Spring Ball 2006

View of the dancefloor

James, Sarah and Mollie

Wrong camera setting.... Blurriness isn't alcohol-induced - honest!

What's in a job title?

Associate, Analyst, Consultant, Manager, Director, Executive, Assistant..... What is in a job title?

At the moment, I can either let people know that I'm head of my department here (to get the ooh's and wow's) because that elicits an impression of heading a department of 10 people. Or quickly add that I am the only person in my department since my team lead is on holiday (to put some context around it). So really, I am the Analyst/Assistant/Executive/Lead - pick whichever title suits the occasion; it doesn't matter because they're the same. Would it be wrong to do one or the other? I prefer to point it out in case people think my opinion is the 'be all and end all'.

I remember being impressed by someone I know who announced himself as Chief Editor, then someone pointed out that he was the only person in the team - so he is the journalist/editor/chief editor all in one. I looked at an organisational chart once which had six managers names' - I then proceeded to ask how big their teams were and who reported to them. They gave me a blank look - yes, they are managers but no, they don't have a team - it's just them. At that time, I had the stereotypical view of a Manager being well, a Manager to a team of people. I know better now - 'Manager' is a title that can be used generically from managing people to managing technical infrastructure.

Some people strive for a job because of the job title. An ex-colleague persuaded me to join his firm. He told me money would not be an issue (which I took in with a BIG bowl of salt!) and I'll get a better title. But when he started talking about the job responsibilities, it was no different to what I currently have. So why would I uproot from my current firm where I have spent reasonable time structuring my career and ensuring that most of the right people know my career path, to start from scratch again at a different firm? Perhaps I may be paid more to start with, but that's not a long term view. The title would sound more impressive when I introduce myself at networking events, but it's just a title.

When I met another ex-colleague, we compared notes on some of the job titles in the firm I'm with, with her current company. Executive, in our firm, refers to someone with 3 to 6 years experience (different to the Executive Board, which is of course the 'powers-that-be'). In her current company, Executive is the level of a Director. When I carried out a project in US, I was meeting Vice Presidents of this particular company - which I had thought meant that they were on the Executive Board. I then realised that they would actually be the level of Senior Managers in my firm. Important people, no doubt, but not the Executive Board equivalent I had in my mind.

Interesing how job titles can mean so much yet so little at the same time.... Does it actually matter?

Objectivity

I read in the news here recently about a national airline cutting jobs as a result of multi-million losses which led the company to leverage its air routes with another air carrier, thus significantly cutting back on its routes and hence the job losses. When I then read news from the national airline's base country, there was no mention of the multi-million losses. Instead, the news was such that it sounded like a sensible idea to leverage the routes - nothing about the huge losses. I wasn't surprised, as who wouldn't want to limit the amount of bad news within the country, right? It happens everywhere, but especially more in certain countries.

I then wondered whether there was such a thing as objectivity anymore. I wouldn't be surprised if the latter country accused the news agencies in the first country mentioned of trying to paint a bad picture of the latter country etc etc. It wouldn't be the first time this happens, rightly or wrongly. News agencies are supposed to be objective and provide us with facts and figures, however this is often tainted by personal and political views. Does it matter which fact they omit to report? Would it be better for the person/company/country concerned if certain figures are intentionally or unintentionally forgotten? Was there a reason behind the emphasis on certain facts?

We do it in our everyday lives too. Remember how when I was younger, my mom wanted to know who had higher marks than me in school. I thought it'll be better to say who had lower marks than me (which may be a shorter or longer list depending on whether you're talking about primary/junior school, secondary/high school or college). :) We are supposed to try and be objective when it comes to appraisals, reporting, etc - but can we be truly objective?

Fondue

My first fondue bourguignonne, aptly eaten in Switzerland. Our ignorance showed when we thought fondue was well, fondue! With melted cheese. Imagine our surprise when the waiter brought along the pot with oil rather than the melted cheese. It was then we realised there were several types of fondue - fondue moitié-moitié and fondue vaudoise are cheese fondues eaten with bread, fondue bourguignonne are meat fondues (ie cooked in oil rather than cheese) and of course, you have chocolate fondues too!

The meat fondue was good though, no regrets. The four of us who had ignorantly ordered fondue bourguignonne thinking it was of the cheese variety made up our disappointment for not ordering the cheese fondue with....ordering a portion of the cheese fondue to share! :) Yummy yummy yummy...

Some pictures from Zurich

Switzerland from the air...

From the land of clocks and watches - the famous railway station clock (the second hand symbolises the signal used by the railway master to tell the train when to go.

Hello from Zurich!

Arrived safely yesterday evening and took the chance to stroll around the centre, predominantly Bahnhofstrasse where all the big brands are. Says a lot when some of the stores don't display their prices! Had my first steak tartare yesterday too - not sure if it's Swiss; thought it was of French origin! Oh well, it was good anyways. Will post pictures later on. Have to get back to the course now!

Switzerland here I come!

OK, so this was taken in Leicester Square. I am sure I will be able to see this (and more) in Zurich. Leaving Sunday for a week-long business trip. I expect Switzerland to be covered in powdery snow for a winter wonderland experience (yes, yes, supposed to be working but no harm in getting some joy when looking out the window, right?). Somehow my mind associates skiing and Switzerland together. The weather forecast put a dampener on that though - forecast is similar to UK for next week - no snow. Sigh. Determine to have fun no doubt (oh, and work smart too!).

Sliding Doors

Everytime I take the Tube, as the buzzing alert starts to go off followed not long after by the carriage doors closing, there is always someone who rushes in (or try to rush in) at that very second to squeeze into the 10cm (and slowly decreasing) of space. I see that everyday I take the Tube - without fail.

Why is that? It's central London, so there's always one train every 3mins or so. Does getting to your destination 3mins earlier really make that much of a difference? Fair enough if you're rushing for another train at the other end, but I often wonder how many of these people actually have another train to catch. Or is it a streak of competitiveness in people to try and get the earlier train wherever possible, regardless of time (and safety - seeing some people putting their limbs at risk as they try to stop the doors closing!).

