Another year passes by, slowly and tortourously at times at first, then speeding past near the end. Guess that's how the years will continue to zoom past.
Looking back, this year, at least the first 2/3 was terrible. I really dread going to work, my cough was really bad and draining. I finally reached the point where I was ready to resign. Which I did. Looking back, though now its not that easy to get such a high paying job and I am hitting some walls, I still dont regret as much, except for the pay, cos how much is one's health and sanity worth?
On the other side, despite having crap time at work due to management, I did have a good class whom I really enjoyed teaching even though it was my first time doing such young kids. It did change some of my perception about teaching younger pupils but I still strike a limit at age 7 for now. I did get to know good collegues in my level whom really cared about my well-being and are very decent people. Guess my people skills are not that bad, IF people can get past the initial first impression bais against my face.
The first half of the remaining 1/3 of the year, the initial part of my unemployment was really crap. That is an understatement cos of family problems and being the 'temporary caretaker' of the home, which also gave me lots of stress and worries. It reached a point that both me and my brother decided that we really dont have it inside to care anymore. Our advices, worries didnt result in any change on the parties. They still wanna continue their actions. Hence we entirely wash our hands out of the matter. I dont want to think about the 'what ifs' anymore. I still had myself to worry about.
The last half of the remaining 1/3 of the year was where the FUN really started. Though it was late, but better than never. I concentrated my time and energy on my routine of Driving, Guitar, Japanese, Swimming/Exercising and they did occupy me. I didnt have to worry about much for then or I was kept rather occupied to think too much (which is something I do have a tendency to do) Then went for first Halloween dress up, first paintball. Though the change of guitar instructors is frustrating, but I am still sticking to guitar for now. I went to Melaka for a 2nd time, the first being really years ago.
But like all things, the good must come to an end. So far I had spent about $8.5k in total for all expenses over 5 months. The driving, guitar, jap and misc once-off took quite chunk. Though I still have some reserve, being Long Term unemployed wasnt part of my plan. So I started my job search after the JLPT3 exams and Melaka. So far, not much luck.
The offers I am getting are low in terms of pay and also the hours are not good. The recent 2.5k offer meant I have to work Wed to Sun and even on public holidays if they fall on those days, no days off or added leave cos of that. I wasnt sure about it cos it clashed with my japanese class on wed and guitar class on sat. Of course, if I get a good enough offer, I will reschedule the guitar if needed and maybe forfeit the jap. But I wasnt that keen on the no leave on public holiday thingy. So I continue my search. So far only sent out 2 more, 1 was beyond deadline but might be considered for next round. I have to continue to be dilligent and KEEP sending and to the RIGHT parties and do a good job of interviewing I guess.
Hence this is the part that dulled the high of Oct/Nov/Dec a bit. But I really hope to be more settled. This might just be the job I do until I retire, I wish to settle into something I can do and somewhat like and decent pay and hours. Is that too much to ask for? Hmm...
Anyway time for new year resolutions.
My resolutions are
1) Secure a career- I find gradually as I keep asking myself what I wanna do, I am slowly getting a clearer idea of my expectations in terms of pay etc but still hazy in terms of the exact position.
2) Continue to try new things - To live life to the fullest, need to revisit that list and add to it.
3) Be more optimistic and cheerful - This might be more challenging than expected. I have over the years, slowly changed my character to be more out-going, out-spoken. Of course, I am not perfect, still have alot of work to do. I have to learn to smile more (even if its a mask) but I still rather smile when it is genuine and real.
4) Exercise 2-3 times a week - I have kept up the routine somewhat continously for 10 weeks. I did manage to lose the extra weight gained from Melaka but the Christmas party... meant I was again heavier than my initial fat self. Signz... a lot of work to do. Keep it up. I do feel fitter, stronger and even more energetic at times, not always. Gambatte.
Hope for things to look up and I can move on to the next part of my life.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Christmas party and stuff
Hmm I wondered how many years of Tab's Christmas party had I attended so far?
Remembered one year when I started mixing drinks, mainly cocktails.
One year when I did balloon art.
One year when I drank Oolong mainly and made shots.
This year I aimed for Mojito and Martini. The lychee martini was quite popular. Thankfully Tab bought the Lychee liquer. Peartini wasnt as popular.
Not many drank the Port I asked Candle to buy. Nevermind, save for upcoming New Year dinner? Ya just a few days more to the new year.
