Family Christmas Dinner 2009

** Photo on left: Family @ CafeVic, Carlton Hotel, for our annual Christmas Dinner 2009

Phew! Time pass so fast.. its like just 1 year ago that we had our Christmas dinner @ Copthorne King's Hotel.. and 1 yr later, its Christmas again, and this time, it is actually at CafeVic in Carlton Hotel, Singapore.

CafeVic was the same restaurant where I had earlier in the month, came and dine with my overseas colleagues who were down for the marathon). And I'm glad that I've made a good choice, because my parents enjoyed it a lot.. =D



** Photo on right: My meat platter! - One of the meats on the plate is actually roasted rabbit meat! Guess which one! *Hint: Its near the ham!

The spread was quite sufficient. It is actually better than Orchard Hotel.. haha.. but the price also very nice.. CafeVic is charging me at $72++ per adult.. so ya..

Anyway with that said, the photo you see on the right is my ONLY meat platter for the night, and on that plate you see, is 1 piece of roasted RABBIT meat! And yes.. you saw it right.. roasted RABBIT meat!!
If you guess it right, the rabbit meat is the one that is just to the right of the thick slice of honey baked ham. The taste was a little weird.. it taste just like chicken, but its just that at the end when you are done with chewing and you want to swallow, some part tasted a little bit sourish (just a slight sour taste!).. And I didn't like one bit of it.. haha..


** Photo on left: My favourite dessert of the nite - Unadulterated mixed berries!! Woohoo~

I had like some of the seafood like raw oysters, sashimi and all.. but I didn't took photo of it.. paiseh..

However, the photo you see on the left was my favourite dessert of the nite! Apparently, you can take whatever berries that is available, and the toppings would either be icing sugar or fresh cream.. and of course, I would go for the icing sugar!


There were altogether 5 different berries in this photo -
(a) Gooseberry
(b) Raspberry
(c) Blueberry
(d) Blackberry
(e) Strawberry

And I tell you.. it was the most fantastic dessert that any restaurant can offer, and because of this dessert, CafeVic is getting brownie points from me =D

** Photo on right: Pineapple sorbet with mix barries!

Then came the conquering of the ice-cream counter!
I have actually wanted to take the chocolate and pecan ice-cream, but there was no more, so I had to settle for the pineapple sorbet, which was good! I added in the raspberries, strawberries and various toppings and man, it taste even better! =)

I think this would be enough to make me hungry, becos' too much acidic fruit le.. haha..


** Photo on left: The chocolate platter

Then I proceeded to my favourite dessert section, and low and behold, I had the chocolate counter.. haha.. so I took log cakes, choclates and some other chocolate stuff! And man.. the chocolate is really good, because they are bitter! Yummy!

But I reckon the calorie intake of this is super high, but I don't care.. One year one time only leh =D

Besides, people also say chocolate makes one happy, which I guess I am even right now as I write this blog =)

** Photo on right: My usual "smile to the camera" picture!

Shortly after we are done with the food, we started to camwhore.. and that is where I've used some of my photo apps in my iPhone.. and the results were not too bad..
But too bad I'm not a photographer lah, or else the photos would be nicer..

If you have noticed, I'm actually wearing my new spec.. haha.. Not too bad right? My mum said my outfit today looks like a PE teacher.. haha.. so flattered loh! =P


** Photo on right: The Christmas lightings at Raffles City

After we have finished our dinner, we proceeded home.. and on the way, guess what.. the Christmas lightings were too nice to be missed.. so I've decided to whip out my camera and just take the lightings!

Wonder how much and how long they take to plan, and all.

The weather was also cooling.. and its like as if we are experiencing some kind of cold chill.. haha... its been a while since there is such a chill loh!





** Photo on right: Another look at the Christmas lighting in the Marina Bay vacinity!

People were also whipping out their cameras to take the lights..

I saw one uncle (should be about 60 yrs), actually is an avid photographer! He mounted his XLR onto a tripod, and he started clicking away.. machiam the lights are fireworks.. haha.. but oh well.. people take it as their hobby mah... Cannot blame them lah..


** Photo on left: Precious (my dog) wearing the "Robin Hood" hat which was complimentary from Carlton Hotel

Then came home, and then proceeded to camwhore the photos with my dog.. and man.. ain't see cute!!

When my mum put it on top of Precious, she was so scared that she didn't move.. My mum need to coax her, so that she would let us take the photo.

Of course, Precious struggled with my mum when the cap was to be put on her!





** Photo on right: Little Miss Precious (my dog) wearing the princess crown (courtesy of Carlton Hotel as well!)

Then came another crown. This time, its like a Princess crown..

And again, Precious struggled initially in the beginning, but after that, she sat so still and wait for us to take photo of her!

Not only does this camera has my dog'S (Precious), pictures, my iPhone also has quite a number of her pics.. my dog is simply adorable!





** Photo on left: Awww.. giving little Miss Precious (my dog) Princess, a kiss!

And the photo you see on the left is my favourite photo.. so cute rite? It simply took my breathe away.. sigh..
But she look very cute right =)

Anyway, CafeVic is a good place for such occasions.. Think will go back there again someday =D



Loving my Christmas weekend,
<<< abriel >>>

My Christmas damage so far...

** Photo on left: My new Reebook spectacles!

I was actually trying to save money, but in the end, I spent on 3 essential stuff.. the first being my new Reebok spectacles, where I actually claim the remaining $93 from my flexible benefit entitlement from my company, because it would be forfeited by December 2009 if not utilised.. so ya..

However, there wasn't any nice frames around, except for this Reebok one, which costs $240 after discount (before discount, it was $350!).. so I topped up $147 on my own loh..

I actually wanted to choose the cheaper ones, but then, it don't look good at all.. so no choice loh.. have to buy this Reebok spectacles! They are not bad rite =)

** Photo on right: New JJ Lin CD - 100 Days

And all my friends know me that I'm a JJ Lin fanatic.. so of course with my favourite singer coming out with a new album, how can don't support? Haha..

