Packing Tip : Small and Liquid Stuff

I consider myself quite a season traveller which is why something happened over the weekend that I couldn't forgive myself. I packed an overnight bag for my sister's wedding last Saturday and when I got home, I was too tired to unpack till late Sunday afternoon. Guess what? I found my entire 250ml bottle of shampoo, which I paid RM100+ for just 2 days before, emptied over half the content of my bag and soaked into the floor parquet. My heart was broken. RM100++ just when down the drain (and floor)

No. That's not my shampoo. It's just Monkey Balm that I got on my last trip to Cambodia. 

Anyway, the point is - I learn my lesson. (I hope). So here's some pointers if you are travelling or just overnighting:

1. Cap/ Seal all containers tightly before packing them.

2. Put ALL liquids into resealable plastic bags. 

3. Don't bring toiletries in their original big containers. Repack them into smaller ones. 

4. Unpack bag the soonest possible. The longer you leave in, the higher chance something might happen... or your bag will get stinkier from worn dirty clothes. 

5. Don't buy bring expensive products when you are travelling. Seriously. You'll stress less. 

Anyway, since I will be travelling tonight again. I thought it would be nice to show you how or what I packed. 

Firstly, I keep my travel toiletries all packed and ready. Since I travel quite often, its easier to just grab the whole bag and go. Secondly, I use clear resealable bags as I sometimes travel with just a hand-carry and its easier to go through customs that way.  Thirdly, I sort my toiletries into 3 different bags. 

No. 1. The Essentials. Just in case I need to freshen up on the road. Then I could just stuff this into my handbag instead of lugging my entire toiletries stash. Just simple necessary stuff like my toothbrush, toothpaste, contact lense and solution, shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, facial wash, toner & moisturiser. Of cos, essentials varies from individuals. But this is just my getup. 

No.2. The Everything Else. This is just additional toiletries that I require depending on where I visit. Things like conditioner, extra contact lenses, body lotion, mouth wash, face scrub, make-up remover, day & night cream, extra cotton pad, hairband and clips, nail file, extra tissue, a mask or two, etc. It really depends on where you travel. For eg, I am travelling outstation for my sister's wedding dinner. Since I need to dress up, I throw in a hairspray and hair oil. My last trip to Cambodia, I brought extra sunblock lotion and wet wipes. Customise it according to your destination.  

I like to put the smaller stuff into a smaller plastic bag so that it doesn't go missing in the big bag. And also, if anything ever spills, this will be an extra protection. 

No.3. The Ever Ready. Chessy? Yes. But this bag just became a staple part of my travels. I guess the older I got, the weaker my body gets. So I need pills and tablets sometimes to get me back on track, un-upset my weak stomach, and ready for the day. Normally i throw in some plasters and ointment for mozzie bites too. I got a vitamin case in Japan Daiso for only 100 yen. What I like about it is that, each case is removable. I can pack my vitamins depending on the no. of days I travel. 

Here's how I packed my jewelleries & accessories. I started doing this after one too many cases of broken accessories en route. Many lessons learn before I decided it has to stop. So here's what I do. For shorter trips, I got this tiny weave basket that fits perfectly. I planned my outfit before hand and sort my accessories according to outfit and just take them out when I dress up. If i have longer trips or carry bigger items, i currently use a box. It's not the best but its perfect for now. I don't have to worry about broken necklaces, or broken earrings, or broken headbands anymore.  

Bigger items are stash into separate bags to protect from getting tangled, broken, or scratches. My stuff has a longer life span and its easier to pack, unpack or search for when I need them. You can find them in Daiso or just sew them on your own.

Lastly, if I carry watches, I bring this slim case to protect them from scratches.

Of cos different types of traveling calls for different items to be pack, but this are some basic stuff. Sometimes, when i travel light, i just grab my jeans and t-shirts and leave my accessories and extras behind. So yup, here are my traveling tips for packing toiletries and accessories. Hope it helps. Happy traveling! :)

Am I with the right person?

When Rockstar and I were dating, there were many times that I ask myself this question. And Rockstar, being the deep thinker philosopher guy, he told me this... which I thought it make sense. Every since, I've tried telling others when they asked me this kind of questions... but its hard to put in in the right words. 

However, I read this on the web and found it to absolutely right on the dot.. So yeah, read it and let me know if you agree with me or not. :)

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AM I WITH THE RIGHT PARTNER?

