I'm back!

Actually I was back since last Sunday but I was too busy with work and spending time with Tara to blog. I had lots of fun in Bangkok! And Jaime, to reply your question, yup! I did enjoy this budget trip. Let's just say that the company we had was wonderful! Just like what Jaime said, even though 4 of us have different characters, we were able to get along really well and thus enjoyed ourselves tremendously. It was a truly 101% shopping trip. From shops open to shops close. I spent almost every single cent I brought there and even used my credit card. In total, I spent almost $900, excluding airfare and accomodation. But I still haven't shopped enough. I had to pay additional 1000 baht for having a 5kg overweight baggage!

Anyway, lots and lots of photos and super long entry!

Bob brought Tara to send me off at the airport

Wonder why there's a space beside Jaime?

It's actually for Cindy! Too bad she wasn't able to join us

In-flight meal, $3 Tom Yum Cup Noodle

Our first stop (Day 1): Suan Lum Market

My haul from Suan Lum Market. I love the top! But it's too tiny for me, so I gave it to Sis. Sad..

Chinatown (Day 2): The wholesale paradise

My haul of bags from Chinatown

Hair tie from Chinatown too. Enough to last me for the next 10 years.
Watches, earrings, belts etc. The squeaky ducky for Tara from Sis and hankerchiefs for Bob & FIL

We felt bad that Cindy couldn't join us, but we did not forget her. We bought her share too!

Pratunam Market (Day 2) Part II: Another wholesale paradise

My haul from Pratunam, love the t-shirt stands! So cute. I intend to use it as photo frames after I take out the tees. The bikini is for my beach party but in the end, I decided not to wear it. 150 baht = S$6

The four of us decided to be adventurous and squeeze into this tuk tuk. The driver was having a good time listening to us gals squealing and screaming while he whizzed past cars at dangerous high speed. I tried taking a pic of all of us, but I just could not get it.

Big C (Day 2) Part III. The gals looked like they just nipped something.

My haul of Tara's stuff from both Pratunam and Big C. Noticed I bought pull up pants? The auntie in me couldn't resist the cheap price.

I found a storage area for all my shopping

Day 3: At Asia hotel, me and my dear Sis

Day 3: At BTS station outside Asia Hotel. It's so convenient! The BTS station is just on level 2 of the hotel.

Chatuchak market (Day 3): The gals bought ice popsicles, which I dare not try. Food poisoning in Bangkok was a history I dare not repeat.

My haul from Chatuchak! Lots of rubber slippers and tops.

Mah Boon Krong (MBK) (Day 3) Part II

We went to Siam Discovery Centre before we headed to MBK. I just had to visit Loft, my favourite shop in Bangkok, where I got my usual pillowcases. Went to my favourite Boots pharmacy in MBK to get my skincare stuff too! And some tidbits for colleagues and PILs.

In the hotel room (Last Day): My luggage, I went to Bangkok with a 1/4 filled large suitcase and went home with a filled to the max case and an additional carrier bag.

Going to MBK for last minute shopping

Me and my sis at Siam Square. I told my colleague that I look different in my photos taken at Bangkok. He told me it might be that I didn't have the stress of work and also caring of my baby, that's why I look more radiant and fresh. Hmmz, I think he's right.

In the mini van, on our way to the airport. Kind of sad that the trip ended so early, yet happy to go home and see Tara and Bob.

My last minute haul from MBK & Siam Square. Managed to get my shoes, one more bag, some pouches from Naraya and clothes for Tara! I've even bought 2 small havers for her. Splurged over S$140 at Siam Paragon, with the intention to get the VAT refund, as I'm only a thousand baht away, but in the end, I totally forgot about it and realised only when I'm onboard the plane.

At the airport: Look at the amount of luggage the 4 of us have! Shocking!

It's the 1st time I came home with only 50 baht (S$2) left.

The in-flight meal? It's cup noodle again, but it's $4 Korean spicy noodles. Yummy.

I didn't know how to pack my luggage, so I left it there for days. Just unpacked this afternoon.

Flight Delay!

Writing this entry using free internet access at the waiting area. The flight will be delayed for 35 mins. And typical Singaporeans were already queuing to go onboard even though no annoucements were made yet. Arrgghh....

Be back in 4 days!

I'll be leaving for Bangkok tonight and will be back this Sunday.

