I've been laid low recently by a stomach bug. I suspect the culprit to be the seafood dinner together with close friends.
So lately I've been travelling a bit especially outside Bangkok to the new facility. Its been good getting out of the city and getting in touch with nature. I made sure I stayed awaked - yes I fall asleep everytime being a passenger - to witness the cows grazing by the side of the road, and the never-ending stretch of both salt and shrimp farms. Ratchaburi is a small town a little more than an hour from Bangkok, renowned for its floating market in the mornings crowded with tourists and locals.
The new facility is actually 45 minutes away from the town center. So you can imagine traffic is quite bare around the factory. Behind the plant is a river, that connects to the floating market and it is just serene. Picture just spending the day sat on a wooden hut built by the river, feet dangling above the water waiting for a bite on the self-made fishing rod, while listening to nature with a beer-filled icebox sitting beside you.
I spent a good ten minutes just letting my imagination run havoc.
I can only describe it with my vision, but you should really see it in person. The camera ran out of battery before I could take any of the river behind. If you can't find me at the factory, check by the hut. You may just see me sleeves folded, pants rolled up, tie loosely done and a face wide with a smile.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Argh !
I'm pissed...
I dropped my pen in a cab....
After a reunion with former uni mates....
It was a gift from a Hong Kong client.........
And it was a Mont Blanc...
I dropped my pen in a cab....
After a reunion with former uni mates....
It was a gift from a Hong Kong client.........
And it was a Mont Blanc...
Monday, February 27, 2006
Election Daze
Finally, the parliament has been dissolved. Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra finally bowed to pressure due to the tax-free sale of his company, Shin Corp. Prominent academics, politicians, business figures, students and the general public have vented their dissatisfaction by taking to a well known location downtown to protest.
Considering the fact he sold his massive telecom company for a cool US$1.9 billion, not a single cent, or Baht for that matter went to tax. Thinking about it, its darn well absurd. Anyways, elections are set to be held in a few months' time and there's already a scramble to determine who will helm 'The Land of Smile'. Many say Thaksin will still win the upcoming elections but with lesser support. Some say the Democrats will take power from the previous government of Thaksin's Thai Rak Thai(TRT).
That would be interesting. The Democrats are led by the charismatic and very good looking, Abhisit Vejjajiva, seen here discussing with fellow politicians regarding last year's censure debate.
Asiaweek qoutes "Abhisit Vejjajiva is somehow too good to be true: a young lawmaker who abhors the old system and works tirelessly for a cleaner tomorrow. For the Thai people, used to some of the classic cigar-chomping, ill-informed loudmouths who stalk the halls of parliament, Abhisit offers a ray of hope".
His track record has been quite impressive. At 35, he has already served under two governments as a spokesman and Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, overseeing investment and education issues. Last year, when the Democrats under the old guard of Banyat Banthadthan came to realization after a crushing defeat by Thaksin, paved the way for a dynamic individual to take up the hotseat. Under new leadership, Abhisit has managed to persuade Orange Telecom joint CEO, Apirak Kosayodhin, a brilliant and well known top executive to be lured into politics and join the Democrats. Apirak would later go on to contest and win the governorship of Bangkok.
The Democrats basically have a younger generation steering the oldest political party in Thailand. It remains to be seen if TRT can be toppled, and even if the Democrats do stage a winning election, will Abhisit be able to weed out the bad image Thailand portrays as a haven for corrupt practices?
Its also going to be my first time voting on Thai soil since obtaining citizenship. Stay tuned...
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Mortal beings
These days, my relationship with dad has gained a rather significant leap. During my younger days, I'd always be the one arguing how I saw things my way. Basically all your stubborn elements found during adolescence. Looking at myself back then and realizing how much of a pain I was and, am quite pleased not to be giving him anymore grief...Or am I?
Last night I attended my senior's dad's funeral, and those memories flashed across me during the recital by monks of the Pali sanskrit. Peng was my senior back in university where we colleagues of the uni tennis team. Sadly for him, his dad met with an unfortunate demise by a fall in the bathroom. The partners and former team mates turned up to show our respects and to give him moral support.
I thought of dad the entire duration of the funeral. I remembered him telling me everyone dies, including him and I cried profusedly. I just couldn't imagine how life would be without him and of course, mum. He said even doctors die too, and I remember saying "No way!"(Used to think doctors were only 2nd to god). I mean how could a person who treats the sick, die?