Went to HMV today to get a copy loh.. not cheap leh.. its $24.. dun koe why so ex.. but ya..

Have listened to the CD and find it quite appealing.. it is a lot of R&B and a little jazz feel in some of the tracks (which I feel its a good mix!).. so ya.. don't regret a single bit loh =)

** Photo on left: Soft-copies of the professional self-portrait photo taken during Cerebos D&D 2009!

And whilst waiting for my specs to be ready, I went up to "Picture Me" to go purchase the soft-copies of the photo which was taken at my D&D 2009 just last week!

I took quite a while to decide because not very cheap!.. But 3 out of 5 photos were so nice, that after much consideration, I decided to purchase it, and that cost me a whopping $60 bucks for 3 soft-copy photos.. expensive lah.. but I think its worth it.. its not like everyday I have professional photographers taking a photo of me.. haha.. Oh well..

So if my Maths doesn't fail me, I've spent like a total of $230.95 in a matter of 2 hrs (becos' all 3 items were bought in a time period of 2 hrs!).. scary huh.. it works out to spending $1.92 every minute.. scary!! Ahhh...

But with that said, I still like shopping.. haha..

Came home, and then bought dinner (hor fun) from the chi-zhar stall opposite, and just finished my dinner not long ago, before I actually started to write this blogpost.. so ya..

Ok lah.. gtg and sign off le.. =)

Tired and love shopping,
<<< abriel >>>

Lab Christmas Dinner 2009

This is the first time we are attempting this, but think it is a good idea.. May continue for a few years.. haha.

And of course, it was under my recommedation.. Wanted to go to Merchant Court Hotel, but they only have al-fresco dining, which is not very feasible lah.. If it rains, it would be a problem! so ya..

Food was not too bad.. Love the sea cucumber and raw oysters though.. I love the raw oysters so much, that I ate 7 of them.. haha.. shiok! My record still stands at 7.. wonder when I can hit that target of more than 7.. haha..

Oh well.. then after I took bus 105 back, and now, I'm still full.. man.. More buffets wait for me in the coming weeks.. *sigh*..

Raw oysters are shiok stuff!,
<<< abriel >>>

The Line @ Shangri-La Hotel

The clique who went to The Line @ Shangri-La Hotel
As if its not enough eating for the month of December, I proceeded to The Line @ Shangri-La Hotel for dinner today.. all in the name to celebrate my ex-church mate, Wendy, birthday.. it is usually whenever we celebrate her birthday, we usually go out and eat.. so ya..

And the spread was fantastic.. but the price was better! We got it at 38% discount (because it was their anniversary!).. and I can tell you that after you ate at The Line, no other buffet comes close lah! Haha.. but judging by the normal price was actually 68++ per pax during normal days (without discount), but after discount, it is charged at about $48 per pax (including taxes), which is super worth it if you ask me.. haha..
I will definitely go back to The Line someday again! =)

The spread was plenty and lotsa variety.. if you like Japanese sushimi and seafood such as raw oysters, this is the place to be..
You need to be there to know how good it is.. so ya..

By the way, I tried almost everything, and man.. I'm so full.. but if you ask me whether I want to go back there again, I would say a firm "YES"! =D..

Ok lah.. gtg le.. really full.. just came back not too long ago, so blogging this blogpost in the hope that I can digest my food faster.. haha..

** Not everything on this nite at The Line is pleasant.. somethings are better left unsaid.. but if you want to koe, ask me and I see if its appropriate to tell.. =)

I love the tissue prata and ice cream,
<<< abriel >>>

D&D 2009 was fun!

** Photo on left: Wellness Committee 2009 @ Cerebos Masquerade Ball

It was a D&D which I will never forget.. Never did I know I look so smart in full black with a champagne gold tie.. and man.. even the ladies look so beautiful! haha..

But the day started off super early!! I was at the hotel since 1330 hrs to prepare and all.. We started preparing the tables and prizes and all.. There were altogether 100 prizes which we must arrange and all.. Quite a feat, but we managed it!


** Photo on right: The only 3 guys in the Wellness Committee 2009!

At 1400 hrs, the ladies went to the booked day room to bathe, change and all. And by 1600 hrs, the 3 guys (including myself) went up to the room to bathe and change.

The ladies have hired a makeup artiste @ $65 nett each (which is expensive if you ask me), but man.. the makeup artiste actually did quite a good job and they look so pretty and elegant!~ Haha..



** Photo on left: Photo with my CEO!!

And not only the girls got all dressed up, we guys do our best to dress up as well!

We of course would not spend so much money on dressing up, but its just that because everyone is looking nice and all, and moreover we are the committee members, we must dress our best also lah..

So its like super madness in the room.. You will see at one end of the room, the girls sat still and they were patiently allowing the makeup artiste to make them look pretty and all, whilst on the other end of the room, the guys were actually facing the mirror and doing our hair and making sure everything is in order (and yes! I'm guilty of this.. wahaha)



** Photo on right: The 2 MCs for Cerebos Idol Nite 2009 reunites in this D&D!!

Then we proceeded down to the Ballroom to prepare for our fellow colleagues arrival, and it really felt as if we are the "brothers and sisters" of a wedding couple.. haha..

And man.. it was quite hot (esp. for us guys) because we were like in a gazillion layers (ok.. I'm exaggerating.. only 2 layers - shirt and coat).. but when all of us took the photo together (ie. the theme is all black, whilst the guys have a champagne gold tie donned on us), we actually look good.. haha.. self-praise =P

** Photo on left: Colleagues acting a skit (directed by Irene Ang of Fly Entertainment!)

And so our colleagues came in, and we did the necessary registration procedures for them.. and some of them were engaged in the pre-dinner foyer activities, whilst some were taking the self-portrait by a professional photographer (like what I do every year!)