It's the first time I'm going overseas without Bob. And being the super scatterbrain-ed me, I'm quite worried that I might forget to take my passport or my money or this and that. The 1st time I went Bangkok with Bob, I lost my passport. It's pure luck that I lost it after I went in to Bangkok customs, hence, I was able to fly back to Singapore (where I realised the loss) and came back with just my I/C.

The 3rd time I took a plane, to KL to meet Bob, who was there already, I lost my bloody way and got out through the domestic side of the airport, hence, didn't get my passport stamped. Blur eh? Well, that's me loh. That's why I'm very reliant on Bob whenever we went overseas.

I only get to travelled by plane once before I met Bob, as my family wasn't that well-to-do to afford trips overseas. And that one time was a return flight to Penang. So I think I can be excused for being such a suaku hor?

Anyway, this time, I'm travelling with Angela, Jaime and my dear Sis. It's my 4th time in Bangkok. I'm leaving Bob and Tara here. I'm gonna miss them SO.. SO.. much. Especially Tara, who has never left my side for a single night ever since she's born. But Bob said I should learn to let go (for being too attached to my girl), and learn to be independent (without him). He's right. I'm 27. It's time I learn.

It's also the first time I'm going there on a budget, as in budget airline and budget hotel. Bob, being someone who really enjoy life, he wouldn't even think of going on budget. Hence each time we went Bangkok, it's always 5 star hotel, Singapore Airlines or Thai Airway, and eat in a little too ex kind of restaurants. What can I say, I'm already spoilt by him. When I told him I'm taking Tiger and staying Asia, he frowned until his eyebrow almost knitted together! But I told him I can't always enjoy life right? Let me try a budget trip for once.

There's so many things I want to buy! My Botanics skincare, more bras and panties, Tara's clothes, Bob's stuff, lots of shoes and bags and (cross fingers) my clothes! Hope I can get clothes of my size there. A few of my colleagues and a friend had already tong bang me to buy some stuff for them. And I have packed my super big luggage bag already!

Be back in 4 days! Bangkok, here I come!!

What did you get for Valentine's?

Happy belated Valentine's Day to all! Hope you all have got some really nice gifts or bouquets from your other half.

Good news! My sis managed to sell quite a few bouquets, considering that she started out so late. And the single rocher wand was a hit!! So happy for her.

As for my own Valentine's Day, we didn't celebrate, cos we've already did during our weekend stay at the hotel. I did tell Bob I wana go out with Tara and him cos I will be away for the weekend and I wana spend more time with them. On my way back from work, I saw the traffic jam on the highway to town was horrendous, so we decided to go to good 'ol Jurong Point again.

It's super crowded at Jurong Point. And there are long queues outside all the restaurants. What's with dinner at restaurants on Valentine's Day huh? Anyway, we decided to go for Mos Burger instead. Although there isn't any queue at the counters, the place is full and Bob didn't wana waste time waiting for tables so we decided to get the necessities first.

When we were outside NTUC, Bob told me to go in first, he wanted to buy something and brought Tara along with him. While I was getting the trolley, I thought maybe he's getting something for me! Pretty excited but I acted nonchalant when he came looking for me. I took a peep the pram and saw no bouquets leh. So I guess Bob didn't went off to get me a surprise gift. Well.. that's Bob. A little disappointed but it's okay, cos he already treat me to a meal at the hotel.

While we were getting the diapers, he shoved something into my hand.

Bob: Eh, for you. Happy valentine's day.
Me: Huh? What's this? Thai Baht!!!!?
Bob: Yah loh, your valentine's day gift.
Me: Who would give Thai Baht as a gift?
Bob: You going Bangkok mah. I only managed to change now cos just now no time.
Me: Okay, at least tie it with a nice ribbon lah. But why you wana give me money in the first place?
Bob: Give you spending money for your trip loh.

Cute eh? That's my husband. The very practical sort of person. Actually, I think he made a very wise choice. Even though flower bouquet is nice and romantic, but I can only look at it right? At least the money I can spend and buy things I like in Bangkok.

Sometimes, this guy really do unexpected things. Cute.

Exasperated!!

Can someone tell me how to discipline a toddler?

Tara is so impossible sometimes. Whenever she did something really naughty, I would give her a stern look but she would continue doing what she was doing, while looking at me straight in the eye. Then I tried telling her 'no' with the stern look but she simply don't care and still carry on doing what she want. So I tried smacking her on her palm, from soft slap to a painful hard smack but she just refused to stop! She even offer me her palm when I told her I'm gonna smack her for being naughty, and go back to doing all the nonsense again. Exasperated, is the only word that can describe how I feel.