As I wondered aloud to my colleague today, he reminded me of the film Sliding Doors and how catching an earlier/later train could potentially change people's lifes. I thought more about it and realised that there have been instances in extreme cases where catching the earlier/later trains affected lives. Take the July 7 bombings for example. Some people reported that they would have caught a particular train/bus but couldn't make it in time. Similarly, some people unfortunately were caught up in the explosions because they caught the train they wouldn't normally have.

Mismatched expectations

What do you expect from friends? (Friends here to include family, ie the important people in our lives! :) ) Do you expect to receive what you give? Is it wrong to expect anything from your friends and instead, you should expect nothing? When a friend asks for a favour, do you think it's silly of them to ask - of course you will help! Or do you think it's only right to ask because it shows respect?

I notice that many a time, we go out of our way a lot more for strangers. Do you find that when we promise to do something for an acquiantance, we make more of an effort to ensure we remember to fulfil that promise compared to promises to friends. When people are coming round, we rush around tidying the house and put their feet up in the living room whereas if good friends are coming around, we are happy to ask them to get their hands dirty and help us in the kitchen. Dates with friends are sometimes cancelled at the last minute for various reasons - sometimes valid, sometimes questionable. Is it arrogant to expect friends to keep to dates and promises? On the other hand, would you be considered foolish if you ensure you keep to dates with friends?

We make an effort to dress up when we are meeting new people. With friends, we are comfortable to meet in T-shirt and trekkies. We mind our P's and Q's with strangers whilst with friends, we're not as generous with our 'excuse me', 'please' or 'thank you's'. Is it because we don't feel comfortable around 'non-friends'? Perhaps we think our friends should already know when we're sorry or thankful. It's part of the almost-telepathic skill that friends have so there is no need to display manners in the traditional sense?

Do we do all these because we feel an underlying need to impress and be liked by new people, whereas respect or affection from friends is already 'in the bag' and we don't have to work at it? Or is it because we take friends for granted? We know that despite what we do - promises broken, dates cancelled, we will still be forgiven, because that's what friends do?

Is it the weekend already?

It has been one of those weeks..... Mid week, I was surprised to find that it was only Wednesday. So much had gone on that it felt like it should be Friday! But when Friday rolled around, there was so much left to do that I couldn't believe it was Friday!

What's been happening? It's been busy busy busy at work. But won't go into details here or it'll bore you! :) Hope all turns out well though! Went to watch Les Miserables with Beverly on Wednesday - was really good. It started out a lil disappointing but after 30mins, the strength and power of the singing started showing through. Was excellent. Another trip to the theatre on Thursday, this time to watch Woman in Black with colleagues from another team. Boy, was it scary! It was a good (or bad?) thing we were sat higher up, as there were a few bits when the audience at the front screamed and we couldn't understand what they were screaming at. (Was quite funny, actually!) Perhaps when I'm feeling braver, I'll go watch it again and choose to sit in the front rows.

Thank goodness it's the weekend though! I didn't really welcome it on Friday afternoon when I saw the big pile of work that I still need to get through, but like my dad said before, work will always be there....!

Steef's farewell dinner

How to make pancakes

What is a friend?

How would you define a friend? Someone you say hello in passing? Someone you call out for a drink? Someone you confide in? Someone you gossip with?

It's so easy to introduce someone as your friend but stop - really, what is a friend? Friendships form a significant part of our lives, yet it is easy to use the word 'friend' loosely.

To me, a friend is someone you can trust to tell you the truth for your own good even if the truth hurts. Someone you rely on to help you through obstacles life throws in your path. Someone you can talk to about anything and who continues to patiently listen to your ramblings. Someone with whom you share your good and bad times. Someone who is a shoulder to cry on. Someone you can sit comfortably with in silence without feeling the need to make up meaningless conversation. Someone you can be yourself with.

A friend is someone who knows when you need a hug. Someone who knows when to say thank you. Someone who knows how to say sorry and actually mean it. Someone who does not take you for granted. A friend is one who accepts you for who you are. "A friend is someone who knows us, but loves us anyway." - Jerome Cummings

On top of all this, even more importantly, a friend is someone who believes. I was challenged at today's Women's Breakfast to really think what friendships really mean and who really are friends. Colossians 3 encourages us not to lose sight of the key principles of friendship. There shouldn't be slander, lies, greed and jealousy. Fill it instead with compssion, kindness, forgiveness, love and humility. Many times, I thought it was obvious that Mr/Ms Popular in school had more friends. But as Proverbs 13:20 says "He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm." How encouraging that the Bible acknowledges that friendships should be wisely chosen. I say wisely because it makes it clear that we shouldn't discriminate in making friends - race, belief, gender, ability; yet wisely because we need to know who influences and tempts us away from the right path.

Whilst reading the various verses, I realised more and more how lucky I was to have friends who believed. Friends who prayed for me when I walked away from God. They may have been frustrated and impatient with me at times for not seeing the obvious and for not accepting Christ back. But they never showed it once. The gentle encouragement. Jo and Joanna....

Thank You.

Meeting up with ex MCers

Kah Yong came over to UK for a short visit so met up with him, Wei Hian, Jason, Kish and Lay Seng. When I told B I was meeting up because Kah Yong was here, B (sarcastically, or so I thought) asked if Kah Yong is married "because everyone else seems to be". (B seems to have this thing about how everyone else is getting married except us - as if it's my fault!) Anyway, within first 15mins of dinner, I found out... surprise surprise, that Kah Yong is indeed getting married at the end of the year. Hahaha. What good news! (And I'm also beginning to wonder if B's got some sixth sense now!)

Since the beginning of the year, more friends are getting married: Aside from those mentioned in previous post "Start of 2006".... Leena, Lucky, Amy and now Kah Yong!

iPod fashion for babies

Now even babies can be iPod savvy. Check out www.ipopmybaby.com. Hilarious! Matching iPods and babies - every parents dream!

Pancake Day

Started off with some yee sang - yes rather late! Sent all the way from Msia! Hopefully we'll still be prosperous and get the luck etc even though we're about a month late with this tradition!