The Mojitos were alright, though not to Quetzal's taste. But I havent tasted one before so cant really tell how close or different was the Internet recipes. But GOOD NEWS, more Mojito-making. I saw this Mojito mixer today at Cold storage. There is also Mint leaves. Now only need Rum, if not just plain vodka. I have vodka but not rum. Another rematch.
Quetzal brought her sister along and mixed a lychee martini, mudslide, tequila sunrise for her. Then she drank port. Well after 4 drinks, still can, not bad.
The smoked duck breast is good esp for drinking. Its tasty. The turkey is also very tasty. First time ever eating Gingerbread house. The icing is too sweet but the walls are nice and chewy.
Really DARE NOT step on the weighing scale yet. Only one gym so far. Today supposed to go gym but kept pushing back. So bo bian, do a little bit of weights and sit ups later.
Thank Quetzal for her generous Christmas gift, didnt expect to get 3 items. I am trying to use them.
Today I scrolled through last week's Recruit and a bit of this week's one. Err non-educational openings not much that I can fit into based on job requirements. I have cut out some, will send to them tomorrow onwards. Tomorrow also intend to go do flexi-work, clock in one day. Tuesday I have driving in late afternoon, so maybe go swim too. Wed is temple going and then movie Avatar.
I will have to monitor my expenses more closely, and reduce. Was spending a bit too much over this period of time, though some stuff like driving, guitar etc did cost me a bit. But still have to cut my expenditure until I have something more tangible going.
The next year is almost on us... I wish for it to be an even more fruitful year than this. Until next post for new year resolution.
Remembered one year when I started mixing drinks, mainly cocktails.
One year when I did balloon art.
One year when I drank Oolong mainly and made shots.
This year I aimed for Mojito and Martini. The lychee martini was quite popular. Thankfully Tab bought the Lychee liquer. Peartini wasnt as popular.
Not many drank the Port I asked Candle to buy. Nevermind, save for upcoming New Year dinner? Ya just a few days more to the new year.
The Mojitos were alright, though not to Quetzal's taste. But I havent tasted one before so cant really tell how close or different was the Internet recipes. But GOOD NEWS, more Mojito-making. I saw this Mojito mixer today at Cold storage. There is also Mint leaves. Now only need Rum, if not just plain vodka. I have vodka but not rum. Another rematch.
Quetzal brought her sister along and mixed a lychee martini, mudslide, tequila sunrise for her. Then she drank port. Well after 4 drinks, still can, not bad.
The smoked duck breast is good esp for drinking. Its tasty. The turkey is also very tasty. First time ever eating Gingerbread house. The icing is too sweet but the walls are nice and chewy.
Really DARE NOT step on the weighing scale yet. Only one gym so far. Today supposed to go gym but kept pushing back. So bo bian, do a little bit of weights and sit ups later.
Thank Quetzal for her generous Christmas gift, didnt expect to get 3 items. I am trying to use them.
Today I scrolled through last week's Recruit and a bit of this week's one. Err non-educational openings not much that I can fit into based on job requirements. I have cut out some, will send to them tomorrow onwards. Tomorrow also intend to go do flexi-work, clock in one day. Tuesday I have driving in late afternoon, so maybe go swim too. Wed is temple going and then movie Avatar.
I will have to monitor my expenses more closely, and reduce. Was spending a bit too much over this period of time, though some stuff like driving, guitar etc did cost me a bit. But still have to cut my expenditure until I have something more tangible going.
The next year is almost on us... I wish for it to be an even more fruitful year than this. Until next post for new year resolution.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Until after tomorrow...
Monday, I went for 2 interviews, which the first offer is decent but the second is really under-cut. BUT nothing is in the bag cos for the first one, I have to hear from them. For the second one, I call them if I am decided. I went in without make-up cos my old set dont think is fit for usage. Didnt exercise.
On Tuesday, I first headed for a hair cut in the early afternoon. My hair was getting too long and irritating, plus hot humid weather nowadays, and to appear neater. I didnt call, decided to walk in and just ask for that Shuai hairstylist to cut for me. When I walked in, he was the only hairstylist not attending to customer, so he cut for me. Yay. Actually this time I WAS wearing contact lens and thus could see his face clearly. Still think he is pretty alright, cos who am I to critise? My own face has blemishes and pimple scars too duh. And to my sister's dismay, I didnt ask him his age *which is my mission impossible since a number of haircuts ago* Just asked some questions about hair straigtening iron clips and the other which is to make hair stand.
After that, I headed to drive. Continued to learn right turn which I am not that good at, U-turn, roundabouts and the new thing is moving off from slope. Quite fun except that it started raining quite a bit. Well at least I am familiar with the wipers and even the headlights.