Are there any other methods to discipline her?

Gosh, it's so difficult being a parent.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DEAREST HUSBAND, BOBBY!

It's my hubby's birthday today! 34 years ago, he decided he didn't want to have his birthday on Valentine's day and get only 1 pressie for both occasions, so he chose to pop out one day before.

There was once, I prepared 2 pressies for him, and I would give it to him at the last minute of 13th, and once the clock strike 12, I would whipped out the other pressie for 14th, Valentine's Day.

But this year, I decided to treat him to a night's stay in a hotel over the weekend.

Happy birthday to my lao gong, hope you stay pui pui and cute cute forever!

Sad...

The husband of someone I knew, passed away yesterday morning.

Reaction was shock. Usually that's the reaction when you hear about someone, or someone's someone passed away. But this is a speechless-for-5-minutes kind of shock.

She was married to this man only 2 months ago. And this was one man who sincerely doted and appreciated her but fate is cruel.

It's not her first marriage, but I guess it's her happiest. She didn't have a smooth love life, but she's a very strong woman. When we spoke this morning, she sounded like her usual self, but I guess, deep down inside, she's breaking into pieces. I mean, they are newly weds! And now, she's now a widow of her new husband. How cruel is that!

Everyone felt so sad for her, so sad.

The irony thing was, just now, I was tidying my table, I saw the tag from their wedding favours lying beneath my pile of barang. 10th December 2005. Husband & wife for only 2 months and 2 days. I guess their honeymoon to Israel was for a reason. They are devout Christians.

She spoke of her wedding as though it's her first. she told me how happy her mum was on that day. She got drunk and was really wild, even sabo-ed the wedding couple.

I will be going to the wake in the afternoon. Bob wanted to go with me, but I told him no. It's his birthday today.

Deepest condolences to her. Hope she will stay strong.

Bought something for your loved one?

Valentine's around the corner, if you or anyone you know hasn't bought anything for their loved ones, you all ought to be shot.

But fret not, Fairy Godmother is here to help. Just email them this link, and tell them to email tangerinz.etc@gmail.com for orders and inquiries.

What can I say? I'm such a nice person. Eh, I heard someone puking.

Pictures!

6 wands!

It's nice, isn't it? My sis did them all. So proud of her. Must support her okay? Let me know if you manage to help get someone to gao guan, I'll personally buy a wand for you.. Muacks.

It's the season to share love.

Tara’s Milestone @ 14 months

Development
1) She has 7 teeth now. 5 on top, 2 at the bottom.
2) Started walking on 10th January.

New vocabulary
Shower She would go “how-wer”.
Hello Used to be only “lo”.
Popo Sounds more like “papa” sometimes.
No more Follow by the infamous turning of hands.
Watch She will point to a watch and go “wat”

New commands
Take off your shoes We will tell her that whenever we stepped into the house, she will sit down and tried to pull off her shoes. Now she will do it herself, without us telling.
Close the door
Stand up
Sit down
Cover your head Mum taught her this. Whenever the sun is too glaring, she will auto place her hand on her head.
Baobao (Stomach full) She will touch her tummy.
Mummy hold your hand She will let me hold her hand.
Give She will stretch out her hand and give what she's holding. She passed me all her ang baos when I told her to. Received many praises that she so well-behaved (duh..).

Other things
1) She's been learning about "cause and effect" before she turned 1. Everytime she does something, I will try not to give any reaction. I will simply ignore or maybe give a gentle word of caution. If I'm going to raise my voice or laugh when she does, for example, pinch me, pull the newspaper or doing free fall on the bed, she will do it over and over again, and laughing while she did it. Nothing can stop her.
2) She was watching the "Hi-5" the other day and when Tim was singing the song about cows, I saw her bending over and doing a biting action. Then I remembered the 2nd part of this song, the other Hi-5 members would act as cows and a part of the dance had them bending and "nibbling on the grass". But when she did this action, it's not even that part of the song yet. She must have watched the same VCD too many times, that she actually remembered. And recently I noticed she would sing to the "Yoodle-lo-dle-yeah-hee". Hilarious.

Chinese New Year - Day 3

We've done all the visitings in 2 days, hence, there wasn't any programs on the 3rd day. Not wanting to stay home, we went to Marina Square to roam around.

