Yippee! It's the school holidays! But S and D are down with the flu.
I will not be able to write as regularly as I would like, but I will try. So, Have fun and Take care!!
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
School Holidays!
Yippee! It's the school holidays! But S and D are down with the flu.
I will not be able to write as regularly as I would like, but I will try. So, Have fun and Take care!!
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Interfering Parents
My daughter S was totally pissed yesterday, and I am too!!
S and her friend have been working together on a school project for the last 2 months. Must say that the two of them had put in loads of effort throughout this time. I had occasionally given them some input on how they could improve on their powerpoint presentation, but basically it is their own work. They did a presentation to the teachers in school last month and more comments were given by their teachers and mentors. They have a BIG presentation to give tomorrow (25 May) at NUS.
Guess what? Yesterday evening (23 May), her partner emailed her a COMPLETELY NEW version of their powerpoint presentation and an incomplete speech, and begged her to use it. The speech was not complete, just her partners part, with my daughters part left blank, even though the powerpoint presentation included my daughter's part. When my daughter questioned her on why such a drastic change at the last minute, she said that her mother had looked at it and revamped the whole thing!!
What?? One day before and you change everything, and NO negotiation. She refused to use the version they had both worked on because HER MOTHER had told her that THEY should use one the mother had worked on??!!? Why? Because they want a good grade!! Come on! This is the kids project, let them decide themselves. They will be more proud if it was their own work. What's the point of a good grade if it is your mother's work??
AND is it fair to my daughter? Just the day before, and she has to totally rewrite her own parts to follow your powerpoint? Other people have other things to do also, you know? ANd guess what? In the speech, her daughter got all the interesting bits, and my daughter is left to talk about the dry boring parts of the project.
Hubby was totally pissed when he found out and suggested that I talk to the girl's mother. But I said NO. I did not want to interfere. S has to learn to deal with things like this.
So now they are both going to see their mentor teacher about it. Why can't parents let their kids do their own work. You can be a supporter in the background, but there is no need to do everything for them. Now I understand why my daughter comes home from school raves about how professional some of her classmates project look, and how some of the kids get such good grades for their projects whereas my daughter's projects usually comes out so amateurish!
All I can say is that : My daughter probably learnt more doing her own project! But I hope the teachers can see through this and should award the marks accordingly .
S and her friend have been working together on a school project for the last 2 months. Must say that the two of them had put in loads of effort throughout this time. I had occasionally given them some input on how they could improve on their powerpoint presentation, but basically it is their own work. They did a presentation to the teachers in school last month and more comments were given by their teachers and mentors. They have a BIG presentation to give tomorrow (25 May) at NUS.
Guess what? Yesterday evening (23 May), her partner emailed her a COMPLETELY NEW version of their powerpoint presentation and an incomplete speech, and begged her to use it. The speech was not complete, just her partners part, with my daughters part left blank, even though the powerpoint presentation included my daughter's part. When my daughter questioned her on why such a drastic change at the last minute, she said that her mother had looked at it and revamped the whole thing!!
What?? One day before and you change everything, and NO negotiation. She refused to use the version they had both worked on because HER MOTHER had told her that THEY should use one the mother had worked on??!!? Why? Because they want a good grade!! Come on! This is the kids project, let them decide themselves. They will be more proud if it was their own work. What's the point of a good grade if it is your mother's work??
AND is it fair to my daughter? Just the day before, and she has to totally rewrite her own parts to follow your powerpoint? Other people have other things to do also, you know? ANd guess what? In the speech, her daughter got all the interesting bits, and my daughter is left to talk about the dry boring parts of the project.
Hubby was totally pissed when he found out and suggested that I talk to the girl's mother. But I said NO. I did not want to interfere. S has to learn to deal with things like this.
So now they are both going to see their mentor teacher about it. Why can't parents let their kids do their own work. You can be a supporter in the background, but there is no need to do everything for them. Now I understand why my daughter comes home from school raves about how professional some of her classmates project look, and how some of the kids get such good grades for their projects whereas my daughter's projects usually comes out so amateurish!
All I can say is that : My daughter probably learnt more doing her own project! But I hope the teachers can see through this and should award the marks accordingly .