During a seminar, a woman asked," How do I know if I am with the right person?"

The author then noticed that there was a large man sitting next to her so he said, "It depends. Is that your partner?" In all seriousness, she answered "How do you know?" Let me answer this question because the chances are good that it's weighing on your mind replied the author.

Here's the answer.

Every relationship has a cycle… In the beginning; you fall in love with your partner. You anticipate their calls, want their touch, and like their idiosyncrasies. Falling in love wasn't hard. In fact, it was a completely natural and spontaneous experience. You didn't have to DO anything. That's why it's called "falling" in love.

People in love sometimes say, "I was swept of my feet."Picture the expression. It implies that you were just standing there; doing nothing, and then something happened TO YOU.

Falling in love is a passive and spontaneous experience. But after a few months or years of being together, the euphoria of love fades. It's a natural cycle of EVERY relationship.

Slowly but surely, phone calls become a bother (if they come at all), touch is not always welcome (when it happens), and your spouse's idiosyncrasies, instead of being cute, drive you nuts. The symptoms of this stage vary with every relationship; you will notice a dramatic difference between the initial stage when you were in love and a much duller or even angry subsequent stage.

At this point, you and/or your partner might start asking, "Am I with the right person?" And as you reflect on the euphoria of the love you once had, you may begin to desire that experience with someone else. This is when relationships breakdown.

The key to succeeding in a relationship is not finding the right person; it's learning to love the person you found.

People blame their partners for their unhappiness and look outside for fulfilment  Extramarital fulfilment comes in all shapes and sizes.

Infidelity is the most common. But sometimes people turn to work, a hobby, friendship, excessive TV, or abusive substances. But the answer to this dilemma does NOT lie outside your relationship. It lies within it.

I'm not saying that you couldn't fall in love with someone else. You could. And TEMPORARILY you'd feel better. But you'd be in the same situation a few years later.

Because (listen carefully to this):

The key to succeeding in a Relationship is not finding the right person; it's learning to love the Person you found.

SUSTAINING love is not a passive or spontaneous experience. You have to work on it day in and day out. It takes time, effort, and energy. And most importantly, it demands WISDOM. You have to know WHAT TO DO to make it work. Make no mistake about it.

Love is NOT a mystery. There are specific things you can do (with or without your partner), Just as there are physical laws Of the universe (such as gravity), there are also laws for relationships. If you know how to apply these laws, the results are predictable.

Love is therefore a "decision". Not just a feeling.

Remember this always: God determines who walks into your life. It is up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let GO..

"If you want to get more inspiring quotes to be your guide in everyday life, Join this page." - Beautiful [Me]

♥ :)

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And in case anyone is wondering, yes... I did married the right person. And yes, that means working hard, time and effort and energy in making him the right one :)

Brain Food : What's your 20%?

The 80/20 Principles teaches us that if we focus our attention on our most important activities, we gain the highest return on our effort. 

Example : 

Time : 20% of our time produces 80% of the results

Work : 20% of our effort gives us 80% of our satisfaction

Leadership : 20% of the people make 80% of the decisions

Lesson learned:

1. Activity does not equal accomplishment.

2. Work smarter, not harder.

3. Organize or agonize.

4. Evaluate of stagnate. 

5. Schedule your priorities. 

6. Reacting is not leading.

7. Say no to little things. 

Ask yourself this:

What is required of me?

What gives the greatest return?

What gives me the greatest reward? 

Brain Food : Got Vision?

Vision is a picture held in your mind's eye of the way things could or should be in the days ahead. Its difficult to separate leadership from vision. Leaders are not satisfied with maintaining status quo. 

Foresight is the 'lead' that the leader has. - Robert Greenleaf -

Once a leader loses his lead and events force him to act, he is not leading, he is reacting. People needs leaders to give them hope - a picture of where they should go. 

Be a leader with visions. 

Brain Food : Need character??

Character and Integrity are indispensable. It is the foundation on which the leader's life is build. If people don't trust you, they won't follow you. 

Character communicates Credibility.

Character harnesses Respect.

Character creates Consistency.

Character earns Trust. 

Brain food : What's your purpose?

A leader God uses has a great purpose in life. Do you know your God-given purpose?

- What are your burdens?

- What are your spiritual gifts?

- What are your natural talents?

- What are your desires & passions?

- What do others affirm about you?

- What are your dreams and visions?