Bob wasn't the window-shopping kind so after walking for a while, we went to Carl's Junior for our dinner. Finally! After weeks of waiting, I get to taste the burgers from the infamous restaurant. I ordered a Portobello Mushroom burger while Bob ordered a BK Whopper taste-alike and spicy beef fries and coke to share. Bob wasn't impress, saying the burger tasted just like BK. I admit I was a little disappointed too, cos it didn't really tasted fantastic. Or maybe we didn't ordered the right flavours?

Before we eat that burger, let's do some breathing exercise! Breathe in.. Breathe out...

After dinner, we decided to find a cafe for some cuppa, as well as feed Tara her dinner. Bob and I had a nice chat there. I told him it's actually better to bring Tara outside, cos we tend to do our own stuff at home; surfing internet, watching TV etc. We shopped at Giant a bit and Tara was really naughty. She refused to be carried or sit in the pram, preferred to walk around by herself and in the direction she wanted. She's basically going all over the place and didn't want to follow us. When I carried her, she screamed and kicked so violently, people might thought I'm abusing her. I think she's going into her terror 2 phase already! Really had a hard time taming that little padi.

While we were going to the carpark, Bob wanted to use the toilet so we went in to Pan Pac. Both Tara and me were so fascinated by the lanterns decorations in the hotel. The lanterns were hanging down from really high up, it's so beautiful! I applaud the person who did the decor! Good job!!!

When it's my turn to go to the toilet, Tara made a fuss. She refused to let me out of sight. Bob had to bring her to the fountain area and let her play with the water. Her top got wet and worried she might catch a cold, I changed her immediately.

Clockwise from top left- Tara: Hee! Let me show you another stunt of mine, blow bubbles with my nose!, Mummy & Baby Tara, playing with water at Pan Pac, Fascinated with toys at Giant.

On our way back, I told Bob I felt like playing mahjong but Mum wasn't around to take care of the kids that day. So I tried to make Tara sleep and indeed, she fell asleep just before we reach Mum's place. This time round, me and Sis were lucky, both of us won over a hundred. Yippee!

Chinese New Year - Day 2

Tara: Hee! Let me show you how I can do a peace sign and dig my nose at the same time!

Usually this day, Aunt (Dad's elder sis) would come to Dad's place to bai nian. But ever since Grandma passed away, we have been going to her house. It's a respect for the elders, I heard. This year however, we went to Cousin Didi's place instead. Cousin Didi's newborn son was born prematured at 27 weeks and thus the lungs wasn't well developed. My new nephew, Edward, was discharged only recently, after 2 months in the hospital. Even till now, oxygen has to be constantly available cos he might stopped breathing anytime. That's why cousin had to stay home.

We had our routine poker session. And Tara was really fierce, shouting and screaming whenever her demands wasn't met. She definitely didn't leave a good impression with my Aunt and cousins! Hehe..

At cousin's place

Went back to Dad's place for a nap before going to 3rd Aunt's place for dinner. 1st Aunt's daughter, 40s and single, always had to hide whenever Tara was there. Don't know why but Tara would cry really hard when she sees her. Although I thought Tara was being a little ridiculous, but the past 2 nights after seeing her, Tara didn't get a good night sleep. Always wake up in the middle of the night crying. So I thought it's best to avoid seeing her. When I told MIL about Tara crying when she sleeps, she dismissed it as lack of sleep and too much play. I had to tell her it's not that cos she always play a lot and slept little. I thought I saw her felt a little irritated by my comment. But then again, she's only been here for a few days and she's already making assumptions. MIL just likes to make lots of empty assumptions, based on what she thought was right. The last time she was here, she actually argued and was really adamant on the point that xiao long bao is dry on the inside, not watery. My FIL, BIL, Bob and me were telling her there's juice from the meat that makes it a tang bao, but she insist she's right, it's dry. Nobody could change her mind. And she always thought that Tara was sticky to her. And I thought she's really good with her assumptions, to the point I will go speechless, and just put my hands together to applaud her imagination.

We went back early cos Bob and me were simply too tired, but we still managed to take some family pictures.

By the way, the pink piggy beside Bob is not part of the family, i repeat, not part of the family.