But it is during these events, that you can see people (like my CEO and CFO/EVP) actually dress up to the theme, and I really applaud them for being so supportive! =D

** Photo on right: A toast to the Wellness Committee 2009 (after the event!)

During the dinner, I actually had a lot of fun!~.. went to stage like 2 times : one time is to be a prize steward by passing the prize to my CEO, and another, is for a stage game! The stage game was quite embarrassing but since its all for the name of fun, so be sporting a bit loh.. Glad all of them had a great laugh though!

During the dinner, there was also this skit whereby some of our colleagues put up, and its directed by Irene Ang of Fly Entertainment (and yes.. she is Mrs Phua Chu Kang!).. it was really hilarious.. but the persons who were acting the various role were even more hilarious.. Had a good laugh lah!

** Photo on left: Guys taking a photo again after the event is over!

And I wasn't in so much luck this year in the grand lucky draw.. won only a 92th prize, which is a $30 CHOICE voucher.. haix.. I was hoping for a camera or camcorder.. oh well..

Did some distribution of lucky draw prizes after the whole event, and it is a tradition that after the D&D, the Wellness Committee will toast to each other for a job well done and to end the year with a high note! And that's what we did!


** Photo on right: Ok.. this is under my suggestion, and some of my fellow colleagues in Wellness Committee 2009 actually was gamed for it! Kudos!

And of course, more cam-whore moments even lasted after the event itself! And me and my ideas, the photo you see on the left was my idea! And man.. I applauded the girls for being so game to try this pose.. and of course, not forgetting the male lead who has also bravely take this pic.. haha..
But doesn't this look so Hong Kong TVB drama serial cover? haha.. I'm not bad ya? =)

After that, packed up and took cab home (since can claim by company).. and then have a quick shower, before writing this blogpost, which is why this post is like super early in the morning le.. so ya..

Ok.. I got to turn in le.. I had like 1 full glass of Suntory whiskey (which I heard it is fermented in a wooden barrel for 20 years.. which is why there is a "woody" taste!), 2 glasses of red wine and 5 glasses of white wine at the dinner tonite.. a little "high" le.. haha.. who wldn't after 8 glasses? haha.. oh well! Got to run!!

I love my outfit at D&D 2009 tonite!,
<<< abriel >>>

It was well-worth the 4hrs wait!! Woohoo~

Apple iPhone 3GS Black - A touch of class on its own!
I was just a day late.. Believe you me, that I actually wanted to join in the midnight launch of the iPhone @ Paragon yesterday (08 Dec 2009 - 12 midnight, which is technically the start of 09 Dec 2009).. haha.. crazy rite? But I had to work, so no choice..
Moreover, I had to help my colleague in her project trial, so not possible to take leave lah..

Just yesterday, then I know that today I will knock off early from work, and therefore, because I reserve the iPhone, I had to collect it anytime from 09 Dec to 11 Dec.. after which, they will release to public, and I have no guarantee that I will get mine though I reserved a set!

So after work today, I immediately rushed to Paragon from my lab, and by the time I reached there, it was already 6.30pm.. And I queue 2 hrs (ie. 8.30pm) to take my queue number, and waited for another 1.5 hrs for my turn to be served by the Customer Service Officer. By the time I've paid for my handset and stepped out of M1 Paragon, it was already 10.30pm! So you can see.. I queue 4 hrs altogether just to get my iPhone, and NEVER in my life that I was so crazy about something, that I queue 4 hrs for it!

But now I feel powerful.. haha.. having one of the most sought after gadgets, and its one of my favourite brands, Apple!!
But that aside.. Actually, this phone is very good.. Its indescribable! You have to own one yourself to experience it yourself!
You cannot compare this to Nokia or Sony Ericsson because this is totally different! Even the functions are different.. so ya.. there are pros and cons of this phone.. but nevertheless, I still like it =)

Anyway, I paid $248 for this phone of mine (16GB 3GS Black), because my plan is at $56 per month (which includes a free local 12GB data bundle, which is like quite impossible to use up within a month - at least for me!!).. but not much difference, since I'm paying like $49 every month on my subscription already.
I was also quite tempted to get the 32GB version, but by thinking it through, I may not need so much space anyway, so what is the point of paying so much?

Then I also bought a set of screen protector (3 pcs) and a silicon case for $68. And because I had a MacBook, and know that Apple products must buy the warranty no matter what, I bought an extra 1 yr warranty @ $79.20, which was a 20% discount from the usual $99, because I reserved and it was like their opening special or something.. so ya..

So if you add the total of how much I spend, it was $395.20!

So this is my 2nd self-Christmas 2009 present and reward to myself for working so hard this year.. Quite an expensive present actually.. the first being my Fujitsu laptop, which in total (plus accessories), it has costs me about $2000++. So ya.. quite an expensive present this yr to myself, but I guess these are all essentials, because both all cannot make it le.. so ya.. So at least I got my essentials! =)

Ok lah.. I'm very tired from the queueing and over-exhausion from the excitement of my new iPhone, so if you excuse me, I will continue to explore my iPhone, and sleep a little late tonite, as I took leave for tomorrow (because reports have been said to queue at least 5-6 hrs for it, and I worried that I will get home late tonite, and not having enough energy to work tml!)

Ok.. really gtg le..

A proud owner of the Apple iPhone 16GB 3GS Black,
<<< abriel >>>

My longest run (StanChart Marathon - 21.1km).. Completed.. Finally!!

** Photo on right: My race bib, ChampionChip and well-deserved medal!

The day started at 3.30am for me, where I actually woke up, bathe and ate breakfast.. by 4.50am, I was in the cab and on my way to Swissotel, where my company runners were all meeting to take attendance and take photo and stuff!

While I was in the cab, the taxi driver was asking me like whether I'm running the marathon and stuff!~ I answered accordingly, but I was actually very tired but excited at the same time.. Never in my life have I run until so far before!!