After that I went shopping for basic make-up with Ting and Tab on Tuesday after driving lesson. Watson has 20% discount and since the salesgirl at Maybelline was very helpful, bought a foundation, blush and lipstick. No mascara or eye shadow or concealers. I am just for basics. No exercise.
On Wed, I headed to work at FH's place. Was doing data-entry and listening to the music. I dont mind it too much cos it gives me some more admin stuff to add to resume, and also had a whole room to work in. I was to also 'test' and highlight to him any parts that can be improved, which after a few times of doing the repeated task, there are very obvious parts. No wonder some not computer-savvy aunties slow in doing or make mistakes. Even for me, I can cut down various parts by using Office short cut functions but there is only so much that can be done. Well, I did finish keying faster, then while its printing, looked out at the window to 'rest' my eyes. Had forgotten how tedious this type of computer activitiy is on the eyes. Luckily can listen to music so tuned in to FM98.7 It helps very much to occupy my unoccupied mind so I wont be too bored after a while. Laughing at the jokes the DJs crack, it really makes time pass fast. After a while, its already 5hrs.
Then we headed to Timbre to eat pizza, *the garlic shrimp is oiiishiiiii* but the beer tasted okay... which is only because moi had drunk better beer from brewrsk, red dot etc etc. Oh well. No exercise.
Today, I headed to the gym. Woke up with help of hp alarm, I woke up earlier 8.30am. Then saw the rainy weather. NO!!!!! But I decided to pack my swim gear, then wear gym gear. Cos dunno if the pool or gym closed since its the eve before Christmas. It was still drizzling quite heavily when I arrived, so headed to the gym. Worked out for 1.5hrs doing my routine. Came out feeling tired but good. So there's just one or two more exercise to go either Sat and/or Sun. Didnt want to break the routine cos it took quite a bit of perseverence to keep it up all this while. The good news is that I almost lost the 1.7kg I gained from the Melaka trip whole week of eating. Left 0.3kg then I am back to my FAT self that I still wanted to reduce.
Dabaoed lunch, bought mint leaves, a pack of suger to make simple sugar syrup for mixing of martini. The theme this year for mixing is "Mojito & Martini" but some stuff still dont have eg lime juice, apple juice, soda water. Nevermind, see if I can grab a can of soda tomorrow.
I headed out for another interview. This time its rather near the Guan Yin temple. I sat through and again the points coming up is that this is pte so pay not so high, have to let students like, seem that I am not generous with my smile. BUT as I already noted before, EVEN when I smile to other people, they can tell that generally I am not of a happy-disposition type. The look is there not cos I dao pple but that even if I smile to them, it doesnt overcome this bais against my disposition. DUH! Then the salary quoted is rather low. Slightly better than the 2nd interview but still I am not that keen. Not only cos of salary but that I was going to teach up to lower secondary. I asked for time to think about, to give an answer on monday so can proceed to 2nd round where I would have to demostrate how I teach. Well I am not scared of demonstrating since contract days but the pay is still not within expectations. I was targeting somewhere 2.8k region, not sure if I am overpricing myself. But if I wanted just a 2k job, I think I can get it rather easily but 2k for 40-42hr workweek is a too low, esp after CPF and travelling and food. I cant say for certain whether I am being overpriced, until I have sent applications to the more reputable and bigger centres and gone for those interviews.
After that, I headed to the toilet to wipe off my light make-up. Hmm so far so good, no rashes and my face does brighten up, just I am NOT comfortable with that obvious layer on my face esp the lips. Then since it was still before 6pm, I went to the Guan Yin temple to pray and qiu qian. I asked that in my job search, should I focus in tuition? 上签 Asked if in my job search should look at fiance and banks etc? 中签 Both seemed good but of course tuition choice seemed better.
Before I went into teaching or accouting then, 5 years back, I came to Guan Yin temple. Teaching is a good choice cos I had good collegues and actually performed rather well in my job. Its just my own disatisfaction with my fatique level, increasing waistline, lack of personal time and energy to do things. But with the teaching job, I dilligently saved up over the years and could invest and yet have a comfortable buffer which I am relying on now in this period of unemployment. Overall it is still a good move. I was somewhat discouraged after 3 interviews without much success but this qian has given me the encouragement to forge on ahead.