Chinese New Year - Day 1

On the first day of CNY, it has always been a routine to gather at one of my uncle's (Mum's brothers) house, they take turns to host the CNY party. Mum had 7 siblings so it's a pretty big gathering. Even though I'm not close to most of them, somehow, I'm already used to spending my CNY with a big bunch of relatives. I have to give out many ang baos, to those little nieces and nephews whom I don't even know by name. Come to think of it, I didn't know the names of my cousins' spouses either! There's too many to remember! 2nd uncle hosted the gathering this year. I went Mum's place to bai nian before we left for uncle's place together.

Tara wasn't fazed by the big crowd. She was walking around the whole time, and refused to stop to let anyone carry. She would flashed her toothy grin, looking so friendly, and giving the wrong idea that she can be carried. Many tried, nobody succeed. Sometimes, not even me. When my Mum is around, I'm her 2nd favourite person. But I'm not jealous at all, because she's my Mum. I wouldn't say the same if it's someone else! Bob is the only other exception.

We went back to Mum's place and decided to have a mahjong session. Dad, Sis, Bob and me. Mum took care of the kids. I'm really lucky to lose only $16, considering that the stakes was 0.50/1.

After the short game, we rushed to 3rd aunt's place. A relative of theirs was waiting for us, or Tara to be exact. When we reached, Tara just woke up from her nap and willingly let the relative's daughter to carry. Tara even rested her head on her! Surprisingly. I saw this daughter only once a year, and every year, she grew more and more pretty. This year, she blossomed, into a ravishing beauty! I guessed there would be countless suitors going after her. I promised to email her the pictures she took with Tara. But I realised all the pictures were gone. Left only a few! Even those taken in the morning were gone! Hence, there weren't any morning photos to show either. I'm so sad!

Tara looking really cute with the mandarin orange carrier

Chinese New Year - Eve

I haven't bought my shoes so I thought I would try my luck on the last day before CNY. 3 places on my agenda; Suntec, Marina Square and Bugis. I'm looking for those peep-toes which I know I would definitely be able to get at Far East or Heeren but I don't think I would wana get caught in the jam there, besides, I need to collect the inflatable castle from ELC, and I need to exchange a pair of pants at Bugis.

I reached Suntec at 11am, the whole place was quite quiet. I remembered I saw a nail salon on the same level as ELC. My badly chipped nails needed some professional sprucing up. To my dismay, it's closed! For new year already! I didn't want to do my own nails, like I did every year, cos I always do it really late and lose precious sleep. My appointment with Lala on Friday had to be cancelled too, as I'm too busy with work.

I proceed to ELC for the castle. I'm supposed to collect it last Monday, but I forgot about it and Tuesday, the day which the staff told me that they will put it back for sale, I was too busy with work. On Thursday, I did went to ELC and couldn't find any stock on the shelves, but I didn't ask about my reserved item either cos I thought they had sold it, I was really disappointed. I only asked the staff if there's any more stock. 2 hours after I left, they called me to remind me to collect the item. They did set aside the item for me! But then said they will put it on the shelves (again) on Friday. I did collect it, on Saturday instead. When I told them my name, they went "Oh!", and immediately, picked out the item without even checking the name on the note. They must have silently scolded me for not picking the item earlier.

Cindy was supposed to meet me at Marina Square, so I thought I would go Bugis to exchange the pants first so we can have more time to shop at MS. When I reached Bugis, I knew Cindy wasn't able to join me so I might as well shop there. I decided to try the nail salons to see if there's any available slot. Lucky me, I managed to get an express manicure at Hollywood Nails. I opt for a red, and realised it look funny. Short nails and red don't go together. So I shopped for a set of nail art while waiting for the nail paint to dry. I had a really fulfilling trip to Bugis, I even get to trimmed my eyebrows, bought a belt and a brooch, 2 pairs of shoes and 4 pcs of undies.

Reached home at almost 4pm. Cleaned up the kitchen and dining table before we left for Mum's place for our reunion dinner. This year, Bob decided to have the dinner at Mum's place, cos he knows how much I wanted to have it there, on the actual CNY eve. He's such a dear. Steamboat dinner as usual. Left for 3rd aunt's place at about 9pm. Although we are not having dinner there, I thought we should at least be there, even though Bob don't find it necessary.

Went back home, finished my final "grooming" and tidying up. Only managed to settle down to do the nail art at about 2 plus, finally get to sleep at 3 in the morning. And I thought this year I'm very well-organized, having had most stuff done already, and will be able to get to sleep earlier. *shrug*

Accessories Frenzy!