Monday, May 21, 2007
Sugar and Spice and all things nice
Just came from reading Yenjai's blog. Have been thinking about it, but after reading his recent post, have decided to do it. Have always stressed to the kids that they have to count their blessings, so this post is about:
5 things which my spouse does that I am ever so grateful for:
1. He says the prayers with the children at night before tucking them into bed.
2. If little D should wake up during the night wanting to be soothed, he will take her and comfort her, so that I can have my beauty sleep.
3. He wakes the kids up and gets them ready for school every morning at that unearthly hour of 6, whilst I get to sleep in a little longer.
4. I get his pay check every month and manage the family finances. Thanks for trusting me.
5. He spends his weekend with the family. No golf, that's only for weekdays when the kids are at school.
With this I going to tag 5 of you, and they are as follows:
Motts
Firehorse
Eastcoastlife
Bp of Red house
Papajoneh
Have fun!!
5 things which my spouse does that I am ever so grateful for:
1. He says the prayers with the children at night before tucking them into bed.
2. If little D should wake up during the night wanting to be soothed, he will take her and comfort her, so that I can have my beauty sleep.
3. He wakes the kids up and gets them ready for school every morning at that unearthly hour of 6, whilst I get to sleep in a little longer.
4. I get his pay check every month and manage the family finances. Thanks for trusting me.
5. He spends his weekend with the family. No golf, that's only for weekdays when the kids are at school.
With this I going to tag 5 of you, and they are as follows:
Motts
Firehorse
Eastcoastlife
Bp of Red house
Papajoneh
Have fun!!
This emptiness in me....
Last week felt like the longest week in my life. Initially I was puzzled, coz when weekend came, my mood still did not quite improve. I was still irritable and longing for something that was missing. No, it’s not PMS. I have just realized what it was that caused it.
I went for a complete medical check-up 2 weeks ago – pap smear, blood test, mammo, as well as did a heart test – ecg, treadmill etc. Results were out. I am all OK except for the following areas:
Mammo – beast lumps. The Number of lumps have increased, so they still have to be monitored on a 6 monthly basis. This is nothing new to me, have been doing so for the last 4 years.
My Blood test showed that my haemoglobin was still a little on the low side, so I have to continue with my iron tablets but my cholesterol is really high,(this is shocking, coz the last test I did it was Ok). So now I have to change my diet and be on medication (quite a low dose, just half a tablet twice a week).
I took the change in diet in my stride, but i think that is what that has caused this emptiness in me. You see, I love my food - my crabs, prawns, foie gras, char kuay teow, tempura,ter ka,prawn noodles, etc. But this past 10 days, I have been very good. Trying to stay off fried foods, food that are high in fat, shell fish, chocolates, and other foods on the forbidden list. I have been having loads of vegetables, steamed fish, salads, juices. I think this emptiness is caused by my body craving for what it is missing. It's not that I ate all those unhealthy food on an everyday basis, but I would have one of it once or twice a week. Last sunday, when we went out for lunch, I had a vege platter (pita with some hummus,and other dips, basically a vegetarian dish). It was delicious,but I felt deprived. I watched whilst others tucked into fish and chips, crabs, etc.
Also, I seem to be hungry all the time. I am still eating the same amounts, but of different kinds of food, so I dont undrestand why I keep feeling hungry. Maybe it is the medication that is causing it, or my greedy self asking for something satisfying. I am at wits end. Dont know whether to stop this new diet, or to continue. I just cant go on like this. It is making me really miserable. What would you do if you were in my shoes?
Friday, May 18, 2007
Tagged again!!
Oh no! Tagged again! This time, I got tagged by eastcoastlife. She wants to know why we chose the names for our children. So here goes...
My kids names are.... heeheehee, I am not going to tell you, but will tell you their meanings, later you can guess what their names are:
Oldest child - "S" - daughter - Hubby and I were cracking our heads on what to name her. Bought a baby names book. Shortlisted a few. We had her after 6 years of marriage, and one miscarriage, and two years of trying. Super precious. Only the best name will do. Also got to be named after a saint or the church may not allow it. One of those selected was Bernice , meaning "bringer of victory" - for us it meant victory as we thot we were going to end up "childless". After much consideration, we decided No, no, no. Hubby decided on a name that means "princess". I thot if she princess, then I am her slave...chiak lat, ah. so I said no, no. Very important that she must be a gracious person. so we named her "Princess gracious".