But its all worth it lah, because by completing this race, Cerebos will donate $2100 to the Straits Time Pocket Money Fund on my bahalf, because for every 1km I complete, Cerebos will donate $100 to the Straits Time Pocket Money Fund.. so ya.. its worth it lah.. for the kids! =)

** Photo on left: Cerebos @ Singapore Marathon 2009 (aka StanChart Marathon 2009)

When I reached there, I was amazed at how many people was present.. Its like a mini Singapore already, all crowded at the Swissotel to meet friends and all.. All these are people who are running the full marathon (ie. 42km).. so ya..

Anyway, my company 21km runners (including myself) were all meeting at 5.30am, for photo taking, warm-up and stuff!

** Photo on right: The 21.1km marathon gang!!

This run was not only attended by local stuff, but our overseas colleagues as well.. Managed to get to know them a little better, because I was their "tour guide" in a half-day tour the day before the race (ie. 5 Dec).. a little more about it later in this blogpost.. so read on.. =)

We have colleagues from Suntory Japan, Cerebos Malaysia, Cerebos Thailand and Cerebos Taiwan.. If I remember the number correctly, the number of overseas runners is 29 runners, where various distances were covered - 10km, 21km and 42km.. so yupz.. Quite impressive huh! =)

** Photo on left: Warming up..

The warming-up was a bit weird lah.. but it was not too bad.. didn't really warm up as per sae, because when we started running, in fact, I was already cooled down.. so ya.. The run was about 1.5 hrs away, and we have started to warm up already.. oh well..

But before I even start running, I was already sweating like nobody's business already!

But the run was indeed very enjoyable!.. the day was like cloudy and all.. not much sun came out, so that's why I guess it was good!

** Photo on right: The Start line

The Start Line was like filled with so many people.. all races and nationalities.. it was indeed a spectacular sight, and its the first time where I saw so many people coming together to run.. whether its for personal or charity, it was indeed a sight to behold and experience!

In fact, the atmosphere was like something which I never experienced before, and man, I had a tear in the eye man! haha..

** Photo on left: Running (nursing a cramped muscle in my calf!) towards the finished line

And I thought that 21km was far.. but you see.. along the stops, there were water stations, isotonic drinks station, and best of all, the supporters like almost every 100m.. they were like cheering everyone on.. and what is most touching is that there was this women who was with 2 children, and they actually wrote a sign "Run! Daddy! Go!".. my goodness.. when I saw that scene, I almost teared and it was such a warm feeling!! you have to be there to experience it yourself..

And indeed, I must say again, that the feeling was indeed indescrible and awesome!
It is only after abt 10km that I've stopped running, and do some serious walking.. not really walking all the way, but done most of the remaining journey by walking.. so ya.. And my leg actually start to cramp at about the 17km mark.. But I persevered through, and guess what, I saw my CEO cheering me on at about the last 100m or so.. it was really touching, but becos he is the CEO, I cannot just walk.. so bluff bluff run a bit and stop after..

It was only when I almost reach the finish line, my cramp starts to set in full swing, and if you see the photo carefully (just above), you would have realised that I am in a limping position.. and yes.. I was indeed limping and running at the same time!

** Photo on right: Guys posing for a photo!

But the best experience was when I saw the finish line.. A look at the timing, I thought 4 hrs has gone.. but actually, what I didn't know is that the timing there was actually the full marathon timing.. when I reached the finish line, my timing was 2:55:14. You may think its not a very good timing, but for me, its considered good le.. becos my aim is 3 hrs, and I actually manage to succeed that.. so ya.. no matter what others may say about me, I don't care.. what's most important is that I have completed the race well ahead of my time!

After which, we took photos and all, and of course, rested my leg for a while before collecting the medal which I have, because it was indeed a well-deserved one!

** Photo on left: Taiwan colleagues and myself on board the DUCKtours

As mentioned just now, my colleague, Betty and myself were actually "tour-guides" for our overseas colleague, and man.. I love this job man.. haha.. I think I'm suitable for this line..

Oh well.. the day was of course not without any hiccups, but thank God it was actually minor enough for me to solve.. so ya..

But just seeing their happy faces as we travelled in the DUCKtours and HiPPObus, is enough to warm my heart!
On the tour itself, 2 of our Japanese colleagues actually brought their children, and man.. they were only like 1.5-2 yrs old, and they are look like a 3-4 yrs old in Singapore.. Just wonder how they are fed? =D

** Photo on right: Overseas colleagues on HippoBus

And who could forget the tremendous downpour this afternoon? It was indeed on a fateful trip that we were at the Merlion, for our colleagues to take photos, and then suddenly, just as we are about to gather and go back, the downpour started and man, it rained like nobody's business!

This was when the chaos start! Everyone was scattered, and I had to look for everyone of them.. and the guys were at the opposite site of the building, so I had to shelter them, and thank God for His reminder for me to bring a brolley, and man.. it was indeed useful!
But in the end, I think the guys were a little paiseh to see me going up and down so many times (there were easily 9 of them), and I ferried 2 already.. so they ran across in the rain, and I was like "aiyah.. you shld have stay there.."... ha.. oh well.. =)

** Photo on left: The 2 tour guides for the day - Betty & of course, myself!

And after which, because of the rain, we couldn't go to Little India, because the overseas colleague really want to see it, but it was a little far.. so we just have to go to Chinatown only.. so ya..

After that we had a pre-arranged lunch at Carlton Hotel, and man.. everyone actually enjoyed the food, and I even teach one of our Taiwanese colleagues of how to do "rojak" which he said he wish to try it, as it is one of our Singapore dishes.. I asked him how does it taste, and he said its good =)

I did ask a general commend among the rest, and the commends were good, and this shows that Carlton Hotel has some standard in the food, and I was indeed rite to choose that place.. which is why on a personal note, my family's Christmas Eve dinner would be there! =)

** Photo on right: An alternative to NEWater maybe?

On the other hand, the Japanese people love the laksa.. wonder why? hmm.. they can't eat anything spicy, but they love it.. haha..