Now - a totally different tradition celebrated two days early. Pancake Day! Whilst it's meant to be the time to get rid of 'luxury' foodstuff before Lent, like sugar, flour, etc, we actually bought those especially for pancakes! :)
More photos to follow next week of the pancakes...! Time to hit the sack now!

Ice Kings, Queens, Princes and Princesses

Finally! Managed to catch some Olympics figure skating! On TV, mind, but still.....

Was and still am disappointed that Michelle Kwan had to pull out. Yes yes, furore over whether she should have received the place in the first place. But even her critics have to admit that her signature forward spirals were missed. Her grace, expression and maturity as she flew across the ice.

When the short program ended, I was sure Sasha Cohen was tasting gold already what with her triple lutz double toe combination ending confidently, with ease and every bit of emotion pouring through her program. Alas it was not to be, as both the favourites Sasha and Irina Slutskaya hit the ice. Arakawa deservedly won the gold medal with her maturity and elegance shining through her flawless program. I was impressed by Arakawa's performance. In the past, I felt that skaters from the Far East were technically brilliant but lost out on the showmanship of it. Not only did Arakawa skate cleanly with her combination jumps and spirals, she performed with such emotion to tell the story. Whilst I do not dispute that the best woman on the night won, I wondered if it would have been different if the quality of skating in the free program was of the same quality as the short program.

And the exhibition gala.... I missed the men's competition but heard the media raving about Plushenko. He certainly showed why in the exhibition gala. When I saw his 2002 Olympic program, it was a real tie between him and Yagudin but now.... Such powerful and astounding skating! He made quadruple combinations look effortless and easy! And his triple-triple-triple show off at the gala.... whoa! It's easy to understand why many said he dominated the men's competition and it looks like he will stay up there. Such an entertainer! You only have to watch his Champions on Ice performance to see that he really does belong in the spotlight - and enjoys it immensely too!

Madame Sadayakko

Lesley Downer's fascination with the Japanese world of geisha is further documented in Madame Sadayakko - The Geisha who seduced the West as she searched to understand the life of Sadayakko, known in her day as THE geisha. Just as Mineko Iwasaki was supposedly the basis for Arthur Golden's Memoirs of a Geisha, Sadayakko was said to be the real-life model for Madame Butterfly.

Sadayakko and Mineko - two very well known geishas in their time but two very different accounts. Lesley Downer found accounts of Sadayakko's struggle with her position in society despite being a very successful geisha. It was because she was a geisha that she was looked down upon. It didn't help when she married an actor, as actors in those days in Japan were known as 'riverbed beggars'. Despite being shunned by Japanese society, she was well received in Europe and America where she thrived on the independence and freedom she enjoyed there. Back in Japan, she had to step back behind her husband and success always had to be attributed to him first.

Contrast this to three years after she died, when Mineko was born... In her autobiography Geisha of Gion, Mineko's world sounded beautiful, elegant and graceful. The said mizuage which she was offended by in Memoirs of a Geisha, stating that it didn't happen in Gion, appeared to be the custom in Madame Sadayakko's accounts.

Both were ultimate successes in their profession and met and influenced major figureheads, so similar yet so very different too. Sadayakko's tale was one of sadness; you couldn't help but feel as if there were so many times when her life wasn't hers - important decisions were made about her life but she didn't have a say in it. Mineko's story had a happy-ever-after feel. Yes, both worked hard, went through a lot of pain for their professions but where Sadayakko was made to feel unwanted in society for being a geisha/actress, Mineko made it sound like it was a privileged and elite profession. And indeed it must be. Perhaps there is a difference between geishas in Tokyo (Sadayakko) and Kyoto (Mineko). Or perhaps it has to do with the timing?

I continue to be mesmerised by these women - both tough fighters in their own way. Independent when they were supposed to be subservient, opinionated when they should be pretty and demure to-be-seen-but-not-heard, living passionately in a society and time where open emotions were frowned upon.

Putting things into perspective

Just heard sad news yesterday that my former boss's 19 year old daughter passed away over the weekend. Although I don't know the family that well, I felt for them. So sad and tragic to lose someone so young and promising. Someone who still had her whole life ahead of her. Someone with parents who loved her and sisters who adored her.

Also heard yesterday that we didn't win the proposal we went for. Well, we kinda won 50% of it and the other 50% was awarded to an 'offshore' firm all due to costs. After hearing news like before, I wasn't at all upset and disappointed about it. It really put into perspective what life is about. Proposals, work, events come and go - it's easy to get caught up in being disappointed when things don't go your way. But to hear tragic news like the above, does it really matter if you didn't win this new piece of work or you can't go to that concert? One should take more time to sit back and reflect on what we have and be thankful for it. Thankful for having a loving family, somewhere to call home, not worrying about your next meal, not persecuted for speaking out for your beliefs (within reason of course), being able to walk/see/eat/talk/hear/smell.... Let's take time out from our busy schedules to stop and ponder and give thanks for having what we have.

Yaawwwnnnnn....

Was supposed to meet ex-MC'ers last night but was postponed to today. This was after rescheduling my lunch appointment with Sandra and getting up earlier to pack and shower before church, etc to be able to come down to London earlier for the dinner appointment. Ah wells.

Was just as well anyway, as I used the time to review files (until half past midnight!) which I would have to do today otherwise. Was not a happy bunny at midnight! Was so awake after reviewing the files (not often my brain gets taxed like that :) ) and I couldn't go to sleep for ages. Grrr... Rather sleepy today thanks to the four hours shuteye. Thank goodness for caffeine keeping me awake throughout! Looking forward to catching some zzzzzzzz early tonight......

You Say Donuts, I Say Doughnuts

It was Sarah and Beverly's birthdays earlier this week. Instead of bringing in a cake, they decided to bring in four dozen of Krispy Kreme doughnuts (yes, you read right - not just four, but FOUR DOZEN!!! - Homer Simpson's dream come true!). I'm sure there has never been so many calories in our room before! It was strange how the lady behind the counter didn't bat an eyelid when Beverly, Dan and I placed our order (pic on right). Maybe we looked like we regularly scoff down four dozen doughnuts between the three of us?