Second Child - "N" - a Son - our Princess daughter, not very sociable - maybe because we were over protective. So we decided, son must be a people person. Found a few names (sorry cant remember what they are now - age catching up). Shortlisted to 2 - gave it to "Princess Gracious" to do final selection. She chose "Victory to the People" for her little brother. We decided to let her have the final decision because we thought that if she had a "stake" there would be more sibling bonding..
Third child - "D" another daughter - this posed a big headache. Wanted a name that either started with the same letter as big sister, or rhymed with big sister's. Soooooo difficult. I know we shortlisted 2. One was Carol-Ann, as she was supposed to be born on 5 Jan, the 12th day of christmas, but we were told she was going to come early, so we thot, maybe Christmas baby. Can't remember what the other short-listed name was (told you I was getting old, and that was barely 3 years ago.) Gave names to "Victory to the people" to decide on final name. (Big Sister got to name him, so he gets to name his younger sibling). Guess what? He told us he did not like both names, and wanted to name her "Gift of God". We did not know the meaning of this name he gave, so it was back to the baby book. When we found out that it meant "Gift of God" (which she really is, since she was totally unplanned for,and people this age usually find it extremely difficult to get pregnant), AND it rhymed with Big sisters first name (Princess) - we agreed to it. We were quite grateful he did not insist on "spongebob" as the name.
So that was how our kids were named. Can you guess what their names are?
To all reading this, dont tag me anymore this week, la. I have other things I want to blog about, but no time. I have only time to do one article for the blog at most during a day!
My kids names are.... heeheehee, I am not going to tell you, but will tell you their meanings, later you can guess what their names are:
Oldest child - "S" - daughter - Hubby and I were cracking our heads on what to name her. Bought a baby names book. Shortlisted a few. We had her after 6 years of marriage, and one miscarriage, and two years of trying. Super precious. Only the best name will do. Also got to be named after a saint or the church may not allow it. One of those selected was Bernice , meaning "bringer of victory" - for us it meant victory as we thot we were going to end up "childless". After much consideration, we decided No, no, no. Hubby decided on a name that means "princess". I thot if she princess, then I am her slave...chiak lat, ah. so I said no, no. Very important that she must be a gracious person. so we named her "Princess gracious".
Second Child - "N" - a Son - our Princess daughter, not very sociable - maybe because we were over protective. So we decided, son must be a people person. Found a few names (sorry cant remember what they are now - age catching up). Shortlisted to 2 - gave it to "Princess Gracious" to do final selection. She chose "Victory to the People" for her little brother. We decided to let her have the final decision because we thought that if she had a "stake" there would be more sibling bonding..
Third child - "D" another daughter - this posed a big headache. Wanted a name that either started with the same letter as big sister, or rhymed with big sister's. Soooooo difficult. I know we shortlisted 2. One was Carol-Ann, as she was supposed to be born on 5 Jan, the 12th day of christmas, but we were told she was going to come early, so we thot, maybe Christmas baby. Can't remember what the other short-listed name was (told you I was getting old, and that was barely 3 years ago.) Gave names to "Victory to the people" to decide on final name. (Big Sister got to name him, so he gets to name his younger sibling). Guess what? He told us he did not like both names, and wanted to name her "Gift of God". We did not know the meaning of this name he gave, so it was back to the baby book. When we found out that it meant "Gift of God" (which she really is, since she was totally unplanned for,and people this age usually find it extremely difficult to get pregnant), AND it rhymed with Big sisters first name (Princess) - we agreed to it. We were quite grateful he did not insist on "spongebob" as the name.
So that was how our kids were named. Can you guess what their names are?
To all reading this, dont tag me anymore this week, la. I have other things I want to blog about, but no time. I have only time to do one article for the blog at most during a day!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Why is this week sooooo long?
Dont know why, but this week seems to be dragging its feet. Yesterday, i thot it was thursday, and today seems like friday, but it's NOT!!! Aaaaaah! When is the weekend going to come?
Today is the S's last exam day for this term. Yippee! Was planning to bring the kids to Castle Beach (at East Coast Park) on Sunday where they can build professional looking sand castles. Guess what? S told me she wanted to go to her friend's house this sunday from 2 to 6. My little girl is growing up. She would rather spend time with her friends then her family building sand castles (which I know she loves doing). I have no choice. Gotta learn to let go. Will have to let her go, or she is going to resent us keeping her away from her friends. Now, I dont even feel like going to the beach. It will not be a family outing then. And when N finds out we are not going, HE is going to be upset too. Sigh. Maybe that's why the week seems so long.