Anyway after the lunch, they all went separate ways for their own sightseeing, and the Taiwanese colleagues ask for my directions to Arab Street, Little India and Orchard Road.. so being a typical and hospitable Singaporean, I told them what they wanted, and even told them what is nice to eat in Wisma's Food Republic, since they asked about Food Court!.. And I asked them this morning as to whether they find Orchard Road nice or not.. and they said the Christmas light-ups were very beautiful.. so ya..
Just hope they have a happy time and stay in Singapore!

Ok lah.. I'm very tired le.. it has been a long day for me, and I should turn in already.. fortunately, I got a company's off-in-lieu tomorrow, because I ran the 21km in the StanChart Marathon! Woohoo~

I'm now like applying "Yoko-Yoko" all over my back and calfs, and just hope that it would be healed tomorrow.. haix..

Aching muscles but it was worth it,
<<< abriel >>>

Lappy back after professional help!

My bro, Tjow, has kindly offered to help me with my laptop stuff, as some of the stuff is beyond me.. so ya.. and atfer 2 days, I got back the laptop!
Thanks bro for helping! Woohoo~

Lappy back,
<<< abriel >>>

My new toy - Fujitsu L1010

My new toy bought at Sitex 2009 - Fujitsu L1010

Finally.. after months of waiting, I finally got my laptop, and it was indeed a very tough choice... because all along I wanted a HP laptop, but its a little too expensive, and moreover, I've found another lappy which has better specs, and that is none other than my Fujitsu L1010.. some ppl are asking me why don't I take the ASUS laptop which has better graphic card and specs.. but I didn't want.. don't really like the name "Asus" lah.. haha.. you may think its funny, but its true.. Don't really like the name of "Asus" =)

Anyway, for all your freaky gadget geeks there, here is the lowdown:

* Intel Centrino Processor Technology
- Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T6600
(2.2GHz, 2MB L2 Cache, 800 MHz FSB)
- Intel WiFi Linnk 5200AGN (1x2) network connection
* Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium (32 Bit)
* Fingerprint Recognition Technology
2GB DDR3 1066MHz; max. 8GB
* 320GB SATA HDD
* 14.1" SuperFine WXGA TFT
* NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS Max. 1023MB, Dedicated VRAM
* 1.3 Mega Pixel Web Camera
* Dual Layer Super Multi Writer
* Gigabit Ethernet
* Integrated Bluetooth
* HDMI Port
* Firewire Port

** Got a free upgrade from the default 2GB to 4GB.
** Freebies include a mouse and set of speakers.
** Included in the package is also a choice of either the Lexmark ALL-in-One colour printer, or a 3 yrs warranty (1 yr international warranty - parts and labour, 2nd and 3rd year local warranty with parts only).

Got it for $1599.. and I bought an additional software of a 3 license MS Office 2007 (Home & Student Edition) for $103 (after such a long bargaining down of the price).. and I'm still short of a Norton Antivirus software and a MS Outlook 2007 software.. so ya..

Just came back from Sitex 2009.. a little tired, but I can say its worth it! =).. so ya.. just so excited about my new toy.. I wonder whether I can sleep tonite.. haha..

Ok lah.. gtg le..

Loving my new toy,
<<< abriel >>>

Busy.. busy.. busy..

Fwah.. I can't believe it!! Just look at my schedules for the following wks, is really very scary.. its like I'm packed almost at every weekend! No time to breathe.. so here is lowdown..

21 Nov 2009 (Saturday)
- Centenary Service Usher Briefing (from 1330 hrs - 1530 hrs).

22 Nov 2009 (Sunday)
- Start my Christmas shopping

26 Nov 2009 (Thursday)
- Going to settle the payment for my overseas colleague half day local tour (guided by me, but I'm not the one conducting it!), for both tour and lunch @ Carlton Hotel
- Shop for a little while by following my colleague to buy some D&D gifts
- Go back to office to collect my complimentary Asics running shoes (company sponsor, because I run the 21km StanChart Marathon).
- Proceed over to Furama City Centre, where it is the bi-yearly Management & Staff Forum

27 Nov 2009 (Friday)
- Proceeding over to Singapore Expo for Sitex 2009 (need to buy a laptop!)

28 Nov 2009 (Saturday)
- Centenary Service Usher Rehearsal (from 1330 hrs - 1700 hrs).

29 Nov 2009 (Sunday)
- Ushering in the Inter-Generational Service @ Suntec City Convention Hall 6 (0800 hrs - 1400 hrs)

04 December 2009 (Friday)
- Help out in the Marathon Dinner preparations @ Swissotel The Stamford, Atrium Ballroom from 1600 hrs onwards.
- Attending the Marathon Dinner @ Swissotel The Stamford, Atrium Ballroom, from 1930 hrs till 2130 hrs.

05 December 2009 (Saturday)
- Being the "tour leader" for my overseas colleagues who will be participating in the StanChart Marathon 2009, after which, proceed for buffet lunch at Carlton Hotel (from 0900 hrs to 1500 hrs)

06 December 2009 (Sunday)
- StanChart Marathon 2009 - running the 21km route! (race starts at 0645 hrs, but I have to be there by 0530 hrs!)
- Proceed over to Swissotel The Stamford for Brunch.

12 December 2009 (Saturday)
- Preparation of Annual Company D&D @ Goodwood Park Hotel, Tudor Ballroom (from 1300 hrs onwards)
- Annual Company D&D @ Goodwood Park Hotel, Tudor Ballroom starts at 1845 hrs till 2330 hrs.

14 December 2009 (Monday)
- Ex-church mate (Wendy) birthday dinner celebration at The Line, Shangri-La Hotel

22 December 2009 (Tuesday) to 23 December 2009 (Wednesday)
- Church Youth Leaders Planning Retreat in Batam, Indonesia

24 December 2009 (Thursday)
- Christmas Lunch in office
- Christmas and my mum's birthday dinner (Venue: TBC, but most likely, it is Carlton Hotel)

31 December 2009 (Thursday)
- Countdown Party to be confirmed

Phew.. now you know how busy I am for the weeks ahead?
Tiring huh.. I wonder how I will survive.. hmm..