I stumbled upon an accessories shop in Queensway Shopping Centre a couple of days ago. It's a godsend. With earrings at $1.90 a pair and necklaces at $4.90 to $9.90 a piece, I thought I'm in Bangkok!

I went there twice and spent less than $40 both trips. But for $40, which will only get me maybe a necklace and a pair of earrings at other places, I actually got 5 necklaces, 2 pairs of earrings, 4 pieces of rubber hair-tie and 2 pieces of ribbon lanyards for my mobile phone. It's a real bargain, no doubt.

Spring Cleaning & stuff

I've started to spring clean the house since last week. During the weekends, I managed to get Bob to install the new curtains for the soon-to-be-Tara's room. I love the new curtains. It makes the whole room look different. I've got to get rid of the sofa bed, which is extremely under-utilized. I've also cleaned up the dining table, now it looks as good as new! The shoe cabinet have been lined with new anti-bug paper. Last night, I've tidied part of the wardrobe. Just 3 drawers and 2 shelves done and it took me 2 hours! And I've chucked one big bag of thrash. Oh man! I've got so much junk. Tonight, I'm gonna continue with the wardrobe, tidy my dresser, tidy up Tara's clothes cabinet and my bedside tables. Tomorrow I've taken a day's leave, to clean up the kitchen, I reckon I will need 1 full day for it. And I'm sure there will be 5 big bags of trash once I'm finished. If I have enough time, I will tidy the storeroom a little. Tara will be at Mum's place as usual, cos with an inquisitive kid around, I can't do much. Thursday I'll have to clear up the study room and I'm done! Friday I'll just do some light housework cos I wouldn't want to ruin my manicure. *wink*

When I tidied the wardrobe last night, I found 2 $10 Takashimaya vouchers, at 2 different locations. Yeah! I'm gonna go get a new pair of Clarks for Tara with the vouchers. I also found a $10 Paragon vouchers. I wonder if I will find more vouchers or even better, cash money! Oh okay, I'm dreaming.

And the guy who sold me the shoes have replied my email. He promised to refund me the money once I've returned the shoes. But he only mentioned $17 which is what I've paid. Okay, give and take. I'll get him to pay another $1 more as I don't feel right having to pay $2 postage to send back refunded goods.

Rantings!

I'm very troubled, the big job finally got complaints and client asking for settlement. Well, I'll just leave it to my boss on what he wants to do, no matter what, I'm just an employee. I can't elaborate further, the only thing I can say is, I'M SO STRESSED! *urggghh*

And last week, I bought a pair of shoes for Tara on Yahoo Auction. It's stated brand new and in the size I wanted. But when I received the item, I found the shoes to be a little dirty, as if the shoes were left on some shelves for a while. I emailed the seller and he replied that he shoes are totally new which I can see from the soles. He's right, the soles are clean. But if you put brand new, it means it's totally brand, sparkling new right? Like I said, it looks quite dirty, which is the first thing I can't accept. And the second thing, the shoes are in size 5, but on the auction, it's stated size 3. I've got to return the shoes. No doubt I really love the pair of shoes, I can't accept that the seller did not even indicate the description properly. I felt cheated. I've just emailed him that he has to refund me the money, and I will send the shoes back to him. Postage will be paid by him, which I feel it's the right thing to do. If he will refund me, I will not leave any rating. Let's see what he says.

A few things

I've got quite a few things to blog, so I'm gonna just do it in point form, here goes:

1) I went China Square and bought these for Tara. 5 rompers and 2 sets of PJs. And the price? You ready?? $20! Yeah! For everything! Actually to be exact, it's $19.90! What a bargain.. Actually my intention is to get more tops for Tara 'cos I realised that I got 5 bottoms and nil tops for her. I'm talking about short-sleeves-singapore-weather-friendly type. Can someone please tell me where to find nice tops? Zara is out, I couldn't find any there that's why I'm still looking. Fox is out either, I kind of thought the clothes are getting more and more cartoonish.

2) Starting to decorate the house, and the more I look at my new coasters, the more I love them! They are so zen-ish, don't you think? And they cost me only $10, for 3 packs of 6 pcs each.

