Future's in your own hands... Just Gotta fight for it to make it better!

Year End Break

2007-12-12T17:44:00.000+08:00

Finally got a break for holidays, after many years. Headed down to Korea for a nice winter holiday with the family. Really had a good time. Food was marvellous. Company was fun.

2007 was a good year, and hopefully, 2008 is the same, if not better!

Wedding in Seoul

2007-10-26T12:25:00.000+08:00

While going out to the 7-11 to get my usual fix of ice coffee and gum, passed by the ballroom of the hotel. Wah, I tot they had a funeral. Shit - This was a typically wedding dinner in Korea. Look at all the... I don't know... you can decide.

Mercedes - Smart Car???

2007-10-26T12:23:00.000+08:00

Saw this at the basement carpark of the local Rep's office. Cool... Expensive ?? - US$ 40,000

Seoul 24~26 Oct

2007-10-26T11:55:00.000+08:00

Finally got the chance to get back here. Last visit was 9 years ago, and it has changed very much. Things are getting more costly and I guess the standard of living had risen quite sharply over the years.
This is a new market for me. Again, many things to do here with the local Reps and I will have to come back here shortly...

View from the Renaissance, down at the South of River Han

Cold and Wet night at the makan/entertainment place near the hotel. Don't even know where it is, but I can tell you one thing. There sure is a lot of bars, restaurants and pubs.

Hanoi - Power Meal!

2007-10-19T01:02:00.000+08:00

This was the second stop after Shanghai with Towkay. Lunch time came and Rep asked my boss - What to try Turtle? Boss says - Why not? SO we ended up in this Chinese Restaurant. I regretted, big time. See pics below and you will understand. The slaughtering was done right before your eyes.

1st Course - Turtle Blood with local rice wine.
2nd Course - Fried Turtle Soft Shell & Legs & Body.
3rd Course - Turtle Gall with local rice wine.
4th Course - Turtle meat with mushroom and garlic in Thai Curry
5th Course - Turtle Stew - Vietnamese Style

After that, body hot and sleepy....... Luckily it went in fast and out fast... ;-)

This is the head - Suppose to be the best part and only for customer. 2 turtles = 2 heads. Me one, Boss one........

Si Mi Chia

2007-10-15T17:34:00.000+08:00

Took this at the basement carpark when we were about to leave the night market. Driver was a Pretty Taiwan Mei Mei (Ah Lian La) and old uncle. Probably papa or sugar daddy.

She was being questioned by the traffice officers, so faster take and chiao, in case kenna questions also.

Taipei

2007-10-15T17:22:00.000+08:00

Was in Taipei last week, and as usual, only had time in the evening to go down to the Shi Lin night market for a spin. Not sure was it the food, but I got back to Singapore and my mouth and ass became big time Merlion for about 2 days.....

This first 2 picture is the special Pepper Bun. They stuffed meat and spring onions in the bun and they stick'em in this special oven, like the ones they use for tandoori. Out come this hot hot crispy crispy bah bao. Delicious though.

Then, this was followed by "Xie Rou Geng" - a.k.a. crab meat soup la. Delicious also. No pics though. Then, we go eat ice. This is some special shaven ice, I was told. Coffee flavour. Looks wierd right?

Addtitions

2007-10-09T22:34:00.000+08:00

Recent Additions that I liked best.......

Bye Nagoya!

2007-10-09T22:29:00.001+08:00

Flying out this bright sunny day and took a walk to the viewing floor. Pretty nice, for an average size International Airport and surronded by the Ocean.

See Ya Nagoya.. I'll be back!

Nagoya - Part 5

2007-10-09T22:23:00.001+08:00

Stupid toilet in this small small bar in downtown. Sits about 7 people at the bar counter, and that's it. Full house.

This is the dark dark toilet that scares the hell out of you. KNN, want to take a piss also u see multiple images of yourself in the mirror. Best thing - toilet seat got sensor one. Come near, seat cover comes down automatically, as if saying... come come sit on me or piss through me, I am thirsty!

When you are done, move away and the next thing, it closes again and flushes itself.

No wonder my partners told me: Be Careful in the Toilet!

Nagoya - Part 4

2007-10-03T23:06:00.000+08:00

Went out for a walk in the cool weather. Nice place, but packed with people. Not sure where this place is but it is at the Osu Kannon station, which was supposed to be the flea market. Not really cheap though, the stuff there.

After a while, hungry. Walked past a curry shop and the smell pulled me into the small shop. KNN, another chicken and duck story again! Luckily there were pictures on the menu and the finger pointing started.

Free Flow of water and pickled chye sim.

At least the order came out the same as in the picture. I mean it, cos the portion was really big. JPY 650 for a Katsu Curry Rice. Nice meal.....

Nagoya - Part 3

2007-10-03T22:57:00.000+08:00

Arrived at the Nagoya Marriot. Very convenient, right in the middle of the main Nagoya Station. Actually, sitting on top of the station.

Checked in, but no rooms available. Too early, they say. Lan Lan, go sit at the lobby lounge and did some work until they came with my room keys.

Nice view though, from the 33rd storey. Check it out!

Night Shot (Quite Crappy)

From Outside of the Hotel

Nagoya - Part 2

2007-10-03T22:52:00.000+08:00

Cleared customs and then, as usual - Lost in Transistion (Kings - sounds familiar ya?). I went to the information counter trying to ask for instructions to get on the train to the hotel.

As usual - chicken and duck. Used my worst ever English and tried to tell the lady behind the counter where I wanted to go, but her best English still got me confused. Then, after about 10 minutes of trying to make ourselves understand each other, she asked me - Sir, Do you speak Chinese?

KNN, say so earlier la. She was a mainly Chinese and her name tag, next to her name says "中文". I must be blind as well. Finally, after 5 minutes, I was on my way.

Nice weather this time of the year, about 20 Deg in the day. Cool.....

Nagoya - 名古屋

2007-10-03T22:45:00.000+08:00

Took the 1 am flight from Changi to Nagoya. Tiring trip but full of action on board.
First, a middle aged women blacked out near the toilet behind my seat. The air steward was so panicky that he started yelling to his colleagues, but I really could not hear his girly shrieks.

They managed to pull her to the nearest seat and gave her the oxygen mask. She came round pretty fast. Probably due to low blood pressure. Heng Bo Tai Ji, otherwise, they have to move her flat on her back.. Touchwood!!

When we landed, the guy next sitting at the window seat next to me (I am on the usual aisle seat and centre seat was empty), started to break out in could seat. He was pouring axe oil all over his temple and throat.

Next thing I knew, while the plane was almost completely pulled to the air bridge, he started to "Merlion". Shit, I did not even want to look, but from the sounds of it, I guess he must have filled up the vomite bag 3/4 full. Good Luck dude! Have a great stay in Nagoya.