National Wedding Show

Joined hundreds if not thousands of brides to be (and troops!) at National Wedding Show Spring 2006. Was not as excited about it as I thought I would be (and was two weeks ago). I guess as many have pointed out, it's more than a year away (also, the absence of my own supportive 'troop'!). I'm in my project management mode and want to get targets, milestones, names on my spreadsheet and project plan. I really need to remind myself to start enjoying the preparations properly rather than get all worked up about project managing it! ;)

I did get some good ideas on alternative guestbooks, photography style/momento and bonbonieres. All filed away categorically to be looked at nearer the time when others start sharing my enthusiasm and excitement. :)

(This picture taken of one of the catwalk models before I was told no photography was allowed in the hall. Oops...)

Is it possible.........

...in an era where technology knows no bounds, where everyone has two email addresses, a house phone, a mobile phone, a fax... that one can still feel lonely?

...with the advance of science and artificial intelligence, supposedly being able to tell us what we think, that we can still feel sad but not know or understand why?

...with all types of entertainment innovation brings - TVs, iPods, Playstations, that one can still feel empty and bored?

Is it possible?

More cute alert!!!!

The Metropolitan's six month old four-legged and tail wagging recruits learn how to bark! They're Adorable! One of them just looks at the handler then turns around a bit before letting out a small bark. Not very scary but cute! :) Follow this link to find out more.

Finally, a course that Livea will excel at! In fact, she can probably teach it. Mummy reckons that she has three types of barks:
- "I just feel like barking at that harmless bird/cat/person few hundred metres away",
- "A stranger's entering my territory!",
- "Someone I love is home!" - usually followed by lots of excited running and jumping around.

Cute Alert!!!!

Awwww...... A Puppy Monorail built in two days! The puppies look slightly apprehensive. Perhaps they're not pleased at being the guinea 'puppies'!

Photo taken from The Monorail Society. Follow this link to read more and see more photos on the conception of this and James Horecka's sketches!

Thanks to B for pointing this out! :)

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Darling sis sent me a sweet text about how V Day isn't just for lovers but for family too. I so agree! Happy Valentine's Day, Jo!!!

The connection between Valentine's Day and romantic love wasn't evident in the earlier times, and it could be the doing of commercialism. I do think V Day is ensuring your loved ones (be they your other halves, best friends, family) know that you appreciate them. And yes, at the risk of sounding like a cliche, you shouldn't do it just on this specific day - it should be every day!

Charlie the doggie sent me a V Day card. Isn't that sweet?

City Church Keeps Up with the Technology

City Church's latest sermons are now available on podcasts!!!! What a great way to catch up on sermons missed, refresh memory or for those who were from City but have left! If you don't already have iTunes, go to www.apple.com/itunes to download it. Then subscribe free to "City Evangelical Church" podcast.

Mystery comment leads to memories from Aitken!

"Mr & Mrs Chan" left a comment on my blog and it didn't sound like a random comment. Several people's names went through my head as I tried to figure out who it was. Finally checked links to their blog (yes, should've done it in the first instance but I like the odd (only very odd, mind you) challenge to my memory ;) ) and who should it be but Jennifer! Now, isn't that a blast from the past! Must admit, her name wasn't one of the few I had thought off for "Mr & Mrs Chan" because I knew her in her maiden name.....

My uni flatmate, whom I've been rubbish at keeping in touch with! Super-duper gal! Independent, strong-willed and definitely not one you want to cross! Miss the Aitken days, Jen! Cooking, eating, playing cards, eating, setting 'cleaning duty rotas', eating and getting through 'flat politics'! *) Did I mention eating?

This photo was us meeting up in Singapore (despite both of us from the same hometown in Malaysia!) - the first time we met up after four years, and turned out to be the only time as that was two years ago and being in almost-opposite ends of the world mean it's difficult to just get together whenever we feel like it. Shame. I do miss our talks about nothing-anything-and-everything (and lots about doggies!).

Also in the pic are Uncle and Aster. Uncle isn't really my Uncle but we called him that because he was the oldest in B's flat. A fantastic cook! Always the 'voice of reason', but one who also knows how to party! One of the memories (which I'm sure Uncle is going to kill me for!) is Uncle trying to open his room door after having a few too many to drink. I won't elaborate more - suffice to say that it took a while.... hehehe.... Sorry, Uncle! I'm still lucky that I can taste Uncle's yummy home cooked food as he came back to UK with Aster last year. :)

Anyways, check out their blogs - links on the left hand side of this page.

Window Shopping - honest!

I wandered to Selfridges last night. One of the joys of being on this project is being able to stay 2mins from Bond St so able to take a quick wander to Oxford Street and still be back in half an hour in time for ER. Mainly window shopping (really!!!)! Ok ok, I bought a SAP BW book but it was only £1 in the sale! Come on, if that isn't a bargain, what is? (And yes, I'm sad for being ecstatic at buying a SAP book in the sales).

Anyway, here's evidence of my window shopping.... The window displays at Selfridges. A different type of art in its' own right...

Snowflake Skydive

(Picture from www.theworldteam.com)
Isn't this absolutely beautiful? 400 skydivers from 31 countries formed a snowflake en route to a world record for the largest connected mid-air freefall formation. This jump also honoured the 60th anniversary of the reign of Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

See www.theworldteam.com to read more about their preparation, joys and disappointments with each practice.

You can take....

Presented at the new initiative to attract students from another country into a 3 year programme which they spend doing their exams and getting on-the-job training like any other graduate, then return to their home country equipped with the qualification and international experience. The presentations went well - good thing I didn't have to present in the native language of that country, as my grasp of that language is restricted primarily to ordering food and negotiating prices!