I need more BRAND'S Essence of Chicken!!,
<<< abriel >>>

My post business trip blogpost!

** Photo on left: On board SQ 976 to Bangkok, Thailand

It was a mix of feelings for me.. Am excited because this is my maiden business trip since I've started to work in the workforce, but also scared because if the trial fails, I may have to answer to upper management.. but the excitement feeling outweighs the scared factor!

Reached Changi Airport just on time to meet my boss, and she was actually late.. haha.. but thank God, we are still able to check in our luggage, becos the required timing was 90 mins before flight, but we checked in like about 70-80 mins before flight time..

** Photo on right: An overview of Singapore Changi International Airport from the sky!

So there I was with my boss, whilst waiting for boarding time, we did grab a bite in the airport shopping areas, and also, I did some recee of the price of stuff and some particular brands of the stuff I wanted to buy, so that when I touch-down on Wednesday (11 Nov), I could go home fast, because I would not be allowed to take leave the next day (Thurs - 12 Nov), because I got to rush some reports..

Did that, and about an hour later, we boarded the flight, and surprisingly, the flight was quite full.. so ya.. Though I've check in via Internet before I left office on Fri (7 Nov), but we still did not get a good seat.. but nevertheless, I did book myself a good window seat.. not bad huh =)

** Photo on left: My onboard flight (SQ 976) meal.. and of course, how could I forget my favourite white wine =)

And I'm so looking forward to the food served onboard the flight.. ha.. it's also a surprise to me of what food will be served on-board, and all I could say is that the food standard is still there.. haha.. and you know me.. I love white wines.. so ya.. so my meal onboard SQ flights are NEVER without my white wine! Woohoo~

I didn't bother whether it was for business trip or what.. as long as I don't drink myself tipsy, its ok.. but of course, this is a business trip afterall, and I have to project an image as well.. so 1 cup though its insufficient, but I think its good enough.. =)

** Photo on right: An overview of Bangkok, Thailand from the sky!

The flight now seems what a bit longer than the one I took about a year ago, to Bangkok also.. but the difference is that tat time was for holiday, but now is for work.. maybe because no one to talk to, or no newspapers.. all I have was my Krisworld entertainment, and nothing else.. so ya..

So since there was nothing else for me to look at, I could only view what is outside the window, and man.. the sight was just awesome.. Clouds, sunlight, etc.. I just stand in awe of God's creation!

And shortly after that, the plane has started its descend from the clouds, and there before me, was a magnificent bird-eye view of Thailand.. they have a tremendous lot of land, and imagine Singapore has all these vast land.. man.. we would all be staying in landed properties, rather than the HDB flats.. haha..

** Photo on left: The living room at my place of residence (Day 1 & Day 2) at Kantary Hotel & Service Apartments, Ayutthaya Province, Bangkok, Thailand (its located at the outskirts of Bangkok)

My boss and myself had took the 1600 hrs flight from Singapore, and by the time we reach Bangkok airport, it was already about 1725 hrs (BKK time.. but in Singapore, it is already 1825 hrs), and the sky in Bangkok starts to get dark already, and by 1800 hrs (BKK time), it was super dark already.. its like the 2000 hrs sky in Singapore!

We got a pre-arranged transport to bring us to our place of residence, Kantary Hotel & Service Apartments, Ayutthaya Province, Bangkok, Thailand. The journey from the Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand, to the Kantary Hotel & Service Apartments, Ayutthaya Province, is about 1.5 hrs. Far huh.. No choice.. its in the outskirts of Thailand!

Because the hotel is at the outskirts of Thailand, the rates of the hotel are naturally cheaper.. It cost 1400++ baht/nite (includes breakfast), which works out to be about SGD$80 per nite, which if you ask me, its super cheap!!

** Photo on right: The bedroom at my place of residence (Day 1 & Day 2) at Kantary Hotel & Service Apartments, Ayutthaya Province, Bangkok, Thailand (its located at the outskirts of Bangkok)

An apartment with a king size bed, an attached bathroom with bathtub and shower area, mini kitchen, a fridge, a living room complete with sofas and balcony, and a dining area, is super cheap I tell you.. never in my whole life I've stayed ALONE in this huge room, and with such a cheap rate!
The minute I stepped into the room, I was shocked and amazed at its huge size!

But of course, becos its in the outskirts, shopping were scarce! We could only shop at the shopping centre opposite, which is like ghost-town, but nevertheless, still manage to get some essentials like plain water.. and one of my reasons to go there is also to buy the Sensodye "Total-care" toothpaste!
It costs SGD$7 for a 100g tube in Singapore, but at there, i can get a 160g tube for only SGD$6.20, and the 100g tube costs only SGD$4.20 in that supermarket.. and man.. that is cheap! I know this because I got this same good deal at Thailand also (which was 1 yr ago when I was in Bangkok for holiday).. Call me uncle or what.. but I don't care.. its really cheap, and come'on.. toothpaste is something we use everyday (unless you don't brush your teeth everyday), so because its so cheap, I bought half a dozen, and when my boss saw it, she was like asking me why I buy so much, and after I explain to her, she herself bought as well.. haha.. the power of influence.. =P

** Photo on left: How could I forget my favourite Tom Yum Goong! Aroy-Mak-Mak!

After our supermarket shopping, we went back to Hotel, and have our dinner.. by that time, it was already 2130 hrs (BKK time), and it was my first dinner which I have ate so late (SIN is already 2230 hrs)!

But nevertheless, the first dish I ordered was Tom Yum Goong.. and man, it was so good and feels nostalgic man!! The taste of Tom Yum Goong cannot be compared to what is sold in Singapore.. but ya.. its this real good feeling of being home.. really nice and yummy!

And of course by the time we were done, it was abt 2230 hrs (BKK time), becos the food took a long time to come.. and there was this call by my Thai counterpart which was not made to arrange the transport to the arranged place the morning after, so in the end, we did arrange some form of transport in a tuk-tuk..