Hand Cast....

2007-10-03T22:32:00.001+08:00

Our princess injured herself in school last week. Initial check from the X-Ray at KKH A&E did not show any real damaged. "It was probably some brusing of the ligaments". They put a splinter and tied her fingers to keep them straight and were told to come back in 5 days for a review.

Review Day - Confirmed minor fracture..... As she expected, her hand will be in a cast for 2 weeks, and she was so happy about it. Why? - Because the cast will be in her favourite colour, PINK!!

Something she is so happy that she can show off to her friends in school.... Kids.... But what the heck, she's still our angel.

Reward!

2007-09-26T02:37:00.000+08:00

Pictures Tell A Thousand Words. I shall not say more.... :-)

Blackberry

2007-09-26T02:28:00.000+08:00

Finaly got it in the UPS from my US headoffice. Happily took out the pack and tried out the handset. Cool, all nice features and slick to hold, until systems shows "Invalid SIM Card". Shit. It happened, the thing I was most afraid of. I had tolf them to ensure that the phone is not locked, but my words were never really taken into their ears!

I had a white elephant Blackberry set!

Luckily, with the wonders of the Internet and eBay, I managed loads of sources to unlock this T-Mobile Blackberry. Cost about US$21. This will come outof Company expense, so it's ok after all.

Just got confirmation from the site that my codes are being generated and I should be able to get this white elephant to become my workhorse! Yeah!

Some Old but interesting Stuff

2007-09-26T02:09:00.000+08:00

Have been so busy lately until lately and I came across some interesting pictures that I took with my E65. Decided to post it for the fun of it.

1) Hampton Inn - Blue Island, IL

This is a funny but dangerous one. I was sleeping one night and suddenly at about 2 am, heard the alatrm went off. Thought it might be a false alarm, so decided to stay in the room and wait and see what happens.

Then lots of commotion in the hall way, and I pop my head out from my room, I see every body popping out their heads as well, with questions marks all over them.

Then the hotel staff told us to get out. So, I took my laptop bag and loaded what I could, especially my passport and flight tickets and scrambled out the fire exit.

Then the fire engines came and everybody was so excited and started taking photographs. What the heck, I thought, so I did the same.

After about 45 minutes, they found out that the motor in one of the shaft was overheated and got some oil, so burning smell and smoke was found.

All cleared after a while and everyone went back to bed.

2) Grand Hyatt - Jakarta

This was a nice view from my room. I was working on my notebook abd heard a lot of noise and i looked out the window and saw some protestors walking around the round about. It's so funny. The poilicemen were directly traffic and they kept going round and round and singing and chanting. Lasted almost 2 hours....

Sept 26th - In Touch again

2007-09-26T01:51:00.000+08:00

It's been a while now, after my lsat update. Been to another few countries to cover the region under my care. Tired... well not really, cos the work is exciting and I'm enjoying it everyday.

Last trip was in Shanghai with a few of our Philippines customer for training. Shanghai - I cannot stand. It's just too "packed" and I am pretty much lost for directions. Different from Beijing though.

Anyway, managed to squeeze some time to bring the Filipinos out on a city tour and took some pictures of Shanghai. Main Attraction - The Oriental Pearl Tower. I think that's what they call it in Shanghai. All 488 Metres.

Also managed to take the Maglev Train. Super fast. See the video and you will undertand what I mean. I was sitting down, taking this from my E65.

Back to Home Office - Finally

2007-08-22T01:28:00.000+08:00

Finally got time to settle down at home, or rather office, after 5 weeks out on the road. Everything seems to be slowly getting in place and hopefully, I can get this job going the way I wanted it to.

I have been given a free role to manage the region, so here I come! After re-charging for about a week, I am ready to roll again.

It's going to be another hectic month ahead, with HCMC, Philippines, Shanghai coming up.

Downtown Chicago

2007-07-24T12:54:00.000+08:00

Spend the day out to Downtown Chicago. Very nice place, especially the river tour. What you see that looks like the ocean, was actual Lake Michigan. Yes, it is BIG!!

This was the Chicago River Tour, seeing all the nice buildings.

This was the view from John Hancock Building. 98 Floors. See the scenary... they are all fresh water, and it's called a lake.

Site Visit to Atlanta

2007-07-24T12:43:00.000+08:00

Got a chance to go down to Atlanta to visit a customer and see first hand how the ang mohs do site survey. Nothing diff, except the weather so so goooood. Sunny day, like back home, but weather was like 26 Deg C. I can do this all day long....

This was a survey to some vaults that we were putting out some equipment.

Company's Owner

2007-07-24T12:34:00.000+08:00

The new company that I was working for has got a product line called Viper. One morning, I was on the way to work with a colleague and this nice red sports car pulled up next to us.

Nice... Chili red and all that. Just that it was not a Ferrari or Porsche. See what I mean. This belonged to our Chairman of the Company, which is called G&W.

You will understand what I am talking about. Vanity plate - Yes... and I think Singapore's going to implement that???? Who knows!

17-Jul-07 - Day 1 at Factory

2007-07-18T13:38:00.000+08:00

Boss came over in his wife's 3.5L Acura... Nice... and costs only like what... 40K USD!!!???

Got all my stuff sorted out, Finance, HR, IT (Yeah - New Dell Notebook, Fast & Slim), etc.

Lunch was at a local Mexican restaurant.

The rest of the afternoon was involved in meetings with the different departments, each explaining on their functions and responsibility. But again, they really make u feel nice and welcomed. So far so good. Liked what I saw. :-)

Dinner was Italian, but the place was too dark to take any pics, so...what the heck. Got back to hotel at about 9pm and getting ready for tomorrow's trip to Atlanta to visit a customer.

Breakfast

2007-07-18T13:34:00.000+08:00

Finally got into the hotel exactly about 25 Hrs later, after the SQ flight departed from Singapore.

Got to bed at about 1 am local time, which is like 2 pm Singapore time. Luckily went to sleep straight away and woke up to the morning call at 6 am. Body felt ok, and didn't feel much on the jet-lag.

Breakfast... so so la. Chef cooked whatever you wanted, just too bad no Chai Tow Kuay and Teh Tarik. No Choice la. Cannot complain.

New Career Move - Yet again!! ;-)

2007-07-18T13:27:00.000+08:00

16-Jul-2007 > Trip to Blue Island Illinois

This day, I start my new job at G&W Electric as Regional VP - Asia Pacific. Traveling from Singapore to Chicago (18 Hr Non-stop flight to Newark, then another 3 hours flight to Chicago O'hare)

Arrived, finally, but shacked out!!! Walking from main Terminal at Newark to collect luggage to be re-routed to O'hare, plus check-in at UA counter.
This was taken along the travelator... in a half-dead mode. Lack of Sleep and time lag....

