with both parties. That’ll help to keep the engagements constructive and focus on business objectives.
HABIT #5 – DON’T GET PERSONAL
In office politics, you’ll get angry with people. It happens. There will be times when you feel the urge to give that person a piece of your mind and teach him a lesson. Don’t.
People tend to remember moments when they were humiliated or insulted. Even if you win this argument and get to feel really good about it for now, you’ll pay the price later when you need help from this person. What goes around comes around, especially at the work place.
To win in the office, you’ll want to build a network of allies which you can tap into. The last thing you want during a crisis or an opportunity is to have someone screw you up because they habour ill-intentions towards you – all because you’d enjoyed a brief moment of emotional outburst at their expense.
Another reason to hold back your temper is your career advancement. Increasingly, organizations are using 360 degree reviews to promote someone.
Even if you are a star performer, your boss will have to fight a political uphill battle if other managers or peers see you as someone who is difficult to work with. The last thing you’ll want is to make it difficult for your boss to champion you for a promotion.
HABIT #6 – SEEK TO UNDERSTAND, BEFORE BEING UNDERSTOOD
The reason people feel unjustified is because they felt misunderstood. Instinctively, we are more interested in getting the others to understand us than to understand them first. Top people managers and business leaders have learned to suppress this urge.
Surprisingly, seeking to understand is a very disarming technique. Once the other party feels that you understand where he/she is coming from, they will feel less defensive and be open to understand you in return. This sets the stage for open communications to arrive at a solution that both parties can accept. Trying to arrive at a solution without first having this understanding is very difficult – there’s little trust and too much second-guessing.
HABIT #7 – THINK WIN-WIN
As mentioned upfront, political conflicts happen because of conflicting interests. Perhaps due to our schooling, we are taught that to win, someone else needs to lose. Conversely, we are afraid to let someone else win, because it implies losing for us.
In business and work, that doesn’t have to be the case.
Learn to think in terms of “how can we both win out of this situation?” This requires that you first understand the other party’s perspective and what’s in it for him. Next, understand what’s in it for you. Strive to seek out a resolution that is acceptable and beneficial to both parties. Doing this will ensure that everyone truly commit to the agree resolution and not pay only lip-service to it.
People simply don’t like to lose. You may get away with win-lose tactics once or twice, but very soon, you’ll find yourself without allies in the workplace. Thinking win-win is an enduring strategy that builds allies and help you win in the long term.
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/management/7-habits-to-win-in-office-politics.html
By Lawrence Check
Saturday, August 06, 2011
1st day with CIMA
Out of boredom, crazy whim, and the idea of a company benefit, and yes, of a feeling a stand-still career, I decided to take the opportunity of doing CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountant).
According to Wikipedia, "The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) is a United Kingdom-based professional body offering training and qualification in management accountancy and related subjects, focused on accounting for business; together with ongoing support for members.
CIMA is one of a number of professional associations for accountants in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Its particular emphasis is on developing the management accounting profession within the UK and worldwide. CIMA is the largest management accounting body in the world, with more than 172,000 members and students in over 165 countries."
I never really planned to take up CIMA, but because my company offered this opportunity, I decided to take it. To be honest, I am not really after the certification. I'm more after the learning I can get. The discipline I can develop by taking this can move my career. I am more after the experience and what I can get by attending the review classes. But of course, I have to pass the exams. It's going to reflect badly in my employee records if I won't. To pass this, I have to put my mind and heart to it. Most importantly, to give time for it. So I am excited actually of the next 13 Saturdays I will be spending at the review classes and the days and nights I will be burning the candles. =)
So today was the first day of review classes, and I just felt so nostalgic of college days. I am reminded of the days I struggled to keep awake in class, of the times I would ask my seatmate to pinch my arm, to inflict some pain, to give me candies just to keep my eyes open (don't care much if my ears aren't listening!). But today instead of using those tactics, I got myself a cappuccino from Starbucks. A lot more posh! And yes of course, it kept me awake but it didn't keep my attention from wandering. Sometimes, you just have a very short attention span especially on a Saturday which I could have spent sleeping all day. Oh well, I have to start adapting to my new lifestyle.
Till the next review class!
According to Wikipedia, "The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) is a United Kingdom-based professional body offering training and qualification in management accountancy and related subjects, focused on accounting for business; together with ongoing support for members.
CIMA is one of a number of professional associations for accountants in the UK and Republic of Ireland. Its particular emphasis is on developing the management accounting profession within the UK and worldwide. CIMA is the largest management accounting body in the world, with more than 172,000 members and students in over 165 countries."
I never really planned to take up CIMA, but because my company offered this opportunity, I decided to take it. To be honest, I am not really after the certification. I'm more after the learning I can get. The discipline I can develop by taking this can move my career. I am more after the experience and what I can get by attending the review classes. But of course, I have to pass the exams. It's going to reflect badly in my employee records if I won't. To pass this, I have to put my mind and heart to it. Most importantly, to give time for it. So I am excited actually of the next 13 Saturdays I will be spending at the review classes and the days and nights I will be burning the candles. =)
So today was the first day of review classes, and I just felt so nostalgic of college days. I am reminded of the days I struggled to keep awake in class, of the times I would ask my seatmate to pinch my arm, to inflict some pain, to give me candies just to keep my eyes open (don't care much if my ears aren't listening!). But today instead of using those tactics, I got myself a cappuccino from Starbucks. A lot more posh! And yes of course, it kept me awake but it didn't keep my attention from wandering. Sometimes, you just have a very short attention span especially on a Saturday which I could have spent sleeping all day. Oh well, I have to start adapting to my new lifestyle.
Till the next review class!
The Pig and The Horse ( A workplace parable)
Oh I see this is very true. I have witnessed this in the workplace!
The Pig And The Horse
There was a farmer who collected horses, he only needed one more breed to complete his collection. One day, he found out that his neighbor had the particular horse breed he needed. So, he constantly bothered his neighbor until he sold it to him. A month later, the horse became ill and he called the veterinarian, who said:
- Well, your horse has a virus. He must take this medicine for three days.
I'll come back on the 3rd day and if he's not better, we're going to have to put him to sleep.
Nearby, the pig listened closely to their conversation.
The next day, they gave him the medicine and left. The pig approached the horse and said:
- Be strong, my friend. Get up or else they're going to put you to sleep!
On the second day, they gave him the medicine and left. The pig came back and said:
- Come on buddy, get up or else you're going to die! Come on, I'll help you get up. Let's go! One, two, three...
On the third day, they came to give him the medicine and the vet said:
- Unfortunately, we're going to have to put him down tomorrow. Otherwise, the virus might spread and infect the other horses.
After they left, the pig approached the horse and said:
- Listen pal, it's now or never! Get up, come on! Have courage! Come on!
Get up! Get up! That's it, slowly! Great! Come on, one, two, three...
Good, good. Now faster, come on.... Fantastic! Run, run more!
Yes! Yay! Yes! You did it, you're a champion!!!