Today is the S's last exam day for this term. Yippee! Was planning to bring the kids to Castle Beach (at East Coast Park) on Sunday where they can build professional looking sand castles. Guess what? S told me she wanted to go to her friend's house this sunday from 2 to 6. My little girl is growing up. She would rather spend time with her friends then her family building sand castles (which I know she loves doing). I have no choice. Gotta learn to let go. Will have to let her go, or she is going to resent us keeping her away from her friends. Now, I dont even feel like going to the beach. It will not be a family outing then. And when N finds out we are not going, HE is going to be upset too. Sigh. Maybe that's why the week seems so long.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Tagged!
I have been tagged by Motts. I am a virgin at this tag game so got to think very, very hard.
But first, the 5 things that hubby does that pisses me off.... (before I get to that reversed tag thingy) - got to get this off my chest, la!
1. Taking refuge in the loo....esp when the kids are fighting and someone has to be the bad person. His response is: I have a tummy ache, and you will find him there reading....
2. Giving in (or rather bribing) the kids to get them to behave. "Here, D, Papa turn on the TV for you, but you must eat your dinner OK?" Guess what? Now when she wants the TV she refuses to eat her dinner!!!
3. Hiding in the study and playing computer games or surfing the net, and I am alone downstairs struggling with the 3 kids.
4. Picking out the spring onions from his food. Now my kids expect me to do the same with theirs, coz if Papa wont eat it, neither will they!
5. Forgetting his house keys when he goes out with his friends. It is bad enough that I am home taking care of the kids, I still have to take care of him when he is out!! And it happens everytime!
Now for the reverse Tag : 5 things I do that pisses my spouse off:
1. Shouting at the kids. He really hates it when I shout at the kids, especially when he is home after a hard day at work. He just likes it to be nice and tranquil. Not my fault, ah, kids fault, hor? If they are good, I dont have to shout, right?
2. When I speed when driving. His utmost concern is safety, and me with my heavy foot - sure pisses him off!
3. When I am on the phone, and the kids are fighting, because then he cant scoot off to his place of refuge and has to deal with them.
4. When I am on the phone for too long with my best friend M. His response is usually: Why do you 2 always have so much to talk!!
5. When I call his good friend PH, his "girlfriend". Why do I call him that? Because this guy, always calls him - even while he is away on vacation with his family, and when he returns, hubby is the first person he calls.
2nd tag: 5 things I did that conned my spouse into marrying me
1. By going away with him when he went to further his studies. I changed jobs just to go with him, and did everything for him...cooking, laundry, cleaning, cut his hair, etc...but he had to chauffeur me around in return.
2. By being good friends with his parents.
3. By getting my colleague to type his thesis for him.
4. By remembering to tell the uncle to leave out the spring onions when ordering his food for him at the hawker stall.
5. By wearing his favourite colour when going out with him.
There! Finished it.
But first, the 5 things that hubby does that pisses me off.... (before I get to that reversed tag thingy) - got to get this off my chest, la!
1. Taking refuge in the loo....esp when the kids are fighting and someone has to be the bad person. His response is: I have a tummy ache, and you will find him there reading....
2. Giving in (or rather bribing) the kids to get them to behave. "Here, D, Papa turn on the TV for you, but you must eat your dinner OK?" Guess what? Now when she wants the TV she refuses to eat her dinner!!!
3. Hiding in the study and playing computer games or surfing the net, and I am alone downstairs struggling with the 3 kids.
4. Picking out the spring onions from his food. Now my kids expect me to do the same with theirs, coz if Papa wont eat it, neither will they!
5. Forgetting his house keys when he goes out with his friends. It is bad enough that I am home taking care of the kids, I still have to take care of him when he is out!! And it happens everytime!
Now for the reverse Tag : 5 things I do that pisses my spouse off:
1. Shouting at the kids. He really hates it when I shout at the kids, especially when he is home after a hard day at work. He just likes it to be nice and tranquil. Not my fault, ah, kids fault, hor? If they are good, I dont have to shout, right?