New Challenge

2007-07-03T18:02:00.000+08:00

This is the last week I will be with Copper.... Mixed feelings though, cos I have come to enjoyed the work here. Too bad timing was kind of bad and the other side gave me a lot of hope and faith, and of course also more "dough" so I decided to move again.

Copper's CEO was nice and gave me his blessing. This I take with great gratitude. All the Best Steven and Thanks for understanding! I hope that this is not the last we touch base..... Market is not too big anyhow!

I'd say Copper is a nice place to stay, if you are looking to finish your career nicely here. Not to say this is a good retirement home, but the fact that it is a non-profit organisation and the operating costs come from the very Big and Rich mining companies out there.

No more bottom line. No more sales target. So it was getting kind of "comfortable" and I didn't really want to start doing that. Think I still get that 3-5 years of geez and energy in me to go and "cheong"....

So here I am, back to the sales force again, but this time, I am looking at bigger picture. Portfolio is going to be a full Asia Pacific rim, so this will be my last shot man!!!!!

Beijing Shopping

2007-06-13T23:50:00.000+08:00

Got off early from meeting today and took a cab to the popular Wang Fu Jing area for a walk. This place is huge. Wide streets, hotels after hotels, shopping malls after shopping malls. Too tired to write more. Enjoy the pics, taken from my N70, as I forgotten to bring out my camera.

Stumble upon an eating street and went in. Guess it's not only the Thais who ate bugs. I ordered some lamb kebabs. Stomach too week for such stuff. Not that cheap either, RMB 5 for a foot long stick of meat.

And finally, Noodle Set (炸酱面 + 冰可乐) - RMB 13 (S$ 4+)

Massage

2007-06-12T01:17:00.000+08:00

Someone pass this to all the guys as you stepped onto the bus that was taking us out. Talk about translation... Look at the second service... the wholw body cares to massage???? Who cares!!

Dinner, Out of Hotel, Finally!

2007-06-12T01:03:00.001+08:00

Yeah... After being cooped up in the hotel the whole for the Sunday meeting, it's time to get out! After the China Review Meeting, all the participants took a bus and took us to this place called "鬼街" - Ghost Street... I thought.. wah.. got such place in Beijing meh....

Actually, it was a busy street, with all (rather 80%) different kinds of restaurant... Chay! So we ended up in this restaurant, where you walk like forever and end up in a backyard. Then they feed you like there was no tomorrow and the food got "打包" back by the staff.

Course after course, they bring the food, until the Ang Mo Kui (红毛鬼) call tolong. But again, food was nice... din take any pictures of the food though, cos the backyard was kind of dark.

Beijing Onsen

2007-06-12T00:37:00.001+08:00

Went up the the mountain area near my friend's house for dinner.

This is one giantic place, with so many buildings that you'd think you are in the palace. All the water are from the natural spring, according to the information. Just took some pictures for remembrance. God knows when I will be back to China again.....

Then, we walked, talked, walked, talked, and we stumble upon this....

Dip pool for lovers. RMB 298 for 3 hours.. and No Discount hor. Don't even bother to bargain....... Too bad it was empty...

Cool Bike

2007-06-12T00:28:00.001+08:00

See the old man in the background? That's his dad, 70+ and still very strong. He zips around the neighbourhood in this "Harley" of his, and yes, it's almost as old as me, according to Old Man Li!

And you know what? He spends a lot of his time fishing at this big lake just a stone's throw away from the house. Too bad didn't get a chance to see it. Old Man Li says... Next time you come to Beijing, we go fishing.... Yes! I like this guy man... Real Cool!

Beijing Brudder

2007-06-12T00:20:00.000+08:00

Here it is... my Beijing Brudder, and his 2 kids. Big Boss now, MD of a factory that makes machines for metal industry. Big US MNC... You've made it in life Max! When's my turn.....

This is the view from the front gate of his house, currently under renovation. It's in a mess, yes, but it's farking big. 2 houses actually, and now he's joining them into one BIG house.. How much? Don't bother asking. Can't even buy you a decent Condominium in the outskirts of Singapore.

Now, that's what I call reality.

7 Nights in Beijing

2007-06-11T23:56:00.000+08:00

Finally, the chance to get into Beijing. Arrived on Saturday afternoon and after checking in, gave a call to a good friend "哥儿们", as he calls it. I have not seen him for about 10 years now, but still in touch and within half an hour, he was at the lobby. Cool!

Then, took me in his Buick 7-seater and off we zoomed to his factory. Obviously wanted to show me his labour of fruits. Anyway, after that, we popped by to meet his kids and sister, who was at that time, 摘杏. At that point of time, I didn't knew what the heck was 杏.... Almond?

Reached the garden and what the heck.... it was apricot. That tells you my Mandarin standard. Anyway, walked around and enjoyed the fun a little. A bit hot though, on a hazy afternoon, temperature was about 33 Deg C.

After the kids were done, we walked out to the roadside, weighed the bag of apricots. Scales says "四斤", or 4 Katis, about 600 grams. Total: RMB 8/- (~ S$ 1.60)!!!!! Cheap? You decide!

New Leash of Life

2007-05-03T17:53:00.000+08:00

First week in the new job.... New leash of life perhaps?

Loads of information and lots to follow-up on, but what's new in a new job? Heard a lot about the Ex-CEO, who was an iron lady and I guess that was the reason why the high turnover.

Current staff was all too happy with the new CEO and he seems to be a very nice person. At least makes you feel very comfortable. Things are starting to be in place and the moral is high.

Perhaps, just perhaps, I have made a right move. Let's see how it goes as time passes. Will be making my first trip with this organisation in 2 weeks time to Indonesian.... Let's just get it going! Yeah!

Farewell Lunch

2007-04-27T17:31:00.000+08:00

Not much words were exchanged. Just ate Dim Sum at Tea House at China Square, pretty silent throughout, leaning more to the extent of feeling ackward.

CK, came to join, before heading off for his "Pre Honeymoon" at Genting tomorrow morning. He just got ROM yesterday with his beloved.... Congratulates CK! Welcome to the Club! Ha Ha.

Then, presentation time.... Colleagues got a card (Big one!) and Yippee.. a nice Raoul Traveller Watch. Loved it..... Thanks guys!

Till we meet again... Cheerios!

That's me, with the Bosses.

Final Group Photo... Needs a real nice Haircut da.. Looks like crab...

Final Day!

2007-04-27T10:27:00.000+08:00

Today is 27th April 2007 - which is also officially my last day at work with the current Company. Monday is a holiday declared by Company, and including May 1st holiday, it's gonna be another long weekend. This is mainly due to the Golden Week Holidays in Japan.