Many a times we think we know it all, because we're living in the 21st century loaded with modern mentality, information and attitude, but its all a facade really. No one knows better than our parents, they've been there, done that and they've certainly been through what we're just about to face. Their invaluable experience is what has guided them to their successes today. Doesn't hurt to listen, as I'm sure our parents only want the best for us.
Not all parents show it, but they have their own special way of expressing their love for us.
I think we as a human race, take everything for granted. Don't. You may never have the chance to show your gratitude to your own flesh and blood again. From a distance tonight, I could see Peng's mind wander about. I can bet he was thinking of the good and bad times he shared with his dad, and how he would never have the chance to again.
Deepest condolences, bro. Be strong, you'll make your dad proud when you're up there in the sky. Good luck to you achieving your wings. We're here for you always.
Last night I attended my senior's dad's funeral, and those memories flashed across me during the recital by monks of the Pali sanskrit. Peng was my senior back in university where we colleagues of the uni tennis team. Sadly for him, his dad met with an unfortunate demise by a fall in the bathroom. The partners and former team mates turned up to show our respects and to give him moral support.
I thought of dad the entire duration of the funeral. I remembered him telling me everyone dies, including him and I cried profusedly. I just couldn't imagine how life would be without him and of course, mum. He said even doctors die too, and I remember saying "No way!"(Used to think doctors were only 2nd to god). I mean how could a person who treats the sick, die?
Many a times we think we know it all, because we're living in the 21st century loaded with modern mentality, information and attitude, but its all a facade really. No one knows better than our parents, they've been there, done that and they've certainly been through what we're just about to face. Their invaluable experience is what has guided them to their successes today. Doesn't hurt to listen, as I'm sure our parents only want the best for us.
Not all parents show it, but they have their own special way of expressing their love for us.
I think we as a human race, take everything for granted. Don't. You may never have the chance to show your gratitude to your own flesh and blood again. From a distance tonight, I could see Peng's mind wander about. I can bet he was thinking of the good and bad times he shared with his dad, and how he would never have the chance to again.
Deepest condolences, bro. Be strong, you'll make your dad proud when you're up there in the sky. Good luck to you achieving your wings. We're here for you always.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Good news
With much joy and relief as an important phone call came through.
"After much careful consideration, the board has unanimously approved Earth Born's loan for expansion. Congratulations!"
We were in seventh heaven. High fived the managing director before giving each other a hug. It took a government-backed bank over half a year before our funds were approved. In a world filled with corruption and red tape, it took that long for our capital injection to come. Controversially, we had heard this bank providing huge amounts to politicians. In they walk through the front door, and out the back they go, in less than an hour with a naffy 30 million cheque in their pocket. After seven months, we're finally able to go to sleep without the stress that has accumulated for such long periods of time. In business, it is always important to stay in competition with your competitors. With this secured, we are now able to move into our expansion phase to manufacture more and at least capture 15-20% of the world market.
I should be happy, out celebrating and just painting the town red...but its been a gruelling 7 months. I wish my family were close, I wish she was nearby. Its always tough, so many sacrifices one has to make to keep climbing up that ladder. I'm loving it, so far I've adapted myself to this industry with some hits and misses but hey, its all a learning process isn't it? Another good piece of news to add to a promising start in 2006.
"After much careful consideration, the board has unanimously approved Earth Born's loan for expansion. Congratulations!"
We were in seventh heaven. High fived the managing director before giving each other a hug. It took a government-backed bank over half a year before our funds were approved. In a world filled with corruption and red tape, it took that long for our capital injection to come. Controversially, we had heard this bank providing huge amounts to politicians. In they walk through the front door, and out the back they go, in less than an hour with a naffy 30 million cheque in their pocket. After seven months, we're finally able to go to sleep without the stress that has accumulated for such long periods of time. In business, it is always important to stay in competition with your competitors. With this secured, we are now able to move into our expansion phase to manufacture more and at least capture 15-20% of the world market.
I should be happy, out celebrating and just painting the town red...but its been a gruelling 7 months. I wish my family were close, I wish she was nearby. Its always tough, so many sacrifices one has to make to keep climbing up that ladder. I'm loving it, so far I've adapted myself to this industry with some hits and misses but hey, its all a learning process isn't it? Another good piece of news to add to a promising start in 2006.
