Doing Something Well

I always believe that if one takes on a task or project, one ought to do it well. At the end of last year, That Special Occasion took in an intern for a three-month stint. It is our second time taking on the role of a mentor of sorts and my team and I take the responsibility seriously.

Those who are familiar with my working style would translate that to mean some stress and pressure for the intern. I would admit that it is not a walk in the park. And it shouldn't be. When one comes to learn, then one should be willing to go the extra mile. In the short period of time with us, my team and I try to impart as much knowledge as possible to the intern, and if that means a bit of stress, well so be it.

 

I keep reminding Huei Woon that she should aspire to be the best intern among her peers, and to be the one who obtains the best internship experience. So we give her as much variety of work as we can, and we sometimes even throw her into the deep end with impromptu projects and skill-tests. She will thank us for the stress come the end of her tenure with us.

 

 

Huei Woon designing a top for my colleague, Auntie Linda at That Special Occasion, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Dad's 3rd Anniversary

Today mark's the 3rd anniversa-ry of my dad's passing. How time flies. It doesn't seem that long ago that dad got sick and succumbed to the side effects of treatment a few months later.

 

This photo was taken on our last holiday together. We made a trip to Phnom Penh to have a look-see and to visit my friends Eileen and Richard. And here we are having a drink at Raffles Hotel Le Royal.

 

I always have a chuckle when I think of what dad would have said whenever I find myself in amusing situations. My family and relatives remember his compassion and patience. I unfortunately have not inherited nor nurtured the patience he possessed. Maybe in time. Every now and then, dad appears in my dreams and gives me some instructions, which I then relate to my family. Well, think I better go clean those pipes of his ..........

 

 

Mum, Dad and I at Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Surprise Celebration

It is always exciting to be a part of a surprise party. The occasion? My grandaunt's 85th birthday. Uncle Andrew called me up a week ago, requesting that I assist in planning a dinner in celebration of his Mum's, my grandaunt's birthday. Contacts and good friends in the wedding industry help when one has to organise a party on such short notice which I am extremely thankful for.

 

Celebrating such a milestone is a happy occasion for all concerned. What better way to mark one's birthday than with the extended family. An intimate dinner, a jovial mood, good food and a nice setting. More importantly, great memories.

 

Happy birthday again Kupoh!


Nigel, Auntie Joyce, Kupoh, Uncle Andrew and Kimberly at Oriental Banquet, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

Listen

Sometimes one puts in the effort only to come face to face with a resultant outcome that is not parti-cularly satisfac-tory. Well, one has got to do what one has got to do. For me, that means keeping the faith and trying to do better the next time.

 

Of course I get discouraged at times. It is during these times that the little inner voice tells me to soldier on. No venture, no gain, it reminds me. My good friends, some more enthusiastic and optimistic than others, but all always with good intentions, will offer encouragement. The ones brimming with optimism will undoubtedly say 'throw caution to the wind'.

 

The start of a new year is an inherently good time to remind myself to be positive and to maintain an optimistic outlook. Try and try again until success is within reach. Then be sure to embrace it wholeheartedly.

 

 

At Hong Kong Airport.

Taking Flight

I always start the new year with a sense of optimism, the new year takes flight so to speak. There are aspirations to attain, new challenges to conquer, and motivation is at an all time high.

 

Work hard and play hard. That has always been a motto of mine. This year, I think it should be work hard and play even harder. Enjoy the little pleasures in life. Take a little more time to smell the roses as they say. Be in a good mood as much as I can.

 

There is much to look forward to. The jigsaw puzzle of life to complete. Yes, indeed.

 

 

Balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey in 2010.

Giving Thanks

When in Melaka on the second last day of 2012, I came across a temple while wandering on Jonker Street. As always, I stopped and entered to say some prayers.

 

With the new year beckoning, it was an opportune time to give thanks for all the good that had come my way. It also helps me focus on what I'd like to achieve and attain in the year to come. Asking for some divine help in life's pursuits is my way of getting encouraged and a little more confidence.

 

We're now into the 6th day of 2013. So far, so good.

 

 

Temple in Melaka, Malaysia.

New Year's Day - 1.1.2013

See what my t-shirt says? Although I've had this t-shirt for many years, thought it would be apt for today.

So, if you ever get stressed or frustrated through the course of work this year ......

Remember this saying!

With Uncle Jeff and Auntie Linda during New Year's lunch.