Send out my "Farewell Note" to each and every colleague, customers, contractors, what have you about my departure, and the "Thank You" notes keep coming back.

- Nice -, as least you know what you have been doing in the Company is appreciated.

How fast these 3 over years zoomed past me, but nonetheless, the inevitable had to happen..... Though sad and quite unreluctant, I still made the final decision to move on. I have to think with my head, and not my heart!

Though we always say, money is not everything, sometimes, it does play games with your mind. In my case, money - being the major factor, followed by the good advancement opportunities, convinced me to make the switch.

So, sincerely, with appreciation from the bottom of my heart, I bid Adious my colleagues and comrades, till we meet again!!

My Buddy - Abe-san... Fishing Kaki, Golfing Kaki, Drinking Kaki, Talk-Cock-Sing-Song Kaki, etc.

The Only Group Photo we ever took, I think......

A Tribute to the Bosses,

- Sasaki-san (M.D., in Jacket)

- Komiya-san (Director, 3rd from Left).... and

- Catherine, who has provided tremendous support to me!

Fish Frenzy

2007-04-23T08:58:00.000+08:00

Popped down to SAF Yacht Club again on 21 April 2007. Arrived there about 6.30 pm and it was a bit crowded. Lots of action at the end of the Jetty, just under the big umbrella as you can hear a lot of noise and looked congested.

Then was about to setup my rods, when the fishing brudder next to us called me... Bro, come let's go to end of jetty. Many Mangrove Jack there, crazy. Already up 60~70 pcs already, since 5 plus.

What? A Frenzy?
What the heck... quickly setup my heavier rod and popped on 2 live prawns and off we went to end of the jetty, where everyone was almost fishing shoulder to shoulder.

True enough, they were mid-sizes, popping up one after another. No casting, no fanciful jigs, just drop in the line and wait. Then I also come to realise what is luck.

Managed only 1, and I had 4 consecutive bites, and the fish popped under the jetty and got stuck! And I was not the only unlucky ones. Some say maybe grouper, or big one, or this or that. I don't need those crab. I just wanna get that bugger.

Finally, total count :-
Fish - 1
Apollo Jigs with weight, and countles length of line - 4

Best part of the story:-
A family of many brothers and sisters (ave. age 40+), uncles and aunties where all over the end of the jetty, and I guess they already filled up their two 40L Colemans... and one auntie still had the cheek to say... "Ai ya, Sng Doo Pang Buay Loh Liao Lah" (Sigh, the fridge can't fit in all these fishes already!"

Pang Buay Lor, Dng Choo lor... Let the other anglers have the spot and get some...

After a while, didn't really enjoyed the blaberring of the family, so decided to leave the spot and go back to my usual spot and cast out and do the usual waiting game.

Enjoy the stars and sea breeze with my familiy. Niceeeeee...........

Baby Octopus

2007-04-14T02:00:00.000+08:00

Recently, I have been actively reading and posting on the Handline Fishing Forum, and there was a thread about live baby octopus. Somehow, some guys figured out that using baby octopus as bait was much better than baby squids.

Prior to that, I acually chanced upon some baby octopus (dead ones though) at Giant Tampines. I was actually looking for some baby squids as spare bait, then realised that there were baby octopuses as well in the basket.

Mai Too liao, so I started to look amongst the sotong for the 8-clawed beast. Managed to find a couple.

2nd time went down there, lucky again... This time got about 8 pieces.

This evening, popped by again, thinking, no way so lucky la.... True indeed.... Not so lucky, cos only got 2 pieces.. Ha Ha Ha..... Anyway, posted the pics on the thread and let the boys decide themselves if they wanna get some Octopus!

Can see any difference, other than squids?

Close Up.... See the 8-Clawed Monster?

My Assistant Angler & Puffy

2007-04-14T01:39:00.000+08:00

Went down last weekend to SAF Yacht Club for the usual fishing game.

After a couple of cast and waiting, I went to one side to chat with some fellow anglers, while at the same time eyeing my rod and hopefully see it bend of the reel going zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.....

After a while, actually caught a shot of my daughter manning my fishing rod, while reading her story book...So Sweet of her!

Then, she shouted out to me... Papa, I think there is a fish. The fishing rod moved. Can I reel in the line, she asked.

Ya right. Perhaps it was the wind blowing pretty strongly or my wife actually pushed on the railing while trying to get some small fishes on the tampan jig.

Well, the little devil so excited, so I told to go ahead.... She started signing her songs and slowly wind the reel.

After a while, she called out to me again... Pa, heavy leh.. Please come and help.

OK, Pa coming... So I took over the rod and tried to bring in the bait....

Wait a minute... it does feel heavy... Wah say, my daughter so lucky ah... Like that also can. Continued to reel in and finally, saw the fella.... Puffy!!!!! (Puffer Fish).

She was so damn excited. So reeled in that fella, then removed the hook and let it go, but not before I explained to her what a puffer fish was, and how its cheeks would swell up when provoked or in danger, just like her when she is throwing her tanrunms.

Then, before she released my grip on the pincers to let Puffy go, she also learned about the fact behind CNR... Catch and Release... Made my day again....

Seventh Heaven..... Yes!

2007-04-11T13:21:00.000+08:00

This is indeed "DEE DAY" for all Man Utd Fans around the globe! 7-1 Scoreline against a full Roma squad.

Actually planned to wake up to watch this game, hopefully not get disappointed like the first leg. Got up, checked time.... 4.55 am.... Shark..... Time to get up for my usual routine already and game all over.

Started out 5.30am to send wifey to Airport for her 5.45 am shift. Then, its off to Toa Payoh to offload daughter at in-laws' place.
Reached at 6 am... Still early, so decided to catch a wink next to my daughter, who was still in dreamland from the time we left the house until we reached Toa Payoh.

7.30 am - Felt someone poking me at my feet....
7.35 am - " Huay Huay Hee Lai Doh Kang!"..(Faster wake up, Go Work!) You go figure out what language that is.. :-)
Huh?... Oh, mother-in-law, waking me up
7.45 am - "Yang Bo Hee Lai. Beh Wua Liao".. (Still not awake. Gonna be late!)
Huh?.... Oh, again...
7.50 am - Got up, Staggered to toilet, piss, wash up, quick shower, changed...
8.10 am - Started drive to work.

Was nearing Shenton way area when I heard Glenn Ong over the Morning Express saying something like he does not want to make Man Utd Fans happy or something. Straight away, I knew it was going to be some good results.

He passed the sports report to FD, who gladly announced... Man Utd demolished Roma 7-1!...WTF.... 7-1.. Could believe what I heard, but yeah.... Its the truth... Yipee....

This is some record, I heard. Perhaps the biggest winning scoreline in Champions League history in a long long time.