- What opportunities are in front of you?

Brain food : We are gifted

God has put something inside each of us that is to be delivered to the people around us. In other words, everyone has something that we need. When we find it, we naturally influence others. 

Leadership = Influence

Brain Food : Giant Killers

No person ever achieved greatness without facing a giant obstacles. 

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I've been attending a training called the Million Leaders Mandate managed by this group called Equip. Equip started with Dr. John C. Maxwell vision of equipping leaders to impact the world for Christ. The Million Leaders Mandate became a global initiative to develop one million international Christian leaders by 2008. By God's grace, they have exceeded way beyond that goal. 

What pushed me to attend this training was the fact that Dr. John C Maxwell is a well-known management guru and coming from a training background, I know that training like these cost a bomb!! But guess what, Million Leaders Mandate training's are given free... FREE!!! A group of people who have benefited from these training are now training other people. 

Basically what I learn is Dr. John C Maxwell super-duper managements and leadership skills converted into simple, biblical perspective. Or in other words, leadership skills from the bible. There are 6 books in total and each book have 6 lessons. Twice a month, I attend classes and I am currently at Book 4. 

It's been a good journey and I'll try to record things that I've learned along the way so that you guys can learn too :)

"OMG, you look like a virgin!!!"

Yes, this was announced to about 3000 over people a couple of years back during my ex-company's annual dinner. It was held at Sunway Convention Center and they hired a transvestite to be the MC and entertainer. I was sitting at one of the forefront table and the MC was going around entertaining us. When she/he reach our table, she looked at me and exclaim, "OMG, you look like a virgin!". You cannot imagine the number of embarrassing questions  I had to go through after that. 

And I am ashamed to admit I didn't know whether to tell the truth or lie. To say 'yes' would make them think I am sure a goody-two shoes or even a young innocent kid. To say 'no' would make me slutty or easy. I could not and would not want my colleagues and co-workers to have a certain impression of me. 

Last Saturday, during PMC (Pre-marital Counselling) class, the topic was on Sex in Marriage. At the beginning of the session, the guys and girls were separated into 2 groups, after which we got back to share what we have discussed. What was interesting were the opinions between the sexes. One of the question asked was what would you say is the main difference between the way males view sex ad the way female view sex. And not surprisingly, both sides agreed that girls tend to view it more emotion, where else for guys, its more of the physical action. However, in the current generations, sex have increasingly became more loose - meaning its no longer viewed that its mostly guys who are sleeping around but lots of girls do it too. Sex have become so normal that both guys and girls just do it for the fun of it. 

Another question was would you be OK if your spouse is not a virgin. Most of the girls said that ideally they would prefer if their spouse is a virgin. However, it would depend on situation such as how long time ago did it happened or as long that he is not cheating on me now. When the question was post to the guys, half of them said that they would be OK if their spouse is not a virgin and the other half was not OK with it. So what happens when or if you find out that your spouse is no longer a virgin? 

Its interesting how people view sex this days. When I was young, I was taught that having sex is sacred and that losing ones virginity is such a taboo. But as I grew older, it became increasingly diluted. Everywhere, everyone is telling me that its OK. Its has become less wrong because everyone is doing it. And if you love the other person, that's how you show love. As I was growing up, I found out that if you are still a virgin, you are less cool because having sex its cool and if you are no longer a virgin, you are in the cool crowd. Look at the TV shows, the movies, the ads, it all tells us that having sex before and out of marriage is OK. 

Its worst when you are a Christian because you are taught since young that its wrong, yet no one is going to go upright to you and ask if you are a virgin or not. What goes behind close doors nobody will know. The temptation to sin increases. The areas between black and white are becoming so grey that we can't tell what is right and wrong or what are sins anymore. Things that we do have become less and less wrong as we grow up. The world is influencing our thinking and upbringing and so often we conveniently forget that God is watching us even behind closed doors. 

Have the world become so loose that eventually there will not be a virgin to be found anymore? Or that virginity is no longer prized?

One question that really struck me was, "When you become a parent, would you teach your child/children abstinence or prevention?". Imagine talking to your sons/ daughters in the future. Would you teach them the right thing or would you give them a condom and say,"Stay safe"? Abstinence or prevention? What type of parent would you be?

Sex before marriage is wrong. Sex should be enjoyed in the sacredness of marriage. And no matter how the world twist that or what people may say, its a sin and against most religions and moral values. 