All of a sudden, the owner came back, saw the horse running in the field and began shouting:
- It's a miracle! My horse is cured. This deserves a party. Let's kill the pig!
Points for reflection:
This often happens in the workplace. Nobody truly knows which employee actually deserves the merit of success, or who's actually contributing
the necessary support to make things happen.
LEARNING TO LIVE WITHOUT RECOGNITION IS A SKILL!
If anyone ever tells you that your work is unprofessional,
Remember: Amateurs built Noah's Ark and Professionals built the Titanic.
DON'T LOOK TO BECOME A PERSON OF SUCCESS, LOOK INSTEAD TO BECOME A PERSON OF VALUE!
ENJOY LIFE NOW - IT HAS AN EXPIRATION DATE and you don’t know when.
The Pig And The Horse
There was a farmer who collected horses, he only needed one more breed to complete his collection. One day, he found out that his neighbor had the particular horse breed he needed. So, he constantly bothered his neighbor until he sold it to him. A month later, the horse became ill and he called the veterinarian, who said:
- Well, your horse has a virus. He must take this medicine for three days.
I'll come back on the 3rd day and if he's not better, we're going to have to put him to sleep.
Nearby, the pig listened closely to their conversation.
The next day, they gave him the medicine and left. The pig approached the horse and said:
- Be strong, my friend. Get up or else they're going to put you to sleep!
On the second day, they gave him the medicine and left. The pig came back and said:
- Come on buddy, get up or else you're going to die! Come on, I'll help you get up. Let's go! One, two, three...
On the third day, they came to give him the medicine and the vet said:
- Unfortunately, we're going to have to put him down tomorrow. Otherwise, the virus might spread and infect the other horses.
After they left, the pig approached the horse and said:
- Listen pal, it's now or never! Get up, come on! Have courage! Come on!
Get up! Get up! That's it, slowly! Great! Come on, one, two, three...
Good, good. Now faster, come on.... Fantastic! Run, run more!
Yes! Yay! Yes! You did it, you're a champion!!!
All of a sudden, the owner came back, saw the horse running in the field and began shouting:
- It's a miracle! My horse is cured. This deserves a party. Let's kill the pig!
Points for reflection:
This often happens in the workplace. Nobody truly knows which employee actually deserves the merit of success, or who's actually contributing
the necessary support to make things happen.
LEARNING TO LIVE WITHOUT RECOGNITION IS A SKILL!
If anyone ever tells you that your work is unprofessional,
Remember: Amateurs built Noah's Ark and Professionals built the Titanic.
DON'T LOOK TO BECOME A PERSON OF SUCCESS, LOOK INSTEAD TO BECOME A PERSON OF VALUE!
ENJOY LIFE NOW - IT HAS AN EXPIRATION DATE and you don’t know when.
Tuesday, August 02, 2011
I got my Japan Visa today!
Yipee!!! Yehey! I just got the Japan visa today which means our short Tokyo trip will push through. I don't mind if it's short, besides it's fully funded by my company. I'm sooo looking forward to August 21-28. Aside from work / training, I will also get to meet a very good friend whom I haven't seen for years. God bless this trip and let everything fall into place! =))
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
GRRR!!!
I cannot sleep unless I am not able to post this rant!!!
I just got a reply from my onshore counterpart that I find is an insult to my intelligence! And what I hate is that he copied in my boss here and it appears on his email that I don't understand my work! I beg to disagree! But I don't want to put the blame purely to himself why he replied that way. I may have not been very clear in my email to him about what I expect from him. I just wanted his thoughts, his opinions about a matter I cannot resolved. In his reply, he is implying that this could be resolved by me quite easily without his assistance. I just had one area where I am confused not everything about work! Because I was in a hurry to get home, I didn't get an opportunity to reply to his email. But I plan to do that tomorrow. I don't want my boss to get the impression that I am dumb and that I don't understand my work! So here I am going to draft my reply to him ----
DP,
I understand your point very clearly that this is something that CAN be resolved offshore because this process has been with us for years.
All these checks / procedures mentioned are clearly understood by me and I am pretty sure with the new process owner as well.
Where I wanted clarification is on what explanation to give to the book runner as he is asking what type of adjustment he should then used as the adjustment he is currently using is not correct. I have spoken to the book runner about this that it is clear that he cannot use that adjustment category as it is creating a FOBO break. As this is not a break we encounter very often, the approach on how to deal with this is quite vague to me. I understand that it could have been resolved had I raised this initially to the book runner's team lead. To be honest, we need training, and some exposure on these kind of issues around BAC adjustments to get confidence answering their queries.
Thank you.
-----
And I may still edit this out tomorrow.... but now I am relieved to have let this out.
This job can get really stressful! Haayzz... But I should NOT let this affect my whole being, my aura, my mindset, my all. At the end of the day, I cannot blame other people for what I feel. This is all down to me. It is up to me how I deal with problems.
Shhoooo bad feelings. Let peace come! Yipeeee!!
I just got a reply from my onshore counterpart that I find is an insult to my intelligence! And what I hate is that he copied in my boss here and it appears on his email that I don't understand my work! I beg to disagree! But I don't want to put the blame purely to himself why he replied that way. I may have not been very clear in my email to him about what I expect from him. I just wanted his thoughts, his opinions about a matter I cannot resolved. In his reply, he is implying that this could be resolved by me quite easily without his assistance. I just had one area where I am confused not everything about work! Because I was in a hurry to get home, I didn't get an opportunity to reply to his email. But I plan to do that tomorrow. I don't want my boss to get the impression that I am dumb and that I don't understand my work! So here I am going to draft my reply to him ----
DP,
I understand your point very clearly that this is something that CAN be resolved offshore because this process has been with us for years.
All these checks / procedures mentioned are clearly understood by me and I am pretty sure with the new process owner as well.
Where I wanted clarification is on what explanation to give to the book runner as he is asking what type of adjustment he should then used as the adjustment he is currently using is not correct. I have spoken to the book runner about this that it is clear that he cannot use that adjustment category as it is creating a FOBO break. As this is not a break we encounter very often, the approach on how to deal with this is quite vague to me. I understand that it could have been resolved had I raised this initially to the book runner's team lead. To be honest, we need training, and some exposure on these kind of issues around BAC adjustments to get confidence answering their queries.
Thank you.
-----
And I may still edit this out tomorrow.... but now I am relieved to have let this out.
This job can get really stressful! Haayzz... But I should NOT let this affect my whole being, my aura, my mindset, my all. At the end of the day, I cannot blame other people for what I feel. This is all down to me. It is up to me how I deal with problems.
Shhoooo bad feelings. Let peace come! Yipeeee!!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Congratulations Sister!
Sister got married last Saturday, July 9 and I was maid of honor. Though I apologize I was not able to fulfill my job as maid of honor in all sense of the word. Ohh it was my first time! Give me the benefit of the first timers!