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
Bad Press
Today was press conference day as the company in conjunction with the Ministry of Health launched the latest spa collection. It would be my first time meeting the minister in charge(whom we'll call 'PJ'), but he caused an uproar with some very insensitive comments.
He was talking about the abundance of flowers available in Thailand to be used as an ingredient for various spa products and after that commented "We also have many 'gold flowers' around". I shall explain. When we translate 'gold flower' or Dok Thong, literally means a slut. It may not sound as vulgar in english, but believe you me, it is frowned upon in Thai society. 'PJ' chose to score an own goal in front of the media people and us. I could see many female reporters extremely disgusted with his comments while his deputies tried to play it down by forcibly laughing. While he congratulated our company, our CFO and I were left disappointed by such a classless act. Personally, I think he doesn't know how to do his job. He doesn't know one bit about the health sector, but he merely knows where to 'dip his fingers into'.
I did what anybody would do - Keep my comments to myself. Our paths will cross again, so for the moment I'll just keep my cards close to my chest. I just hope for the sake of the country's health sector, 'PJ' doesn't stay too long in this portfolio. I certainly hope not....
He was talking about the abundance of flowers available in Thailand to be used as an ingredient for various spa products and after that commented "We also have many 'gold flowers' around". I shall explain. When we translate 'gold flower' or Dok Thong, literally means a slut. It may not sound as vulgar in english, but believe you me, it is frowned upon in Thai society. 'PJ' chose to score an own goal in front of the media people and us. I could see many female reporters extremely disgusted with his comments while his deputies tried to play it down by forcibly laughing. While he congratulated our company, our CFO and I were left disappointed by such a classless act. Personally, I think he doesn't know how to do his job. He doesn't know one bit about the health sector, but he merely knows where to 'dip his fingers into'.
I did what anybody would do - Keep my comments to myself. Our paths will cross again, so for the moment I'll just keep my cards close to my chest. I just hope for the sake of the country's health sector, 'PJ' doesn't stay too long in this portfolio. I certainly hope not....
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Be a man?
Been a busy February this time round, work has been 24/7 ever since coming back from Chinese New Year. Speaking of which, was not too bad a break although I had to be asked to tend to the restaurant during the busy festive period.
I just realized, I'm going to be 27 this year...I still can't believe I'm gonna be that figure at the end of the year. All I can say is, its all downhill from 22... Time just creeps up on you, you know? Saying that, both mumsy and dad are also getting on and soon to be hitting their sixties...
What can I say about them... They are my inspiration, without them I would never be able to have this day. Time and time again, they have thrown their support behind me and given invaluable advice. I'm really a blessed person. I've been brought up with the close guidance of mum in the etiquette department, all manners go through her inspection...Even these days! Dad gives me advice on how to become a man, to slog it out, never give up and always maintain an ethical work code. He never ceases to give me business advice, which have come in handy. Basically, I've adopted the softer side from mumsy and the no-nonsense approach from dad.
Anyways, coming back to being 27, suddenly a rush of objectives come to mind. Gotta make sure my goals are achieved for 2006 so my plans can trigger a chain reaction of events I've earmarked. Tell you something...Surprising. The other night at dinner, we were sat down having a nice meal together when a toast was proposed by dad, wishing all the very best for his granddaughter, my niece's safe arrival come April, the continuous success of my business and...Also a suitable time for me to TIE THE KNOT. I literally choked. I'd never expected him to tell me to settle down this early. Ok, my brother settled down at 28 and dad thought he could have waited a couple more years and now he wants me to settle down at 27-28... I looked at my brother, my heavily pregnant sister in-law, and mumsy dearest with a shocked expression, and guess what? So were they!
Truth be told, I'd love to settle down, but this is just so unexpected because its coming from dad. All the more, it is quite encouraging as it signals my readiness as, a man from his point of view. Now that the light is green, the potential candidates however, aren't as bright as the prospects of heading into holy matrimony. I do have a soul mate, I know she's the one but time doesn't seem to be on our side, while the current cluth of ladies I'm dating DO NOT meet the requirements of the title Mrs. Many times, I crave having someone waiting at home when I get back from work. To be brutally honest, I've had fun, been there, done that and had enough of. Its Bangkok for god's sakes, all the best parties and night activities are here.