If that remark is posted to me again... I am no longer ashamed or embarrassed to say that, " I am still a virgin and I am proud of it." I will keep the sanctity of my marriage intact.

Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.

My dad passed to me an article a couple of weeks ago but I just kept it in my bag and forgot about it. Today, as I was doing spring cleaning, I found it, took it out and started reading. It was an speech from Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer and of Pixar Animation Studios which he presented to some university students. 

And what caught my eye was not just how he lived his life, or the many failures that he had, or not completing his students, or being fired by his own company, but about what he said at the end. Rockstar used to tell me, if you want to be successful, be stupid. Cos smart people ask too many questions and think of all possible reason why things should not happen. Stupid people jumps in without thinking. Yes, they might fail but they will also have a higher chance of succeeding as compare to the smarter people. Which is true... 

Maybe not to be stupid stupid but to take the risk and not worry so much... Every time I do something, or planned something, I sit down and think. Think about the pros and cons, the problems and risks, and all the other stuff that might happen.. Most of the time, I end up letting fear take place... 

Maybe that's why I'm not as successful.as I want to be :) 

Anyway, I intend to follow Steve Jobs advice to " Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish"... ..after convincing my dad :(

Or as what Rockstar always as "Do first. Think later."

Disclaimer : This post is not meant for you to act stupid and will bear no consequences of whatever action/ problems that may arise from you being stupid. 

respect money.

I have so many post that I've started but did not manage to finish as my eyes will droop halfway through typing them.... Yes, most of my post are done at night before I go to sleep.. It's the only time in a day that I can sit down and take a breather...

CHRISTMAS TIME is super BUSY!!!!

Anyway, this post its not about how busy I am as all your eyes will start drooping by then and thinking that I'm such a boring person with such a boring life.. but this post is about MONEY!!!!

Ok, i see all the eyes wide open now...

Have you ever taken a couple of 10's or 50 from your purse, pay someone some money, collect the change and then STUFF THEM BACK INTO YOUR PURSE??? or pants or pockets?

If you are doing it or have done such things, I'm here to tell you to "Stop doing it"..

Why? Someone once told me, "If you want money, you got to learn to respect money". Do you see millionaires stuffing their money into their wallet or pants? Or are they arranged neatly by their values.. Learn from them. Learn to respect money...

Don't be like one of the street people who wads up their money and stuff them into some hidden corners on their body..

If you don't wanna be rich, then do this for the sake of all cashiers... it's really disgusting to take some dirty crumpled notes with a tinge of dampness from you... arrggghhh!!! maybe that's why the toll booth collectors wear gloves...

Learn to respect money.... and hopefully, money will come to you...

laughter, crapping and more crappings

My 2 elder sisters and BILs were in Cambodia during the recent stampede incident. And our whole family, distant relatives and even neighbours were so worried about them as we could not get thru their phone and there was no news from them... The only comfort I got was a " :) " posted on one of their Facebook wall ...*the wonders of FB*... and the news on The Star stated there was no foreigners involved..

But they arrived back safely on Thursday *Thank You God* and I blew off 2 friends birthday celebration last Friday... Sorry Mark and Michelle... to have dinner with the whole family...

Dinner with my family means 3 things... laughter, crapping and more crapping... My family is very different... We talk lots of rubbish, as the number of highly imaginative and creative people is at a ratio of 10/12... and we laugh alot... I meant really stomach crunching, tears dripping, incoherent words laughter... 

My eldest sister is known as "The Joker" in the family. She have a gift of retelling funny stories and acting them out.. and her loud addictive laughter makes everyone laugh without knowing what we are laughing about.. My second sister is know as "The Joke". Why? Because she is always being make fun off.. We are NOT mean. She is just fun to laugh at.. My younger brother and sisters have very imaginative minds. One idea can lead to another and another and when everyone chips in a thought... Its becomes mind-boggling.. My dad is a super duper lame joker. I meant really really lame. I used to squirm in embarrassment whenever my friends were around and he gets into one of his lame-nobody-can-understand jokes. Me? I'm the one who roll my eyes and give them a "you are so lame" stare..

I miss all of this now. My 2 eldest sisters have gotten married and moved out, its much harder to meet together as we are all busy with work... But whenever there its an opportunity, I'll grab the chance to have dinner together again...*not many times but I'm trying la*. Who knows? 5 years down the road, we will all be too busy with our own lives, work and family to enjoy the fun times that we had together...