But all in all, I was very happy that someone in the family is now married. I bet mom and dad are excited to see their first apo! I am excited to become a full-pledged auntie!!! =)
What I loved about the wedding is getting to see my relatives from afar get together, couzins and aunties and uncles that I haven't seen for a while, I get to see them! Family gatherings do make me feel like I'm in heaven. Even if they keep asking me when I am getting married. Oh uh...I don't know! Maybe never! But I do hope it does happen...should happen soooon.I am not getting any younger! I'd like to have at least just one offspring, you know. I'd like to have my own family someday...;-)
Congrats to sister and hubby! God bless your marriage and your future together! Stay in luv...
But all in all, I was very happy that someone in the family is now married. I bet mom and dad are excited to see their first apo! I am excited to become a full-pledged auntie!!! =)
What I loved about the wedding is getting to see my relatives from afar get together, couzins and aunties and uncles that I haven't seen for a while, I get to see them! Family gatherings do make me feel like I'm in heaven. Even if they keep asking me when I am getting married. Oh uh...I don't know! Maybe never! But I do hope it does happen...should happen soooon.I am not getting any younger! I'd like to have at least just one offspring, you know. I'd like to have my own family someday...;-)
Congrats to sister and hubby! God bless your marriage and your future together! Stay in luv...
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
my order of makeup!
on the other hand.... something that's giving me some excitement and lifting my spirits up ---- i cannot wait to receive the Maybelline products I ordered on Ebay! I hope they arrive tomorrow!!! =))
Disappointing Performance
This is the probably the most disappointing performance I ever experienced with my current job. To think that I've been with this team for 3 plus yrs, it was truly disappointing that I was not able to do deliver. I had a 3 hr call with my onshore boss. It was disappointing because I presented a working paper that was completely useless! It had a lot of errors and a lot of stuffs that had not been worked through. Because that is one item that had the most focus over the past months, it was highlighted by my boss. I was even escalated! And when I was asked why I was not able to do the things I ought to - I said that there was just too much to do. In other words, I didn't have enough time. I never really like to reason out that I just don't have enough time. Because it's not really a valid reason at all. Because I believe that there's really time for everything. It is just a matter of priority. That's why I am just very disappointed because this means I was not able to prioritize and I was not working smartly. I'm sooooo down now...I cannot sleep well.... =(
Monday, May 09, 2011
sissy is having a baby!
So I just got news today that my younger sister is going to have a baby! Well, she didn't tell me right away. Maybe she was afraid I would berate her for getting preggy before marriage. Well, I won't...She's getting married anyway in July... Besides the father is his soon to be hubby...
She couldn't say it straight away but I know that that's what she is meaning to say...I confirmed it with my mom anyway! So mom did confirm!
Well, I am happy for you sis. Soon you'll be a mother. You beat me to that thinking I'm older than you by 5 yrs! I just hope you are prepared for this and you will take care of yourself and your baby! Best wishes! I hope that baby is healthy and pretty like me and your younger sis and of course like Mama!!!
She couldn't say it straight away but I know that that's what she is meaning to say...I confirmed it with my mom anyway! So mom did confirm!
Well, I am happy for you sis. Soon you'll be a mother. You beat me to that thinking I'm older than you by 5 yrs! I just hope you are prepared for this and you will take care of yourself and your baby! Best wishes! I hope that baby is healthy and pretty like me and your younger sis and of course like Mama!!!
Monday, May 02, 2011
New Friend
It's amazing that people you meet and spend a few moments with make a huge impact on your life.
My UK counterpart at work came to help out the team in a huge project. He spent two weeks with us. It was his first time in Manila, first time in the Philippines. I've worked with him for a little over 3 yrs, and this is his first time here, and our second time to meet. I met him 3 yrs ago when I went to London for a 5 week training.
I didn't have the chance back then to get to know him. I was more closely dealing with his boss then.
I was surprised by the kind of person he is. I didn't expect him to be very approachable and friendly. He didn't seem to be like that when we met him 3 yrs ago, and didn't seem to be like that over the phone / emails. It's either he has changed over the yrs, or we just never got the chance to really talk and get out.
The other thing that impressed me about him was that how super "game" he is. He blended well with us, in fact. When we went out for lunch, he joined us and ordered Filipino dishes. When we went out for karaoke, he sang a number of songs. When we did a volcano trip, he joined us as well. And for this trip, he didn't mind waking up at 2am, and waiting for the late people! He can joke with us, and laugh with us. In short, he knows how to have fun the Pinoy way!!!
At work, he didn't seem to be that serious at all like how he seems to be on his emails. You can always ask him questions and he's very willing to help. I said to myself that this is one colleague I'd like to work with for life.
And what really touched my heart, was when he said he really liked it here. He really liked working in the Manila office. He liked the Philippines. He didn't even expect that he would enjoy this much. For a foreigner to say something like that (and I know he meant it), it never fails to warm my heart. Of course, I love my country. But I've always wanted to leave, to work in a 1st world country, and earn heaps of moolah. And when I hear an alien say something like that, I realize that the good things they say about my country are the reasons why until now I am still here.
I do hope that even when he is now back to his real work office, he brings with him the good things that life has taught him during his two weeks stay here.
I am also changed by having met him.
My UK counterpart at work came to help out the team in a huge project. He spent two weeks with us. It was his first time in Manila, first time in the Philippines. I've worked with him for a little over 3 yrs, and this is his first time here, and our second time to meet. I met him 3 yrs ago when I went to London for a 5 week training.
I didn't have the chance back then to get to know him. I was more closely dealing with his boss then.
I was surprised by the kind of person he is. I didn't expect him to be very approachable and friendly. He didn't seem to be like that when we met him 3 yrs ago, and didn't seem to be like that over the phone / emails. It's either he has changed over the yrs, or we just never got the chance to really talk and get out.
The other thing that impressed me about him was that how super "game" he is. He blended well with us, in fact. When we went out for lunch, he joined us and ordered Filipino dishes. When we went out for karaoke, he sang a number of songs. When we did a volcano trip, he joined us as well. And for this trip, he didn't mind waking up at 2am, and waiting for the late people! He can joke with us, and laugh with us. In short, he knows how to have fun the Pinoy way!!!
At work, he didn't seem to be that serious at all like how he seems to be on his emails. You can always ask him questions and he's very willing to help. I said to myself that this is one colleague I'd like to work with for life.
And what really touched my heart, was when he said he really liked it here. He really liked working in the Manila office. He liked the Philippines. He didn't even expect that he would enjoy this much. For a foreigner to say something like that (and I know he meant it), it never fails to warm my heart. Of course, I love my country. But I've always wanted to leave, to work in a 1st world country, and earn heaps of moolah. And when I hear an alien say something like that, I realize that the good things they say about my country are the reasons why until now I am still here.
I do hope that even when he is now back to his real work office, he brings with him the good things that life has taught him during his two weeks stay here.
I am also changed by having met him.
Friday, April 15, 2011
I shall call you Toshiwei
I don't know but I just liked the sound of it!!!