But I've decided to put that thought aside for now. So many goals to achieve this year that leaves me hardly any time to myself. Thanks dad, that was really an unexpected move from you, but nevertheless a touching one. If it does happen, then it'll happen. I shan't go out of my way to prove it, as they say... 'Good things come to those who wait'.
I just realized, I'm going to be 27 this year...I still can't believe I'm gonna be that figure at the end of the year. All I can say is, its all downhill from 22... Time just creeps up on you, you know? Saying that, both mumsy and dad are also getting on and soon to be hitting their sixties...
What can I say about them... They are my inspiration, without them I would never be able to have this day. Time and time again, they have thrown their support behind me and given invaluable advice. I'm really a blessed person. I've been brought up with the close guidance of mum in the etiquette department, all manners go through her inspection...Even these days! Dad gives me advice on how to become a man, to slog it out, never give up and always maintain an ethical work code. He never ceases to give me business advice, which have come in handy. Basically, I've adopted the softer side from mumsy and the no-nonsense approach from dad.
Anyways, coming back to being 27, suddenly a rush of objectives come to mind. Gotta make sure my goals are achieved for 2006 so my plans can trigger a chain reaction of events I've earmarked. Tell you something...Surprising. The other night at dinner, we were sat down having a nice meal together when a toast was proposed by dad, wishing all the very best for his granddaughter, my niece's safe arrival come April, the continuous success of my business and...Also a suitable time for me to TIE THE KNOT. I literally choked. I'd never expected him to tell me to settle down this early. Ok, my brother settled down at 28 and dad thought he could have waited a couple more years and now he wants me to settle down at 27-28... I looked at my brother, my heavily pregnant sister in-law, and mumsy dearest with a shocked expression, and guess what? So were they!
Truth be told, I'd love to settle down, but this is just so unexpected because its coming from dad. All the more, it is quite encouraging as it signals my readiness as, a man from his point of view. Now that the light is green, the potential candidates however, aren't as bright as the prospects of heading into holy matrimony. I do have a soul mate, I know she's the one but time doesn't seem to be on our side, while the current cluth of ladies I'm dating DO NOT meet the requirements of the title Mrs. Many times, I crave having someone waiting at home when I get back from work. To be brutally honest, I've had fun, been there, done that and had enough of. Its Bangkok for god's sakes, all the best parties and night activities are here.
But I've decided to put that thought aside for now. So many goals to achieve this year that leaves me hardly any time to myself. Thanks dad, that was really an unexpected move from you, but nevertheless a touching one. If it does happen, then it'll happen. I shan't go out of my way to prove it, as they say... 'Good things come to those who wait'.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Thursday, January 05, 2006
2006
A very Happy New Year 2006 to everyone out there. Besides packing in the pounds with non-stop eating sessions, its utterly relaxing to be back. I have till next week before heading back so I'm definitely taking time to savior every moment.
Christmas and new years were both spent differently from last year but nontheless, very satisfying. I hadn't really mapped out this years resolutions but just a couple of pointers I did have in mind during new year eve's dinner. Working my socks off and travelling.
2005 was quite a year, it started off slow but ended strongly and I'm really pleased with areas regarding the work front. There's going to be a lot more hard work this year but I am looking forward to the challenge.
As for now, I'm just going to take it easy, and reflect on potential targets I may have missed out for the new year. Wishing everyone seasonal blessings heading your way, overcoming challenges with ease and remember to do good towards yourself and others. All this with impeccable health, passionate love, continuous happiness and neverending prosperity - Happy New Year!
Christmas and new years were both spent differently from last year but nontheless, very satisfying. I hadn't really mapped out this years resolutions but just a couple of pointers I did have in mind during new year eve's dinner. Working my socks off and travelling.
2005 was quite a year, it started off slow but ended strongly and I'm really pleased with areas regarding the work front. There's going to be a lot more hard work this year but I am looking forward to the challenge.
As for now, I'm just going to take it easy, and reflect on potential targets I may have missed out for the new year. Wishing everyone seasonal blessings heading your way, overcoming challenges with ease and remember to do good towards yourself and others. All this with impeccable health, passionate love, continuous happiness and neverending prosperity - Happy New Year!
Saturday, December 17, 2005
On fifth gear
Barely able to lift an eyelid, I trudged back to my humble abode at half past two in the morning. How I wish I was out having a cold one with the company of friends. No, I had just finished from the office, for the day in fact. I'm sure our Belgium clients would be pleased we're firing on all cylinders for their shipment.