I have learned to appreciated all of this.. Not many families out there enjoy the easy-going, crazy, friends way my family is.. Sometimes, after a long tired day at work, being with them is so relaxing and de-stressing...And lately, that's all I want to do *being anti-social :)*

So just a word of advice to everyone, remember to value your family... You won't regret this..

and to my sisters, if you are reading this... COME BACK FOR DINNER/s MORE OFTEN!!!!

T-shirts 101

Work have been pretty crazy lately. Hence, the lack of updates.. There is just so many things that I want to blog about but just didn't have the time.. But I can't complain, everyone has 24 hours a day and if I make excuses that I do not have time, it means that I have failed in managing my time..

Anyway, on to a different topic.. One of my company main product is t-shirts. And being in the industry for so long, I'm an expert *almost la. self-praise a bit cannot ar* on t-shirts. Or at least an expert in wearing t-shirts. I wear them almost everyday. And I realise 1 thing.. People got NO IDEA how to take care of their t-shirts.. T-shirts are not just something that you can throw on and off anytime you want. There are some facts about t-shirts that you need to know.. 

So here's my intellectual thoughts on "What you need to know about how to take care of your t-shirts".. Read 'erm and weep...:)

1. Machine washable. Most t-shirts can be washed using a washing machine. I don't know about you but I'm a strong believer of machine-washed garments. It's a big no-no to me if I see, "hand-washed only" on the label. Well, you know me... I'm a lazy bum..

2. Don't mix colours. For those who have never wash their clothes in their entire life, read this. When washing of t-shirts or any clothes, separate them into 3 piles *or more if you wish.* Whites, dark colours and coloured. And if you want, you can add in the "reds" category or even separate out the "undergarments and socks". You can imagine the number of times I have seen people walking around with dirty looking grey t-shirt *oh wait, I think its white* or an un-identifiable coloured t-shirt. It's disgraceful.

3. Bleach. If you need to, use bleach. But be very careful as bleach can turn just about anything into white. And you don't want to go around wearing spotted t-shirt. Please, we absolutely know it's not a designer t-shirt. We can see that it's bleach-ify, idiots. Use them if you have spilled something on them, or for guys especially, if your collar changed its colour to blackish due to your sweat, you know it's time. But remember, DO NOT SOAK THEM! Because some * not all* materials can disintegrate in bleach water.

4. Hang them properly. T-shirts, when taken out from the washing machine bears resemblance to a rolled-up piece of wet paper, hence lots of wrinkles. Wring them out first before hanging them out to dry. Why? It helps the drying process and it will ease your ironing process.

5. Inside out. Especially for dark or colour t-shirts, turn them inside out before you hang them. T-shirts will fade under the sun. 

6. Dry them completely. Have you ever smell un-dried or semi-dried t-shirt? It's a guarantee that most people wrinkle up their nose at the smell of it. It's horrible and anyone who goes around smelling like that, your "saham" will drop ALOT. Please please please, you want to give good impression to others? Dry your t-shirts properly, it will help you tremendously in work and life.

7. Must be iron. Yes, you heard me. T-shirts can and should be iron. Unless it's like the uncrumple-ble type of t-shirts or if you straighten out all the wrinkles when you hang them out to dry. Arrgghhh, I absolutely cannot stand the sight of crumple and wrinkle t-shirts. If you want to look good in a t-shirt, iron them. It goes a long way. If not, you will look just like a scruffy, adolescent college student. Your t-shirts will also have a longer life span.

8. Printed stuff. How many of you damage your t-shirts when you accidentally iron the printed part of the t-shirts? This happens all the time. If it's embroidery, you can skip this point. How to avoid that? Either turn your shirt inside out or put another cloth (e.g. towel, t-shirt) over them before you iron it.

9. Cotton rocks. Being in a humid environment, we tend to sweat alot. Cotton is able to absorb more sweat of your body, its much more cooling then other synthetic materials, it doesn't stick to your body when its wet and it's natural. *nuff said..

10. Collar shape. When you put on your t-shirt, do not overstretch the collar. Collar gets out of shape easily and will make your of t-shirt look much older. This is vey common for guys. Normal t-shirt collar lies flat against your throat or collarbone. If you overstretch it, it will become very uneven.  

So here's my thoughts on how to look beautiful with t-shirts. I hope you all will read and join effort in making this world a better, tshirt-beautiful place.