The questions we got however, was very mixed. Mindset is very much still based on academic results rather than realising the benefits of being an all-rounder. Yes, of course you need good results, but think - what actually sets you apart from all the other graduates with A's or 2:1 degrees? The cheek of some of them as well, asking for the exact questions we ask at interviews. First of all - d'oh! As if there's a script that interviewers follow to a T. You might as well use robots to conduct the interviews then, following a 'Decision Tree' to allocate students to an Accept/Reject pile depending on the key words given in their answers. Even call centres are discouraged from using scripts now. Secondly, why would we tell you exactly what questions we ask, if those questions did indeed exist? This isn't an exam where you can 'spot' questions. Besides, would it be fair to the rest of the students?

Memories of MCKL CF

Have been looking around for lyrics to two of my favourite songs from MCKL CF days. Coleen then suggested the very sensible idea of Google-ing it. Lo and behold, I found it! Why didn't I think of that before? D'oh! Will just put some of the lyrics here... (Thanks Coleen!)

Shine Jesus Shine chorus (for full song, go to www.grahamkendrick.co.uk):
Shine, Jesus, shine
Fill this land with the Father's glory
Blaze, Spirit, blaze
Set our hearts on fire
Flow, river, flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth your word
Lord, and let there be light
Graham Kendrick
Copyright © 1987 Make Way Music,

Everlasting Light (for full song, go to http://jrodil.tripod.com/singles.htm):

Women: One candle lights one candle, two candles light four,

And where they shine there is no darkness anymore.

Men/Women: Two candles light four candles, four candles light eight

And in the light of Jesus, we can celebrate

Men/Women: Everlasting light, everlasting light, Filling up the darkness with everlasting light

(Unison) Everlasting light, everlasting light, Filling the darkness with everlasting light

How to make the Perfect Creme Brulee ... Or Not...

We each had a go at making the 'perfect' creme brulee. Guess who got it right?

The apparatus....Step 1... (Note the slightly 'disfigured' creme brulee on top right corner?)
Step 2... watch little crystals form...

Step 3....

Step 4.... Almost there....
Five years of dental school and three years experience obviously gives you steady hands. Dr Daly does it right (difficult as it is to believe!) ;)
We still had a 'back-up' waiting in the wings, just in case.....

Luke 3: 1 - 20

We looked at this passage in church a few weeks ago and it occured to me that I am so underprepared for the second coming. We were asked to think about the preparation we make when friends come over - how we clean our house from top to bottom. Or, when parents visit - the hoovering, washing of bedsheets, cleaning the kitchen, scrubbing pots and pans.... Why don't we put the same amount of effort and urgency in prearing for God's coming?

Preparation is not solely by making sure you don't commit crime. It's not just going to church for a couple of hours on Sunday. Preparation is also about belief and repenting. And if you think that's easy, think again. Ephesians 6:14 onwards: "....belt of truth...breastplate of righteousness...readiness from the gospel of peace....shield of faith...helmet of salvation....sword of the Spirit...be alert and always keep on praying...."

Do think again - are you prepared?

Candles Candles Candles

More amateurish artistic photos - this time of candles (Don't ask me why candles!) :)

Candles at the Cinnamon Club Bar - candle surrounded by rose petals













Some from dinner at Locanta Piccalilli this evening:

Eternal flame even through the reflection.... Right side up, upside down......

Lows meet Ngs

First 'official' meeting of both families - minus me! B's dad suggested having dinner with my family whilst B was home (and I was thousands of miles away in UK!). Wasn't sure whether to feel gutted or relieved that I wasn't around - hehehe.... Heard all went well, so in retrospect, guess I'm gutted! ;) Looking forward to the next one in August, hopefully I'm invited this time! ;)

Dinner @ Zen's:

Dot: Livea's future 'doggie-in-law'

Conviction

Richard North Patterson dealt with the very controversial subject of mentally ill people and the death penalty in Conviction. Mr Patterson's credentials as trial lawyer, assistant attorney general and advocacy group board member were evident in this novel. Legal terms which I didn't comprehend flew back and forth throughout the book... Habeas corpus, AEDPA, Ninth Circuit, Eight Circuit, clemency petition, freestanding innocence, Herrera, Atkins.... (Ok, so maybe not all legal terms).

The legal battles were the most interesting - when both sets of lawyers faced the Ninth Court, Supreme Court and District Court. However, 'lawyer speak' was used most of the time (although I'm sure lawyers would tell me that's simple layman-speak!) so the dramatics were sometimes lost on me. This seemed to be a book more for lawyers. I'll need to ask a professional in the legal field this, but comparing Mr Patterson with Mr Grisham, I'd say the latter appeals more to non-lawyers because of the real layman speak in his novels (hence why most lawyers don't like him, I guess! You can't win every battle!).

Conviction did make me think about the death penalty more. I used to think there was a clear answer - don't commit a crime - clear and simple. But this novel threw in some grey areas - what if justice was not served properly, if the person was led to commit a crime (s)he didn't understand due to lack of mental capacity? Mr Patterson allowed some glimmer of emotion through, which when he did, was very touching. It certainly forced me to re-think my initial thoughts on death penalty.

I'll have to read the book again and really make it a point to understand the legal terms to fully appreciate the story. Or get one of my brilliant lawyer friends to explain it to me (I'm looking at you, Yen!) ;)

Bye, Rika!

Bon voyage! Hope you're having fun catching up with family, friends, food!!!! Do keep in touch, yeah?

(Just realised we took the pic in front of the Parents Association sign! D'oh! For those of you who were wondering about the relevance, City Church meets at West House School. Met Rika at City Church rather than some Parents Association - thought I'd nip this first in case it fuels rumours!)

Lion Dance

Lion dance during our meal at Chung Ying Garden on CNY Eve:

Oops

The eagle eyed amongst you would have noticed that I didn't include the Seville photos on my links last week. I have now...! Have also added more pics of our meal at Chef's Table at Angela Hartnett's. Check out the links on the left.

Memoirs of a Geisha

Another book turned movie bestseller. Movie or book? Another debate rages....

It was my intention to finish reading Arthur Golden's epic tale of the mysterious geisha world before watching the movie. With the last few book-turned-movie bestsellers (eg LOTR, Chronicles of Narnia, The Firm), I'm ashamed to say I watched the movie which then inspired me to read the books rather than the other way around. (I found the Harry Potter sagas rather unmotivating, which didn't inspire me to read the books).