IF they are not willing to hire me COS I look stern, dont smile at them or dont have a happy disposition, I WILL GET MY OWN STUDENTS What I like about pupils which I still do is that they are more willing to look outside superficial appearances, just like I try to do to them, cos I am so aware of the bais against me. Hence even with difficult students, I treat them as equals and try to avoid favourites or even labels. COS I DONT STEREOTYPE THEM as much as I could. I dont see my students dissing me cos I dont smile cos I actually do esp activities and stuff. Its just the ADULTS who dont seem to see, too fast to judge. I constantly remind myself not to lapse into such first impressions or hasty judgements 有眼无珠
Eventually might even set up my OWN CENTRE, basket. I PAY MYSELF. I dont believe that I dont have something to offer compared to some of these centres where the staff are not NIE-trained or not well-paid or working long hours. I dont believe the insights into teaching that I have gained by opening my OWN eyes, while others chose not to see, when I was working as an educator, CANNOT match these, some are outsiders, retired. I seriously DONT believe it is so. I guess why I wanted to try out at centre is to see and learn how they run it, look at their syllabus a bit. BUT if even working there, I still have to do syllabus, do ws and exam papers, then might as well COME UP WITH MY OWN. Lagi easier, match in-line with MOE syallabus and viola, I can get MOE-accredited centre. Duh.
And through these interviews, I cant say that they are purely waste of time and money but I didnt spend on cab, just took public transport. Maybe its the time. But I also gained some insight, lower secondary market potential for English, middle primary and upwards to focus on. Even adult courses. On my way back, these were swirling on my mind. I could START NOW with a few steps to build up my syllabus and lessons accordingly and put it exam focused, with parts learning focused. I shall try to get started to churn up stuff esp for Eng and Maths which I have the most experience, and adult class. A few ideas and WS a day, after a couple, I am open for home-based biz. Several months more, who knows? I really think I can, even if not centre, but home-based.
Then I reached home and made the Simple Sugar Syrup that is used for the recipes I copied for Martinis. Its equal part sugar and water. Made about 800ml of it. Mint bought, smoked duck breast bought, Port which Candle helped me purchsed, Beer which I bought and not drunk, 6 bottles Budweiser, 2 bottles Hoe, 3 cans Guiness checked. Absolute Pear Vodka which I used to make this
Peartini, which the quantity turned out to be a mixer. I actually used freshly squeezed lemon juice and even tried to squeeze an apple for the juice. Need to modify the Pear vodka quantity but overall taste is good esp chilled by ice and even diluted a bit by the ice.
K tomorrow, since I am bringing so much booze, beer, wine and even vodka, tomorrow is to drink until I go silly. Intend to make everybody finish the PORT. I am spending quite a bit, Port, my beer, food, even considering getting fruits for the mojito... but its once a year. I plan to PARTY and then on Monday go back to job search, working at FH, monitoring Stock Market, start doing up own worksheet, and exercise. Think that will keep me busy indeed.
Until after tomorrow first...
On Tuesday, I first headed for a hair cut in the early afternoon. My hair was getting too long and irritating, plus hot humid weather nowadays, and to appear neater. I didnt call, decided to walk in and just ask for that Shuai hairstylist to cut for me. When I walked in, he was the only hairstylist not attending to customer, so he cut for me. Yay. Actually this time I WAS wearing contact lens and thus could see his face clearly. Still think he is pretty alright, cos who am I to critise? My own face has blemishes and pimple scars too duh. And to my sister's dismay, I didnt ask him his age *which is my mission impossible since a number of haircuts ago* Just asked some questions about hair straigtening iron clips and the other which is to make hair stand.
After that, I headed to drive. Continued to learn right turn which I am not that good at, U-turn, roundabouts and the new thing is moving off from slope. Quite fun except that it started raining quite a bit. Well at least I am familiar with the wipers and even the headlights.
After that I went shopping for basic make-up with Ting and Tab on Tuesday after driving lesson. Watson has 20% discount and since the salesgirl at Maybelline was very helpful, bought a foundation, blush and lipstick. No mascara or eye shadow or concealers. I am just for basics. No exercise.
On Wed, I headed to work at FH's place. Was doing data-entry and listening to the music. I dont mind it too much cos it gives me some more admin stuff to add to resume, and also had a whole room to work in. I was to also 'test' and highlight to him any parts that can be improved, which after a few times of doing the repeated task, there are very obvious parts. No wonder some not computer-savvy aunties slow in doing or make mistakes. Even for me, I can cut down various parts by using Office short cut functions but there is only so much that can be done. Well, I did finish keying faster, then while its printing, looked out at the window to 'rest' my eyes. Had forgotten how tedious this type of computer activitiy is on the eyes. Luckily can listen to music so tuned in to FM98.7 It helps very much to occupy my unoccupied mind so I wont be too bored after a while. Laughing at the jokes the DJs crack, it really makes time pass fast. After a while, its already 5hrs.