Arrived office, got my coffee and started reading the report on Man U's homepage.... Oh boy, it's been a long time since I've seen Man Utd get such a big win, and over a strong opponent. Perhaps even better then the thrashing of Arsenal some seasons ago (No offence to Gunners' fan.)

Made my day......! Man Utd Rocks, this time. Hope the form continues a few more weeks.... Yeah!!!

Fishy Report - 04 Apr 07

2007-04-05T15:18:00.000+08:00

Went down to Pasir Ris Fishing Pond with Abe-san (my usual fishing khaki) and decided to try the Pro Pond, due to the many fishes they released into the pond for an event. 3 Hours for S$50... Not cheap man!

Started at 9pm and action was slow. Got a few bites but the fishes ran away with live prawn...
They had this stupid pair of stone crocodiles across the small pond and one cast overshot the crocs... and yeah, the float got stuck... Shit!

Tried to lossen it but finally, the line gave way....

Changed into another float jig and then action started.

Abe-san caught one fish (they called it the Taiwan Ngor) plus a slimy eel.. ha ha ha.. He got slimed!!!

Overall catch for me, 1 nice Taiwan Ngor and 1.... I suppose it was a snapper species, they called the Ang Cho Kee, I think.

The Fishies - Before it was gutted!

The 'gutted' Snapper

The 'gutted' Taiwan Ngor

Both fishes have been "fillet" out and I out threw the head and tail away. Fishy smell was too strong, that even my daughter's hamster, which happen to live in the kitchen also ran into its little sleeping house... Ha Ha Ha!

Maybe tomorrow will try some fried "fishy" nuggets, or soup......

Fishy Fishy Fishy

2007-04-02T18:11:00.000+08:00

Nothing to do on Sunday, so decided to go down to SAF Yacht Club and dip the fishing rod into the sea, watch the sunset, listen to the live band from the nearby restaurant.... Just to chill out with the family, and a good buddy, Abe-san.

After couple of hours, this was what we could manage, but it's ok. Quantity of fishes caught is not the issue.

Deep-Bodied Mojarra

Tiera Batfish

Fringe-eye Flat Head (Look like a croc, doesn't it?)

Anyway, all the fishes were released after taking pictures. Look out for next Fishy Report.... Enjoy!

Sunflower Man

2007-04-02T18:04:00.000+08:00

Not sure if you guys have seen the infamous Sunflower Man! His bike is decorated with big sunflowers, along with the helmet and jacket he is wearing. Saw him zipping into the hdb car park where I was suppose to meet my sister for breakfast.

Quickly followed him so that I can ask him to take a pic with my daughter... but he was too fast for me. Only managed a photograph of his bike...... Very artistic... Wonder if he causes any traffic jam when he is on the road......

The Chapter After....

2007-04-02T17:44:00.000+08:00

OK, Informed boss of my move and tendered my Letter of Resignation. Response was kinda of ..... mediocre. Surprised, but not that alarmed. Cool, but not that relaxed....

Anyway, gave him some information of the next company I was moving to, and after being asked: "How much they pay you?"

I said: "More than XX %"

He sent silent.... then: "Woah!"

So, there was it, in a nut shell.

As quoted by a Professor, CEO of a Government agency - Quote:
"Pay is Important, but alone it is insufficient to provide job satisfaction. While staff must be renumerated fairly, what's important is to create an intellectual envoirnment for staff to excel in. Talented people look beyond pay for opportunities to express themselves and perform to their fullest potential....." - Unquote.

The problem here is... we have not reached the Pay factor yet.....

Boss is in Japan this week and I think the news of my "Good-Bye" is gonna spread. The closer peers' gonna call and ask why, why, why. Already received a few overseas call but missed all of them. Was busy doing my health screening and getting "Arse Finger Farked!"

Take about that and I almost took out my prick and smack the doctor in his face. Just don't wanna talk about it! Snobbish Big Stupid Arse Fingering, Balls tweedling Mother Farker!

Anyway, ended the afternoon after completing the 15 mins treadmill. Back in 4 working days to collect results.

D-Day!

2007-03-30T20:00:00.000+08:00

Alright.... Finally made my decision. Have decided to make a move after firming up the Letter of Offer from XXX company. It's 7pm now.... Am still waiting for mi boss to finish the tender he is working on before I throw the bomb! Gambatte!

Let's see how it will turn out, after I am done with informing him formally... A Meeting perhaps, or maybe a bad confrontation.... Let's just see.......

:-)

Tired!!!

2007-03-29T12:02:00.000+08:00

Parents went off to Shanghai for holidays, so the whole family went to the Airport to send them off. 0055 Hrs flight out of Changi Airport T1.

Nice to see them so happy, and I guess they earned it. All 3 children are doing well, nice & caring daughter-in-law (mi wife :-)) and an adorable grand daughter. Time for a break and slowly ease into retirement mode.....

Enjoy and Have fun in Shanghai!

Got home, settled down, and finally hit the deck at about 1.30 am. Got up at 6.45 am, and luckily got a ride from the legendary AE86 to office.

Little stoned today.

Come tomorrow.... Things gonna take a turn man!!!!! Stay tuned.... Cheers!!

Favourite Singaporean Driver Topic - Van/Truck Drivers

2007-03-28T10:48:00.000+08:00

Was just looking browsing on my N70 for Pics and Vids, and this came out. Thought it was another of those classic acts by the "garang" driver.

Bloody on fastest lane on the PIE and travelling at about 90+ KMH, when the little black label says 70 KMH. As far as I am concerned, it's ok, just don't block my way!!!!

Got a another short video clips of someone actually using the tap from the rubbish dump spraying on his car. Just din know how to post it. Will find out and try to get it up here.

28 March 2007 - Wednesday

2007-03-28T10:04:00.000+08:00

4D day again..... Sigh, when is that "striking" feeling ever gonna come back to me again.... No choice but to keep trying.

Lai Leh, Tio Tio Tio liao... Huat La..... :-) Then my PSP will come.. Ha Ha Ha....

Mid-week... yeah, 2 more days to the weekend! Just got to hang in there man... Cheers!

Fishing - Changi Beach Club Boardwalk

2007-03-27T15:59:00.000+08:00

Our regular Friday night outing, since I picked up fishing again, after laying off for so many years.

Decided to pop by the Boardwalk, where my uncle is still working there at the coffeeshop.

As usual, arrived at about 10.30pm. Kicked up a small conversation with the folks under the big shelter, :-) so that we can grab some space on the big bench (more like a queen size wooden bed, i think) from them

Setup the gears and started our waiting game.

Other family who was there had only the mother present, so I became the "nice uncle", whole night helping the kids tying their lure, weight, hooks, etc... Arrhhh.. bunch of persistent fellas. But still, they were great company, especially for my daughter.