Memoirs of a Geisha the book was very engaging. I felt the emotions of Chiyo/Nitta Sayuri as she struggled with trust after Mr Tanaka's betrayal, was taught to suppress her feelings as they have to be hidden behind her white 'mask' since geishas "don't have a choice", and how she didn't have a say in her life which was dictated by Mother and bidding wars even over her mizuage. These didn't come across as well in the movie. There were sparks of brilliance in Zhang Zi Yi's, Gong Li's and Michelle Yeoh's performances as Sayuri, Hatsumomo and Mameha respectively. However, the script had been condensed far too much - understandably as the movie would have dragged on a lot more. Rather than focusing on specific key topics, I felt that the movie contained snippets of the book's highlights, jumping from one event to the next without much explanation. The scenery in the movie was breath-taking - made me want to visit Japan all the more. It was interesting to note that most of the movie was shot in California, however. I'm sure I wouldn't be disappointed when I visit Japan, though.

Excluding various bits that were cut out of the book (some of which I thought were very important, like her danna), the movie stayed quite close to the book. Obviously artistic licence was used several times, though the point of it remains to be seen. For example, substitution of Nobu-san with Chairman Ken when it came to sending Sayuri away in the war, and Colonel Derricks instead of Sato Noritaka whom Iwamura Electric was trying to impress.

Whilst reading the book, I couldn't help comparing it with Mineko Iwasaki's "Geisha of Gion". I must admit that I hold Mineko Iwasaki's memoirs in higher regard. After all, she was the most successful geisha of her time and the book was her autobiography. There was a lot more explanation into the world of geisha - it wasn't simply a matter of looking pretty and acting demure. The determination she had (since approx five years old when she knew she would become the okiya's atotori), the perseverance in her profession (never once taking a day off until she was ill with some sort of kidney infection, I believe) and the business mind behind running an okiya. There was richness in the traditions that you could sense as you read the autobiography, which Memoirs of a Geisha the book and movie didn't give it the attention it deserves. Memoirs of a Geisha focused more on the fictional account of a geisha's lifelong search for love. I felt that it didn't set out to discover more behind the intentionally-hidden facade of a geisha's world.

I wanted to like the movie a lot more than I actually did - because of how much I enjoyed the book and even more because "Geisha of Gion" really intrigued me. I expected to rave about the movie a lot more. I am slightly disappointed in the movie's plotlines however I guess tradeoffs had to be made in condensing a 428-page novel into a 2hr movie. The scenic sets did make up for it though.

Gong Xi Fa Cai!!!

Happy Chinese New Year!!!! May the Bow-Wow Year bring you prosperity, good health and success!

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Kung Hei Fatt Choy!

San Lin Fai Lok!






(Scenes from London's Chinatown)

Proposal Done!

First proposal presentation done! Phew! Was quite fun actually, though I may feel differently if I didn't have two Partners there to answer the difficult questions.

Even if we don't win this, it was an excellent learning opportunity to be involved in a proposal. Fingers crossed anyway.....

New/old photos

Found my discs with some 'old' photos (ie pre 2004!) and uploaded them here. They are taken during family holidays in Malaysia (Pulau Redang) and Spain (Seville, Barcelona, Madrid). See links on the left side of this page.

Lyrics for You Are Holy (Prince of Peace)

You are holy (You are holy)
You are mighty (You are mighty)
You are worthy (You are worthy)
Worthy of praise (worthy of praise)
I will follow (I will follow)
I will listen (I will listen)
I will love you (I will love you)
All of my days (All of my days)

I will sing to (You are Lord of Lords)
And worship (You are King of Kings)
The King who (You are mighty God)
is worthy (Lord of Everything)
I will love and (You're Emanuel)
adore Him (You're the Great I Am)
And I will bow (You're the Prince of Peace)
down before Him (Who is the Lamb)
and I will sing to (You're the living God)
and worship (You're my saving Grace)
the King who (You will rein forever)
is worthy (You're the Ancient of days)
And I will love and (You are Alpha, Omega,)
adore him (Beginning, and End)
And I will bow down (You're my savior, Messiah)
before Him (Redeemer and Friend)
You’re my prince of peace
And I will live my life for You

You are holy (You are holy)
You are mighty (You are mighty)
You are worthy (You are worthy)
Worthy of praise (worthy of praise)
I will follow (I will follow)
I will listen (I will listen)
I will love you (I will love you)
All of my days (All of my days)

I will sing to (You are Lord of Lords)
And worship (You are King of Kings)
The King who (You are mighty God)
is worthy (Lord of Everything)
I will love and (You're Emanuel)
adore Him (You're the Great I Am)
And I will bow (You're the Prince of Peace)
down before Him (Who is the Lamb)
and I will sing to (You're the living God)
and worship (You're my saving Grace)
the King who (You will rein forever)
is worthy (You're the Ancient of days)
And I will love and (You are Alpha, Omega,)
adore him (Beginning, and End)
And I will bow down (You're my savior, Messiah)
before Him (Redeemer and Friend)
You’re my prince of peace
And I will live my life for You
You’re my prince of peace
And I will live my life for You

(Marc Imboden and Tammi Rhoton)
©1994 Imboden Music (Admin. by Music Services) Martha Jo Publishing (Admin. by Music Services) 

Quiet one...

It was a quiet one for my 26th. Many commented that I should do something to celebrate but I really just wanted a quiet weekend after the hustle and bustle of Christmas and New Year. I have not had a nice quiet weekend since end Nov so this was a treat to myself!

We had a nice meal at Zinc and we were then going to watch Memoirs of a Geisha. Alas, everyone else in the city seemed to have the same idea about watching Memoirs of a Geisha. It was sold out, so we decided to come home and work on our blogs instead! Adventurous, huh? :)

left: Bri with posh fish and chips!

centre: Bri surprised me with a mini bday cake

right: Drinks at Zinc

Angela Hartnett at the Connaught

This was meant to be our celebratory meal at the end of the project. As it turns out, the project will go on until Sept 2007 at least. Anyway, the Centre of Expertise (CoE) team (and honorary guests!) had the privilege of going to Angela Hartnett's restaurant at the Connaught. And not just going to the restaurant, but getting a tour of the kitchen too and also had a go at making desserts!