Then we headed to Timbre to eat pizza, *the garlic shrimp is oiiishiiiii* but the beer tasted okay... which is only because moi had drunk better beer from brewrsk, red dot etc etc. Oh well. No exercise.
Today, I headed to the gym. Woke up with help of hp alarm, I woke up earlier 8.30am. Then saw the rainy weather. NO!!!!! But I decided to pack my swim gear, then wear gym gear. Cos dunno if the pool or gym closed since its the eve before Christmas. It was still drizzling quite heavily when I arrived, so headed to the gym. Worked out for 1.5hrs doing my routine. Came out feeling tired but good. So there's just one or two more exercise to go either Sat and/or Sun. Didnt want to break the routine cos it took quite a bit of perseverence to keep it up all this while. The good news is that I almost lost the 1.7kg I gained from the Melaka trip whole week of eating. Left 0.3kg then I am back to my FAT self that I still wanted to reduce.
Dabaoed lunch, bought mint leaves, a pack of suger to make simple sugar syrup for mixing of martini. The theme this year for mixing is "Mojito & Martini" but some stuff still dont have eg lime juice, apple juice, soda water. Nevermind, see if I can grab a can of soda tomorrow.
I headed out for another interview. This time its rather near the Guan Yin temple. I sat through and again the points coming up is that this is pte so pay not so high, have to let students like, seem that I am not generous with my smile. BUT as I already noted before, EVEN when I smile to other people, they can tell that generally I am not of a happy-disposition type. The look is there not cos I dao pple but that even if I smile to them, it doesnt overcome this bais against my disposition. DUH! Then the salary quoted is rather low. Slightly better than the 2nd interview but still I am not that keen. Not only cos of salary but that I was going to teach up to lower secondary. I asked for time to think about, to give an answer on monday so can proceed to 2nd round where I would have to demostrate how I teach. Well I am not scared of demonstrating since contract days but the pay is still not within expectations. I was targeting somewhere 2.8k region, not sure if I am overpricing myself. But if I wanted just a 2k job, I think I can get it rather easily but 2k for 40-42hr workweek is a too low, esp after CPF and travelling and food. I cant say for certain whether I am being overpriced, until I have sent applications to the more reputable and bigger centres and gone for those interviews.
After that, I headed to the toilet to wipe off my light make-up. Hmm so far so good, no rashes and my face does brighten up, just I am NOT comfortable with that obvious layer on my face esp the lips. Then since it was still before 6pm, I went to the Guan Yin temple to pray and qiu qian. I asked that in my job search, should I focus in tuition? 上签 Asked if in my job search should look at fiance and banks etc? 中签 Both seemed good but of course tuition choice seemed better.
Before I went into teaching or accouting then, 5 years back, I came to Guan Yin temple. Teaching is a good choice cos I had good collegues and actually performed rather well in my job. Its just my own disatisfaction with my fatique level, increasing waistline, lack of personal time and energy to do things. But with the teaching job, I dilligently saved up over the years and could invest and yet have a comfortable buffer which I am relying on now in this period of unemployment. Overall it is still a good move. I was somewhat discouraged after 3 interviews without much success but this qian has given me the encouragement to forge on ahead.
IF they are not willing to hire me COS I look stern, dont smile at them or dont have a happy disposition, I WILL GET MY OWN STUDENTS What I like about pupils which I still do is that they are more willing to look outside superficial appearances, just like I try to do to them, cos I am so aware of the bais against me. Hence even with difficult students, I treat them as equals and try to avoid favourites or even labels. COS I DONT STEREOTYPE THEM as much as I could. I dont see my students dissing me cos I dont smile cos I actually do esp activities and stuff. Its just the ADULTS who dont seem to see, too fast to judge. I constantly remind myself not to lapse into such first impressions or hasty judgements 有眼无珠
Eventually might even set up my OWN CENTRE, basket. I PAY MYSELF. I dont believe that I dont have something to offer compared to some of these centres where the staff are not NIE-trained or not well-paid or working long hours. I dont believe the insights into teaching that I have gained by opening my OWN eyes, while others chose not to see, when I was working as an educator, CANNOT match these, some are outsiders, retired. I seriously DONT believe it is so. I guess why I wanted to try out at centre is to see and learn how they run it, look at their syllabus a bit. BUT if even working there, I still have to do syllabus, do ws and exam papers, then might as well COME UP WITH MY OWN. Lagi easier, match in-line with MOE syallabus and viola, I can get MOE-accredited centre. Duh.