Suddenly, my rod strike... once, twice... On la! Started to rig in, trying to figure out if it was just the current or a big bite.... Tension was not that great, but still manage to reel in, and viola.... Starfish!

First time in my life, caught a starfish on a hook. If you look carefully, the hook was already lodged in its mouth.

Ok la, since nice colour, so I took a pic and post it here. Previous outing at Pasir Ris Pond did gave me some good bites, but deleted all the pics before I could post them.

Will be back with more..... Next destination - SAF Yacht Club.... to be continued....

Prawning

2007-03-27T15:51:00.000+08:00

Nothing to do one night, so we all decided to go prawning at Pasir Ris Pond. First time for everyone, so I a rod each for my daughter and her cousin. (Expensive though... S$ 14.5o per hour, Buy 3 get 1 free)

Whack, it was fun... Feeling the prawn biting on the bait (actually small cut-up pieces of fishcake) and reeling up and u see this prawn with long claws staring at you.

Initially, was quite slow, the our nice neighbour offered us their "sea worm" bait at our last half 20 mins or so. Wah.... big big difference. The prawnies came immediately. It was not that easy actually, but it was indeed fun.

Those claws are sharp! Mind you. I got nipped while trying to get the hook out of the prawns after catching them...

2 hours of fun and that was what we got. Looking forward to the next trip!

First Post for 2007

2007-03-27T15:45:00.000+08:00

Shoot, how time flies.... Already 1st quarter of the year almost gone and just realised that I have not added anything fresh on my blog...... So, here it is.

Work still as usual, full of ups and downs. Golfing's been greatly reduced and fishing is now the favourite past time. At least the family can tag along and have fun.

While I cast my main rod, hoping to catch that big one, my wife and daughters will use the smaller rods trying to pick up the tampans, or what ever small fishes that comes along.

At least we are spending quality time together, which does not happen when I go golfing. Anyway, will be back shortly. Lots of updates, but can only reveal in a months' time!

Cat Meal?

2006-12-11T14:22:00.000+08:00

Popped by the Downtown East to join my sis-in-law's chalet. Nothing much to do so went walking and browsing at the newly renovated 'mini mall'. Not bad, for a small place. Loads of people actually!

Then, we came by the hawker place, where most of the muslim stalls are. Tucked nicely was this cat in the display shelve of the "Halal Ji Cha" stall...

Looking at it... I tot they had cat's meat on the menu... HAHAHA! Must be a nice and cost resting place.

Weeeee-see-kee

2006-10-11T14:37:00.000+08:00

Pop by one of our Japanese colleagues' favorite Bar. Whisky Bar, to be precise. Anyhow, after a few rounds, Boss Kosho came by, obviously loose and high after 'god-knows' how many rounds. Mood was good, and he decided - OK, today good day. Very happy. Let u try some good whisky.
Whisked out a bottle from the very top shelf of his "800+ bottles" display counter. Popped opend a wooden box, that reads - Yamazaki 35 Years.

What the hell... Si mi lai eh, I thought to myself.
Boss Kosho says - This.. very special whisky. Only 200 bottles worldwide. I have 2 bottles. Now, you try..... OK, why not... Took a pack, had a sip... mmmm, very smooth and very sweet... very nice vanilla/woody taste.
Boss Kosho says - You know how much?
I said - No.
Boss Kosho says - About 600,000 Yen per bottle (S$ 8 Grand!!!!). Lucky day for you. On the house... wahahahahahah.....
I said - Domo Arigato.... The bloody pack retails about 500 bugs.....!!!
Anyhow - This is actually a nice place to go to. Coffee.Bar.K down at UE Square. Good recommendation for ambience and service!

Long Chia!

2006-09-22T18:15:00.000+08:00

Wifey whacked into an old Mitsubishi Colt.... :-(

No more NCD, Insurance premuim will be loaded next year, No car to drive for a couple of days, plus S$200 excess.

Well, things happen. As long as wifey and daughter is ok, no big deal la... Just some money down the drain.

Stuck in HCM City, can't do anything... Just got to wait till I get back on Saturday to sort it out. Maybe re-spray colour la... Change to o-leng o-leng, or ang ang, lucky lucky ah... ha ha ha....

Shack Shack Shack!

2006-09-22T18:07:00.000+08:00

Almost burned out. Last 1 month plus, having been doing about 4~5 trips average out of Singapore. Work is getting fine, but alas, Boss going back to Japan! Bit disappointed, cos 1 less smoking and drinking kaki. He is one hell of a guy, easy going and nice to get along with. Not the usual Japanese Expat you'd see. Ain't too much much pressure working for him. Still waiting to see what is planned after his departure.

Now, I am tasked to organise his farewell party........... Sharks! Zen it is, at United Square. Suits all Japanese people, doesn't really matter to the rest of the "International" colleagues we have in Singapore.

Happy 41st Birthday!

2006-08-09T19:48:00.000+08:00

Yes, It's Singapore's 41st Birthday, as well as my wife's, though she is not that old... yet :-) Had a nice Birthday lunch with the family, before sending them to my in-laws' place where the kids gather together yearly to watch the fireworks display on the 40th floor in Toa Payoh. Guess, I have to miss it this year.

Sitting at Harry's Pub in Changi Airport T2 now, waiting for my flight to BKK, and watching the National Parade on the big screen here.....

It's been a long and hard way, for us to be where we are today. Remembered seeing somewhere along the performance, a big scroll saying...." Our Island of Opportunities". Perhaps, perhaps. No matter what, this is still home, so got to say I am still proud of my roots!

Strive on Singapore!!!!
......... Dedicated to my friend, Jewie.. Hee Hee... How dah?

Haze, Haze, Haze!

2006-08-08T01:51:00.000+08:00

Arrived in Jakarta this morning, after an hours' delay on board. Some bloody guy checked in his luggage, but never made it on board. As usual, all bags unload, found the "Orphaned" luggage, and we were on our way.

On the way in to our Hotel, yuks... Haze at it again.... Hopefully, it stays here and not drift back home. I'll be outta here in 2 days.

Back to S'pore for National Day, and of course, mi wifey's birthday... but she's gonna blow, when she hears that I have to be in Bangkok the same night, after our dinner plans. Got an urgent meeting on Thursday morning.

Sigh... Talk about timing!

Bunny Out of Hell Gates?

2006-08-08T01:47:00.000+08:00

Just dropped off my girl for her Piano class. Parked the car so that I can get a pack of teh tarik. Yeeeks! A bunny popped out of nowhere and into my side mirror. Almost rolled over it under my back tyre. WTF! Must be some kids letting their pet bunny run loose.

Got out of my car, trying to figure out what the heck is happening. Walked over to the left side back tyre.. Wow... Had the shock of my life! Tell me where this came from.. Some bloody animal abuser must be at it again..... Poor thing. How I wished the same was done to the ears of this evil-doer! Grab a quick picture and let it on his own....