Toshiwei, forever together!
mwahh!!
Here are photos of Toshi using my phone's cam.
Monday, April 11, 2011
my first notebook / laptop
Would you believe!? I just got my first notebook / laptop yesterday...that's how poor I am or shall we say that's how reluctant I am to invest in electronics...
Now that I have this, I will be more faithful to my blogs.
And maybe get serious about earning through the Internet...
By the way, I got myself a Toshiba Satellite L640-1155. It's not a high end laptop. It's suits well for me who is just a plain surfer/blogger.
I wish to journey with you Toshibaby as long as forever. =) Shall I call you Toshibaby? How about Toshimei? Toshi? Toshiwei?
I'll think about it over the next few days...
Now that I have this, I will be more faithful to my blogs.
And maybe get serious about earning through the Internet...
By the way, I got myself a Toshiba Satellite L640-1155. It's not a high end laptop. It's suits well for me who is just a plain surfer/blogger.
I wish to journey with you Toshibaby as long as forever. =) Shall I call you Toshibaby? How about Toshimei? Toshi? Toshiwei?
I'll think about it over the next few days...
Friday, April 01, 2011
30
Yeah, 30 is that dreaded number for some women. Well, I used to fear it coming to me. But yeah, what the heck, age is just a number. And I am blessed I got it this far.
I just turned 30...last 24th of Mar!
How does it feel? Feels like I just turned 21. =)
My 30th bday wasn't anything fancy at all. I started the day with a Holy Mass to thank the Lord Almighty for giving me a chance to enjoy life. And since I wasn't really feeling well that day, I took a half day leave.
I treated my teammates to a lunch at Pizza Hut where the Pizza Hut personnel gave me a hearty bday song! Hearty...and LOUD, I should add.
The rest of the day was all work! Oh I had to work on my special day. Just got loads of stuff to finish.
Margie, my ex Team lead was also sweet enough to treat the team for Starbucks.
Incidentally, my brother was in town too. He came to Manila for a job interview that day. I spent dinnertime with him and my cousin, who accompanied him. It was good to see my brother after a while and get to talk to him about life and his plans.
Oh...I should not forget too that my bday celeb didn't end that day coz over the weekend, Mom, sissies, Auntie and cuzs were comin over for a vacay to Baguio. This is actually the first time we as family travelled sans daddies though. It was quite a big lot. There were 10 of us doing this trip. It was the first time for the majority in Baguio. It was another worthwhile and enjoyable trip. This was my third time in Baguio but each was a different experience. I always had one or two places new in the itinerary. Will it be my last time in Baguio? I don't know...;)
Hmmm. On second thought, it was fancy after all...Family came here to celebrate. I had friends who remembered this day. And I had an Almighty Father who continues to bless me.
I can only be grateful to Life.
I just turned 30...last 24th of Mar!
How does it feel? Feels like I just turned 21. =)
My 30th bday wasn't anything fancy at all. I started the day with a Holy Mass to thank the Lord Almighty for giving me a chance to enjoy life. And since I wasn't really feeling well that day, I took a half day leave.
I treated my teammates to a lunch at Pizza Hut where the Pizza Hut personnel gave me a hearty bday song! Hearty...and LOUD, I should add.
The rest of the day was all work! Oh I had to work on my special day. Just got loads of stuff to finish.
Margie, my ex Team lead was also sweet enough to treat the team for Starbucks.
Incidentally, my brother was in town too. He came to Manila for a job interview that day. I spent dinnertime with him and my cousin, who accompanied him. It was good to see my brother after a while and get to talk to him about life and his plans.
Oh...I should not forget too that my bday celeb didn't end that day coz over the weekend, Mom, sissies, Auntie and cuzs were comin over for a vacay to Baguio. This is actually the first time we as family travelled sans daddies though. It was quite a big lot. There were 10 of us doing this trip. It was the first time for the majority in Baguio. It was another worthwhile and enjoyable trip. This was my third time in Baguio but each was a different experience. I always had one or two places new in the itinerary. Will it be my last time in Baguio? I don't know...;)
Hmmm. On second thought, it was fancy after all...Family came here to celebrate. I had friends who remembered this day. And I had an Almighty Father who continues to bless me.
I can only be grateful to Life.
Day 4 - HK Museums and Avenue of the Stars, Kowloon Park
Goodness, I actually forgot to write my Day 4 in HK. This was July 30. And it was really hot and sunny day...unfair really, becuase the last 3 days had been cloudy and rainy...
Anyway, since I was now on my own, I decided to get a trip to the Avenue of the Stars and then visit the museums and maybe check out some shopping areas.
At the avenue of the stars, I had all my pics taken by other people. But I never got to walk the long stretch of this avenue...it was just too hot that day and I didn't have an umbrella and a pair of sunglasses.
After this, I took a visit to the Museum of Art. The first time in my international travels that I have included museum visits as part of the itinerary. I love their museum. Not very fancy like the Louvre but it gave you a glimpse of the of HK art scene.
The next stop was the Space and Science museum. Very educational museum. Very good for kids (and adults) as well. So I tried their "moon walk" - where you get to experience what it's like to walk in the moon. Cool! Kids will love this!
Now getting famished, I needed to eat some lunch. I went to Times Square in Causeway Bay hoping to do a bit of shopping on the side. Since it was already lunch time, all food shops were very busy. I ended up eating in KFC. Right after I headed back to Kowloon Park to just get a feel of what parks are like in HK. Kowloon Park is really a huge park but you will love it there as you could really relax. Oh you will love the fresh atmosphere. I headed back to my hostel around 3pm. Left for the airport around 4pm. Then at the airport, I met a Filipina who was in the same flight as me. Then at the plane, I met another Filipina who works as a DH. She's a very talkative woman...and the trip back to Manila was indeed not a boring! =)
Anyway, since I was now on my own, I decided to get a trip to the Avenue of the Stars and then visit the museums and maybe check out some shopping areas.
At the avenue of the stars, I had all my pics taken by other people. But I never got to walk the long stretch of this avenue...it was just too hot that day and I didn't have an umbrella and a pair of sunglasses.
After this, I took a visit to the Museum of Art. The first time in my international travels that I have included museum visits as part of the itinerary. I love their museum. Not very fancy like the Louvre but it gave you a glimpse of the of HK art scene.
The next stop was the Space and Science museum. Very educational museum. Very good for kids (and adults) as well. So I tried their "moon walk" - where you get to experience what it's like to walk in the moon. Cool! Kids will love this!
Now getting famished, I needed to eat some lunch. I went to Times Square in Causeway Bay hoping to do a bit of shopping on the side. Since it was already lunch time, all food shops were very busy. I ended up eating in KFC. Right after I headed back to Kowloon Park to just get a feel of what parks are like in HK. Kowloon Park is really a huge park but you will love it there as you could really relax. Oh you will love the fresh atmosphere. I headed back to my hostel around 3pm. Left for the airport around 4pm. Then at the airport, I met a Filipina who was in the same flight as me. Then at the plane, I met another Filipina who works as a DH. She's a very talkative woman...and the trip back to Manila was indeed not a boring! =)
Saturday, March 05, 2011
2011 ---- I claim this to be MY Year!!!