And through these interviews, I cant say that they are purely waste of time and money but I didnt spend on cab, just took public transport. Maybe its the time. But I also gained some insight, lower secondary market potential for English, middle primary and upwards to focus on. Even adult courses. On my way back, these were swirling on my mind. I could START NOW with a few steps to build up my syllabus and lessons accordingly and put it exam focused, with parts learning focused. I shall try to get started to churn up stuff esp for Eng and Maths which I have the most experience, and adult class. A few ideas and WS a day, after a couple, I am open for home-based biz. Several months more, who knows? I really think I can, even if not centre, but home-based.
Then I reached home and made the Simple Sugar Syrup that is used for the recipes I copied for Martinis. Its equal part sugar and water. Made about 800ml of it. Mint bought, smoked duck breast bought, Port which Candle helped me purchsed, Beer which I bought and not drunk, 6 bottles Budweiser, 2 bottles Hoe, 3 cans Guiness checked. Absolute Pear Vodka which I used to make this
Peartini, which the quantity turned out to be a mixer. I actually used freshly squeezed lemon juice and even tried to squeeze an apple for the juice. Need to modify the Pear vodka quantity but overall taste is good esp chilled by ice and even diluted a bit by the ice.
K tomorrow, since I am bringing so much booze, beer, wine and even vodka, tomorrow is to drink until I go silly. Intend to make everybody finish the PORT. I am spending quite a bit, Port, my beer, food, even considering getting fruits for the mojito... but its once a year. I plan to PARTY and then on Monday go back to job search, working at FH, monitoring Stock Market, start doing up own worksheet, and exercise. Think that will keep me busy indeed.
Until after tomorrow first...
Monday, December 21, 2009
People Skills? Expectations?
Now these 2 parts hit me squarely when I went for 2 interviews today.
The first was a tuition centre, where after some talk, the offer was $25 per hour of group teaching, on a part-time basis.
The other which followed after was a lecturer position at a private diploma school which only offers $2k for a 6-day work week.
Now I had only just sent out last nite and shortly received calls for these 2. It was such a hassle. Got my shirt and pants, ironed them. I thought the interviewers might be interested in my lessons, and brought a few stuff that I did, BUT when I reached, the objects of interest are mainly my certficates, reason for leaving, my high pay at MOE which they might not match. I did ask my share of questions about the work aspects, hours etc.
But seriously was I expected to be at all smiles? Trudge under hot sun to find first centre, then had walked circles around the find the second. Also was I supposed to expect a huge pay cut? The second only offered slightly more than half, despite all the talk about prospects. I can see why they need people. Also in the 2nd one, I was told that I appear stern and might need a make-over or put on more smiles to 'act' cos that's what the lecturers need to do to keep students learning etc. How do I show u my teaching-side face, which is actually more cheerful than my normal face, when I am not teaching yet nor is there a chance to showcase?
Expectations about work hours, salary and stuff for me are still rather hazy. The thing I realized about working in Singapore. It is really DIFFICULT to earn the money(through conventional means) But it can be done.
I was trying to make some mental calculations whether I could get a better deal by doing home-based tuition. Think the first offer was alright, IF they decide to call back.
I will still continue on, but would need to get some basic make-up, and maybe 1-2 shirts, of nicer brighter colours than my earthly colours. Also tomorrow I will try to go for a haircut. FH's assignment will be starting, luckily had arranged for a flexible arrangement.
I am rather unbothered for now except rather tired. The guy at the 2nd venue kept for more than 1.5hrs, really knows how to smoke his way. A story to share next time ya see me. Quite stoned by the time it was over. Almost fell asleep on the bus. Think tomorrow or later after, I rested. I will continue this job search. Need to be even more selective about whom I sent to, dont want to end up at some funny place with a dhingy looking prospect.
If nothing works out, then there is always home-based assignments or worse comes to worst consider going back. Was tempted to find out about the requirements to set up an own tuition centre. Some phone call enquiries that need to be made to ask about regulations. Now I need sleep.
The first was a tuition centre, where after some talk, the offer was $25 per hour of group teaching, on a part-time basis.
The other which followed after was a lecturer position at a private diploma school which only offers $2k for a 6-day work week.
Now I had only just sent out last nite and shortly received calls for these 2. It was such a hassle. Got my shirt and pants, ironed them. I thought the interviewers might be interested in my lessons, and brought a few stuff that I did, BUT when I reached, the objects of interest are mainly my certficates, reason for leaving, my high pay at MOE which they might not match. I did ask my share of questions about the work aspects, hours etc.