Wear them with pride..

Signing off,

A t-shirt-holic

p.s. The t-shirts displayed above comes in different sizes and colours. If you are interested, drop me an email at estherchew17@gmail.com

High expectations

Rockstar is having a practice session for a wedding he is performing at.

So I'm sitting here in a Chinese restaurant having dinner all by myself. *sob*sob*.... Actually I'm OK with it. You know some people cannot sit alone in a restaurant of a cafe for the fear of looking anti-social and uncool. Well, I like sitting by myself, hanging out by myself, talking to myself *oh wait, I don't talk to myself*..out loud I mean... because that would meant there is something wrong with me... and people might look at me weirdly and whisper," That's girl is crazy". Ok, lets get back to what I was saying... Yeah, I got no problem with sitting by myself in a restaurant, going to movies alone or even travelling alone *not like Rockstar would allow that*... I always wanted to travel alone, explore places, going for adventure... Maybe I will, someday.... Back to what I saying, sitting alone allows me to people-watch, which is what I'm good at... and of cos to blog... :)

Anyway, "sitting alone" is not the point of this blog post...

I want to talk about "Expectation"

Expectations. It's such an important word, isn't it.

What you expect of others. What others expect of you.

There is this new concept among young people nowadays "Don't expect to much or to high, because you will be disappointed. Expect low, then you will feel better if you get better or higher results". That is a TOTAL BULLSHIT to me... You know why?

I believe in setting high expectation. I set very high expectation for myself. Sometimes, when I do not achieve the results I wanted, I will feel disappointed. But is good. Because it makes me want to try harder and prove myself wrong.

When you don't set high expectation for yourself, you don't have a goal for you to achieve it. If you expect low and you get lower then what you expect, you lose. If you expect low and you get what you wanted, good for you. But remember, you still have not tried your best and achieve your potential.

When I was in Sunway, I set a very high expectation for myself, and I believe I achieved my goal. But try as hard as I may, I could not meet the expectation of my big boss. And I felt like a have failed. It was like a blow to me.. And I realise, sometimes in life, expectations are better set for yourself and not others. I know that when I left, my big boss was disappointed. I disappointed him because I did not meet his extremely high expectations.

And I must admit, I fall into the same category. I set very high expectations of others. I expect my BB officers to be like me and more, I expect them to produce better results or does things the way I do. I expect my brother to have the same leadership skills as me. I expect my family and love ones to be like this and that. And the list goes on and on...   

Setting expectations for others is OK to a certain extend. But prepare yourself for disappointment, if and when they fail you. And they do... all the time. And I'm sorry to say that I have not handle this well.

But after realising this, I'm trying to remember that as long as they achieve the expectations they set for them self, I should accept that.

I'm not saying that I will stop setting expectations on others. But I'm saying that I will try to be tolerant and accept that.... I AM A VERY DEMANDING PERSON... muahahah!!!!

So to all those reading this, you know what to do... Don't disappoint me...

1st year anniversary of being a businesswoman

Today marks my 1 year anniversary of being a businesswoman.

Wow!! Time really flies and its exactly one year since I last step out from the door of Sunway. It was a huge step for me. From being a corporate woman to a business woman. From having to listen to bosses, to being my own boss. From being in the comfort of a ship to shark-infested waters. *squirm*

But I am lucky to say I survived.

So I'm sure many will ask me, how does it feels like?

Well, I would say it in 2 words "It's crazy!!!" My life have never been as crazy as the past years. Things are very different as compared to being in corporate. But I can't express how it feels like. If you are in corporate, you will not experience it unless you try being in business yourself.

But since its my 1 year anniversary, let me just state my major accomplishments/ achievements or whatever you want to call it. That's what a blog is for right? This will help me 10 years down the road when I looked back. Not to brag, OK?? If you think I am, you can totally STOP reading now because its FOR ME to remember...

1. POS & Inventory system.  I set up our whole computerised inventory and stocks system. Previously, since its a small company, stock control is done manually aka excel sheet. But now, it's all bar coded and it's stock control and stock take is wayyyy much more efficient.

2. Credit Card machine. Almost 10 years in business but yet to have credit card services. Now, both outlets have credit card machines. You can even do installments or cash back if you want.

3. Premium orders. Much more premium/ bulk orders since the previous years. Why? Because I am young and I have the energy to go around, promote and chase people asses :p, as compared to my old dad.