2. When I speed when driving. His utmost concern is safety, and me with my heavy foot - sure pisses him off!
3. When I am on the phone, and the kids are fighting, because then he cant scoot off to his place of refuge and has to deal with them.
4. When I am on the phone for too long with my best friend M. His response is usually: Why do you 2 always have so much to talk!!
5. When I call his good friend PH, his "girlfriend". Why do I call him that? Because this guy, always calls him - even while he is away on vacation with his family, and when he returns, hubby is the first person he calls.
2nd tag: 5 things I did that conned my spouse into marrying me
1. By going away with him when he went to further his studies. I changed jobs just to go with him, and did everything for him...cooking, laundry, cleaning, cut his hair, etc...but he had to chauffeur me around in return.
2. By being good friends with his parents.
3. By getting my colleague to type his thesis for him.
4. By remembering to tell the uncle to leave out the spring onions when ordering his food for him at the hawker stall.
5. By wearing his favourite colour when going out with him.
There! Finished it.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Celebrating!
Today is my dad's birthday. He turns 76. We went out for dinner last night to celebrate his birthday as we did not want to do it tonight as my daughter has an exam tomorrow. He is the old traditional man that still insists on having his "mee sua and eggs" on his birthday, but he was so considerate to agreeing to celebrate it earlier because of S's exams. Thanks Dad and have a Happy Birthday !
Monday, May 14, 2007
Is it possible......
.............. to use only one square of toilet paper?
Singer Sheryl Crow said that too much toilet paper was being used, and suggested that "only one square per restroom visit, except, of course, on those pesky occasions where two to three could be required".
Not me. I am one of those that is harming our environment?!! I could never use just only one square. Even if it is a small job i.e just a wee, I still need at least 2 or 3 squares. I hate to get my fingers damp or wet. As for the big job, definitely more is required. I will use , and use, until the butt is clean. How to limit to one or two or even three squares? If we do that, we may end up messing not only our fingers, but even our undies too. Then we would have to wash, and wash, and waste an even more scarce resource - water!
So, can you, and do you, do it with only one square?
Singer Sheryl Crow said that too much toilet paper was being used, and suggested that "only one square per restroom visit, except, of course, on those pesky occasions where two to three could be required".
Not me. I am one of those that is harming our environment?!! I could never use just only one square. Even if it is a small job i.e just a wee, I still need at least 2 or 3 squares. I hate to get my fingers damp or wet. As for the big job, definitely more is required. I will use , and use, until the butt is clean. How to limit to one or two or even three squares? If we do that, we may end up messing not only our fingers, but even our undies too. Then we would have to wash, and wash, and waste an even more scarce resource - water!
So, can you, and do you, do it with only one square?
Friday, May 11, 2007
Moving on in life......
This is about my very, very good friend M. M is godmother to my 2 daughters, single and working in Malaysia. M called me last week to say that she had told her boss that she was ready to move on from her current job.
M has been working in Malaysia for the last 4 years. She was first with the Singapore company, doing very well, but unfortunately, could not be promoted as there was no vacancy - her immediate boss was not moving out!!. When an opening came up in Malaysia, they asked her if she would like to move over, and she agreed immediately. They transferred her over with full expat status, providing her with accomodation in a 5 star service apartment and a company car, and the option to come home every weekend on company expense. When she first started working in Malaysia, it was really tough. Being new, she was eyed with suspicion, and was the subject of office politics. However, being the capable young woman that she was, she let her work shine, and manage to win over friends, and was highly regarded by many in the office (except for a few nasties!!) She used to come back quite regularly (almost every weekend), but now having made lots of new friends there, she is hardly home!!
Now, she feels ready to move on, and we are all behind her. The best part is that when her boss heard of her decision, he did not want to lose a good employee and offered her a transfer to one of the company's other offices . The choice was hers to pick - Geneva, Canada or Australia!
Much as I would love her to be working near by, (she is my confidant, consoler, counsellor, sometimes babysitter), I think it is also time for her to seize the opportunities as they come knocking at her door. You dont get offered a golden tray of goodies to choose from everyday. Also in respect of personal safety, she should move on, coz everytime we hear or read about an "incident" in Malaysia, I say a little prayer for her safety.
I am just so happy that this opportunity is available for her. It is time for her to move on....