But seriously was I expected to be at all smiles? Trudge under hot sun to find first centre, then had walked circles around the find the second. Also was I supposed to expect a huge pay cut? The second only offered slightly more than half, despite all the talk about prospects. I can see why they need people. Also in the 2nd one, I was told that I appear stern and might need a make-over or put on more smiles to 'act' cos that's what the lecturers need to do to keep students learning etc. How do I show u my teaching-side face, which is actually more cheerful than my normal face, when I am not teaching yet nor is there a chance to showcase?
Expectations about work hours, salary and stuff for me are still rather hazy. The thing I realized about working in Singapore. It is really DIFFICULT to earn the money(through conventional means) But it can be done.
I was trying to make some mental calculations whether I could get a better deal by doing home-based tuition. Think the first offer was alright, IF they decide to call back.
I will still continue on, but would need to get some basic make-up, and maybe 1-2 shirts, of nicer brighter colours than my earthly colours. Also tomorrow I will try to go for a haircut. FH's assignment will be starting, luckily had arranged for a flexible arrangement.
I am rather unbothered for now except rather tired. The guy at the 2nd venue kept for more than 1.5hrs, really knows how to smoke his way. A story to share next time ya see me. Quite stoned by the time it was over. Almost fell asleep on the bus. Think tomorrow or later after, I rested. I will continue this job search. Need to be even more selective about whom I sent to, dont want to end up at some funny place with a dhingy looking prospect.
If nothing works out, then there is always home-based assignments or worse comes to worst consider going back. Was tempted to find out about the requirements to set up an own tuition centre. Some phone call enquiries that need to be made to ask about regulations. Now I need sleep.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
What to do? Dunno
There seems to be a long list of things for me to do.
First and foremost to do up resume and start applying... then is practice guitar cos it'll soon be Sat.
BUT............ I am not feeling the slightest inclination to lift a finger for both. Instead I feel like heading out.
Where to? dunno
Do what? dunno
How long? dunno
Yesterday I didnt book another slot for driving, instead I headed to Holland village to return my borrowed books, loaned New Moon. Then headed to Clementi Ave 2 to find that Smoked Duck Breast from the Seng Siong. Then I headed next door to the nearby Seng Siong and found it there also. This meant, I could most likely find a box or two on the 24th. So that settles the food that I will be bringing.
I spent most of yesterday reading. Finished 2 books borrowed from the library last week. I did go for a morning swim at the Deep pool. Did 20-22 laps cos I lost count of 2 laps so I did 2 more to make sure its at least 20. Felt really FAT after the trip.
What to expect? Ate A&W, KFC, Nonya kuays, Nonya lunch and dinner, ate Muruku and drank a can of Tiger beer and Jolly Shandy. The little consolation is that I didnt gain 3 kg, its 1.7kg.
The sole night at the hotel, which is a 3-star hotel. Didnt want to wake up so bought a can of beer and even jolly shandy. BUT but despite drinking beer and jolly shandy, I woke up around 2am. OMFG. I was quite afraid to open my eyes but I did and shut them quickly trying to get myself to sleep. To no avail. Then somehow after an hour, I dozed lightly and then checked my watch, its only 4am! The same rountine repeated at 6, 7, 8, 9. I was awake and dozed lightly. LUCKILY didnt see NO flying heads, NO standing figures, NO knocks on the door etc etc.
Next time, I will settle for 2-3 cans of beer to knock me out... Man my 酒量 too good until can wake up in middle of the night. The gas and my throat felt more parched than usual. Hence I woke up, thinking it was already 6am plus only to realize that it wasnt... Even in the Bangkok, HK and Macau, I dont wake up in the middle of the night and most of those I didnt drink much at all.
My body clock is being adjusted to wake around 8 plus which was my usual during work. Was trying to get it back to that and used to that but end up waking at 5-6am at times. Hence I thought it was 6am when I first woke up.
The rest are mostly covered in Tab's post about the things we did and ate. But things not covered include a lot of jokes on my account. The crowning glory being "The Nonya Carol" which included me as the main lead though I dont have a drop of Nonya blood. Half Hokkien and Half Canto unless I got it wrong that last time I've checked. Well it didnt stop Tab from conjuring up a full story in the car, on the way back to Singapore, and which I have to sit through and listen cos we were all squeezed at the back of the car, with Tab in the middle *Signz*
I did get my Coconut, Sweet Potatoe and Charcoal Bamboo bread. The massage was alright but still prefer Neck and Shoulder than Half Body. Didnt really buy other stuff besides food. Dabaoed Secret Recipe cakes for family. Got them each a slice, I didnt want to eat even more, my 3/4 was feeling tight after just one day of eating.