The weather's been very pleasant of late. Its been chilly in the mornings and breezy during the night. Seems its going to get colder, how fantastic when I'm just 3 days from leaving the capital. Three days! I'm really excited to see my friends and family. Somehow its always the festivities that brings one especially closer to their loved ones. The holiday cheer. I'm definitely running on it as it gives me my final spurt of...e...n...e...r...g....y......
The weather's been very pleasant of late. Its been chilly in the mornings and breezy during the night. Seems its going to get colder, how fantastic when I'm just 3 days from leaving the capital. Three days! I'm really excited to see my friends and family. Somehow its always the festivities that brings one especially closer to their loved ones. The holiday cheer. I'm definitely running on it as it gives me my final spurt of...e...n...e...r...g....y......
Friday, December 02, 2005
Birthday Bender
I'm officially 26 now and boy oh boy, celebrations lasted for 5 days...imagine, I could have been unofficially 31...Celebrations were quite wild, needless to say - 5 day bender. Go figure. Regret not getting any snaps, unless I get hold of the media to spare a few. Had a lot of guests, got to know even more. Overall, I enjoyed myself although I didn't overdo the bubbly.
Koh the Saxman gave a 5 song sax performance. What a birthday present that was. Thailand's own Kenny G, even some say he's better. Then there was a catwalk by some of Thailand's top models. It was a tad disappointing as they seemed unenthusiatic. Shrugs. Models..maybe some forgot to powder their noses before hitting the runway.
Its already December...Wow! Christmas is just round the corner. Can already feel the holiday cheer warming up. Lots of work to clear up then a deserved trip back home to visit family and friends.
Cheers..
Koh the Saxman gave a 5 song sax performance. What a birthday present that was. Thailand's own Kenny G, even some say he's better. Then there was a catwalk by some of Thailand's top models. It was a tad disappointing as they seemed unenthusiatic. Shrugs. Models..maybe some forgot to powder their noses before hitting the runway.
Its already December...Wow! Christmas is just round the corner. Can already feel the holiday cheer warming up. Lots of work to clear up then a deserved trip back home to visit family and friends.
Cheers..
Sunday, November 20, 2005
Cautious
This past month has been a challenging one. Never before would I expect to make such life altering decisions at this age. In my previous post Ben-ja-ped I had forewarned myself it would be a real test during my quarter century experience. I went to the temple to make merit and also paid my respects to the revered Four Faced Buddha and asked for guidance.
Next week I turn 26 and some friends have already plotted something, but I'm all set to miss the appointed dinner for a meeting instead at the new factory site. However, they reiterated dinner wasn't the main agenda...now that's what I'm afraid of.
Next week I turn 26 and some friends have already plotted something, but I'm all set to miss the appointed dinner for a meeting instead at the new factory site. However, they reiterated dinner wasn't the main agenda...now that's what I'm afraid of.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Easy Come, Easy Go
Today's meeting with a fellow countryman client went positive although no contracts were yet signed. His official visit to our factory was to conduct an audit as a compulsory adherence to an ISO 9002 certified entity. Poor fella, the weather was so hot he was struggling and with Ramadan(Muslim fasting month)didn't help his definite dry throat after such a lengthy discussion.
He insisted I acknowledge him on a first name basis and it was a bit awkward. Prior to meeting up, we exchanged e-mails and phone conversations and I'd always address him with a title before a name. The pro's about this is it makes the discussions quasi serious/casual. Overall : Good. I know I do tense up at discussions so this situation worked to my advantage.
At one stage of our conversation, we talked about government agencies backing local companies in the health sector. In Malaysia, the ethnic Malays(muslims) are what we call "Bumiputra(s)" or Bumi's for short and they are given certain privileges compared to the remaining two races(Chinese and Indian)in society. The government backs a lot of Bumi companies by approving business loans, some at very large amounts. Some companies have visionary leaders but unfortunately less ambitious employees and some have extremely capable hired help with an extremely incompetent leader. He tells me every year, government throws away millions of our Malaysian Ringgit(RM) to these establishments.