Yup - They do spoil you at the Chef's Table. Arrived to champagne then venturing downstairs to check out 'behind the scenes', ie the three kitchens downstairs. We were led to the Chef's table, which is situated in the heart of the kitchen (between the main course and desserts kitchens), and in front of us were three flat screens showing us the activities in each kitchen. There was a total of eight courses or so (we lost count after awhile!). With each course, our waiter enlightened us with how it was cooked, even bringing out the sift at one point to show us how the celeriac cream was made! Lots of intricate detail and thought goes into each dish and careful preparation.

A totally different culinary experience - one of the best so far!

In the dessert kitchen pitching in to make desserts (and I don't mean only by eating!). More photos here....

Get Rich or Die Tryin

After dinner on Tuesday, I was wandering through Leicester Square. As I turned round the corner, there was a big crowd gathering around Empire Cinemas. Turned out that it was the premiere of 50 Cent's movie "Get Rich or Die Tryin". Since I had some time before heading off to RML, I stayed round to see if I can spot celebrities.

Ok, I'm probably going to show my age now but I hardly recognised those who were walking up the red carpet. I saw Jodie Marsh, someone from Sugababes and Michelle from Big Brother. If you're thinking 'Who?', yes - that was my first thought too. I didn't even recognised the faces to these people whose names I recognised. It was thanks to the screaming teenagers next to me that I managed to decipher some of their names!

Manager? Leader? Are they the same?

"No one is indispensable".
"A great Manager is one you can easily replace."

Harsh statements? I thought so when I first heard them, but then after some thought, realised how true they are. In the current business environment we are in, a sustainable business model is one that ensures efficiency and continuity. What would happen to the business if the only person who knows how everything operates meets tragic fate? Or uses this knowledge for 'business-ransom' purposes - more money, title, benefits, etc?

During the selection process for Development Programme, I was asked the difference was between being a good Manager and a good Leader. That stumped me as I always thought they were one and the same thing. Aren't they? Wouldn't they be the prerequisites of generally good leadership? As I continued on the Development Programme and now the Accelerated Leadership Programme, I realise more and more that there is a distinction. Even in every day work, I come across superb Managers but noticed they may not necessarily show the tendencies to be great Leaders. On the other hand, I also see people with fantastic leadership competencies yet their management skills are probably not the best either due to personalities or experience. I have had the privilege of working with some who are fantastic managers and visionary leaders, and eagerly seek more of these opportunities. As such opinions and experiences arise, I start seeing the distinction more and more....

In my humble opinion, a great manager is one who can efficiently and effectively multi-task, delegate, organise, coach, counsel, demonstrate excellent hands-on work and provide and receive constructive feedback amongst other qualities. Sound like a long list? Well, I think these are more easily achievable than being a great Leader (not saying I've achieved them all!). To me, a great leader is one who can provide great vision that is ambitious yet achievable, revolutionary yet rewarding, impossible yet makes it possible through clear communication and motivation. A great leader is not necessarily the person sitting at the top of the hierarchy. A great leader is not afraid of taking the unpopular stance for benefit of all and does not shy away from making difficult decisions. Above all, a great leader is humble, one who sees potential leaders as peers not threats and respects others for their abilities not rank or title.

So the statements above - yes, they will make you unpopular. Yes, they will make you look arrogant. But they came from people I view to be great leaders and it was then that I realised that as a leader, you cannot shy away from making statements like these if they are true even if it may make you unpopular with some people until they come round to understanding(like me!).

The Ted is clean (well, cleaner...)

New Year, new dawn.... Spent good part of Saturday evening tidying up the house so now will have to make sure we keep the house clean and tidy!!!

Did quite a bit on Saturday... Met up with Krystalla for lunch at Cafe Lazeez. It was so cool to catch up after so many months! Even weirder, as we left, we discussed weekend plans and it turned out that we were both trying out Jamie Oliver's pork chop recipes. Mine turned out ok - see pic below. It's supposed to be Costolette di maiale con salvia but Sainsbury's Central didn't have sage and prosciutto so those were substituted with basil and chorizo. Ok, ok, so not really the same ingredients but hey, it didn't turn out that bad. So, I guess it should be Costolette di maiale con basilico. Anyway, hope yours turned out well, Krystalla! We'll have to swap recipes next time.... And here's a pic of Bri's Crepe Suzettes which were scrumptious too...

Salem Falls

Finished reading Jodi Picoult's Salem Falls this week. Ever since My Sister's Keeper, I have been a fan of Jodi Picoult, and her books so far have not disappointed me. The difficult theme behind each book has always been sensitively handled.

Whilst the scenario in Salem Falls of modern witch-hunt may seem rather extreme, I wondered if perhaps this isn't unusual in the real world? A web of lies starting from someone's desire to be noticed or determination for the blame to be shifted from oneself, being spun needlessly until it hurts others.

It is easy to read the book and think "this wouldn't happen in real life", but then read the papers and it's happening every day. Philip Bosson told officials that his daughter Kayleigh was a victim of the Boxing Day tsunami. After many hours of police time, it emerged that Kayleigh never existed. Why would you want to invent such a horrible lie? I'm sure it's bad enough if you have indeed lost a loved one in the disaster but if you haven't, why pretend you have? How insensitive can you be to parents who have lost children, those who were left widowed, children who are now orphans, because of the disaster? I'm sure those who have been affected by the tsunami would do just about anything to have their loved ones back, so why - why lie about losing someone?

Then I read about the recent GP poll by Norwich Union Healthcare showing 3 in 4 put forward food intolerance claims just to follow celebrity sufferers. Don't waste valuable GP's time lying about allergies as they can better use this time to treat real cases.

If you want to be noticed, do something worthwhile. Volunteer for a needy cause, run marathons for charity, aim to be the next straight A's student, the youngest-ever CEO - whatever that is legitimate. Don't lie and hurt others, be it spreading rumours, cheating or suing for the wrong reasons.