Spent about RM$318 in total. RM$100 for lunch, dinner and accomodation. RM$44 on massage, the rest on food stuff. Nonya quays, Melaka 土产, KFC and A&W, Sweet potatoe, Coconut, Black charcoal bread, Secret Recipe cakes. Hmm looking at the way I have been spending my RM, I might need to top up this account with RM soon.
Ya even after this post, still dont feel compelled to start on job nor guitar. Think I will give it up to this Sunday to settle all these and get started. Guitar no choice, later go drink Port and then pratice... but that will be later on tonight. Now its 1.50pm, still alot of time to do stuff.
What stuff to do is the question?
First and foremost to do up resume and start applying... then is practice guitar cos it'll soon be Sat.
BUT............ I am not feeling the slightest inclination to lift a finger for both. Instead I feel like heading out.
Where to? dunno
Do what? dunno
How long? dunno
Yesterday I didnt book another slot for driving, instead I headed to Holland village to return my borrowed books, loaned New Moon. Then headed to Clementi Ave 2 to find that Smoked Duck Breast from the Seng Siong. Then I headed next door to the nearby Seng Siong and found it there also. This meant, I could most likely find a box or two on the 24th. So that settles the food that I will be bringing.
I spent most of yesterday reading. Finished 2 books borrowed from the library last week. I did go for a morning swim at the Deep pool. Did 20-22 laps cos I lost count of 2 laps so I did 2 more to make sure its at least 20. Felt really FAT after the trip.
What to expect? Ate A&W, KFC, Nonya kuays, Nonya lunch and dinner, ate Muruku and drank a can of Tiger beer and Jolly Shandy. The little consolation is that I didnt gain 3 kg, its 1.7kg.
The sole night at the hotel, which is a 3-star hotel. Didnt want to wake up so bought a can of beer and even jolly shandy. BUT but despite drinking beer and jolly shandy, I woke up around 2am. OMFG. I was quite afraid to open my eyes but I did and shut them quickly trying to get myself to sleep. To no avail. Then somehow after an hour, I dozed lightly and then checked my watch, its only 4am! The same rountine repeated at 6, 7, 8, 9. I was awake and dozed lightly. LUCKILY didnt see NO flying heads, NO standing figures, NO knocks on the door etc etc.
Next time, I will settle for 2-3 cans of beer to knock me out... Man my 酒量 too good until can wake up in middle of the night. The gas and my throat felt more parched than usual. Hence I woke up, thinking it was already 6am plus only to realize that it wasnt... Even in the Bangkok, HK and Macau, I dont wake up in the middle of the night and most of those I didnt drink much at all.
My body clock is being adjusted to wake around 8 plus which was my usual during work. Was trying to get it back to that and used to that but end up waking at 5-6am at times. Hence I thought it was 6am when I first woke up.
The rest are mostly covered in Tab's post about the things we did and ate. But things not covered include a lot of jokes on my account. The crowning glory being "The Nonya Carol" which included me as the main lead though I dont have a drop of Nonya blood. Half Hokkien and Half Canto unless I got it wrong that last time I've checked. Well it didnt stop Tab from conjuring up a full story in the car, on the way back to Singapore, and which I have to sit through and listen cos we were all squeezed at the back of the car, with Tab in the middle *Signz*
I did get my Coconut, Sweet Potatoe and Charcoal Bamboo bread. The massage was alright but still prefer Neck and Shoulder than Half Body. Didnt really buy other stuff besides food. Dabaoed Secret Recipe cakes for family. Got them each a slice, I didnt want to eat even more, my 3/4 was feeling tight after just one day of eating.
Spent about RM$318 in total. RM$100 for lunch, dinner and accomodation. RM$44 on massage, the rest on food stuff. Nonya quays, Melaka 土产, KFC and A&W, Sweet potatoe, Coconut, Black charcoal bread, Secret Recipe cakes. Hmm looking at the way I have been spending my RM, I might need to top up this account with RM soon.
Ya even after this post, still dont feel compelled to start on job nor guitar. Think I will give it up to this Sunday to settle all these and get started. Guitar no choice, later go drink Port and then pratice... but that will be later on tonight. Now its 1.50pm, still alot of time to do stuff.
What stuff to do is the question?
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