4. Psalmist Privilege Card. Huh??? For those with question marks shinning from your heads; its actually a membership card to join the Psalms Oasis family. You sign up as member, you get 10% discount storewide, received regular updates on promotions and new products, special promotions for members only and many other. As of today, after only 4 months, we have almost 200 members and counting... Woohoo!!

5. Suppliers. We have increase our list of suppliers both local and overseas. This means bigger range of products and much more varieties of goods. Does this means we are international??? *hopes*

6. New designs for products. Not only have I become a businesswoman, I have turned designer as well. Imagine, not having a design background or not knowing how to use Illustrator and being in a family of super creative people, I always consider myself the least creative. Well, I guess when the needs arises, I got no choice but to jump in log, stock and barrel. *darn, I sound like my ex-boss*

7. Brand new outlet. Yeah, my biggest achievement this year. We set up a new outlet from scratch. From the scouting of locations, to signing contract, to renovation, to stocking of products, to marketing and promotion, building a stronger customer base to finally be in business for 5 months already.

Wow!! Just thinking back and typing this makes me feel breathless. Can't imagine that I have done all this besides the other current operations and activities to look into. Of cos, I wish I could have done better if I had worked a little bit harder, or was less lazier, or spend less time on facebook or online shopping, or even less time dating *grins*. Many what-ifs but well, there are still so many things that I want to do but did not manage to.

But there will be next year, and the next year, and the next...

I'm going to say my thank you speech here. Even though I'm not receiving an award,  it's a milestone for me and I couldn't not have done with without these people.

Firstly, I would like to thank my parents, who supported me all this while and gave me the knowledge and directions I needed. It was hard working with them *if you know what I mean* but I would not have it any other way. They have given their whole life into this, and it would not be where it is today without them. They taught me that despite failures and problems, if you don't give up, if you know that it will help to make the world a better place, you will be rewarded. God blesses those who love him.

And of cos, Rockstar. He is always there to support me, hear my rants and complains, hold me whenever I needed to cry, advise me, being there whenever I needed him and always being my silent partner. He is my Energy Source and De-stresser. He gave me the courage to do what I needed to do. He taught me about business. He is one of the most "geng" businessman I have ever known. Just looking at him and watching how Music Master Studio have grown motivates me to do greater things.

And not forgetting my twin sister, Lydia. Oh yes, we do quarrel like normal sisters does but that's just being normal. I can trust her to be there when I need her. To also hear my rants and complains, helping me to "jaga kedai" when I needed help, telling me off when she feels that I am in the wrong even thought I always don't seem to listen to her :)

And lastly, my AWESOME GOD!!! He is the owner of Psalms Oasis. Me? Just a simple manager. He has everything in control.

And yes, thank you to all my fans customers who have supported us and encourage us.

*waves hand goodbye as I walk of stage*

So what next? Well, many ideas are running in my mind but the 1st thing is to prepare for Christmas. I'm hoping for a massive sale :) and next... Internet business...

Phewww!!! I'm blessed...

Woes of being a Malaysian Driver

I got a splitting headache..

Try waking up at 6am, driving 40km to Cheras, beating morning traffic and then another 40km with the usual, crazy-honking-swearing-cutting lanes morning traffic, arriving back home just in time to catch another 1 1/2 hour of sleep before heading of to work. And then driving to work, getting caught in a bad jam cos some stupid Malaysian drivers were just too busy-body-trying-to-see-if-there-were-any-bodies-lying-on-the-roadside-beside-the-wrecked-cars, and being late for work.

Just enough to feel like shit terrible today...

Since the 43rd National Day have just passed, let me talk about the what it feels like being a Malaysian. Don't get me wrong, I love being a Malaysian. And I have been to many other countries and have been in many different traffic jams. But lets just say, Malaysian drivers are a unique bunch of people. 

So here's a post dedicated to all Malaysian drivers, especially those who feel the same as I do..

Woes of being a Malaysian Driver

Woe # 1 :  "My car is not a rubbish bin"

So does that mean we can throw rubbish out the window? We just can't wait till Malaysia turns into a big, huge rubbish dump, right? Quoting someone I know who throws rubbish out his window "I don't want to dirty my car" *eyes roll* So we can dirty our country la?

Woe # 2 : Signal? What's that? Oh, that blink blink thing?