M - if you are reading this - Go for it. We are behind you, where ever you choose to go. We know you will succeed anywhere you go. We will miss having you visit on a regular basis, but we can always keep in touch thru' other ways. May all your dreams and aspirations come true, and may a tall dark, handsome guy, come into your life and choose to be my daughters' godfather! God Bless! Happy Mothers day Godma!!
M has been working in Malaysia for the last 4 years. She was first with the Singapore company, doing very well, but unfortunately, could not be promoted as there was no vacancy - her immediate boss was not moving out!!. When an opening came up in Malaysia, they asked her if she would like to move over, and she agreed immediately. They transferred her over with full expat status, providing her with accomodation in a 5 star service apartment and a company car, and the option to come home every weekend on company expense. When she first started working in Malaysia, it was really tough. Being new, she was eyed with suspicion, and was the subject of office politics. However, being the capable young woman that she was, she let her work shine, and manage to win over friends, and was highly regarded by many in the office (except for a few nasties!!) She used to come back quite regularly (almost every weekend), but now having made lots of new friends there, she is hardly home!!
Now, she feels ready to move on, and we are all behind her. The best part is that when her boss heard of her decision, he did not want to lose a good employee and offered her a transfer to one of the company's other offices . The choice was hers to pick - Geneva, Canada or Australia!
Much as I would love her to be working near by, (she is my confidant, consoler, counsellor, sometimes babysitter), I think it is also time for her to seize the opportunities as they come knocking at her door. You dont get offered a golden tray of goodies to choose from everyday. Also in respect of personal safety, she should move on, coz everytime we hear or read about an "incident" in Malaysia, I say a little prayer for her safety.
I am just so happy that this opportunity is available for her. It is time for her to move on....
M - if you are reading this - Go for it. We are behind you, where ever you choose to go. We know you will succeed anywhere you go. We will miss having you visit on a regular basis, but we can always keep in touch thru' other ways. May all your dreams and aspirations come true, and may a tall dark, handsome guy, come into your life and choose to be my daughters' godfather! God Bless! Happy Mothers day Godma!!
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Those Telemarketeers...Bah!
I get really annoyed by telemarketeers. I have been getting so many calls from them recently. Somebody must have been selling my data, and I dont like it, because quite a few of them lie, and will not take "NO" for an answer. What annoys me most is that they call me on my mobile, and I have to pay for the calls (I do not have free incoming calls!!)
I had one from this company called Body Language something.... The call went something like this: TM: Hello, can I speak to Ms.....
Me: Speaking
TM: I am from Body Language...(did not quite catch the full name of the company)..
Would you be...
Me: (Cutting him off mid sentence).. Sorry, but if you are trying to sell me something, I am not interested.
TM: Why! I havent even told you about it.
Me: I am not interested in buying anything at the moment.
TM: But you haven't even heard about it. Why aren't you giving me a chance?
Me: I am busy and am not interested. I do not wish to be disturbed
TM: What's the matter with you...
Me:(I hang up)
Guess what! He called again half an hour later. How do i know? I have caller ID and its from the same number. I hear his voice and I hang up. This happens like 3 to 4 times a day, everyday for about 2 weeks, . It is either a man or a lady, calling from the same number or an unlisted number.
I really felt like doing a "calvin" on him. hee!hee!
Yesterday, I had another telemarketeer call me. The call went like this:
TM: Hello, can I speak to Ms....(uses my full name!)
Me: Yes
TM: Hi ..(short form of my name - ).. ( I did not even know that we were friends and who gave him the right to call me by that name, we are not pals, you know!...PMS setting in, I think!) I am calling on behalf of ABN Amro bank. We are offering you a credit card , and there will be no fees payable for it. They will all be waived. (not his exact words, but he said something to that effect.)
Me: (interupting) Great! Finally someone giving a poor unemployed person something for free! When can I get it?
TM: Uuh, you are not working?
Me: Have not been for the last 8 years. So when can I get the free card. Cant wait to charge to it. There are so many things that I want to buy
TM: Uuh, Sorry, if you are not working we cant offer it to you.
Me: But you told me I could have it for free. Please dont waste my time if you are not letting me have it for free.
TM: Sorry, ah. (Hangs up)
Yes!! I was in a slightly better mood yesterday. He managed to talk to me for some 2 minutes. Most of the other times when I hear that it is a TM on the other end, I just say not interested and hang up.