The first quarter of 2011 is about to end... and I haven't yet posted my supposedly New Year's resolutions.
As a blog tradition, I have to declare my 2011 plans (not any more resolutions!)
So here are they...
I have to get my own laptop! I should get one soon...This March, I will take a trip to the computer shops...
An international trip! Oh yes, I and a friend have already booked tickets to Vietnam/Bangkok/Cambodia on September. Praying for a safe and fine weather trip!
I just got my passport renewed! Can't wait to get it stamped!
And I just learned a few weeks ago, I'll get to attend a training in Tokyo. Oh I just hope it will push through. Pls pls Lord let it happen! Tokyo is one of the dream places I want to go to.
A trip to Mindanao - Davao or CDO, any will do. No plane tickets yet. But this trip ought to happen this year!
Save! I have to put in more cash on my bank account. I just have to have at least 1 month salary in my bank. I should be able to do it this time, I just got an OK salary increase! Thank you Lord, you gave me more than what I asked for! I did not get the promotion, but that's alright. It's just not yet my time.
And since this year, I am hitting the BIG 30 in years of stay on this planet, I aim and claim to get a LOVE LIFE! A rightful love life, with a single guy. This means that I am now more than ever more determined for it, and more more so decided to end the wrongful rendezvous I had in the past.
Some years ago, I had aimed that by the time I'm 30 Y.O. I should have my own car, my own house, and 100k savings! Unfortunately, none of that is about to happen. =( Well the 100k is possible, I just need to keep my lifestyle as low as possible. The car? Oh never mind, I don't really like owning a car. And besides I don't know how to drive! Ok, the house...ahhh...it's expensive! But it's on my plans - perhaps next year.
This year, I aim to be financially indedpendent, stronger, and bolder. Happier, healthier and wiser.
Thank you Lord for giving me another year. I shall live it fully!
As a blog tradition, I have to declare my 2011 plans (not any more resolutions!)
So here are they...
I have to get my own laptop! I should get one soon...This March, I will take a trip to the computer shops...
An international trip! Oh yes, I and a friend have already booked tickets to Vietnam/Bangkok/Cambodia on September. Praying for a safe and fine weather trip!
I just got my passport renewed! Can't wait to get it stamped!
And I just learned a few weeks ago, I'll get to attend a training in Tokyo. Oh I just hope it will push through. Pls pls Lord let it happen! Tokyo is one of the dream places I want to go to.
A trip to Mindanao - Davao or CDO, any will do. No plane tickets yet. But this trip ought to happen this year!
Save! I have to put in more cash on my bank account. I just have to have at least 1 month salary in my bank. I should be able to do it this time, I just got an OK salary increase! Thank you Lord, you gave me more than what I asked for! I did not get the promotion, but that's alright. It's just not yet my time.
And since this year, I am hitting the BIG 30 in years of stay on this planet, I aim and claim to get a LOVE LIFE! A rightful love life, with a single guy. This means that I am now more than ever more determined for it, and more more so decided to end the wrongful rendezvous I had in the past.
Some years ago, I had aimed that by the time I'm 30 Y.O. I should have my own car, my own house, and 100k savings! Unfortunately, none of that is about to happen. =( Well the 100k is possible, I just need to keep my lifestyle as low as possible. The car? Oh never mind, I don't really like owning a car. And besides I don't know how to drive! Ok, the house...ahhh...it's expensive! But it's on my plans - perhaps next year.
This year, I aim to be financially indedpendent, stronger, and bolder. Happier, healthier and wiser.
Thank you Lord for giving me another year. I shall live it fully!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Day3 - Macau and Wan Chai (July 30, 2010)
This is a solitary trip. Mom and company have gone back to Cebu. I'll be roaming Macau on my own, or maybe with someone if Ate Ging's friend is available. She contacted her friend, Chris Stratford who works at the Venetian. Chris is an English guy in his fifties who designs shops/spaces etc at the Venetian Macau.
I took off on the 10AM trip of the The First Ferry from the TST ferry terminal since I was staying in Kowloon. The trip was approximately one hour. I already then texted Chris that I was on my way to Macau and if he had time off to see me or better show me around Macau.=) Well, his reply didn't arrive till my two feet stepped on Macau.
During the entire one hour, I did try to take a nap, read the print outs about Macau, tried to plan how to start my tour, first stop, next, etc. I know in my mind my first stop had to be Senado Square, and just go about where my feet would lead me. On my list were Senado Square, Fisherman's Wharf, The Venetian Hotel, Sands, MGM, Wynn, and whatever other casinos I will see along the way.
As I got off from the ferry, I was kinda roaming around a bit, not entirely knowing how to get a bus - should I cross across the street? where the heck is the bus stop. Well my huge wandering eyes found a bus stop. I asked a local how much the bus fare was so that I could prepare my coins. Since he didn't speak English and he just said something like "Hongkong money OK". I tried showing him a map and pointed to Senado Square to ask how to get there but he just pointed at the bus stop. So I waited for the bus to arrive and hopped in. Now, where was I gonna get off? I asked the passengers sitted next to me but oh my goodness, they couldn't understand me. This is a big problem for tourists in China - majority don't know English. Unlike the Philippines, majority can speak English, maybe not fluent, but could understand English and speak a few. So what I did was just watched out for the cobble stoned floors of the Square like what I saw in pictures. When the bus stopped at a place which I thought was the Square, I got off and only to find out it wasn't!!! So I walked and walked until I met some tourists who was able to show me where Senado Square is. And I was truly far far from my destination. So I walked and walked till I got to the Square. Oh dear me! I took my camera and started taking pictures when 3 tourists approached me and asked me to take a pic of them which I obliged smilingly. I also asked them to take a pic of me. =) And then it hit me that maybe I should go with them, I was all alone and needed some company! And they were so kind to accomodate me! I learned then that they were from Switzerland and were on a China trip - mainland China, HK, and a quick tour of Macau. They were on their last day and will be leaving in the afternoon. They spoke Italian but know how to speak English. So there I made new friends. Though they couldn't stay long as they had to leave by noon, I was alright with it. As long as I didn't feel alone...So there we explored the square and then went to the Ruins of St Paul, the church that was burned some years ago and what was left was just the facade. After this we then went to The Venetian Hotel. I didn't realize that inside the Venetian they were trying to replicate Venice. Inside, they really made it look like Venice - w/ all the architecture, river (minus the smell as my Swiss friends say), the boats, etc. The Swiss didn't appreciate it very much as they say it was all FAKE! hahaha...Well, I who hadn't been to the real Venice appreciated it. =) It was good, a good replica. I didn't really get to explore the Venetian but we got to play at the casino. We just wanted to try maybe bet a 10 or 20 HKD. And it was my lucky day, coz my 10HKD bet made me win 300HKD! And I no longer played after winning 300HKD. I cashed it out right away. This is enough to pay for my ferry fare! Luv it!