Kings - If you ever read this post, tell me, is this one of the cousins of your "Security Guard Bunny"?

Golf Again, with a Big Bang!

2006-08-08T01:10:00.000+08:00

Date & Time: 05 August 2006, on a beautiful Saturday morning
Venue: Daiman 18 Golf Club, JB
Location: Hole 16 (I think)
Cart Number: 44 (No wonder)

Incident:
Finished teeing off, wanting to drive on for our second shot, cos me and my bro both got a 1 on for this Par 3 hole. On a slope, released brake, stepped on accelerator.... shit, no power and cart started to roll back.
Stepped on brake, cart continues to roll. Stepped on brake harder, cart came to a slow halt, and still rolling down. WTF, both of us jumped out and pulled the bloody cart to prevent it from going over the pavement...... Funny siah! Recalling our position, we had a good laugh!
OK, Bro, hold on while I called the clubhouse.... Within 3 minutes, help came, in the form of another cart. Shifted everything from cart 44 to 76, and we moved on. Nothing happened!

Tee-off at last hole, bloody cart 76 started to jerk... Battery Flat.. KNN. Called clubhouse again and came another cart.....

The best part.... I was required to sign on the "insurance claim" form for cart 44.
Me: "Sign for what?"
Fat lady at clubhouse: "Formality sake, claim insurance"
Me: "Claim for what? No one injured, cart 44 was pulled back on track and driven back to clubhose"
Fat lady: "Oh, just for record"
Me: " Oh, OK"
Fat Lady: " IC Please. For photocopy"
Me: " No farking way. Gimme the damn form, I will fill in"
Fat Lady passed me the insurance form. Took a look. It says somewhere there "Claim for Gearbox"
I filled in some particulars and on the "Cause of Damage", I scribbled - NOTHING DAMAGED. NO INJURY AND CART WAS DRIVEN BACK TO CLUBHOUSE FASTER THAN A SPEEDING BULLET!"

I just love this Game!

Memory Lane?

2006-07-20T16:45:00.000+08:00

After couple of beer with boss, whom I have not met for over 3 weeks, at Fullerton Hotel, made my way to Marina Square for another session hosted by a sub-contractor. Took a slow walk, with the cool sea breeze blowing in my face, then I realised I was very near to the Merlion.
Hey, what the heck, it's been more than 15 years since I visited this place. Took a night shot with my N70... hey man, nolstagic isn't it?
Then the Durian appeared right in front of me... Ok la, another shot for all to savour!

Back to Routine

2006-07-18T18:04:00.000+08:00

Well, back to office, re-cuperate, and planning another attack for customer visit. Most porbably Thailand. Project clarification still needs to be sorted out, sales booking is kind of falling back, so got to get back on my feet again! This is the start of 2nd Half of 2006.

Got to get it going, or my Bonus is going into the drain again! Gambatte!!

In the midst of these, still got to go kopi with our Field Service Manager, who seems to be having problems settling down in our company and getting along with Japanese Boss.... All I can say - Good Luck! I got my own problems to solve....

Last Day in Tokyo.

2006-07-14T23:29:00.000+08:00

Hot Hot Hot! Balls burning and "Teh Kor" also "dum"! Weather suddenly surge from 28 Deg to 34 Deg. Humidity is almost 80%.
Wait a moment, cannot be leh. This is like Singapore, if not humidity level is higher... Well, maybe it's the mind. This is summer in Tokyo! Was told that it will get warmer in August. Reminds me of my first trip in Aug, 2004. Temperature rosed to record high at 40 Deg.
Luckily last day here. Gambatte! See you - Japan, hopefully soon!

In the midst of this heat, right in central Shimbashi Area (where my headoffice is located), near the train station, what do you do when you need to take a puff? Looked around, only signs of "No Smoking" - Smoke only in Designated Area.... Looked around, boh leh... Looked again... Whack! KNN, smoking area that looks like a bus-stop! Ok la.. fair enough, at least they give you a shelter over the head against the heat and rain. Fair lah! What the heck... Join in and enjoy....

Makan Time, Again!

2006-07-13T00:06:00.000+08:00

Dinner was hosted in a nice "Japanese Meet Western" Restaurant in Shiodome area. Checked the menu... Horse Meat. Wow, Power Man!

Actually wanted to order, but then remembered I acutally tried it once. Meat was nice, but like chewing gum, and full of fats... bite and bite and bite, still remaining in my mouth a small ball of fat.. That's why I decided to pass.

My colleague then ordered their seasonal fish, called A-You. Came in sushi form. Wah piang... can u imagine, they actually strip down the whole fish, and flatten it out, like a bear or lion skin lying on a carpet? This fish was nicely laid on a well kneaded roll of sushi rice and cut into small sizes, including the head and tail.... Take a look!

Perhaps if we had ordered the horse meat, maybe the head also served along with the meat! Ha Ha

Break Time in Head Office

2006-07-12T23:50:00.000+08:00

Summer's coming.... Most office in Tokyo are turning off their Air-con at this time of the year, so that gas emission is reduced to minimum and can have energy savings, yah right, at the expense of all office workers lor.

Then I realised that our heat endurance was way below these Japanese people. I was trying to keep up with the 27 +/- temperature and 70% humidity condition, while the Japanese people seems to be so comfortable. I really don't want to get my underwear wet, and my balls overheating, so made frequent trips to the smoking room (about 4M x 4M), where it was much cooler as the A/C and exhaust was turned on.

Cool way of disposal of cigarette butts? You decide.... Anyhow, I made some contribution today. Check it out!

Hitachi Express to Tokyo

2006-07-12T23:30:00.000+08:00

Took the 10:02 am "Super Hitachi Express" from Hitachi Station, in Hitachi City to Tokyo. Yes, finally getting out! Really accurate, these Japanese train. Smack, 10:02, train stops right in front of station.

So, after some explanation from Boss, got the idea. We are on Car #1 (that's what he said. Seems more like carriage #, but what the heck!), Row 6, Seats A,B & C. Felt like looking for your seat on board a plane.

Ok, settled myself snugly in the nice thick cushion chair and started to look around. Then realised that this train actually got so-called "smoking car". Car #3 & #6 were designated smoking car. After a while, decided to go for a puff, so slowly made my way to Car #3, nearest to us.

The bloody moment the automatic door opened for Car #3, Shit! I thought I was on Genting Highlands... Smoke was as thick like as if the buggers here were doing a mid-day BBQ... Completely lost my urge... Yuks, I really wonder how these people in Car #3 can survive the hour and half journey, and the fact that most of them are commuting this way everyday!.... Bless them!

Tiffany in Japan!