But thank God, just before I sleep, I got a prompting of the Holy Spirit to msg my Thai counterpart about our pre-arranged transport, but shortly after, she replied and told me that she will pick us up at the time which she specified.. so ya..
I was so thankful for God's Hand on this issue, and quickly inform the hotel to cancel the booking for us.

** Photo on right: Another "aroy-mak" dish.. Stir-fried squids with basil and chilli!

The next day (10 Nov, Mon), we worked from like 0900 hrs in the morning, all the way till 2100 hrs in the nite.. non-stop.. but the driver was so good.. he waited for us till 2100 hrs, though the arranged timing was till 2000 hrs.. so ya.. really appreciate the driver for that kind thought..

Oh.. in the afternoon, we were served lunch at my working place, and the food was even BETTER than the hotel food which we had last nite.. i wonder why..
The Tom Yum Goong was very good (sour and spicy enough), and I was introduced to this new dish, which is called, "Mu Dart Diao", which is actually deep fried pork strips with pepper and garlic.. it was so yummy, that I almost finish the whole plate.. haha..
(The people know I like this dish so much, that when I went back the second day, there was this dish again! I love it so much man! Missing it already!)

And once we reached hotel, we went to the same place for dinner, and man.. we ordered a lot.. becos I super hungry.. haha..
A good 7 dishes, but I ate the most, becos my boss said she is too full to eat a lot.. the only thing I didn't "touch" was green curry.. so ya..

** Photo on left: The bed area at my place of residence (Day 3) at Cape Racha Sriracha Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand (its located at the outskirts of Bangkok as well!)

After my trial ended on Day 2, my boss and I packed and left for another hotel, which is again 2 hrs away, and man.. its a long journey.. but no choice.. we had to stay at this hotel, because the day after (11 Nov), before we come back to Singapore, my boss and myself would have a meeting with our Thai counterparts in their office..

So by the time we reached this hotel called Cape Racha Sriracha Hotel, it was already 2000 hrs (BKK time), and we have not had dinner.. so after we checked in, my boss and I proceeded to a nearby restaurant to have our dinner!

** Photo on right: The view of the night market at my place of residence (Day 3) at Cape Racha Sriracha Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand (its located at the outskirts of Bangkok as well!)

Though this Hotel is the same company group as Kantary Hotel, but the rooms are much smaller, and its more expensive.. apparently, this hotel costs 2400++ baht/nite, and of course, this Hotel is much more posh, but room wise, I still like the Kantary Hotel =).. bigger and much more spacious!

After we ate our dinner, I proceeded to shop round the nite market (located just in front of Cape Racha Hotel which I stayed), and I was hoping to find some dried longans for my family, but there wasn't any!
But I bought a singlet for my dog.. was hoping to buy more, but there wasn't a lot of designs.. but at least, I got an experience of the nite market in Thailand.. so ya.. Its like a little chatuchak shopping market but at night! haha..

** Photo on left: Another favourite dish of mine: Somthum (which is the papaya salad!)

Speaking of dinner, my goodness.. the dinner on Day 3, was a horrendous experience!
The food and restaurant (which is behind Cape Racha Sriracha Hotel) was ok.. just that, the food we ordered was also a 7 course meal (becos my boss ordered certain dishes, and when she cldn't finish, she blames me order too much.. ha.. oh well.. women.. oopppss)..

But we did specify to the person that it is only for 2 persons, and man.. when the food comes to our dish, the servings were huge!.. and its like able to feed 4-5 persons..
Later than we know that it is only a 1 size serving, which they did not tell us, or tell us that we order too much.. maybe they thought we can eat..

We ordered so much, becos it was all our favourite dishes, and we tot since its a small serving (just like what we had yesterday at the hotel), it looks ok.. but we were shocked.. so ya.. in the end, we cldn't finish, but manage to eat all those good stuff up, so that we don't waste money.. so ya..

** Photo on right: My welcome drink (white wine) at my place of residence (Day 3) at Cape Racha Sriracha Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand (its located at the outskirts of Bangkok as well!)

After my nite market shopping, I proceeded back to Cape Racha Sriracha Hotel and decide to utilise the complimentary drink coupon which was given.. and I was given 3 choices: soft drink, beer or wine.. and course, you know what I would take already.. a glass of white wine.. haha..

There was also a pianist playing the piano.. quite good actually.. he played jazz style, but oldies.. so not say very enjoyable, but its good enough..

So you can say I had a nice end to my evening, or shld I say my stay in Thailand, because the day after (Wed - 11 Nov), my boss and myself were bound back to Singapore..

** Photo on left: My onboard flight (SQ 979) meal back from Bangkok to Singapore.. and of course, how could I forget my favourite white wine again =)

So there we were.. after the meeting in the morning till early afternoon, we were then zoomed back to Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok (a 1 hr car ride from the meeting place), and we board SQ 979 back to Singapore..

Before boarding, I of course utilise my remaining Thai Baht and just shop in the airport itself.. so I bought quite a lot of snacks for office, home, some dried longans (finally!.. but not the one like I bought from MBK last year in Bangkok), and also, 2 pineapples.. haha.. I tell you.. its a MUST-TRY fruit in Thailand.. the flavour is not say very strong, but its very juicy and sweet.. and everywhere you go in Thailand, you can see pineapple.. so ya.. you must try it.. I bought it back to Singapore, and my mum just cut it today, and she likes it because it doesn't have that "cut your tongue" feeling and its very sweet and juicy!.. which I can say that this is the ONLY pineapple that my mum will eat!

The food onboard SQ979 back to Singapore was of course so so only.. a little bit salty, but of course, with white wine, everything taste nice.. haha..