It was also at the Venetian that I met up with Chris. He said that he was awfully busy that day and couldn't really get the free time to show me around Macau. So he just met me and I introduced him to my companions. It was really cool, I had an English and Swiss companions. The Swisses had to leave early, and I was back to my own self again. Chris asked to take me to my next destination. I said it would be City of Dreams. Chris had a two-door car and was kind of enough to show me the little town of Tapia and then brought me to City of Dreams.
At the City of Dreams, I watched the Dragon's Treasure show at the Bubble Theater. It was a 10 min multi media show, really unique and something that I've just seen for the first time. It's not to be missed! Besides, it's free. According to their website, "This 10-minute multi-media experience combines high-definition video, a sweeping musical score and over 29,000 theatrical LED lights. This 360 degree multi-media experience was honored with the 2009 THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement." Truly amazing!
After exploring City of Dreams, I hopped on the free shuttle back to the Macau Ferry Terminal where there are free shuttle service of other casinos. I went to the Sands casino. Just passed through and got myself one bottled water. This was also free!
I then went across to Macau Fisherman's Wharf, w/c according to Wikipedia, is the first theme park in Macau. It is near the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier. The construction took 5 years, before an opening ceremony by the Chief Executive of Macau and trial operation began on December 31, 2005. After one year of trial operation, the wharf was officially opened on December 31, 2006. The complex includes over 150 stores and restaurants in buildings built in the style of different world seaports such as Cape Town, Amsterdam and Venice, six rides, a slots hall, a 72-room hotel, and a casino.
It was here in the Wharf that I met two Pinoys. They were workers in Macau and were on their day off. Since I had a camera, I offered to take pictures of them and they were so nice to accompany me and take pics of me on my cam. =)
After wharf, I wanted to go back to Senado Square and explore the areas around there where according to Ate Ging sold really nice shoes at bargain prices. And then maybe buy some more pasalubongs. So I did get to buy some pasalubongs but not shoes...
It was beginning to get dark already and since I so wanted to see the lights of the casinos, I really stayed up till 8PM. And took pics of the night lights. I just wanted to feel Vegas-y! I went inside Wynn as they say there is a beautiful fountain show and a dragon show inside. Unfortunately my camera's batt was fully drained so I never got to take pics of these.
After watching these shows at Wynn, I then took off to the Macau Ferry Terminal for my trip back to Hongkong, where I will meet up with my colleague in DB London named NIck, who will be working permanently at the DB Hongkong office. He was going to take me out for some drinks in the Wan Chai area, to which he said was more of like the Burgos area in Makati. Hmmm.... Well, I was pretty sure I will see Pinoys in this area and yes I did, a bartender and some ladies of the night. This makes me sad seeing this kind of girls.
I met up with Nick at Four Season's Hotel where he was staying. And then we headed off to Wan Chai area.
If I could recall so well we went to four bars that night. I had one pint of beer at the first bar. I think I got really drunk that night but I was still able to hold me myself and able to get back to my hostel in complete piece. It was during this hang out with Nick that he told me was getting married and he hasn't told anyone yet! OMG! I was so honored! He was going to make the announcement soon so I just better zip my mouth till that official announcement comes out. Congrats! Finally!
I went home taking the cab, as I was from travelling from Hongkong island to Kowloon, I paid a good deal of the taxi fare. I probably got home at around 2am.
I took off on the 10AM trip of the The First Ferry from the TST ferry terminal since I was staying in Kowloon. The trip was approximately one hour. I already then texted Chris that I was on my way to Macau and if he had time off to see me or better show me around Macau.=) Well, his reply didn't arrive till my two feet stepped on Macau.
During the entire one hour, I did try to take a nap, read the print outs about Macau, tried to plan how to start my tour, first stop, next, etc. I know in my mind my first stop had to be Senado Square, and just go about where my feet would lead me. On my list were Senado Square, Fisherman's Wharf, The Venetian Hotel, Sands, MGM, Wynn, and whatever other casinos I will see along the way.
As I got off from the ferry, I was kinda roaming around a bit, not entirely knowing how to get a bus - should I cross across the street? where the heck is the bus stop. Well my huge wandering eyes found a bus stop. I asked a local how much the bus fare was so that I could prepare my coins. Since he didn't speak English and he just said something like "Hongkong money OK". I tried showing him a map and pointed to Senado Square to ask how to get there but he just pointed at the bus stop. So I waited for the bus to arrive and hopped in. Now, where was I gonna get off? I asked the passengers sitted next to me but oh my goodness, they couldn't understand me. This is a big problem for tourists in China - majority don't know English. Unlike the Philippines, majority can speak English, maybe not fluent, but could understand English and speak a few. So what I did was just watched out for the cobble stoned floors of the Square like what I saw in pictures. When the bus stopped at a place which I thought was the Square, I got off and only to find out it wasn't!!! So I walked and walked until I met some tourists who was able to show me where Senado Square is. And I was truly far far from my destination. So I walked and walked till I got to the Square. Oh dear me! I took my camera and started taking pictures when 3 tourists approached me and asked me to take a pic of them which I obliged smilingly. I also asked them to take a pic of me. =) And then it hit me that maybe I should go with them, I was all alone and needed some company! And they were so kind to accomodate me! I learned then that they were from Switzerland and were on a China trip - mainland China, HK, and a quick tour of Macau. They were on their last day and will be leaving in the afternoon. They spoke Italian but know how to speak English. So there I made new friends. Though they couldn't stay long as they had to leave by noon, I was alright with it. As long as I didn't feel alone...So there we explored the square and then went to the Ruins of St Paul, the church that was burned some years ago and what was left was just the facade. After this we then went to The Venetian Hotel. I didn't realize that inside the Venetian they were trying to replicate Venice. Inside, they really made it look like Venice - w/ all the architecture, river (minus the smell as my Swiss friends say), the boats, etc. The Swiss didn't appreciate it very much as they say it was all FAKE! hahaha...Well, I who hadn't been to the real Venice appreciated it. =) It was good, a good replica. I didn't really get to explore the Venetian but we got to play at the casino. We just wanted to try maybe bet a 10 or 20 HKD. And it was my lucky day, coz my 10HKD bet made me win 300HKD! And I no longer played after winning 300HKD. I cashed it out right away. This is enough to pay for my ferry fare! Luv it!
It was also at the Venetian that I met up with Chris. He said that he was awfully busy that day and couldn't really get the free time to show me around Macau. So he just met me and I introduced him to my companions. It was really cool, I had an English and Swiss companions. The Swisses had to leave early, and I was back to my own self again. Chris asked to take me to my next destination. I said it would be City of Dreams. Chris had a two-door car and was kind of enough to show me the little town of Tapia and then brought me to City of Dreams.