30,000 Mornings

I am not sure what to make of Hiag Akmakjian's 30,000 Mornings. As I was reading through most of the book, I could not tell what its aim was. It felt as if I was following Inge (the Finnish model-and-photographer) getting lost in her wanderings through New York and trying to understand what happened to Karen, her friend who vanished from New York without explanation. Parts of the book were strangely pulling though - you can't help but feel Inge's confusion.

Just a random aside - the book gave me what must be the longest name of a place. Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobllllantysiliogogogoch. Try saying that quickly! :) It's a Welsh town on the island of Anglesey. The name translated into English means "Saint Mary's Church in the hollow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of St. Tysilio of the red cave."

If you think that's bad, whilst finding out what Llanfair means, I found out that there's a village in Thailand called Krungthepmahanakornamornratanakosinmahintarayutthayamahadilokphop
nopparatrajathaniburiromudomrajaniwesmahasatharn
amornphimarnavatarnsathitsakkattiyavisanukamprasit Now, would that fit on a road sign?

I've booked my ticket to Hong Kong!!!

Yay!!! Confirmed my ticket to HK to visit B over Easter!!! We're also hoping to go to Tokyo from there, for a short trip. Need to sort out visas.... Can't wait!

Now... to look for good deals HK-Tokyo, then UK-Msia for summer!

Proposals, Initiatives, etc

Got exciting news that I will be presenting at a proposal presentation for a priority account! Said yes and now, just have to make sure my mind thinks the same! Talk about a MAJOR step out of my comfort zone! Presentations aren't my kinda thing, let alone one to clients which involves winning more work! *Gulp* Fingers crossed, it'll be fine....! It is a great piece of work and the role carved out for me (should we win), ensures a steep learning curve and travel which is excellent!

Also said yes to a new initiative from the Firm around graduate recruitment and the link with Partner Firms. Again, it sounds like another great initiative to be involved in, and to be one of the first to drive this forward too! Better watch what I keep saying yes to, or it may backfire. All these great initiatives and not being able to spend time to do them well.

Just marked a Graduate Assessment exercise. Am I glad I don't have to do that anymore (the exercises, I mean... not marking them!)! Completing application forms, graduate interviews and assessment centres can be rather exhausting. Best not speak too soon about not having to do these, in case I mess up the proposal presentation and end up having to look for jobs elsewhere!

Charlie

This is Charlie, the doggie I'm sponsoring at Dogs Trust. You can visit him by clicking this link. Sounded as if he had a great Xmas!

Their tagline of "We never destroy a healthy dog" touched me, as I think animal shelters and pounds sometimes put dogs down after seven days or so (it may vary from shelter to shelter). These poor dogs are in shelters/pounds usually because of immature/irresponsible adults and are put down because of lack of space or budget, etc. Yes, there are economics of running a shelter involved but you cannot put down an animal just because of their owner decided that he/she has gotten too big or outgrown the cute puppy basket or can't afford to spend 15mins of the day walking them! People wouldn't even dream of giving up their children (usually! There are situations when these do happen, unfortunately), so why do these helpless animals suffer through no fault of their own?

Anyway, one can contribute anything from £1 a week and you get dogs like Charlie 'writing' to you to let you know of their progress. Sweet, eh? Unfortunately, I can't visit Charlie because he's still cautious around strangers but hopefully one day....!

Chocolate Fondue Fountain

Surely this is enough to tempt those of you who made New Year resolutions to eat healthily, stay away from chocolate or go on diets? Bri bought Donna and Idris a chocolate fondue fountain for Christmas and tried it out today. Lovely warm melting chocolate cascading, gently coating the strawberry, apple or marshmallow. And to get the mixture of melting chocolate and strawberry's juiciness or marshmallow's gooey-ness (if there's such a word?)..... Yum Yum Yum! And hey, there's the goodness of vitamin Cs in strawberries and apples also, right? (I'm just trying to soothe my guilty conscience now!)

Maybe this is a good way to tempt children who shun fruits? Hmmm......

Tube Strike - Grow Up!!!

So they are going to strike again. RMT union members are threatening to strike this Sunday due to unresolved issues around shorter working week deal and rosters.

Right.

So that's the solution then? Let's all regress to childhood. If things don't go our way, we throw our toys out of the pram and sulk. This is not a discussion about the dispute that RMT union members are on strike about, as I don't know enough details about it to justify saying whether that's the right stance or not. What I'm bemused about is the almost reflex-like response of calling for a strike if there's a chance that things won't go the way intended. By the way, this isn't an attack on RMT only - I see it the threats on news often whether it be employees at airline baggage handlers or car manufacturing plants, in UK, Paris, China, India, etc.

Grow up, people!!!! Going on strike doesn't solve the problem! Not in my opinion, anyway. Immaturity comes to mind almost immediately. What would happen if we took this approach with everything we did? Am I glad my parents didn't adopt this approach with me when I was little. The amount of times I have been mischievous and stubborn - did they go on 'strike'? No - they acted like mature adults and loving parents that they are and made sure two (or in this case, three) didn't play this immature game.

Act your age - not your shoe size!

Start of 2006

A nice quiet farewell to 2005 spent with two good friends and the new bundle of joy to the Pllana family. Lil Aurora was sooo adorable! Counted down to BBC's coverage showing fireworks in London. How cool to see the place I'm working at, at the centre of the countdown and firework display!

Not that much different in 2006 so far, but lots of exciting things to look forward to! It's going to be a significant year to friends getting married - Jen, Amanda, Manj, Fuz and Amit. I hope your preparations are going well and you are enjoying them! :) I will have to start my preparations in summer this year and am looking forward to all the help I'll be getting from family and friends.... (hint hint!)! :) And of course, not forgetting those experiencing parenthood for the first time (and enjoying it) or welcoming new additions to the family (Dan and Chee Chee)!

Will this be another superb year to remember? I'm sure it will be, and I hope it will be for all the right reasons and filled with good memories!