Have you ever feel like throwing something at the other car who did not signal? You waited patiently for them to pass by before turning in a junction and then mana-tau, they turn into the junction. And you waited for no reasons. Or the time when a car cut in front of you without signalling? Or when you are at a roundabout, and just as you were about to turn, the car besides you shots in front , barely missing your front bumper? Signal la.. You'll just need your fingers..

Woe # 3 : I'm a F1 driver

I know there are many who aspire to become an F1 driver. And they feel a great need to show us their driving skills by displaying them via how expertly they cut queue or lanes and how fast they can drive? Please, we are so NOT IMPRESS. Take it to the tracks please if you still have a burning desire to show off. 

Woe # 4 : This is my grandfather's road

Oh, how many of you feel that way? You take your own sweet time, cruising along the road, stopping whenever you like, slowing down just cos you feel like it; not considering others who knows that the road is not their grandfather's road. If you want to drive slow and hog the road, please go to the side or you can even consider not driving out of your own housing area.

Woe # 5 :  I am superwoman

Yes, we know for fact that woman can multi-task. And that goes for some men too. But please keep that talent of the road. I'm guilty of that too. I can eat, drink, sms, talk, write down stuff, listen to music, put make-up on, comb my hair, all at the same time. Erm... almost all la..

Woe # 6 : I am an extremely "careful" person

Scared of driving? Staying far away from other cars in case you hit them? Driving 40km/h? Especially during traffic jams, you like to keep far far away. Keeping your hands clung to the steering wheel? With seat upright and so close to the steering wheel because you want to be alert and ready. To people who are like this, only 1 word of advise for you , GET OFF THE ROAD!!!!

Woe # 7 : I'm such a "caring" person

Whenever I see people slowing down, I slow down and look. When I see got people standing by the roadside, I slow down and look. When I see got some cars by the roadside, I slow down and look. When I see got chicken by the roadside, I also slow down and look. You are not caring, you are being a busybody. Please care for other drivers by NOT slowing down to look.

So yes, we are Malaysian drivers, we have our own unique habits. But that does not mean we cannot change. Please.. change...It's for the greater good of mankind It will make Malaysia a better place to live and drive in.. and it will give me less headache..

which I am still having *sad face*

The Ladder Theory

It’s funny how girls know whether a guy is boyfriend material or not? Or whether the guys have a chance of going a bit further? Some call it instinct, some call it past experience, and some call it a game.

I, on the other hand, call it… Intuition…

You know there is this theory call the “Ladder Theory”. You can read more about it here .

Anyway, this theory talks about how people of the opposite sex you meet has a rating. And this applies both to guys and girls. The difference about them is that guys only have 1 ladder, where else girls have 2. Before any dirty comments come out, this is a guy’s ladder.

This picture is self-explanatory. Mind you, this is an example of a typical guy. If you are not a typical guy, I got nothing to say :p

Anyway, lets more to something more interesting. The girl’s ladder.

Now you know why girls are so complicated.

We girls have a tendency to rate guys that we met and know based on 2 category “Friends” and “More then friends”. Now, for those girls who try to deny it, it’s useless. No matter how much we try to avoid this, instinctively we will. We meet guys that bring just a tiny flutter to your stomach, or the way he looks at you gives you tingle down your back. And we met guys that just, sad to say, you knowingly know will remain as friends. Nothing more then that unless God decides otherwise :p

Anyway, what I’m trying to say is that on the “More then friends” ladder, there will NOT only be 1 guy. Even for those who are in a relationship, there will be other guys, those that you met before your relationship and those you meet after you are in a relationship, which will be on that ladder.

But… what’s important is that these guys does not climb too high up the “More then friends” ladder. It will be difficult. I meant, who can resists the attraction or the excitement or the thrill of someone new, someone more exciting. But the attraction, the excitement, the thrill, might just die off when someone new comes up. It’s always more exciting when things are new. However, what matters is who is the guy who comes up right at the top of the ladder even after the thrill is gone *or the one who keeps the thrill going on and on* :)

So be careful who you allow to climb up your ladder. Take the risk but not at others expense, or even your own. No use regretting. Don’t give up the best for a “maybe better” someone.

And the same goes for guys… No discriminating us girls ok? It’s harder to keep someone off 1 ladder then 2 ladders we girls have more options. So start worrying about who is climbing up your ladder. Especially if you are in a relationship... *You have been warned!!!*