2006-07-12T23:17:00.000+08:00

This nice poster was standing at the entrance of the hotel in Hitachi City, the rest place I used for the past 6 nights. Never really took a good look at it cos too expensive to see the show. Cost you JPY 15,000 (About S$200) per head for an hour of entertainment. Seems like 2006.7.29 was the Grand Finale or something.

This morning, after checking out, and waiting for my boss and colleague, I took a second look at it. Then boss came....

Boss: "You saw the show?"
Me: "No, Too Expensive"
Boss: "You know what show is this?"
Me: "Cabaret?"
Boss: "Yes... but be careful"
Me: "Why?"
Boss: ... smiling... "Because all men, beautiful men"
Me: "What the $%^#!"
Boss: "Yes, like in Bangkok!"
Me: "Thanks, but no thanks"

What the heck. Right in the lobby of the hotel was a Chapel, yes, a real Chapel (small though) for Sunday Service. Directly above it, on 3 level, was this "Nice Cabaret Show"

Mmmmm...... God, upstairs Perhaps????

It's Raining Again!

2006-07-11T22:52:00.000+08:00

It's raining again.... After arriving back at the hotel, dump my stuff and went to Lawson, the best shop I found so far in Hitachi City. God's answer to all my thirst and hunger!
- Just the convenience shop next to the hotel where I get all my breakfast, coffee, drinks and supper!

Next minute, it was raining.... What the hell. One moment, fog, then rain... Weather is so unpredictable.

Anyhow, last night here in Hitachi City. Tomorrow, will be catching the 10.06 am "Super Hitachi Express" to Tokyo, for the 2 hour ride.

I wonder... what will happen to this City, or Hitachi City, if one day, just one day, Hitachi decides to call it a day......

"High Life in Japan?"

2006-07-11T21:51:00.000+08:00

Let's start off with the Taxi Service. Bloody old Toyota Crown, gear stick on the steering wheel, zooming you here and there and then costing you an arm and leg. These are the taxis, which are waiting at the Office lobby to take us to our dinner place. One thing about these taxis - They are ALWAYS (at least 95% ) on time!

Had dinner with some Japanese colleague, at a steak house. That's right, fancy coming out this far to eat western food in Japan. Resturant name is Belguim-Kan, or "White Ear Ant(z)". Call it co-incidence or what. Just found out the Japanese name for Ant. "A Ri” - written as あり. Mmmmm.. maybe a good time to translate Antz to ありつ！

Start off with a light course, then the best part.... soup! Nice little glass bowl presented by nice Japanese waitress, white creamy soup.... Ok lah, tot what the heck, enough for me to rince my mouth before main couse can already... Dig in with my "very abused" spoon, whack! Ice Cold Soup! Wake up straight away boy..... Funny way of serving soup. New Age Western Course?

Next Main course... at least something nice to savour. Japanese beef IS Japanese beef after all. No matter how they cook it, it is just so tender, almost like melting in your mouth.. OK, la! 9/10 for a nice steak.

Finally dessert! Cheese Cake with Strawberry ice cream, finishing off with a nice cup of Gourment Coffee.... And a bloody bill of about S$200 per pax! Lucky I aint't paying for it! Sometimes, I really wonder how much rich the average Japanese make in a month...

Giant Puppy... On a Foggy Night.

2006-07-10T22:10:00.000+08:00

It was raining today in Hitachi, whole bloody day. Came back after dinner and saw a lady walking her dog outside the hotel. At first thought I saw a white lion statue or something, but bloody hell, this was a giantic dog. Even bigger that a normal golden retriever. (I know cos my neighbour has a fully grown retreiver)

So, I walkde over and with my broken Japanese, I asked her if I could "Sashin" with the dog, aiming my N70 so that she can understand. Dai-jo-bu... Ok Desu! Snap, and this was what I got. Forgot what the breed was, but anyway, really nice furry dog.

Then, wanted to take a last look at the dog, I realised that fog has set in... This was taken from the lobby entrance of Hotel Nikko. Thought I only see this in movie. Actually quite cool taken from my N70 using night mode.

So, it's another day gone and going back to hotel after a nice sushi dinner and some cool beer. taxi was expensive, costing us JPY 2,300 (abt S$30) for a mere 10 minutes ride.

Smoking in Japan

2006-07-09T21:47:00.000+08:00

Talking about one of the highest smoking population in the world being Japan.... New rules man... In central Tokyo, walking and smoking is an offence. Violaters get fined... yes! And talk about Singapore being a Fine City. Perhaps the world is starting to follow our footsteps.

This is one of those standing ash-trays, found scattered a corner at most main traffic junctions. You can huff and puff for all you want, and without getting fined!

Conquered Nihon Course! Ganbatte!

2006-07-09T00:21:00.000+08:00

Finally get to tee-off in Japan. Yeah! Really different standard. Buggies are spick and span, courses very well maintained and of course really nice weather. Mountain top, 23 Deg, little foggy.. What else can I ask for.
This is the view from the clubhouse!

Proof of my "Tour of Takasuzu".

However, playing here is more stressed than anywhere I have played before. Imagine on a long Par 5, you got 1 flight on the putting green, 1 flight on fairway waiting and another flight waiting at the back to Tee Off...

But it is at this place that I got my lowest score in my 1.5 years of golfing... What can I say!

Another funny thing! Shower room got no shower cubicles... Only rows of taps and shower hoses and stools all lined up. Which means you can only wash your hair sitting down... Then, after shower, all the uncles, grandfathers and brudders will jump into the hot pool. I mean really HOT pool. Dick also shrink.

Anyway, total damage = Yen 10,000 (S$ 140/=), including a nice Japanese Lunch! Will definitely try again, if opportunity arises! Ganbatte!

Day full of Crap!

2005-06-29T20:40:00.000+08:00

How the heck. I am calling it a day for now. Too much quotation blasting through my head for the last 3 days. No wonder I am getting so much white hair these days. Guess it's about time to visit the salon, for a nice shampoo and highlight.

GTR - Mean Machine?

2005-06-29T18:04:00.000+08:00

Beats Initial_D's Tao Guah Car Anytime!
Got this pic from Toyota's museum in Tokyo. My First trip there on business. Nice place. Bloody hot summer at 40 Degrees.. Can die!

Only one conclusion - Takai! Everything here's bloody expensive.

Visited the 'Rae Mon' Temple ...... and
below, view of Tokyo Bridge.

One Man Operation Car?

2005-06-29T18:01:00.000+08:00

Futuristic,,, Tuk Tuk, perhaos?

Got this at the Toyota showroom, or more like a musuem. Loads of nice car on displayed and they got this "driverless" cars that bring you around a tour of the facility. Niceeeeeee.

One of the nice NASCAR on displayed. Too bad there ain't any Race Queen around... hee hee hee!