I know, they are trying to do a job. But from my experience with that Body Language company, I dont even want to give them the chance to talk to me. Not only was he rude, he refused to accept that I was not interested in his product! What do you do when they call?
I had one from this company called Body Language something.... The call went something like this: TM: Hello, can I speak to Ms.....
Me: Speaking
TM: I am from Body Language...(did not quite catch the full name of the company)..
Would you be...
Me: (Cutting him off mid sentence).. Sorry, but if you are trying to sell me something, I am not interested.
TM: Why! I havent even told you about it.
Me: I am not interested in buying anything at the moment.
TM: But you haven't even heard about it. Why aren't you giving me a chance?
Me: I am busy and am not interested. I do not wish to be disturbed
TM: What's the matter with you...
Me:
Guess what! He called again half an hour later. How do i know? I have caller ID and its from the same number. I hear his voice and I hang up. This happens like 3 to 4 times a day, everyday for about 2 weeks, . It is either a man or a lady, calling from the same number or an unlisted number.
I really felt like doing a "calvin" on him. hee!hee!
Yesterday, I had another telemarketeer call me. The call went like this:
TM: Hello, can I speak to Ms....(uses my full name!)
Me: Yes
TM: Hi ..(short form of my name - ).. ( I did not even know that we were friends and who gave him the right to call me by that name, we are not pals, you know!...PMS setting in, I think!) I am calling on behalf of ABN Amro bank. We are offering you a credit card , and there will be no fees payable for it. They will all be waived. (not his exact words, but he said something to that effect.)
Me: (interupting) Great! Finally someone giving a poor unemployed person something for free! When can I get it?
TM: Uuh, you are not working?
Me: Have not been for the last 8 years. So when can I get the free card. Cant wait to charge to it. There are so many things that I want to buy
TM: Uuh, Sorry, if you are not working we cant offer it to you.
Me: But you told me I could have it for free. Please dont waste my time if you are not letting me have it for free.
TM: Sorry, ah. (Hangs up)
Yes!! I was in a slightly better mood yesterday. He managed to talk to me for some 2 minutes. Most of the other times when I hear that it is a TM on the other end, I just say not interested and hang up.
I know, they are trying to do a job. But from my experience with that Body Language company, I dont even want to give them the chance to talk to me. Not only was he rude, he refused to accept that I was not interested in his product! What do you do when they call?
Monday, May 7, 2007
Exam Week
Yes, this week is exam week for most students in schools in Singapore. My daughter, S, started hers on 26 April, and it will not end until 17 May. Too long drawn, I feel. Too many papers, and far too many projects due during this period too! And she is in primary school. Horrible isn't it?As for N, his will start tomorrow and end on thursday. 3 short days, but I cant wait for it to be over.
In preparation for the exams this week, we decided to go to the beach yesterday. And guess what? It was actually quite empty. Guess all those kiasu parents were busy prepping their kids at home. We saw much less people at most places we went, eg when we went out for lunch, at the mall, etc. Usually, you would have trouble getting parking, as well as getting a table at most restaurants. What a welcome change!
I guess, if the kids have been working consistently throughout the year, there is no need to really panic and stop living just for some exams, right? There has to be a balance. They still need some sunshine and fresh air. They still need their physical exercise. They must learn that exams isnt the be all and end all. They have to be well balanced. They must learn to work consistently, so that there is no need to panic at the last minute.
My heart goes out to all those that are kept in, denied breaks, and just forced to mug, because of the exams!
Friday, May 4, 2007
Would you apply for this job?
JOB DESCRIPTION : Long term position, team players needed, for challenging permanent work in an often chaotic environment.
Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities! Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.
RESPONSIBILITIES : The rest of your life.
Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5.
Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.
Also, must possess the physical stamina of a packmule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.
Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers.
Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homework projects.
Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.
Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next.
Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.
Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.
Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product. Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility.
POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION : None.
Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE : None required unfortunately. On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.
WAGES AND COMPENSATION : Get this! You pay them!
Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent. When you die, you give them whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.
BENEFITS : While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right. At times you get bragging rights too!
Title of Position: Mum, Mom, Mummy, Mama, Ma or Dad, Papa, Daddy, Pop, Dada,
Would you have applied for this position?