At the City of Dreams, I watched the Dragon's Treasure show at the Bubble Theater. It was a 10 min multi media show, really unique and something that I've just seen for the first time. It's not to be missed! Besides, it's free. According to their website, "This 10-minute multi-media experience combines high-definition video, a sweeping musical score and over 29,000 theatrical LED lights. This 360 degree multi-media experience was honored with the 2009 THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement." Truly amazing!
After exploring City of Dreams, I hopped on the free shuttle back to the Macau Ferry Terminal where there are free shuttle service of other casinos. I went to the Sands casino. Just passed through and got myself one bottled water. This was also free!
I then went across to Macau Fisherman's Wharf, w/c according to Wikipedia, is the first theme park in Macau. It is near the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Pier. The construction took 5 years, before an opening ceremony by the Chief Executive of Macau and trial operation began on December 31, 2005. After one year of trial operation, the wharf was officially opened on December 31, 2006. The complex includes over 150 stores and restaurants in buildings built in the style of different world seaports such as Cape Town, Amsterdam and Venice, six rides, a slots hall, a 72-room hotel, and a casino.
It was here in the Wharf that I met two Pinoys. They were workers in Macau and were on their day off. Since I had a camera, I offered to take pictures of them and they were so nice to accompany me and take pics of me on my cam. =)
After wharf, I wanted to go back to Senado Square and explore the areas around there where according to Ate Ging sold really nice shoes at bargain prices. And then maybe buy some more pasalubongs. So I did get to buy some pasalubongs but not shoes...
It was beginning to get dark already and since I so wanted to see the lights of the casinos, I really stayed up till 8PM. And took pics of the night lights. I just wanted to feel Vegas-y! I went inside Wynn as they say there is a beautiful fountain show and a dragon show inside. Unfortunately my camera's batt was fully drained so I never got to take pics of these.
After watching these shows at Wynn, I then took off to the Macau Ferry Terminal for my trip back to Hongkong, where I will meet up with my colleague in DB London named NIck, who will be working permanently at the DB Hongkong office. He was going to take me out for some drinks in the Wan Chai area, to which he said was more of like the Burgos area in Makati. Hmmm.... Well, I was pretty sure I will see Pinoys in this area and yes I did, a bartender and some ladies of the night. This makes me sad seeing this kind of girls.
I met up with Nick at Four Season's Hotel where he was staying. And then we headed off to Wan Chai area.
If I could recall so well we went to four bars that night. I had one pint of beer at the first bar. I think I got really drunk that night but I was still able to hold me myself and able to get back to my hostel in complete piece. It was during this hang out with Nick that he told me was getting married and he hasn't told anyone yet! OMG! I was so honored! He was going to make the announcement soon so I just better zip my mouth till that official announcement comes out. Congrats! Finally!
I went home taking the cab, as I was from travelling from Hongkong island to Kowloon, I paid a good deal of the taxi fare. I probably got home at around 2am.
Day2 - The Peak, Ocean Park, Night Market (July 29, 2010)
First stop was The Peak, one of the not to be missed tourist spots in HK. You haven't been to HK if you've never been to The Peak. It gives you a good view of the city and truly an amazing view. Since we were on Kowloon island and The Peak was on the Hong Kong island, we took the ferry to cross to the other side. Our landlady accompanied us on this trip. She had suggested we took the bus to go up to The Peak. But the bus never came, so we took the other option w/c was the tram. Oh I was excited to take the tram! I've never been able to ride one! According to their website, "the venerable Peak Tram is, as most passengers agree, the only way to truly experience the beauty of Hong Kong's natural wonders. Tens of millions of people from every corner of the globe have taken the ride, which affords a uniquely spectacular perspective of the city." I sooo agree!
Since that day the weather was a bit foggy, it was truly cold up on The Peak. Good thing I brought a cardigan with me. When we got off the tram, there were souvenir items for sale that greeted us and so we couldn't resist but start our pasalubong shopping. I got a tip from my friends that the prices were just as good as buying them from the night market so might as well do the shopping while there's time.
After this, we went around and took a lot of pictures with a background of the HK city below. Actually the view up makes the buildings so much closer. I bet the view would've been better at night. An hour before lunch we went down via the tram again and we were off to our next destination, Ocean Park. According to Wikipedia - the Ocean Park Hongkong is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, and animal theme park, situated in Wong Chuk Hang and Nam Long Shan in the Southern District of Hong Kong. Founded in 1977 by the then Governor of Hong Kong Sir Murray MacLehose, Ocean Park has now grown to about 35 attractions and rides. The park has won several awards, including The World's Seventh Most Popular Amusement Park and 33rd Most Visited Tourist Attractions in the World by Forbes. So it wasn't to be missed by the young and young at heart. The park was really huge, so wide that a half day wasn't enough to explore it. Too bad we missed a lot of the nice spots. We didn't miss though the very exciting rides - The Mine Train, The Abyss, and The Dragon. If you enjoy parks like this, give it one whole day to explore. It surely is worth your money.
We headed back to the city around 430PM. We had to hurry as my sister still wanted to go back to Citygate and my mom was keen on seeing the night market and maybe buy a few. Their flight to Cebu was at 12MN. So when we got back to our hostel, all we did was packed the remaining things (as we had already did the major packing the night before). We went to the nearest night market from our hostel. We got some good buys on tshirts and a nice fake wallet w/c was first priced expensively. You really have to haggle at these night markets. They just overpriced them for tourists. And if you're so gullible, unlucky you. We got back to our hostel and got our luggages and headed off to Citygate. Citygate is just near the airport. It is located approximately 10 minutes from the airport. It is right outside the Tung Chung MTR station exit B. Sis and I got good buys from Esprit, Nike or Adidas(was it?) and New Balance. =) We were now happy happy with what we got. Mom, sis and sis' bf had to take the airport express to get to the airport fast. From the Tung Chung station, we went to Tsing Yi station where the airport express line is. The trip took around 20-25 mins from Tung Chung to Tsing Yi to airport. It was fast. We were able to do a lot on that day. So all went home happy. =)
I went back to the hostel and had to prepare for day trip to Macau the next day.
Since that day the weather was a bit foggy, it was truly cold up on The Peak. Good thing I brought a cardigan with me. When we got off the tram, there were souvenir items for sale that greeted us and so we couldn't resist but start our pasalubong shopping. I got a tip from my friends that the prices were just as good as buying them from the night market so might as well do the shopping while there's time.