I could relate to his comments as I recalled a friend who was an apprentice at one of the Big Four accounting firms, attended a meeting with the head of the government's financial arm. Every question she posed to the official, the reply would be "Not sure", "Have to get back to you", "Haven't thought about it yet", or the very common words one would hear in the Malaysian culture "Tak Tau"(I don't know). Being the head of the largest government financial institute, one's decisions are critical especially to the local and foreign companies who need to know about its governance and policies. And my friend was only an apprentice...
I used to think the Bumiputras were so lucky with financial backing from the government. In time, it can only take off and prosper with the means in the first place. Its just sad seeing so much money go to such waste. Some have folded with an unimaginable loss due to less than abled leader's guidance. Its a bit prejudice one would say, any business could go bankrupt but how does one make an institute with some hundred million(RM) in government backing go under?
Its not my place to say anything, but I do reserve the right to my opinions eventhough I am just a young adult trying to cut it in the business world. Some are luckier than others, some have to walk the extra mile just to make enough, while some just get there with the snap of their fingers. To those who strive harder to get there its definitely more worth it, I'm sure we tend to appreciate it a whole lot more with that befitting satisfaction.
He insisted I acknowledge him on a first name basis and it was a bit awkward. Prior to meeting up, we exchanged e-mails and phone conversations and I'd always address him with a title before a name. The pro's about this is it makes the discussions quasi serious/casual. Overall : Good. I know I do tense up at discussions so this situation worked to my advantage.
At one stage of our conversation, we talked about government agencies backing local companies in the health sector. In Malaysia, the ethnic Malays(muslims) are what we call "Bumiputra(s)" or Bumi's for short and they are given certain privileges compared to the remaining two races(Chinese and Indian)in society. The government backs a lot of Bumi companies by approving business loans, some at very large amounts. Some companies have visionary leaders but unfortunately less ambitious employees and some have extremely capable hired help with an extremely incompetent leader. He tells me every year, government throws away millions of our Malaysian Ringgit(RM) to these establishments.
I could relate to his comments as I recalled a friend who was an apprentice at one of the Big Four accounting firms, attended a meeting with the head of the government's financial arm. Every question she posed to the official, the reply would be "Not sure", "Have to get back to you", "Haven't thought about it yet", or the very common words one would hear in the Malaysian culture "Tak Tau"(I don't know). Being the head of the largest government financial institute, one's decisions are critical especially to the local and foreign companies who need to know about its governance and policies. And my friend was only an apprentice...
I used to think the Bumiputras were so lucky with financial backing from the government. In time, it can only take off and prosper with the means in the first place. Its just sad seeing so much money go to such waste. Some have folded with an unimaginable loss due to less than abled leader's guidance. Its a bit prejudice one would say, any business could go bankrupt but how does one make an institute with some hundred million(RM) in government backing go under?
Its not my place to say anything, but I do reserve the right to my opinions eventhough I am just a young adult trying to cut it in the business world. Some are luckier than others, some have to walk the extra mile just to make enough, while some just get there with the snap of their fingers. To those who strive harder to get there its definitely more worth it, I'm sure we tend to appreciate it a whole lot more with that befitting satisfaction.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Recharging the Soul
Its been a very satisfying break for the past 2 weeks. Heading back, just relaxing, chilling with the family and friends recharged the soul. Managed to pack in a few pounds at the same time too. Realized living all alone in another country makes you see you're working your butt off to do your parents proud and achieve your desired goals.
In Bangkok, I seem to thrive on making it in life. The loneliness and self-disclipine spurs you on to challenge your inner demons. It wasn't easy leaving home, the place of comfort, where one is so used to getting pampered, where striving really isn't on the menu but more of taking-it-as-it-comes. I thank my parents for giving me this opportunity, for they reluctantly allowed me the freedom to choose my preferred destination or profession. Their continuous backing is what I always hold close to my heart, and that's probably why day in, day out I live life as a workaholic.
Fact of the matter is I had a great time-out, nowhere better to enjoy it than your home base. To my great bunch of (skirt-wearing)friends -LOL-, thanks for coming out for the chats and beers. Wish you guys the very best in your working paths and that of your love lives. Don't ever be a stranger...
In Bangkok, I seem to thrive on making it in life. The loneliness and self-disclipine spurs you on to challenge your inner demons. It wasn't easy leaving home, the place of comfort, where one is so used to getting pampered, where striving really isn't on the menu but more of taking-it-as-it-comes. I thank my parents for giving me this opportunity, for they reluctantly allowed me the freedom to choose my preferred destination or profession. Their continuous backing is what I always hold close to my heart, and that's probably why day in, day out I live life as a workaholic.