Candidates must possess excellent communication and organizational skills and be willing to work variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends and frequent 24 hour shifts on call. Some overnight travel required, including trips to primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities! Travel expenses not reimbursed. Extensive courier duties also required.
RESPONSIBILITIES : The rest of your life.
Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily, until someone needs $5.
Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.
Also, must possess the physical stamina of a packmule and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat in case, this time, the screams from the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.
Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges, such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets and stuck zippers.
Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and coordinate production of multiple homework projects.
Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.
Must be willing to be indispensable one minute, an embarrassment the next.
Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.
Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.
Must assume final, complete accountability for the quality of the end product. Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and janitorial work throughout the facility.
POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION : None.
Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills, so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE : None required unfortunately. On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.
WAGES AND COMPENSATION : Get this! You pay them!
Offering frequent raises and bonuses. A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because of the assumption that college will help them become financially independent. When you die, you give them whatever is left. The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.
BENEFITS : While no health or dental insurance, no pension, no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and no stock options are offered; this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right. At times you get bragging rights too!
Title of Position: Mum, Mom, Mummy, Mama, Ma or Dad, Papa, Daddy, Pop, Dada,
Would you have applied for this position?
Everything I need to know about life.....
Everything I need to know about life, I learned from Noah's Ark
Two : Remember that we are all in the same boat.
Three :Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.
Four : Stay fit When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.
Five : Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Six : Build your future on high ground.
Seven : For safety's sake, travel in pairs.
Eight : Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were onboard with the cheetahs.
Nine : When you're stressed, float a while.
Ten : Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.
And most important: No matter how big the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.......
One : Don't miss the boat.
Two : Remember that we are all in the same boat.
Three :Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.
Four : Stay fit When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.
Five : Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Six : Build your future on high ground.
Seven : For safety's sake, travel in pairs.
Eight : Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were onboard with the cheetahs.
Nine : When you're stressed, float a while.
Ten : Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.
And most important: No matter how big the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.......
Isn't it sooooo true?
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
What a long weekend.....
It's been a very long weekend for me...what with little D down with a bad cold and cough....I have been to the Doc's twice this week already!
Little D was having a bad runny nose on sunday night and did not sleep well. When I brought her to the Docs on Monday, he said it did not look bad, so no medication was necessary. She was active and feeding well, so was not overly concerned. But when tuesday came along, she was all whiny (maybe because Papa was home?), lethargic, eyes tearing, and had no appetite for food....and her nose was "leaking" now! And all 3 kids were home, with homework to supervise, project to complete, exams to prepare for......sigh! And it was supposed to be a public holiday!
Last night, little D, hardly slept, even after I gave her some paracetamol and cough medicine. She looked terribly uncomfortable, and was crying when she woke...which was unlike her. So another visit to the Docs. He said her lungs were clear, no ear infection, nothing, except for an inflamed throat and the runny nose, nothing else was wrong...so it's just a case of a bad cold.
And he added:
" A treated cold takes a week , and
An untreated cold takes 7 days to recover."
So, looks like there is nothing I can do, except to give her more paracetamol, to relieve her of her discomfort, and wait the 7 days out! Looks like not only was it a long weekend, its going to be another long week......with a sick child at home!
Little D was having a bad runny nose on sunday night and did not sleep well. When I brought her to the Docs on Monday, he said it did not look bad, so no medication was necessary. She was active and feeding well, so was not overly concerned. But when tuesday came along, she was all whiny (maybe because Papa was home?), lethargic, eyes tearing, and had no appetite for food....and her nose was "leaking" now! And all 3 kids were home, with homework to supervise, project to complete, exams to prepare for......sigh! And it was supposed to be a public holiday!
Last night, little D, hardly slept, even after I gave her some paracetamol and cough medicine. She looked terribly uncomfortable, and was crying when she woke...which was unlike her. So another visit to the Docs. He said her lungs were clear, no ear infection, nothing, except for an inflamed throat and the runny nose, nothing else was wrong...so it's just a case of a bad cold.
And he added:
" A treated cold takes a week , and
An untreated cold takes 7 days to recover."
So, looks like there is nothing I can do, except to give her more paracetamol, to relieve her of her discomfort, and wait the 7 days out! Looks like not only was it a long weekend, its going to be another long week......with a sick child at home!
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