3) I went Lala and colour my hair today! To a 2 tone brown & ash colour, I can't take picture of it cos my hair style is hideous! Don't be mistaken, it's not that Stella didn't do a good snipping job. My hair texture is really bad. I guess I need lots of hair moisturizer. Can anyone recommend me a good one? And I got my pedicure done at the same time! I love the colour, it's actually a dark brownish kind of red with pink butterflies on it. My favourite butterflies! I'm not showing full pic of my feet cos I don't have nice feet like Gene. I took at least 10 photos but none of them "jian de liao guang".

4) I bought 3 tops from Far East Plaza. Noticed 2 of them are empire cut? Very suitable for someone who still look preggie. Weeks ago, I also bought a bag at FEP too. Melissa will find this bag really familiar. Yup, she has one. I saw it on Talia's birthday party. Hey Melissa, you don't mind me having the same bag as you hor? I thought it's a very nice bag, not too dressy and not too casual as well, just what I need for CNY! It comes with a small pouch and cost me only $35. I wanted a big bag for Tara's stuff and don't intend to carry another small one for my stuff so I might as well get a nice one. Something different from the casual ones I normally carry. But if I need a small bag, I did bought one from MatchGirl just before christmas. I have a white pair of heels which I've never worn before, so if I should have no luck in getting another nice pair, then this will be my reserve. Now I just need 2 bottoms, and a couple more undies and I'm done! I've made appointment to go back Lala for my manicure next Friday. Ahh... I wonder if I've spent a little too much. *frown*

5) I'm not going to buy any ang baos next year. I realised that I will get lots of nice angbaos free. Like those here. Actually I prefer gold angbaos rather than the red ones. I know they won't be called angbaos but gimbaos instead, but nobody will care as long as it's not black right? Those on top are given by my suppliers. It's with pictures of doggies in front and flowers at the back. Really nice and sweet, I'm gonna use this for Dad & Mom's angbao. And special occasions.

6) Tara tore the veil of my wedding kitty. Even though it's not my actually wedding bear, it still has it's own significance. We put it on top of our TV, when kitty dropped on the floor, Bob will say I fell down. Or when I accidentally dropped Daniel, Bob would ask jokingly why I push him onto the floor. I didn't reprimand Tara but I'm quite sad about it.

7) And lastly, guess everyone read the report of the naked salesman in Woodlands. I'm shocked to say that I know him. I won't say how or where, but the couple of times I met him, I actually find him rather decent and ermmm.. good-looking. When I was told that the guy was him, I'm dumbfounded, speechless. It took me a while to register the shocking news. When I saw the pictures, I did not realise it's actually him until someone told me today. Even then, I didn't believe and said the person might haven been mistaken! And finally, I found this report. Yup, it's him...

New Book

Yippee! I've finally bought this book! I got it when I fetch Bob from the airport on Monday. Been on the library's waiting list since months ago and still waiting.. Just got my commission, so it's a little treat for myself. Considered a treat as I don't spend much on books. Don't really like to buy books cos I don't like to keep them. Love reading but hate the storage part. If this book is good, then I might consider building a nice bookshelf for it. Now, my next target is Memoirs of a Geisha. Been wanting to read it since years ago. Have picked up and put down this book at bookstores countless times. Hmmz..

Chinese New Year Shopping

I've been buying stuff for Chinese New Year even before Christmas was over. Although I've bought quite a lot, my shopping is still not finished. I haven't bought my clothes and shoes and PJs, Bob's clothes and undies (yup, my job every year) and Tara's shoes. The only stuff I bought for myself are; bag, bras & undies.

Tomorrow I'm going shopping with Cindy, who's gonna be my fashion consultant. I've no fashion sense to start with in the first place so this year, I decided to get some help. Since I can't be slim, at least I'll be stylo-milo right? We will be going to Far East Plaza, crossing my fingers that they will have my size.

Stuff for the house

Today I did quite a bit of shopping too. I went to 3 Aussino outlets before I finally bought my bedsheet and quilt cover set at West Mall. I got 2 packs of bibs at Centrepoint and 1 box of hankies at Great World. Got the most stuff at Great World, I spent $230 in Zara for Tara's clothes, $150 sponsored by my colleagues (her birthday present). I've finally found the cushion covers and bought 2 purple and 2 gold. I really love the purple cushion covers! I also went to Barang to get 2 new cushions. Got my bras & undies at Robinsons Centrepoint too. (Finally!)

Yesterday, I went Ikea to shop for curtains and curtain rods & hooks for Tara's room. We've decided to convert the only guest room for her. Also bought a floor mat, laundry bag and a photo frame for Tara's photo that got her a consolation prize.