The plane landed at Terminal 3, Singapore Changi International Airport, and it was a first time for me.. so ya.. quite nice interior and very big.. I walk a LOT just to grab my luggage and all, but it was worth it lah.. so ya..
And as usual, I was one of the last few to get my luggage, despite my short working time.. maybe all of them once alight from plane, went straight home, whilst I shopped. Imagine if I didn't do any pre-recee, I will take even longer.. haha.. =D

When I touched down Singapore, I proceeded to buy fragrances (Chanel Men Cologne Sport, Davidoff Coolwater & for my mum, Davidoff Wave), because it will be much cheaper than if you buy from department stores like Robinsons, etc.
The fragrances are shared between my dad and myself.. so ya.. usually buy 2 bottles every year or every time I travel via airplane, since its cheap.

Then proceeded to buy some alcohol - an ice wine (for my mum's birthday celebration next mth) and 3 bottles of HoeGarden beer.. not too sure whether the beer nice or not, but can try, because never try before.. so ya..
And yes.. the ice wine costs me a whopping SGD$106, which has increased in price.. the last time I bought a year ago, was only SGD$96!.. oh man.. the cost of inflation!

I just take and go only.. didnt stay long to shop further.. becos its already late and I had to work the next day.. so ya..
By the time I slept and unpack my stuff, it was already 12 midnight, and I had to wake up for work.. so ya..
(Landed in Singapore at 2140 hrs, instead of the scheduled 2205 hrs)..

Ok.. I have spent like too much time on this blogpost le.. Need to sleep.. very tired.. been working non-stop.. I don't know why.. its like this business trip has drain me of all my energy.. so ya..

Hope you enjoyed my blogpost.. and yes, I STILL LOVE Thailand! =)

Sawadee-khrap,
<<< abriel >>>

BKK here I come again!

Looking back, just 1 year ago, I reached and left BKK.. and now, I'm back there again! Not for holiday.. but for my FIRST business trip ever since I started working!!
But you know what's even better? Jetting off in our national carrier, Singapore Airlines! Woohoo~

Well, you can say that I'm so looking forward for this trip, and though I know that it would be tiring, but nevertheless, I will enjoy it to the fullest.. so ya.. A bit hard lah, but I will try! =D

And yes.. though it was a quite tiring 2hr packing of my luggage yesterday nite for this trip (2200 hrs to 0000 hrs), I still did it with much enthusiasm! haha.. And man.. Ain't I glad that the Samsonite luggage I got last time, was just right.. not too big.. but still a bit small.. haha.. but if I don't shop so much, it should be ok de =)

Okay.. so if you all want to know my flight details, here it is again.. just in case you miss it last time:

Depart:

08 Nov 2009 (Sunday)
SQ 976
Departure from Changi Airport (Terminal 2), Singapore @ 1600 hrs (SIN time), and arrive in Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand @ 1725 hrs (BKK time)

Arrive:

11 Nov 2009 (Wednesday)
SQ 979
Departure from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand @ 1840 hrs (BKK time) , and arrive in Changi Airport, Singapore @ 2205 hrs (SIN time)

Sawadee-khrap land, here I am again!
Be prepared to receive your tom yum goong (WITHOUT coconut) fanatic!! Aroy-mak-mak (which means very delicious in Thai)!! =P

Leaving on a jetplane,
<<< abriel >>>

Our next BRAND's Essence of Chicken Ambassador!

Our next BRAND's ambassador for Essence of Chicken!
There you go! Enjoy Wang Lee Hom as well as BRAND'S Essence of Chicken =D

"Be Your Best!",
<<< abriel >>>

FLU

That's what I'm having now! The onset of it actually.. so looks like I have to pop more Vitamin C to up my immunity, but let's see whether it works... because if not, then I would have to take MC on Monday (2-Nov), since the rest of the people took it already on Friday (30-Oct).. will have to see bah.. *sniff*

Wish me well peepz,
<<< abriel >>>

A Mad China Man!!

I tell you today.. I actually was in office ALONE, because my boss and 3 other colleagues were on MC.. and my big boss actually wanted to hold a meeting this morning, but because all on MC, and I thought I was sparred the agony of attending the meeting (because its only a meeting about my project.. not very useful, but since she wants to, no choice have to oblige right? haix..

Then because I'm alone, I have to settle my business trip issues, which involves me actually getting consensus from 3-4 parties (including my boss whom I have to call every now and then just to get her final decision), and then coordinate the booking of air tickets and all..

I also have to settle the emails part, by replying to a gazillion emails which is flying back and forth.. I was simply multitasking like a mad china man!.. it is only till the afternoon part when I was a little more relaxed, and things started to be a bit slower, and I managed to finish my work on time (but still left office at 6.45pm on a Friday night).. haix..

Anyway, the following are my flight details for my business trip, so do look at it, and if you want to make an appointment with me, pls. avoid these dates and times.. (but everything can change at last minute.. its only till Wed-Thurs, then I know the final decision).. oh well.. here goes:

Depart:

08 Nov 2009 (Sunday)
SQ 976
Departure from Changi Airport (Terminal 2), Singapore @ 1600 hrs (SIN time), and arrive in Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand @ 1725 hrs (BKK time)

Arrive:

11 Nov 2009 (Wednesday)
SQ 979
Departure from Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok, Thailand @ 1840 hrs (BKK time) , and arrive in Changi Airport, Singapore @ 2205 hrs (SIN time)

Yupz.. so that's about it le..
If you excuse me, I'm going to enjoy this weekend of mine now, because it has been a long week, and I foresee that it would be longer, for it would only be the beginning of a super long week, probably till end Nov.. haix..

Tired,
<<< abriel >>>

It's over... for now.

After 2 consecutive days of starting work at 7am, and work ends at an average of 8pm-9pm, it is certainly taking a toll out of me.. not forgetting that I only survive on like 5 hrs sleep on these 2 days..

And the project that I'm working on has been completed today.. I won't say that it is successful, but just that at least there are some results.. so ya.. may still have to improve further, but that is another matter at another time.

So ya.. now back home and relax for a while (by blogging of course!), and in abt 30 mins time, I'm going to turn in..
Tonight is a bit early, but no choice, because I'm really tired already.. so ya..

I will catch up with you all when I'm free ya..

Goodbye world,
<<< abriel >>>