Fact of the matter is I had a great time-out, nowhere better to enjoy it than your home base. To my great bunch of (skirt-wearing)friends -LOL-, thanks for coming out for the chats and beers. Wish you guys the very best in your working paths and that of your love lives. Don't ever be a stranger...
Thursday, September 22, 2005
Wednesday
For a change, I'm back at the apartment earlier than usual. The week's flown by at light speed and I'm looking forward to Friday when I'm headed back home! Or am I...Doctor's appointment has already been made on the day of my arrival so I'm cringing nervously. Haven't thought much about it, being caught up with work sure takes your mind off your well-being.
Been clearing up company issues before heading back to Malaysia. Still awaiting bankers' decision after evaluating the new manufacturing plant. Time is of the essence. Apart from that, had a wonderful dinner with clients from Beijing. Real classy ladies. Spoke excellent English, although the other was more fluent in Mandarin/Cantonese. At the end of the night, I was presented with a Mont Blanc pen! Real classy. Penning Beijing as destination for November. Been hearing so much about it, gotta see for myself.
Apart from that, I'm totally over the moon as I'm going to be an uncle. Whoa..geez, not sure if I'm ready for that but heck I'm so excited. Finally, after almost 5 years of marriage, my brother and the Mrs. are going to have a family. Mum was even more excited as she texted me the wonderful news. I guess she can't wait to be a grandmother. Bless her.
Been clearing up company issues before heading back to Malaysia. Still awaiting bankers' decision after evaluating the new manufacturing plant. Time is of the essence. Apart from that, had a wonderful dinner with clients from Beijing. Real classy ladies. Spoke excellent English, although the other was more fluent in Mandarin/Cantonese. At the end of the night, I was presented with a Mont Blanc pen! Real classy. Penning Beijing as destination for November. Been hearing so much about it, gotta see for myself.
Apart from that, I'm totally over the moon as I'm going to be an uncle. Whoa..geez, not sure if I'm ready for that but heck I'm so excited. Finally, after almost 5 years of marriage, my brother and the Mrs. are going to have a family. Mum was even more excited as she texted me the wonderful news. I guess she can't wait to be a grandmother. Bless her.
Monday, September 12, 2005
Time waits for no man
Aaah, finally some time to catch up on some blogging. Well, its been quite a fortnight. Trade show went really well, better than we'd expected actually. Managed to close our booth 3 hours before time on the final trade day. The company's first time, partners' first time, my first time! It was quite exciting and the response was great.
Many traders who came to speak to us were surprised at our age. It actually took some convincing. Nevertheless, we were happy to be out there. Our main goal was to introduce ourselves, our methods of production and also getting to know clients. Currently, all major spa companies in Thailand are already our clients, and more to come from various parts of the world. I received an e-mail inviting our company to join the trade show in Dubai and Malaysia. I see a window of opportunity to do a stopover in Penang hehehe.
I'm planning to trip back home anyways as I've discovered a lump/cyst. Would like a second opinion from doctors I frequent. Kinda nervous about it. Hopefully its nothing.
Can't believe its already Sunday, the week goes by so quickly these days. Was at the factory till late in the evening today, so there goes my much needed R&R. Tomorrow's a big day - bringing two bankers over to our new factory 2 hours away from Bangkok, to evaluate its worth for some capital injection.
Right, time for a nice shower and its off to La-La-Land.
Many traders who came to speak to us were surprised at our age. It actually took some convincing. Nevertheless, we were happy to be out there. Our main goal was to introduce ourselves, our methods of production and also getting to know clients. Currently, all major spa companies in Thailand are already our clients, and more to come from various parts of the world. I received an e-mail inviting our company to join the trade show in Dubai and Malaysia. I see a window of opportunity to do a stopover in Penang hehehe.
I'm planning to trip back home anyways as I've discovered a lump/cyst. Would like a second opinion from doctors I frequent. Kinda nervous about it. Hopefully its nothing.
Can't believe its already Sunday, the week goes by so quickly these days. Was at the factory till late in the evening today, so there goes my much needed R&R. Tomorrow's a big day - bringing two bankers over to our new factory 2 hours away from Bangkok, to evaluate its worth for some capital injection.
Right, time for a nice shower and its off to La-La-Land.
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