Last week, Bob & I went to Chinatown for our CNY shopping. It's the first time we went there together. It's still the rainy season last week so there were passing showers while we were there. It's rather irritating and I hate wet seasons! The only shelter Tara had over her head was the pram canopy and it's cloth. I'm so worried Tara will fall ill. We can't even carry the umbrella properly as the tentage were built pretty low. I managed to get my tissue box holders, coasters and table runnner there, at a really reasonable price of $23! What a bargain. Bob bought lots of tidbits and lap cheung. I also bought 2 set of Espirit towels at Jurong Point for Bob and myself. For Tara, she will use the set I got from Cindy during the christmas gift exchange.

2 weeks before, I went to Ikea and got some glass containers, coasters (yup, I actually bought some already, hehe) and bath mats.

Immediately after Christmas, I bought the ang bao packets and "chun lian" at Bukit Batok while having lunch with dear Cindy. I realised I got the same ones as Gene and Melissa and just like Melissa, I got the ang bao at $1 per packet. I also bought 2 packs of cute ones at Daiso. Those are reserved specially for Tara, my niece and nephew & friends kids. The red ones are for my relatives' kiddos. There are lots of them, and frankly, I can't remember who's who anymore.

I think I went a little over the top at Zara today...

Before Christmas, there was a sale at Takashimaya for Polo Ralph and Guess clothes for baby. I only spent $100 for 3 bottoms from Guess and 1 long sleeve polo tee and 1 denim skirt from Polo Ralph. Really good deal!

Yup, so many shopping trips but I'm still not finished. Gotta get my shopping done soon, tidy up the whole house, colour my hair and find a mani/pedi salon that still has slots for next Friday.

Chinese New Year, the all important occasion, where things have to be new and house has to be spruced up. Another 11 days to go.

Bad Customer Service

Yesterday, I went to Standard Chartered at Anchorpoint at about 2pm to cash my cheque. It’s not really crowded when I reach and I’m the fourth in queue. I reckoned it won’t take longer than 15 mins since there are only 3 blokes before me.

Boy, am I totally wrong! There were 3 counters, 1 is for priority banking, and that leaves 2 other counters. Both service staff took their own sweet time to do the transactions. Okay, to be fair, maybe those transactions really require precise care and attention. The queue started to get longer at this stage. To our (not only mine) surprise, one of the counter staff (let’s call him “the guy”) put up a “queue close” sign. He closed the counter!? When there are so many of us in the queue? I’m not sure what required his immediate attention but he stood there and did some paperwork stuff, trying to look really busy. Another 10 - 15 mins, there are only 2 blokes in front of me now and the queue starting to get impatient. Shuffling of feet, deep sighs, “tsk tsk”, “wah lau” can be heard in the queue. And the best part is, the only counter staff was happily chatting to one bloke while at least 15 of us waited.

We kept looking at the guy, wondering if he will open the counter, but he just continued doing his paperwork, nonchalant of the tension building up in the queue. Finally, there’s only 1 bloke before me and the gal (the only other counter staff) after doing the last transaction, stood up and left her counter! We were not only surprised, we were totally pissed! And one uncle said “One left for the toilet, and the other doing stupid things!” One lady in the queue walked up to the guy and told him to open his counter, as there was a long queue already. The guy said “Okay, opening soon, sorry.” That was it?????

A little hell broke loose. The lady walked back to the queue and said: “These paperwork can do after 3 mah! So many of us queuing!” and the uncle said: “Standard Chartered! Since 1960s.. but…”, “I think they want to go home on the dot loh, that’s why they do their paperwork now”.. blah.. blah.. blah.. I kind of felt embarrassment for the guy, even though I’m quite angry with him too.

If the guy really thought the paperwork required immediate attention, he should not have done it at the counter. No doubt he tried to look real busy, it served nothing but infuriated the people even more. And the gal, aware that the queue was so long, left her work desk! If she really needs to leave, at least tell the guy to open his counter!! Waiting for so long to be served was bad enough, but now there was no one to serve us!! I kind of wondered why the management staff didn’t do something about it. When I left, I saw one lady walked out of the office, asking if anyone wanted to cash their cheques, trying to appease the crowd or something. They took 30 minutes to take action. Really bad!

I came back and told my colleagues and one of them told me Standard Chartered has the worst customer service! Yup, totally agree. It’s time they do something about it.