After this, we went around and took a lot of pictures with a background of the HK city below. Actually the view up makes the buildings so much closer. I bet the view would've been better at night. An hour before lunch we went down via the tram again and we were off to our next destination, Ocean Park. According to Wikipedia - the Ocean Park Hongkong is a marine mammal park, oceanarium, and animal theme park, situated in Wong Chuk Hang and Nam Long Shan in the Southern District of Hong Kong. Founded in 1977 by the then Governor of Hong Kong Sir Murray MacLehose, Ocean Park has now grown to about 35 attractions and rides. The park has won several awards, including The World's Seventh Most Popular Amusement Park and 33rd Most Visited Tourist Attractions in the World by Forbes. So it wasn't to be missed by the young and young at heart. The park was really huge, so wide that a half day wasn't enough to explore it. Too bad we missed a lot of the nice spots. We didn't miss though the very exciting rides - The Mine Train, The Abyss, and The Dragon. If you enjoy parks like this, give it one whole day to explore. It surely is worth your money.
We headed back to the city around 430PM. We had to hurry as my sister still wanted to go back to Citygate and my mom was keen on seeing the night market and maybe buy a few. Their flight to Cebu was at 12MN. So when we got back to our hostel, all we did was packed the remaining things (as we had already did the major packing the night before). We went to the nearest night market from our hostel. We got some good buys on tshirts and a nice fake wallet w/c was first priced expensively. You really have to haggle at these night markets. They just overpriced them for tourists. And if you're so gullible, unlucky you. We got back to our hostel and got our luggages and headed off to Citygate. Citygate is just near the airport. It is located approximately 10 minutes from the airport. It is right outside the Tung Chung MTR station exit B. Sis and I got good buys from Esprit, Nike or Adidas(was it?) and New Balance. =) We were now happy happy with what we got. Mom, sis and sis' bf had to take the airport express to get to the airport fast. From the Tung Chung station, we went to Tsing Yi station where the airport express line is. The trip took around 20-25 mins from Tung Chung to Tsing Yi to airport. It was fast. We were able to do a lot on that day. So all went home happy. =)
I went back to the hostel and had to prepare for day trip to Macau the next day.
Day1 - Ngong Ping 360, Disneyland, Citygate Outlets (July 28, 2010)
Finally, I am able to find time to write on our HK trip last July.
So officially Day 1 w/ mom, sis and sis' bf was July 28. We first went to Ngong Ping 360 and to get there you need to take their cable car. It was the longest cable car trip I've ever experienced. We took the crystal cabin - a bit pricey than the ordinary but it was all worth it though. Since the weather at that time was not sunny,ie cloudy and windy our cable was swaying most of the time! Kinda scared the hell of us! hahaha... When we got off, it was showering a bit. So we just toured the area, took pictures and just looked at the Big Buddha from the foot. Mom was not keen on going up the stairs and so was sis. It was already raining and I couldn't really convinced them to go up. We went back and took the cable car ride. We had lunch at Citygate Outlets and were able to do a bit of shopping in Giordano. The Citygate outlets is not to be missed by any shopaholic. If I just had much moolah, I could have bought a lot!
We didn't really stay long as we still had to go to Disneyland. The rain has not stopped and the clouds were very dark and ready to release a big big splash on earth. tsk tsk. All I could do was say a prayer. But Nature is nature, you just can't stop its course. So it did rain and rained hard in Disneyland. We didn't get to see all the attractions unfortunately. Nevertheless, we still had fun. It was a good experience. The HK Disneyland as they say can be toured around, in all corners in a day or less, less if you're not in a hurry and you don't like to buy souvenirs. It's not as huge as the other Disneylands. For anyone who'd like to go there, do keep in mind - wear comfy footwear, bring umbrella to protect you from the sun/rain, put on sunblock, wear sunglasses / hats, study the map and know where to start, where to go. And do not miss the fireworks display at night. =)
So officially Day 1 w/ mom, sis and sis' bf was July 28. We first went to Ngong Ping 360 and to get there you need to take their cable car. It was the longest cable car trip I've ever experienced. We took the crystal cabin - a bit pricey than the ordinary but it was all worth it though. Since the weather at that time was not sunny,ie cloudy and windy our cable was swaying most of the time! Kinda scared the hell of us! hahaha... When we got off, it was showering a bit. So we just toured the area, took pictures and just looked at the Big Buddha from the foot. Mom was not keen on going up the stairs and so was sis. It was already raining and I couldn't really convinced them to go up. We went back and took the cable car ride. We had lunch at Citygate Outlets and were able to do a bit of shopping in Giordano. The Citygate outlets is not to be missed by any shopaholic. If I just had much moolah, I could have bought a lot!
We didn't really stay long as we still had to go to Disneyland. The rain has not stopped and the clouds were very dark and ready to release a big big splash on earth. tsk tsk. All I could do was say a prayer. But Nature is nature, you just can't stop its course. So it did rain and rained hard in Disneyland. We didn't get to see all the attractions unfortunately. Nevertheless, we still had fun. It was a good experience. The HK Disneyland as they say can be toured around, in all corners in a day or less, less if you're not in a hurry and you don't like to buy souvenirs. It's not as huge as the other Disneylands. For anyone who'd like to go there, do keep in mind - wear comfy footwear, bring umbrella to protect you from the sun/rain, put on sunblock, wear sunglasses / hats, study the map and know where to start, where to go. And do not miss the fireworks display at night. =)
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Christmas Away From Home
Christmas 2010 is the first Christmas I spent away from home, Cebu and away from my family. I felt a bit sad really. I didn't realize that I would somehow feel loneliness in my heart even with close friends and relatives around. Nothing compares to spending Christmas with your family. =) I sooo miss them already...
On the good side though, I got to experience how other people also spend their Christmas. It was a nice experience yesterday/today. I so love the food, the turkey especially! And I love what I got from my cuz, a Tory Burch shoulder bag. Just the right color I needed. I don't have a brown bag. Super thanks to my Ate. Babawi ako. Promise.
I thank the Lord Almighty for my cuz Te Ging and her hubby Kuya Tyler. It was a splendid Christmas eve. I thank both for letting me into their home and into their hearts.
Tomorrow, I will be in my other relatives here in Manila. I've spent two New Year's with them, and it has been good. Though the last wasn't really the best...Anyway, I am looking forward to eating the home cooked food of my Auntie Celia. =)
I can't wait to be home in Cebu in the next 2 days. Haaay, this is life. But I love life and I want to live it fully!
May your hearts be filled with peace, love and joy this Christmas season. =)
On the good side though, I got to experience how other people also spend their Christmas. It was a nice experience yesterday/today. I so love the food, the turkey especially! And I love what I got from my cuz, a Tory Burch shoulder bag. Just the right color I needed. I don't have a brown bag. Super thanks to my Ate. Babawi ako. Promise.
I thank the Lord Almighty for my cuz Te Ging and her hubby Kuya Tyler. It was a splendid Christmas eve. I thank both for letting me into their home and into their hearts.
Tomorrow, I will be in my other relatives here in Manila. I've spent two New Year's with them, and it has been good. Though the last wasn't really the best...Anyway, I am looking forward to eating the home cooked food of my Auntie Celia. =)
I can't wait to be home in Cebu in the next 2 days. Haaay, this is life. But I love life and I want to live it fully!
May your hearts be filled with peace, love and joy this Christmas season. =)
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